Are you planning a trip to the Hawaiian islands? Then our selection of one-of-a-kind vacation rentals and Airbnbs in Hawaii will help you make it a memorable experience. Whether you’re a first-time traveler looking to travel between the Hawaiian islands, a regular visitor to the islands looking for something new, a couple looking for a romantic place to stay in Maui or a parent looking to visit the best Hawaii islands with kids, we’re sure you’ll find your dream rental in this curated list of unique rental houses, both VBROs and Airbnbs, in Hawaii.
To help you plan your trip even better, we’ve included the closest beach, nearest town and top activities in the area for all Hawaiian rentals.
Let’s have a look at some of the most eye-catching vacation rentals and Airbnbs in Hawaii.
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Rest assured that we cherry-pick the most unique Hawaiian vacation rentals on the market to ensure that only the most intriguing ones make the list. But, since house rentals come and go on every platform, we apologize in advance if one of the included listings would appear to be inactive. We’ll do our very best to keep this list ofbest Airbnbs and rentals in Hawaii updated on a regular basis.
What you should know before renting a rental house or Airbnb in Hawaii
Before you dive in and explore some of the dreamiest vacation rental properties in Hawaii, we do want to draw your attention to the fact that staying at a VRBO or Airbnb in Hawaii does involve an additional charge which is usually billed separately (upon arrival). The reason for that is that, in Hawaii, Airbnb and VRBO cannot collect taxes on bookings on behalf of the hosts. Here’s why to set aside a budget of 15% in addition to the rate of your Hawaiian Airbnbs:
- The General Excise Tax (GET) amounts to 4.1666% on Maui, 4.4386% on Big Island (Hawaii County), 4.712% on Oahu and 4.7120% on Kauai.
- The Transient Accommodation Tax (TAT) is 10,25% on all islands.
- In addition, a recent surcharge of 3% to the Transient Accommodation Tax (TAT) has just taken effect.
Another important issue is the absence of air-conditioning in many Airbnbs in Hawaii. The trade winds often compensate for the heat. Therefore, it’s important to choose a property that’s either equipped with fans or located in a quiet area that allows you to open the windows in the evening.
Finally, before packing for this beach vacation, you might want to check which beach essentials might be available for you to use: Some hosts make an entire collection of beach towels, boogie boards, beach tents, parasols, buckets and spades available to their guests.
Maui Airbnbs and other Hawaiian vacation rentals on Maui
Whether you look forward to spending the day at the beach, exploring Haleakala National Park, chasing waterfalls, driving the Road to Hana, trying out hiking trails, indulging in the delights of the food trucks or simply taking in the most spectacular views of the ocean from your living room or hot tub, find your perfect Airbnb in Maui in this curated list.
Watch the whales breach from your Bamboo Temple
The first on this list of coolest Airbnbs in Hawaii is an eye-catcher. Discover Maui’s authentic side from this dreamy eco-retreat. This wonderful one bedroom sanctuary is located in the heart of Maui’s North Shore, where nature is lush and untamed and where trade winds blow free.
The Bamboo Temple’s well-thought-out design guarantees a peaceful stay in perfect harmony with the breathtaking natural surroundings. Your 4-poster bamboo bed is perfect for stargazing thanks to the rooftop window. A well provides the water for the temple’s unique private outdoor shower.
The property’s organic garden and the various on-site fruit trees guarantee a heavenly breakfast, which you can enjoy from your spacious lanai with spectacular valley views. Indulge in a relaxing massage or participate in an on-site yoga or meditation class before discovering the best Maui attractions in the area.
This is one of the most dreamy rentals in Hawaii, meant to unwind and disconnect. There’s no wifi in the temple, but a network is available in the main house.
- Nearest town: Haiku.
- Nearest beach: Ho’okipa Beach Park.
- Perfect for: Couples, honeymooners, adventurous travelers and those looking to disconnect (up to 2 guests).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Hawaii Airbnb: Explore the art galleries in bohemian Paia town, meet the turtles at Ho’okipa Beach Park, go hiking at Twin Falls, drive the legendary Road to Hana, go on a ziplining adventure, have dinner at the iconic Mama’s Fish House and visit the Sacred Garden of Maliko.
- Nightly rate: $359. A minimum number of nights applies.
- Cancellation policy: Free cancellation for 48 hours and then 50% refund (minus the service fee) until 1 week before arrival.
Intimate garden cottage perfect for lovebirds
This well-appointed cottage with its inviting outdoor space is the perfect place for a romantic getaways. The intimate one bedroom bungalow sleeps 2 guests and comes with a salt water hot tub, an outdoor shower and a gas grill. Its welcoming garden is fully fenced.
The Kihei Garden Cottage enjoys a prime location in South Kihei: beaches, restaurants, shops and parks are all just a short stroll away. Beach chairs and amenities are provided by the hosts for the ultimate carefree Hawaiian vacation experience.
- Nearest town: Kihei.
- Nearest beach: Kamaole beach park.
- Perfect for: Couples and honeymooners.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Hawaii: Take a surf lesson at Kalama Beach Park, kayak amidst the honu in Turtle Town, go souvenir shopping in Wailea, visit the Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy a gorgeous sunset a Secret Cove.
- Nightly rate: $757. A minimum number of nights applies.
- Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 60 days before arrival.
Surf’s up at this colorful surf shack
Third on our list of best Airbnbs in Hawaii is this cozy surfer’s cottage. It’s located at Maui’s North Shore, away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas. The surfboard fence sets the tone for a laid-back vacation in a well-appointed house with an artsy vibe. Haiku is the perfect base for travelers looking for adventure.
With the Road to Hana, Twin Falls and Paia town around the corner, you have easy access to Maui’s most authentic must-sees. With a variety of quaint eateries and coffee shops around the corner, you’re all set for an unforgettable stay near Maui’s most wild, tropical and lush coastline.
- Nearest town: Haiku.
- Nearest beach: Ho’okipa Beach Park.
- Perfect for: Families (up to 6 guests).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Maui Airbnb: Meet the turtles at Ho’okipa Beach Park, try out one of Maui’s hiking trails, explore Paia town, admire Twin Falls and drive the Road to Hana, visit the Upcountry Maui farms such as the Ali’i Kula Lavendar Farm or Surfing Goat Dairy and enjoy the laid-back vibe of Maui’s North Shore.
- Nightly rate: $308 on average (there’s a 2-night minimum).
- Cancellation policy: Free cancellation if cancelled over 30 days before check-in and 50% refund (minus the service fee) until 14 days before arrival.
Luxuriate in this lavish oceanfront villa
This oceanfront home-away-from-home is the epitome of luxurious Airbnbs in Hawaii. The location is as good as it gets, just a 5 minute walk from lively Lahaina town and with a fabulous private pool. Diving enthousiast will love the proximity to Mala Ramp, one of Maui’s finest dive spots.
This villa offers an opulent interior decor with Hawaiian touches and views of the ocean from every window. An intimate and lush garden completes the idyllic picture. Watch the whales breach from your sun-kissed lanai or catch a sunset from your hot tub. This is Maui vacationing at its finest.
- Nearest town: Lahaina.
- Nearest beach: There’s a pocket beach in your backyard but if you prefer a livelier vibe then you could walk to Kaanapali Beach.
- Perfect for: Families or a group of friends (up to 6 guests)
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Hawaii: Visit Lahaina town, cruise to Lanai and meet some dolphins, take a surf lesson on Kaanapali Beach, snorkel at Black Rock (pack a reef-safe sunscreen) or witness the daily torch-lighting ceremony, attend a luau, explore the West-Maui mountains or go shopping at Whalers Village.
- Nightly rate: $2900 on average. There’s a 5-night minimum.
- Cancellation policy: Get a full refund until 60 days before check-in.
Reach the stars from your Hoku Suite
This plantation-style suite with modern Hawaiian touches is located in Makawao, famous for its paniolo or Hawaiian cowboys and home to a thriving art scene. It’s part of the North Shore Lookout Maui boutique bed and breakfast comprising a handful of rooms, each with its own lanai, well-appointed bathroom and living room.
The one bedroom Hoku suite is equipped with plenty of star gazing tools, hence the Hawaiian name Hoku or Star. Guests are invited to take a dip in the lovely heated lava wall pool and hot tub. The property enjoys a secluded location in Upcountry Maui, yet offers easy access to most of the island’s highlights. The Paia beaches, for one, are just a 10 minute drive away.
After a day of exploration, you could find yourself stargazing from your own hammock. This quiet mountain retreat truly is one of the best kept secrets when it comes to Maui Airbnbs and VRBO rentals.
- Nearest town: Makawao.
- Nearest beach: Baldwin Beach Park.
- Perfect for: Couples (there are other on-site suites which can accommodate families).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Maui Airbnb: Watch the sunrise at Haleakala National Park, enjoy a panoramic picnic at Rice Park, explore the Makawao Forest Reserve which is just down the road, visit the the Ali’i Kula Lavendar Farm, meet the turtles at Ho’okipa Beach Park, explore the Kula Botanical Garden, try out one of Maui’s hiking trails, explore Paia town, admire Twin Falls and drive the Road to Hana.
- Nightly rate: $300 on average. There’s a 3-night minimum.
- Cancellation policy: Free cancellation until 60 days before check-in and 50% refund (minus the service fee) if cancelled at least 30 days before check-in.
Even more cool Airbnbs in Hawaii’s Valley Isle
Not sure which parts of the island fit your travel style? We’ve dedicated an entire article on the best places to stay in Maui to help you pick the perfect Hawaiian rental house.
Big Island Hawaii Airbnbs and othervacation rentals on Hawaii Big Island
Whether you look forward to visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, stargazing at the Maunakea summit, seeing the lava fields up close, snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay, chasing waterfalls, visiting the Captain Cook Monument, swimming in one of the swimming holes, trying out the various hiking trails or simply enjoying the ocean views from your private lanai, find your perfect Big Island Airbnb in this curated list of vacation rentals in Hawaii.
An enchanted cabin in the woods called Kūono
The first in this list of Hawaii vacation rental homes is a true stunner. Hidden behind the Ohia trees, you’ll find the most enchanting cabin in the woods. It’s a cozy Big Island retreat with a clean and modern open plan interior, floor to ceiling windows and glass door shower.
The outdoor living space is simply gorgeous, thanks to the private lanai with hot tub and fire pit. If you’re looking to rent a house in Hawaii with a magical atmosphere, then this is a listing that won’t disappoint.
Location-wise, this Big Island rental is just 5 minutes away from the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
- Nearest town: Volcano.
- Nearby beaches: Several black sand beaches such as New Kaimū beach, Kehena beach (clothing optional) and Punalu’u beach.
- Perfect for: Romantic couple’s getaway or one-of-a-kind family stay (up to 4 guests).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb on the Big Island of Hawaii: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (we’d warmly recommend hiking the Kilauea Trail), Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, downtown Hilo, Rainbow Falls, Papakolea Green Sand Beach and South Point. There are so many epic things to do on Big Island that you need at least a week to see the highlights.
- Nightly rate: $350.
- Cancellation policy: Free cancellation until 60 days before check-in and 50% refund (minus the service fee) if cancelled at least 30 days before check-in.
Relax in your very own spa grotto
If you’re looking for a high-end Hawaiian vacation rental that guarantees the most care-free vacation, then Fairways North #1 is for you. This fabulous estate, consisting of 5 bedrooms divided over a series of inter-connected pod-style pavilions, is located in a quiet corner of the Mauna Kea Resort. Located on the sunny leeward coast of Big Island, the weather is one less thing to worry about.
It represents indoor-outdoor living at its finest with a spacious lanai, fully equipped kitchen, walk-in rock showers, glorious soaking tubs and a sensational pool with swim-up bar, waterfall and spa grotto. A place this luxurious comes with top-notch service too. Whether you’re looking for a private chef or private yoga session, the sky is the limit in this Big Island rental.
For an additional fee, guests have access to and privileges at both the Mauna Kea Beach Resort and The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort.
- Nearest town: Waikoloa.
- Nearby beaches: Maunakea beach & Hapuna beach.
- Perfect for: Families appreciating the finer things in life (up to 10 guests).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Hawaii Airbnb: Swim with turtles at Hapuna beach, explore the Anaehoomalu Petroglyph Field, shop for souvenirs at Waikoloa Village, visit the Kiholo State Park Reserve, play a round of golf and discover the Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site.
- Nightly rate: $4476 on average. There’s a 5 to 14-night minimum.
- Cancellation policy: 90% (minus the service fee) refund if you cancel at least 46 days before check-in and 50% refund (minus the service fee) if cancelled at least 31 days before check-in.
The intimate Serenity Suite
Hidden behind the Hapu’u fern forest and native Ohia trees, just minutes away from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you’ll find one of the most intimate retreats on the Big island. The Serenity Suite is a secluded Hawaiian vacation rental that’s perfect to reconnect with nature, with yourself and with your loved one(s). You’ll be surrounded by natural beauty, whether you choose to relax indoors or enjoy the hammocks on the idyllic porch.
No effort is spared to make you feel at home, with an assortment of fuzzy socks and colorful robes. This secluded Hawaii Airbnb even comes with breakfast.
- Nearest town: Volcano.
- Nearby beaches: Several black sand beaches such as New Kaimū beach, Kehena beach (clothing optional) and Punalu’u beach.
- Perfect for: Intimate getaway for couples or a small family (up to 4 guests, with one queen bed and one double bed).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Hawaii: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (we’d warmly recommend hiking the Kilauea Trail), Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, downtown Hilo, Rainbow Falls, the unique Green Sand Beach and South Point.
- Nightly rate: $135 on average. There’s a 3-night minimum.
- Cancellation policy: Free cancellation until 30 days before check-in and 50% refund (minus the service fee) if cancelled at least 14 days before check-in.
Your personal waterfall retreat
Next in our list of vacation rentals in Hawaii is this waterfall-perched Hawaiian bungalow. It’s an absolute eye-catcher. With unparalleled views of the Wailuku river and its surrounding rainforest, an exquisite wooden interior, a gorgeous riverfront yard, hot-and-cold soaking tubs and front-row seats to a mesmerizing waterfall, this gorgeous three bedroom Hawaiian vacation rental is a true show-stopper.
The best part is that you’re actually staying in the center of the Hilo action with plenty of restaurants and cafés within walking distance.
- Nearest town: Hilo.
- Nearest beach: Richardson and Carlsmith beach park. Several other beach parks can be found in Hilo but these are two of our favorite Big Island beaches. Don’t expect sand, though, beaches on this side of the island are mostly rocky.
- Perfect for: A tropical getaway (up to 6 guests).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Hawaii: Admire one of the majestic waterfalls of the Big Island, visit the Pacific Tsunami Museum or head further north towards the Hamakua coast to tackle some of the most spectacular Big Island hiking trails.
- Nightly rate: $398 on average. There’s a 3 to 5-night minimum.
- Cancellation policy: Get a full refund until 60 days before check-in.
Treetop hideaway overlooking Hawaii’s prime snorkeling site
This Hawaiian-style home is located at the entrance of Kealakekua Bay, just south of Kailua-Kona on the leeward coast of the Big Island. The Captain Cook Monument can be found within walking distance.
This Big Island rental‘s traditional architecture, with screens instead of glass windows, allows for the trade winds to flow through the house. Thanks to this open air concept, the Hawaiian treetop views of the ocean are spectacular, as is the beautifully landscaped garden with, at its heart, a gorgeous private pool. The living area’s open concept guarantees natural light throughout this property.
Evenings are spent on the outdoor tiki torch-lit dining area amidst a decor of fragrant plumeria and hibiscus flowers. Pick your own fruits, from organic mango to passionfruit or starfruit, for a the most delicious breakfast or a tropical afternoon treat.
- Nearest town: Kailua-Kona.
- Nearest beach: Ke’ei Beach.
- Perfect for: Getaway with family or friends.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb on Big Island Hawaii: Visit Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Parko-Honokōhau National Historic Park, snorkel in Kealakekua Bay, kayak to the Captain Cook monument or spend the evening in Kailua-Kona
- Nightly rate: $581 on average. There’s a 5-night minimum.
- Cancellation policy: Get a full refund until 60 days before check-in.
Hawaiian treehouse that seems to come straight out of a storybook
The most immaculately handcrafted treehouse in Hawaii is a true stunner. It features a unique indoor – outdoor concept, solar powered water supply, a full size kitchen, mango wood cabinets throughout and even an intimate hot tub. Perched in a Kukui nut tree and with tree trunks still growing through, this is one of the most mesmerizing Hawaii Big Island vacation rentals and even one of the most spectacular treehouses in the United States.
Out-of-this-world ocean views guaranteed thanks to its1,800 ft elevation. It comes as no surprise that this tropical Big Island getaway consistently gets glowing guest reviews and is often heralded the best Airbnb in Hawaii.
- Nearest town: Kailua-Kona.
- Nearest beach: Honokohau Beach.
- Perfect for: Romantic getaway with your loved one or even an unforgettable honeymoon.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb on Big Island Hawaii: Taking a botanical tour in the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, visit Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, say hello to the seahorses at the Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm or watch a luau performance such as the Voyagers of the Pacific luau or the Island Breeze luau.
- Rate per night: $499 on average. There’s a 2-night minimum.
- Cancellation policy: Get a full refund within 48 hours after booking and a 50% refund (minus the service fee) up to a week before check-in.
Even more cool Airbnbs on the Big Island of Hawaii
We’ve dedicated an entire article on the best places to stay on Big Island to help you pick the your dream vacation rental home in Hawaii.
Oahu Airbnbs and other Hawaiivacation rentals on Oahu
Whether you look forward to visiting Pearl Harbor, hiking Diamond head, checking out the Dole Plantation, snorkelling in Hanauma Bay, getting indulging in some coconut shrimp from the North Shore food trucks, spending a day at the beach, shopping in Waikiki or simply taking in the gorgeous ocean view from your lanai, find your perfect Oahu Airbnb in this curated list.
Step aboard this immaculately restored coast guard ship
The first in our list of best Airbnbs in Hawaii is not a house or cottage but a ship. In spite of her age, the Vida Mia has been thoughtfully restored and looks stunning as ever. This ship has served in the WWII, has served as a diving boat and, in a more recent past, has hosted dozens of celebrations. Nowadays, she also hosts guest looking for a unique vacation rental in the heart of Honolulu.
Guests are warmly welcomed by the crew with a selection of cocktails and an introductory coastal trip to Diamond Head. The ship is then docked in the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor which is an excellent travel base to explore Waikiki and beyond. Throughout your stay, a wide selection of optional services is made available, from private cooking to snorkel charters.
- Nearest town: Honolulu.
- Nearest beach: Ala Moana beach.
- Perfect for: Celebrations, from family birthday parties to small reunions (up to 7 guests).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Hawaii: Enjoy a coastal cruise to Diamond Head, go snorkeling, visit Pearl Harbor, go shopping in Waikiki or explore the coastline by paddle board.
- Nightly rate: $1295 on average (there’s a 2-night minimum).
- Cancellation policy: Cancel for free up to 14 days before check-in.
A secluded waterfall retreat near Honolulu
If you’re looking for an epic Hawaiian experience, then this sleek and modern house fits the bill since it’s built right over a waterfall. Guests of this Hawaiian Airbnb are surrounded by the natural beauty of a Hawaiian rainforest. After a peaceful night, you wake up to the sound of birds chirping before enjoying breakfast at your wrap-around lanai overlooking your very own waterfall.
Action-packed Honolulu is just a 15-minute drive away and some of the most popular Oahu highlights and beaches can be found nearby. There’s no better place to return to after a day of exploration than this peaceful and secluded home away from home.
- Nearest town: Honolulu.
- Nearest beach: Ala Moana beach.
- Perfect for: Families with older kids or a group of friends (up to 6 guests – longer stays).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Hawaii: Take in the views at the Nu’uanu Pali lookout, explore Kualoa Ranch, visit the Queen Emma Summer Palace, hike to Diamond Head, Manoa Falls or Lanikai Pillbox or try one of the waterfall hikes, spend a day at the beach or visit Pearl Harbor.
- Nightly rate: $242 on average.
- Cancellation policy: All bookings are non-refundable.
Beach house overlooking Hawaii’s most iconic postcard view
Enjoy a direct view over Oahu’s most coveted beach from the comfort of your own backyard. Walker’s Lanikai Beach House is a house with a history that’s been renovated with care. In addition to the main house, there’s an entire guest suite and a boathouse. The views are truly spectacular, with front-row seats to the Lanikai Mokes or Mokulua and direct beach access. This is what a Hawaiian family vacation is all about: a glorious house at a privileged location with unparalleled ocean views.
- Nearest town: Kailua.
- Nearest beach: Lanikai beach.
- Perfect for: Families or a group of friends (up to 14 guests).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Hawaii: Kayak out to Lanikai Beach, hike the Pillbox trail, visit one of the Kailua farmers markets in Kailua at sunrise, watch a luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center, go ziplining at the Kualoa Ranch, explore the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden or go snorkeling at Hanauma Bay.
- Nightly rate: $4557 on average. There’s a 5 to 10-night minimum. Note that this is one of the only licensed short-term rentals along this coveted coastline, most other beach house here apply a 30-day minimum.
- Cancellation policy: A 75% refund (minus the service fee) if cancelled over 60 days before arrival.
Tranquil treehouse with front-row seats to Diamond Head
Last but not least in our list of vacation rentals in Hawaii is a stunning treehouse… but noti your average treehouse. This Hawaiian Airbnb is a modern home that’s built to make the most of the verdant jungle canopy surrounding it. The neutrally toned interior accentuates the green forest views that make every room, from the living room to the guest suite and the bathroom, come to life.
The tiki torch-lit stone patios that flank this unique property form the perfect decor for a family barbecue. This secluded setting is actually incredibly central too and allows easy access, even on foot, to Waikiki as well as to a nearby beach.
- Nearest town: Honolulu.
- Nearest beach: Leahi Beach.
- Perfect for: Families that prefer a quiet retreat close to the action (up to 6 people).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Hawaii: take a surfing lesson at Waikiki beach, discover Kapiolani Park, visit the Honolulu Aquarium or the Honolulu Zoo, go snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, board the submarine, hike to Diamond Head or visit Pearl Harbor.
- Nightly rate: $420 on average. There’s a 30-night minimum since the host can only rent out the house once a month.
- Cancellation policy: All bookings are non-refundable.
Even more Airbnbs on Hawaii’s most popular island
Find your dream vacation rental home on Oahu on VRBO or Booking.com.
Kauai Airbnbs and other Hawaiianvacation rentals on Kauai
Whether you look forward to trying out hiking trails, chasing waterfalls, visit botanical gardens, discovering the tidal pools, go horseback riding or simply take in the most spectacular ocean view from your living room, find your perfect Airbnb in Hawaii in this curated list of vacation rentals on the Garden Isle.
Unplug at the Eco-Chic Tropical TreeTops Villa
This immaculately appointed and thoughtfully decorated lodge is located on top of a Kalaheo hill overlooking the glowing landscape of pastures and creeks. This luxury retreat’s exceptional location guarantees complete privacy and the elevation results in a cooler climate. Unwind, take in the mountain views and stargaze in the hammock, enjoy the incredible outdoor shower or take a dip in the heated infinity lap pool.
The view over the Hawaiian treetops is magical from sunrise to sunset. This gorgeous one bedroom Hawaiian Airbnb feels very secluded and yet some of Kauai’s most spectacular beaches are just a short drive away.
- Nearest town: Kalāheo.
- Nearest beach: Lawa’i Beach.
- Perfect for: Romantic couple’s retreat (up to 2 people).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Hawaii: Eat your heart out at the Kaua‘i Kookie bakery, visit the Kaua‘i Coffee Company plantation, snorkel at Lawa’i Beach, visit the Allerton Garden, explore Poipu town or experience Glass Beach.
- Nightly rate: $800 and up. There’s a 5 or 6-night minimum.
- Cancellation policy: Depends on the rate type, but bookings are usually non-refundable.
Secluded slice of paradise at the Haena Beach House
This fabulous beach house is nestled on one of the most picturesque stretches of Hawaiian coastline. Views galore from every room and every lanai thanks to the scenic ocean panorama on one side and the emerald Kauai mountains lined with waterfalls on the other. If you’re looking to get away from it all and enjoy the beauty of Kauai in serenity, then this beachfront house along the Garden Isle’s lush north shore is where you want to be.
- Nearest town: Hanalei, then follow the Road to Haena (not to be confused with the Road to Hana, which is on Maui).
- Nearest beach: Wainiha Beach Park (swimming not recommended), Lumahai Beach and the legendary Tunnels Beach.
- Perfect for: Families (up to 10 people).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Hawaii: Explore the underwater caves while snorkeling at Tunnels Beach’s protected ocean lagoon, hike the Kalalau Trail in Hā’ena State Park and admire Hanakapiai Valley, visit Limahuli Garden and Preserve, take in the views from the Hanalei Valley lookout and – last but not least – explore Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park.
- Nightly rate: $1440 on average. There’s a 1 to 5-night minimum.
- Cancellation policy: 90% (minus the service fee) refund if you cancel at least 46 days before check-in and 50% refund (minus the service fee) if cancelled at least 31 days before check-in.
Authentic Hawaiian hospitality at this charming riverside Canal Cottage
If you’re looking to escape to a carefree authentic Hawaiian stay in a gorgeous yet central setting, then this is a Hawaiian Airbnb that fits the bill perfectly. The Canal Cottage is located amidst a lush tropical garden, dotted with fruit trees, fragrant flowers and outdoor cooking areas. It also gives out to the Wailua River. Hop in a kayak – courtesy of the host – and set off on a 2-mile trip up the river. Follow up with a short hike and you’ll arrive at a stunning waterfall known as Secret Falls.
The location of the cottage, right along Kauai’s Coconut Coast, allows for easy access to both the north and south shores as well as the airport. Walk to the beach or borrow a bike – courtesy of the host – and explore Kapa’a town. This charming river cabin is also highly affordable, especially if you take level of service into account. Island-style hospitality at its best thanks to the many personal touches and thoughtful service.
This cute cabin is actually part of a small-scale compound. Click here to find out more about the other enchanting on-site rental units.
- Nearest town: Kapa’a.
- Nearest beach: Wailua Beach.
- Perfect for: Couples (up to 2 people), budget travelers and visitors on a tight schedule.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Hawaii: Kayak on the Wailua river, hike to Secret Falls, indulge in a cocktail at the iconic Lava Lava Beach Club, visit Kauai’s intriguing Fern Grotto, go on a horseback ride through the jungle, explore Wailua River State Park, go mountain tubing through flumes and tunnels and dance the night away at the Smith Family Garden Luau.
- Nightly rate: $240 on average. There’s a 4-night minimum.
- Cancellation policy: Get a full refund until 60 days before check-in.
An opulent retreat overlooking a hidden beach
Last on our list of dreamy Airbnbs in Hawaii is the lavish Kai Halulu retreat. It sits atop a hill, positioned to take full advantage of the most spectacular ocean views of the islands’s north shore. Spend your vacation overlooking a secluded beach that contrast beautifully with the lush backdrop of rain forest foliage. The well-appointed interior is wonderful and the exterior truly eye-catching. Let the tiki torches set the mood as you enjoy dinner out on your gazebo before soaking in the hot tub under a star-lit sky.
- Nearest town: Kīlauea, a former sugar plantation town.
- Nearest beach: Waiakalua Beach.
- Perfect for: Families or a small group of friends. (up to 6 people).
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Hawaii: take in the views around the Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse, spot native birds at the Kīlauea Point Wildlife Refuge, hike the Wai Koa Loop Trail, explore Princeville, visit the Na ‘Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, Sculpture Park and Hardwood Plantation or check out the Queen’s Bath tidal pool (reaching it involves a treacherous hike).
- Nightly rate: $1095 on average. There’s a 4 to 7-night minimum during some periods.
- Cancellation policy: Get a full refund (minus a $250 partner fee) until 60 days before check-in.
Even more cool Airbnbs in Hawaii’s Garden Isle
Find the perfect Hawaiian vacation rental on Kauai on VRBO or Booking.com.
Getting around the Hawaiian Islands
We dedicated an entire article on how to go island-hopping in Hawaii. Basically, apart from the flights to travel in between islands, you’ll need a car to explore every island. (Oahu is the only island that you could consider exploring by public transport but that’s only recommended if you have plenty of time to spare.)
We got our car at Discount Hawaii Car Rental, where you can find a selection of cars from all popular vacation rental companies at competitive prices, and found a great deal. The best thing is that they don’t even require a credit card for guarantee or prepayment, so consider it a no-strings-attached car rental booking.
Rental cars book out really fast. Your best bet is to book your car right after confirming your flights. More practical tips can be found in our Maui car rental article.
That’s it for our selection of best Airbnbs and VRBO house rentals in Hawaii. Rest assured that we’ve thoroughly researched every single one of them. We didn’t really have any vacation rental experience when we first traveled to the islands so we chose to stay at resorts.
For our more recent trips we did get a taste of both Airbnb and VRBO and we found out first-hand how affordable and convenient these rentals can be. So, next time we travel to the islands, we’ll sure be staying in one of these wonderful Hawaiian Airbnbs.
We can’t wait to find out if any of our suggestions for vacation rentals in Hawaii caught your eye too. If so, let us know in the comments below.
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