Luxury vacation properties in Hawaii range from beachfront condos with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean to sprawling ranch homes, secluded in the lush Hawaiian countryside. Such properties frequently offer vacationers the latest in amenities, such as WiFi, plasma TVs, and state-of-the-art kitchens, as well as entertainment options, such as beach access, private swimming pools, and Jacuzzi tubs.
Where to Find Luxury Vacation Properties in Hawaii
Luxury properties exist throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Some of the areas where such properties predominate are:
- Oahu - Honolulu's Waikiki Beach is lined with condos in the medium and upper price ranges. Top floor units and those with full ocean views are definitely in the luxury category. In addition, the areas of Diamond Head and Kahala are home to many up-scale properties. Consider also the Lanikai Beach neighborhood of Kailua on the eastern shore of Oahu.
- Maui - On Maui, the majority of luxury rentals are found in the Wailea and Makena areas of the southwest shore of the island. In addition, Kahana, on the northwest tip of Maui offers a selection of premium rentals.
- Island of Hawaii - On the Big Island of Hawaii, look for luxury properties in the Kailua-Kona area of the western shore and near the Mauna Lani and Mauna Kea Resorts, also on the west coast.
- Kauai - Kauai, Hawaii's "Garden Isle," has two principal resort areas, the sunny south shore of Poipu Beach and the dramatic, sometimes overcast, north shore of Princeville. Both areas offer a wide variety of luxury accommodations.
Advantages to Renting Luxury Properties
Renting a luxury property in Hawaii can let you live like a movie star - if only for a week or two. Such properties are also ideal for large groups and families as they generally give you more room and amenities than a traditional hotel room or condo.
Luxury rentals often include private swimming pools, fantasy kitchens, state-of-the-art sound equipment, and wireless Internet access throughout the property. Renting a luxury vacation property is a good way to enjoy these items without spending a fortune to purchase them for your own home.
Booking Luxury Properties
A number of brokers represent luxury vacation properties in Hawaii for owners looking to rent their condo or private home for a week, month, or season. Among the best of these are:
The advent of the Internet makes it possible to tour many of their homes and condos from your desktop, with videos, virtual tours, and photo galleries.
When making reservations for a luxury rental property, be sure to ask what is included. Some up-scale rentals come with a staff - usually a butler, cook, and gardener. Ask also about kitchen equipment, linens, and towels.
Most luxury rentals require that you pay a 20 to 30 percent deposit in order to secure your rental, with the balance due 30 to 90 days prior to your arrival. Most payments are non-refundable if you cancel, unless the property owner is able to re-rent the property.
Renting a luxury condo, villa, cottage, or private home in Hawaii can be a once-in-a lifetime experience. Plan ahead and enjoy a life of leisure, if only for a week.