Hawaii Visitor News » Romantic Vacations

Kauai Sunset Dinner Cruise

tr — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 02:51:12 +0000

by Dean Christener

Kauai Sunset Dinner Cruise along Na Pali Coast - Kauai has the most beautiful scenic views in all of Hawaii many would say. Kauai is filled with lush rain forests, towering sea cliffs, and dozens of beautiful golden beaches. It is Kauai’s breathtaking landscapes and seascapes that keep visitors coming back and singing the praises of the “Garden Isle.”

Kauai Dinner Cruise by Capt. Andy’s is without a doubt into one of these memorable experiences with some of the most beautiful yet diverse terrains of sightseeing in all of Hawaii. None other than Captain Andy’s puts on this amazing Sunset dinner cruise, offering also one of the best rafting activities along the Na Pali Coast that is a must do.

When booking their Capt Andy’s Kauai Dinner Cruise as well as the rafting one, book it more in the middle of your vacation so you can make sure to call in advance and ask about the conditions and how the conditions have been because to really enjoy these activities you want calm waters with not too much swell or wind.

Captain Andy’s vessel of choice for this fine dinning activity along the Na Pali Coast is one of the nicest catamarans that I have been on. Having experienced many sunset cruises all over Hawaii in various vessels, this one was by far the best. Only the finest woods used and easily distinguished even for some one like me who normally doesn’t pay attention to detail like that, lounging areas all over the boat, actual dinning tables for everyone to enjoy their cocktails, and of course the best dinner I think I have ever had on a boat.

The cocktails that were offered consisted of a wide range of mixed drinks including Mai Tai’s, lava flows, champagne and more. The dinner, as mentioned above, was unlike any, top grade filet mignon cooked to your personal preference, with barbequed shrimp, and complimented with fine cut vegetables. Above all, while we were on the boat sight seeing, the kitchen was located some what in the middle of the boat, so you were able to watch the cook right there prepare your meals, literally from the start of him cutting all the meat, dicing vegetables, etc.

But this accounted for only a portion of this beyond-supreme sunset dinner cruise. The scenery that could be seen on this activity was second to none. The Napali Coast being so well recognized for its breathtaking sea cliffs, the second tallest in Hawaii, reaching heights of 4,000 feet were incredible.

Departing from Port Allen, the main harbor on Kauai’s west-facing shores, Andy’s Sunset Dinner Cruise takes you all the way to the wild north-facing shores of Kauai. Covering such a large distance, one is able to see how much variety of landscape Kauai offers, such as the longest beach in Hawaii — Polihale — extending 15 miles down the coast, or the large sea caves carved into the walls of vertical sea cliffs, and the enormous surf that explodes along these coastlines in the winter. Many of the landscapes and seascapes here are familiar from famous movies such as King Kong, Pirates of the Caribbean, 6 days 7 nights, and many more.

Kauai’ Sunset Dinner Cruise with Captain Andy’s really gives you everything that you could want when taking a sunset cruise. When putting the breathtaking scenery together with the catamaran’s luxurious features and its compliments, there is no better feeling except pure bliss. This is especially recognizable when the cruise comes to an end, and you are able sail through a sunset that is just beyond gorgeous, lighting up the sky with beautiful iridescent colors. And though this tour is 4 hours long, the time seems to just fly by as one can indulge on the pristine scenery as well from what is offered.

I highly recommend the activity to anyone looking for a romantic sunset cruise in one of Hawaii’s most spectacualr nmatural settings. I promise you will not be disappointed!

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Maui Sunset Cruise – Sunset Sailing with Alii Nui

tr — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:02:58 +0000

by Dean Christener

Maui Sunset Cruise - Trade winds blew through my hair, as the salt spray could be smelled in the moist air. We had just arrived at Maalaea harbor on the south-facing shores of Maui, where we would attend Sunset Sailing with Alii Nui.

Alii Nui was very noticeable in the harbor standing out as one of the biggest, distinguishable by its name, as Alii in Hawaiian means royalty, and Nui means great or supreme, and in whole can be translated as the highest rulers of the Hawaiian Islands.

The Alii Nui is a very new catamaran too, as they had just sailed it from Oregon two years prior to Hawaii, where it is used on a daily basis for sunset cruises, snorkeling trips, and whale watches in the wintertime.

The check-in for the Maui Catamaran Sunset Sail with Alii Nui took place shortly after 5:00pm, and soon we set a course into the windy shores off of Maui. Veering west of Maui, the crew was able to slowly hoist the mainsail in the shelter of Maui’s sea cliffs, commonly referred to as the Pali.

There we enjoyed the smooth, pristine blue waters, and sailed steadily into the sunset. I must say the Alii Nui was probably the smoothest of all the sailing boats I had been on in the past, as it cut through the waters without even much of a bump on board the vessel.

The crew on the Maui sunset sail was very lively and excited to be with us, which made our experience all the better, fun and very enjoyable. They went over their standard procedure in the beginning, covering the safety, which was very straightforward, and shortly after we were offered a selection of drinks at the open bar.

The setting could not have been complemented well with the drinks and the beautiful sunset that we were sailing into. The people on board were all fairly on the younger side, yet I should say there was still diversity on the boat, making it very easy to talk with all sorts of people. Time flew very quickly as I would find myself mesmerized by the beautiful shades coming off of the sunset.

Talking and meeting many interesting people from all over, we were called below the deck for an amazing food preparation, that consisted of fried potatoes, vegetables and dip, the most delicious ribs, shrimp with dip, and many other great foods. I have to say I was so taken by how good the ribs tasted that I had seconds and maybe even thirds if I recall. The food I could tell set well with everyone, as everyone cast off smiles, and compliments toward the crew for their great food preparation.

As people started to fill up on the food, you would see them come back for more drinks such as champagne, to enjoy the evening’s last light. We were now slowly heading back to the Maalaea Harbor with the wind at our backs.

Coming around the sea cliffs of the Maui Pali, where we saw the speckled dots of light in harbor. The cruise had gone by so fast, that I felt like I was not ready to get off the boat yet, even though two hours flew by like nothing.

It was a great cruise neither the less upon the Alii Nui, as I was able to really enjoy myself to the fullest. I would recommend this activity to anyone who is visiting on the island of Maui, or even lives here, as it is great to go on with friends or even just you and your partner and enjoy a romantic evening.

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Kona Sunset Dinner Cruise Big Island

tr — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 20:20:50 +0000

by Dean Christener

Kona Sunset Dinner Cruise Big Island, Hawaii - It was setting out to be another day in paradise as my buddy and I were in the town of Kona located on the west side of the Big Island. The area was very similar in ways to other places I know in Hawaii, yet possesses its own unique characteristics. These features consist of a large amount of lava rock in most places, as the Big Island still has active volcanoes on it, as well as the vog that is produced from them.

We had made plans to go on a Sunset Dinner Cruise aboard The Spirit of Kona, a large vessel, double-decker in fact, painted in yellow and blue; you honestly couldn’t miss it as it lay in the pier.

Approaching it, we could already see a line of people waiting to be checked in, as they all looked well dressed, a little more than I can say we are used to here in Hawaii. However, is set the mood well, and promised to be a very pleasurable evening upon the Spirit of Kona.

The air was humid and you could hear a man’s roaring voice cut through it, at his Canoe team as they raced back and fourth through the harbor right next to our vessel. I was quite excited for this Kona Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Big Island, especially after hearing there was going to be live music, which we could already hear from the dock, and it sounded great! Along with other compliments that were offered with the cruise such as the open bar and a broad selection of delicious fresh cooked food; I could hardly wait to begin!

Once aboard the Spirit of Kona, we were immediately taken care of by a very nice crew. I took a seat at the bottom of the boat, as it seemed that’s were everyone was, and we were given a nice introduction by our live singer, a local man, who had more songs than I could remember. The crew did not waste a second to start, as the open bar was immediately available. I wanted to definitely go straight there to get things going. The menu offered a variety of drinks such as their Maita’i, Vodka with pink lemonade, fresh lava flows, and other amazing drinks with fresh passion juices.

While waiting for the food preparations to be complete, I went out to the bow of the boat and saw one of the coolest yet most beautiful sunsets. I think it was because of the vog, but the sunset had the most iridescent colors, yet smoothed out by the white air. It was truly paradise: sunset, that moist smell of saltwater, with a cold drink in your hand, “life I don’t think gets much better than this,” I chuckled to myself in bliss. My impressions of the Spirit of Kona Sunset Dinner Cruise here on the Big Island of Hawaii were already exceeded and the night had only begun.

Things were just setting in, and right when I thought the compliments couldn’t get better, I was told to come to the buffet where mango marinated chicken was offered, with a varieties of salads, a great stir fry rice, with many other delicious foods. I was able to take my food up top where the view was even clearer.

A beautiful dinner set was prepared where people could enjoy a romantic dinner upon the sunset. Once the food had set in, I heard our live entertainer call everyone downstairs for some fun entertainment. Everyone descended quite quickly, with drink in hand, very noticeable I might add, everyone seemed to loosen up more and more.

Looking out upon the ocean now, the sunset was swept away with the night, but still lit up by the moon’s gaze, and the many small lights from shore cast off by Kona Town. The Kona Sunset Cruise was more than underway as people were dancing … and did I mention our Hula dancer? Watching her was pretty funny, as she was grabbing people to come dance with her left and right. We got so swept up in the entertainment, we hardly realized that we were pretty much back to the harbor as our captain gave us the heads up.

It seemed activity ended as fast as it started if that makes sense, because we enjoyed the whole thing so much. Walking off the cruise I had a great feeling that I kept with me for the rest of the night, filled with excitement yet put me at ease. Such a great activity if you are ever in Kona and you want to have a romantic evening complimented with a dinner try Sunset Cruise Big Island aboard Spirit of Kona.

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Maita’i Sunset Sailing Waikiki, Hawaii

tr — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 01:27:45 +0000

by Dean Christener

Maitai Catamaran Sunset Sail Waikiki, Hawaii - it was not what I was expecting and that was a good thing. When I first heard of the activity I would be attending, I figured the departure would be from a harbor or something near Waikiki, but oh how I was wrong.

When they say it’s a sunset cruise they take it literally, as we embarked on our cruise on a beautiful beach in front of the Sheraton hotel. You could tell the anticipation of the crowd to depart on our Oahu Sunset Cruise as we waited to get on the catamaran that was resting up on the sand casted upon the spectacular sunset.
Its definitely a good idea for this cruise to dress casual as you have to make sure to make it past the little waves. However, it makes it
all the more exciting, and don’t worry – the crew is there too help you and get you there safe and dry.

Once we were on the boat, we had a great captain and his enthusiastic bartender as a well qualified first mate. We quickly departed into the sunset and out to sea as time was not wasted. Immediately the Mai Tai’s were brought out to the scene and distributed.

One thing I tend to vividly remember was that when the captain greeted us, he said “Aloha!” (a welcoming word in Hawaiian) and everyone responded back, “Aloha!” However it was not quite enough for him, so he said, “Don’t worry, on the way back, when I say, Aloha, I’m sure you’ll be yelling it!” Sure enough that was the case as everyone on board was more than comfortable.

On the boat there were great vibes that put everyone at ease and comfortable for a beautiful ride for the Waikiki Sunset Sail. I have been living in Hawaii my whole life, but I must say that Hawaii Sunset Sailing with Mai Tai is something that everyone needs to try whether being from the islands or elsewhere. The bartender was really on it as well, and you could have as many drinks as you wanted or you could handle so you wouldn’t fall off the boat.

It was literally the second you finished your drink; he was there ready to give you your refill upon request. It was pretty refreshing, having a light breeze with cold drinks in hand, while sailing through the sunset along the Waikiki coast. I noticed too, how much different and beautiful in its own way, Honolulu looks from the evening shade and the scenery of Oahu as a whole in the evening.

As the Honolulu Sunset Sail sailed on, people started loosening up more and more, while kicking it back to the captain’s music, that seemed to put everyone in a great mood. Toward the end there were couples dancing, interacting with one another from opposites sides of the boat; it was a blast!

Looking back at the activity now, I would repeat it in a second and take as many friends as I could, as there is nothing that quite compares to the experience, and a memory that will always stick!

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Kauai: Romantic Things to Do

tr — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 16:24:11 +0000

By A.R. Royo

“Bali Hai” – there are few terms that evoke the idea of romance more than this exotic location from the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “South Pacific.” Ever since the classic 1958 movie of the same name was filmed on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai, the Garden Isle has become synonymous with the idea of dreamy tropical paradise ripe with romance, innocence and happiness.

The actual Hawaiian name for this legendary cinematic backdrop is Mount Makana on Kauai’s north shore. Its magnificent profile marks the beginning of the mystical Na Pali Coast, which provides an exotic setting for romantic sunset cruises, thrilling helicopter flights, and spectacular hiking adventures.

So let your romance flourish on Kauai and choose from two romantic Hawaii luaus with Polynesian shows and three romantic sunset cocktail or dinner cruises.

Experience a romantic Kaui sunset dinner sail while you journey along the incredible Na Pali coast aboard the 65-foot power catamaran “HoloHolo.” Help yourself to a delicious light meal, soft drinks, beer, wine and champagne as the sun sets over the tropical Pacific.

Or take a romantic sunset dinner cruise along Na Pali’s stunning coast that combines windward sailing, beer, wine and cocktails, as well as a delicious buffet dinner and a breathtaking sunset at sea with Captain Andy.

You can also choose a romantic sunset cocktail cruise along Kauai’s Southern Coast where you’ll be treated to live Hawaiian music that floats over you like the trade winds as you enjoy pupus (appetizers), “sneaky tikis,” beer and wine … and each other.

Smith’s Tropical Paradise Luau includes a spectacular ceremony in a torch-lit Lagoon Amphitheater along the famous Wailua River! The hypnotic presentation of the Luau ceremony begins with the traditional blowing of the conch shell and torch lighting. Guests are welcome to gather around for the traditional Hawaiian Imu Ceremony as the Kalua Puaa (roast pork) is unearthed from the underground oven (imu).

Grand Hyatt Kauai Luau, together with Tihati’s Havaiki Nui Polynesian show, makes for an evening you’ll always remember. Havaiki Nui, the great land of promise. Hence, these people of the sea migrated and settled throughout the Pacific establishing what we know today Polynesia – Tahiti, Samoa, Hawaii and the many people of the Pacific. Take this exciting journey of Polynesia through chant, song and dance.

Surrounded by 50 miles of white sand beaches for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing and romantic walks together, the island of Kauai is the perfect destination to bring your romance center stage in an exotic, tropical setting.

Big Island Hawaii: Romantic Things to Do

tr — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 22:43:45 +0000

By A.R. Royo

“The grandest place for love,” is how many couples describe the Big Island of Hawaii, where romance is painted in bold strokes on the largest of the Hawaiian Islands. They know that the Big Island is the ideal destination for a romantic getaway, or for loved ones to celebrate together, year after year.

A treasure trove of romantic possibilities, the Big Island often means adventure, too. Here, glorious days and nights provide an abundance of romantic adventure from delightful rainforest hikes, thrilling helicopter rides over waterfalls and volcanoes, to an intimate snorkeling tour or a heart-pounding swim with wild dolphins.

Come evening, it’s time to relax and enjoy a Big Island sunset cruise with that special person who brings you joy. Big Island sunset cruises depart from Kona and Waikoloa on the leeward side of the island, where the seas are calm and sunsets spectacular.

Begin an evening of magic, romance and enchantment aboard the Spirit of Kona glass-bottom boat. On this delightful sunset dinner cruise you’ll enjoy a delicious Pacific rim-style meal, complimentary Mai Tai and full premium cash bar.

Or set sail aboard the Body Glove Catamaran for a 2-hour sunset cocktail cruise that includes heavy pupus, live music and open bar, while cruising the glorious Kona Coast. Live entertainment, a terrific drink menu, and the gorgeous blue Pacific at sunset make the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening of tropical romance.

Been to a Hawaiian luau yet? Probably not like the luscious variety offered on this sensual isle. Island Breeze Luau Show is held under the stars on the grounds of Kamehameha the Great’s former estate in Kailua Kona. Gathering of the Kings, at The Fairmont Orchid Resort, provides a traditional Luau Show including a lei greeting for lovers, dinner and dancing.

The Royal Kona Luau Show, Legends & Legacies, invites you and your beloved to join a cast of singers, drummers, and hula dancers for a mesmerizing extravaganza. Legends of the Pacific at the Hilton Waikoloa Village, greets you with exotic Polynesian dances and music of the Pacific Rim, highlighted by an island-style feast under the stars.

On the Big island of Hawaii, it’s the little things that you’ll always remember, reliving them again and again. For this tropical isle is an epic palette where matters of the heart, have become a fine art.

Oahu Romance – Things to Do

tr — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 18:01:16 +0000

By A.R. Royo

There nothing more romantic than a pleasure-filled vacation together in the tropical Hawaii Islands. Oahu is world famous for specializing in all things romantic – from enchanting sunset dinner cruises to delightful Hawaiian luaus – both offering a feast for the senses to lovers young and old alike.

Oahu sunset dinner cruises assure an amorous evening on the water along the Waikiki coastline at the most vibrant and colorful time of day. Ardor abounds on these tropical Hawaiian evenings among lovers, honeymooners, partners and those renewing their wedding vows. Many remember such enchanting tropical Hawaiian evenings as the most idyllic of their lives.

Oahu sunset dinner and cocktail cruises embark from various locations including Waikiki, Honolulu and Ko Olina. Dinner cruise boats vary in size from those carrying hundreds of passengers to boats catering to small groups of half a dozen. Most sunset dinner cruises include entertainment and dancing as well as menus offering a variety of cuisines and pricing. Most Waikiki dinner cruises also provide transportation to and from your hotel or resort.

You can fulfill your romantic Hawaiian vacation desires with a delicious sunset at sea cocktail and dinner cruise aboard “Navatek.“ Or relive the fervor of “Honolulu Boat Days” and embark in style from Honolulu’s historic Aloha Tower aboard the “Star of Honolulu.”

Dine, dance and enjoy a Polynesian show aboard Ali`i Kai, the world’s largest Polynesian catamaran, as it sail you into the sunset along the Waikiki shoreline. Or board the luxurious catamarans Maita’i and Makani for a romantic sunset sail to enjoy together, picturesque Waikiki, spectacular volcanic views and the cityscape of Honolulu.

Oahu also offers a variety of splendid luaus designed to give you a truly romantic, South Pacific experience. All include fascinating cultural activities such as the Imu roasting ceremony, delicious traditional and contemporary Hawaiian foods, and spectacular Polynesian Revues.
Your choices for Oahu luaus include award-winning Germaine’s Luau in West Oahu, Paradise Cove Luau at Ko Olina and the Royal Hawaiian Luau conveniently located on the beach in Waikiki. The Polynesian Cultural Center in windward Laie also provides a spectacular luau and show, while immersing guests in the numerous romantic cultures of the South Pacific.

If you’re looking for a blissful vacation together, look no further than the idyllic islands of Hawaii and the romance of Oahu.

Romantic Honeymoon Vacation on Maui Hawaii

tr — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:56:45 +0000

By A.R. Royo

Maui is a romantic paradise that attracts couples from round the world who enjoy its tropical beauty and enchantment. The mere mention of the word “Maui” evokes images – or memories – of sharing gorgeous sunsets, walks together on pristine beaches and intimate moments under cascading waterfalls.

Maui is the destination favored by numerous vacationers, honeymooners and wedding couples, as well as those celebrating anniversaries. Maui is now one of the top wedding locations in the world, hosting more than 10,000 weddings every year.

Maui has numerous wedding planners who can coordinate the complex aspects of a romantic Hawaiian wedding including, venue, officiant, photographer, musicians, flowers and transportation. The staff at A Dream Wedding in Paradise can help you combine your Maui wedding, reception and honeymoon into one fun and easy package.

A plethora of thrilling activities makes Maui even more desirable as a venue for love and romance to honeymooning vacationers. They include helicopter tours over spectacular landscapes, dozens of romantic land and ocean activities and golfing on world-class island courses.

One of the most memorable experiences for many vacationing Maui couples is sharing an authentic Hawaiian Luau together. A delicious variety of traditional foods and drinks, featuring fantastic shows and musical revues are offered in numerous romantic settings in West Maui. Maui Luaus include the Grand Hyatt Lua, and Royal Lahaina Resort and Sheraton at Kaanapali Beach. The Cirque Hawaii and Ulalena shows also offer spectacular entertainment with dinner options available.
Maui Sunset Dinner and cocktail cruises provide an ideal occasion for creating unforgettable romantic memories together. These cruises depart from Kaanapali, Lahaina and Maalaea harbors, close to luxury resort areas many tourists and honeymoon couples choose for their Maui stay.

Share a Romantic Sunset Dinner leaving from Lahaina Harbor aboard either the Maui Kaulani or Maui Princess, where upper deck dining offers table service, stunning panoramic views, live music and dancing under the stars, on this luxury yacht.

From Kaanapali, join Trilogy Excursions for a sunset sail along the coast with gourmet pupus, cocktails and views of Lanai, Molokini and the slopes of Haleakala. From Maalaea Harbor, lovers can sail the Alii Nui Catamaran to enjoy delicious local pupus, mai tais and other drinks, while chasing the sinking sun through the azure waters off West Maui.

No wonder that Maui offers the only destination for so many couples seeking the perfect vacation to celebrate the many splendors of love.

How to Nab a Vacation Rental on Oahu

tr — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 23:47:59 +0000

By Kelly Stoneman

Snatching the perfect vacation rental on Oahu is an ideal way to fulfill your desire for something special, and often provides more of a “local” experience. It’s definitely worth the effort to get a deeper look at the large variety of offerings on this beautiful island, regardless of whether you’re traveling for your family holidays, an escape with friends, a wedding, or even on business. First time and repeat visitors alike highly recommend alternative options to the usual accommodations, such as hotels and resorts, so keep that in mind when weighing up your options.

Discounted Rental Rates and Activity Combinations
You might have the idea that they are high on both price and style when you think of rental properties on Oahu . In terms of style, this can be true, however, during the off season prices are usually negotiable and most homes are discounted, especially in the current economy.

There are many agencies that offer the additional option of combining your ideal rental accommodations with activities, travel guides, insider tips, and even car rental. Book these things in a package deal wherever you can; rare will be the time that you do not save a hefty chunk of cash by doing so.

Additional Oahu Travel Tips
When selecting your travel agent, it’s important to be sure you are dealing with a local company . This ensures you’re sourcing info from those who truly know the island and all it has to offer. While there are many companies located over the world, you may be surprised to find that many of their agents have never even visited Oahu. Each different part of the island offers its own individual charm, and they can differ vastly!

HONOLULU – Home to abundant Historic landmarks, museums, Chinatown, the financial district, and a mix of dining options and art galleries unrivaled in the rest of Hawaii, it is unsurprising that Honolulu is the state capital, and a rich arena of arts and culture to inspire and stimulate the senses. It’s easy to join in and be a part of it, just come on over!

WAIKIKI - The Manhattan of Hawaii, Waikiki is renowned for it cocktail of vibrant nightlife, and both world-class hotels and ocean front fine dining. On top of that, the local culture is known for its surf lessons, live entertainment, luaus, “Aloha wear”, and of course, the Waikiki Beach sands. Immerse yourself in the fun, history and wonder that is Waikiki!

WINDWARD OAHU - If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, this is the place to go. Home to some of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches and the luxury estates of Lanikai, Kailua and Diamond Head, Oahu’s Windward coast also contains some of Hawaii’s finest beaches. The area offers everything for the outdoor enthusiast: kayaking, horseback riding, hiking, surfing (of course!), and much more. Come explore the verdant vales, tropical basins, white soft sand and crystal blue waters!

LEEWARD & CENTRAL OAHU – Central and Leeward Oahu are home to some of the island’s most well-known attractions. Here you will find the battleships, aviation museums and memorials of Pearl Harbor, the Dole Plantation’s pineapple fields and the resort area of Ko’Olina with superb golfing, a marina and beautiful lagoons.

NORTH SHORE - The island’s North Shore is most well known for the surfing at Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, home of monster winter swells and many world-famous surf competitions. Both electrifying and laid-back, here you will find rustic surf villages and wide-open spaces with a laid-back country feel.

Finding the Best Deals When it Comes Time to Pay
When the time comes to pay, you get better deals when paying with checks. In general you can save an additional 5% if you simply ask for it! They can save up to 4% in credit card fees, so it’s often a win-win situation.

Damage Deposit for Exclusive Rentals
Ranging from several hundred up to several thousand, both security and damage deposits are required by the majority of exclusive coastline vacation accommodations. Avoiding damage deposit charges is possible in two different ways. First, ask your travel or vacation property agency if there is a travel insurance policy available, which will cost you a fraction. As an alternative, ask to have a hold placed on your credit card, rather than a charge.

Holds on your card are free of charge and will be released within 2 weeks of the end of your stay-if that there hasn’t been any destruction of property of course (but you’d never do that).

Security Deposit
Security deposits are deducted from your final balance due, usually 30-90 days prior to arrival on the island.

Remember, by properly researching and examining a variety of options, you are more likely to choose the Maui vacation rental that is best for you. It’s not too hard and can build you up some nice anticipation for your holiday.

You can find most everything you need by looking at travel websites. Most provide photographs, full descriptions, guest reviews and rate information. Of course, if you need any more information you can typically contact the site or an agent by email or telephone. You may well even end up with the vacation home of your dreams!

How to Nab a Vacation Rental on Maui

tr — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 22:34:05 +0000

By Kelly Stoneman

From the world-famous sunny beaches to the lush, vibrant rainforests and the small local towns in between, Maui really is everything you’ve imagined Hawaii to be … and more. Whether looking for exclusive, world-class resorts or secluded honeymoon cottages, it’s all here.

It can be a scary task to find the best accommodation for newcomers to Maui, and this is why it’s important to do your research! Here are some explanations and tips that might just make your search a little easier.

Maui county closed short-term rental homes
Beginning in 2007, the county closed a stunning number of short-term rental homes on Maui, from small Bed and Breakfasts to million dollar vacation homes! Hundreds of such rentals went out of business, a few lucky ones are still permitted and others are in the arduous process of applying for the necessary permits.

Maui Cottage Rentals are still available
Most travel agencies are still offering such vacation homes, and we have high hopes that such a sad story will have a happy ending for this once vibrant alternative to the usual resort experience.

Ask any of your friends, relatives and co-workers who have visited Maui previously. Those who have been here before usually have the best advice, as they’ve had firsthand experience. You will probably hear a wide variety of thoughts and ideas that had possibly never occurred to you. Experiences of people you know will usually tell you much more than any other informational source.

Bargain hunting on expensive Maui
Though Maui rentals are generally noticeably more expensive than other islands, the present state of the economy has kept occupation reasonable on Maui, and indeed the same is true for most Maui hotels-even Five-Star resorts like the Grand Wailea and Four Season. This means possible savings for you, especially when looking for accommodations for extended stays of two weeks or more. Be sure to enquire with your agent about any vacation rental houses or promotions that may not presently listed, just about end, or just about to begin.

Maui activities

You might save some money when booking with an agency that handles more than just vacation rentals, as they mostly offer special offers like promotions or even completely free activities, tours, and the like (if you book with them, naturally). Again, it never hurts to ask!

Here are some accommodation tips:

Remote village of Hana
Maui offers the most diversity of rich environments and climates of all the islands. The remote village of Hana, on East Maui, is where you’ll find the most waterfalls and lush rainforests. From the star-swarmed luxury Hotel Hana Maui to basic campgrounds to comfy bungalows, there is also a great range of available vacation housing!
The North shore for the water sport enthusiasts
The North Shore is most famous for the Surf Town of Paia, and offers fantastic opportunities for water sports enthusiasts like windsurfing, surfing and kite surfing with well-known beaches like Baldwin, Ho’okipa or Kanaha all very nearby. You will also find eclectic shops, wonderful eateries and accommodations ranging from small B & B’s and bungalows in Paia, Haiku and Upcountry in the island to lavish maui luxury villas in the nearby neighborhood of Spreckelsville!
Central Maui
Central Maui is really primarily an industrial and shopping area with only a few, albeit, budget-friendly hotels and rooms for rent.
The South and West shores
These shores of the island are primarily home to the exclusive and manicured areas of Wailea, Kapalua, Lahaina and Ka’anapali. The sugary sands of the beaches in these areas offer the perfect environment for sunbathing, relaxation and luxury at Makena (Big) Beach, Little Beach and Ka’anapali Beach, voted among the top ten beaches in Hawaii. Nearby, beautiful maui luxury oceanfront villas such as vacation villas, private estates and beachfront condos to fit any budget are available.
Get better deals by paying with a check
When the time comes to pay, you get better deals when paying with checks. In general you can save an additional 5% if you simply ask for it! They can save up to 4% in credit card fees, so it’s often a win-win situation.
Damage deposit for exclusive rentals
For more exclusive beach and oceanfront vacation rentals, there are usually both security and damage deposits to pay, which can range from a few hundred dollars up to several thousand.
There are two ways to avoid damage deposit charges. First and foremost, a good travel insurance policy will pay for such charges and cost a fraction of the price, and if you need you can check with your vacation rental or travel agent if they know of any. As an alternative, ask to have a hold placed on your credit card, rather than a charge.
If all goes well and no damage to property is reported, credit card hold is free of charge and released within 2 weeks of your departure.
Security deposit
Security deposits are deducted from your final balance due, usually 30-90 days prior to arrival on the island.

Remember, by properly researching and examining a variety of options, you are more likely to choose the Maui vacation rental that is best for you. It’s pretty easy to do and can be quite fun too.

You can find most everything you need by visiting travel websites. Most provide photographs, full descriptions, guest reviews and rate information. Naturally, if you need any more information you can typically contact the site or an agent by email or telephone. You may well even end up with the vacation home of your dreams!