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!

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!

Hawaii whale watching tours are some of the most popular activities for winter visitors to the Hawaiian Islands. Over a million people per year from all over the world take advantage of this unique attraction—the only place in the United States to enjoy the Humpback whales’ seasonal migration.

Each year in February, Maui’s Pacific Whale Foundation conducts a whale count from data collected on several of the islands. Both residents and visitors are encouraged to register for this event and participate in an effort to document the number of Humpback whales in the region. Pacific Whale Foundation also sponsors an annual Whale Festival in Kihei, Maui, complete with a parade and fair where music, food and exhibits by environmental organizations.

Humpback Whale Habits
No one is sure when Humpback whales (whose biological name is megaptera noveangliae are known as “kohola” in the native Hawaiian language) began to make this journey each year to spend winter months in the warm, hospitable Pacific waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands. Some believe the mass migration of Humpback whales to Hawaiian waters did not begin until the twentieth century.

Humpbacks travel 3,000 to 5,000 miles from their northern Pacific Ocean feeding grounds to reach their tropical winter home. They begin arriving during November, with peak whale watching season extending from December through April, when the whales once again say goodbye to Hawaii and return to their summer homes to feed and grow in Alaskan waters.

Humpback whales do not eat during the time spent in Hawaiian seas, spending the entire winter resting, mating and giving birth to a new generation, ensuring their existence for generations to come. Female whales give birth only once every two to three years, so each calf born is a national treasure to be cherished by all.

Endangered Humpback Whales are Reviving
The Humpback whale has been on the international endangered species list since 1964, when mechanized commercial whaling had reduced the number of known Humpbacks to a mere 1,000 worldwide. Since attaining the endangered protection and benefiting from a ban on the commercial harvest of the Humpback species, recent counts of the whales in Hawaiian waters during the winter season have reached 8,000 to 10,000 — clear evidence that the endangered species is recovering from the brink of extinction with this special protection in place.

Whale Watching Cruises
Whale watching cruises have contributed to the awareness of and support for this special creature and its habitat. Modern whale watching tours and all recreational boats are required by law to remain at least 100 yards away from Humpback whales—further from mothers and calves; however, the whales sometimes follow their own rules and may come in closer to boats in their area for a closer look. It is not uncommon for the humpback to swim around and under non-threatening vessels in the area, which can provide a closer connection between curious humans and whales alike.
     

Whale Watching in Hawaii Tours
Hawaii whale watching cruises are available from many of the islands, including Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and Kauai. Vessels available for your choice range from larger vessels for a stable comfortable ride for all levels and special needs to rigid, inflatable hulled boats for a more rugged, close-to-the-water adventure. On-board naturalists present Humpback whale facts and local history to enhance the experience.
 
Consider mobility and accessibility and your personal needs when choosing your Hawaiian whale watching experience. Some cruises are also offered with package rates that include a luau or other island attractions at local resorts with pick up and return transporation. Consider the complete range of offers and your personal preferences when booking your Hawaii whale watching tour.

Hawaii whale watching, Oahu cruises set sail from the harbor at Honolulu and Waikiki and feature a variety of choices, including glass-bottomed boats for underwater observation of all ocean creatures, including the whale, if it chooses to pass beneath the vessel.

Hawaii whale watching, Big Island cruises depart from both the Kailua/Kona harbor and the Keahuhou Bay area. Most are conveniently located near popular resort areas.

Maui whale watching tours originate from Lahaina and Ma’alea harbors. Ironically, Lahaina was a major whaling center in the past, which now promotes the appreciation and preservation of the humpback whale with sightseeing and educational cruises featuring this gentle creature. More whales seem to choose the waters near Maui than any other, making a peak season whale watching cruise here a primary goal of any serious whale watcher.

Hawaii whale watching, Kauai cruises sail from Port Allen and Waimea, traveling along the rugged coastline of Na Pali National Park. The majestic and varied shoreline contrasts with the ocean base of this winter home and playground of the humpback whale.

What You’ll See on a Hawaii Whale Watching Cruise

• Whales are warm-blooded mammals, breathing air from the surface and giving live birth to their young. Whales breathe through dual blowholes on the top of their heads, so the water spout created when they exhale as they come to the surface is a common way of spotting the creatures in the open ocean—the origin of the “Thar she blows.” cry of the ancient whalers. Watch for this telltale sign.
• Adult whales are from 35 to 48 feet long and commonly weigh about one ton per foot of length—the female growing larger than the male on a diet of plankton, small fish and krill in the northern Pacific feeding ground.
• If you are lucky enough to see mother and calf, remember that the baby weighed close to 2 tons when born and drinks up to 100 lbs. of mother’s milk each day. Sightings of mothers and calves are highest mid-to late season.
• Male whales communicate with a unique “song,” and many whale watching cruises use underwater audio equipment to pick up and transmit these haunting and individual sounds, which are normally heard only under the surface of the waves. Some whale songs may last up to 20 minutes and carry up to 20 miles under the surface of the ocean.
• Humpback whales surface in a variety of ways, from a full breech jump out of the water to playful tail and fin slaps. No one is completely sure of the meaning of each action, but it is believed they are a combination of communication with other whales, a means of seeing what might be present above the water and an expression of playfulness and joy.
• If you see a tail slap (commonly called “lobtailing”), pay special attention to the markings on the tail. Each humpback whale can be identified from individual markings on the tail flukes (much like unique fingerprints identify humans) and is the main way for researchers to identify, name and track adult whales from year to year.

Hawaii Whale Watching Tips
If a Hawaii whale watching adventure is on your agenda, keep in mind a few simple tips for your whale watch trip day.

• Most Hawaii whale watching cruises are from 2 to 5 hours long, and many whale watching cruise operators promise a 99% success rate of whale sightings during season. You may see individual whales or a group, which is known as a “pod.” Whales normally do not stay in groups for long periods of time, except for mother and calf relationships which may extend for multiple years.
• Wear sunglasses and a hat, and bring sun block lotion. The sunlight off the water intensifies the affect of the sun’s rays and can cause a painful sunburn. The glare of the sunlight off the water is also strong, and you will have a much better whale watching experience if your eyes are shaded by a hat and glare is reduced with good polarized sunglass lenses.
• The weather can change quickly on the water, so it’s a good idea to have a light jacket along to ward off cool breezes and mist from wind on the water.
• Binoculars can be useful on a whale watching cruise to observe whales at a distance and observe individual whales more closely.

– By Brenda Mathews

Have You Ever Tried an Ocean Kayaking Tour?
What could better than slipping soundlessly through clear, sparkling Hawaiian waters, skimming over the open Pacific accompanied by dolphins and sea turtles? Imagine passing close to a humpback whale and her calf as they winter in warm Maui waters. Taking an ocean kayaking tour is the perfect way to experience this wonderful aspect of Hawaiian island life in a way that’s not only completely harmonious with the surroundings, but also gives you an intensely personal connection with the ocean and all its wonders.

Ocean Kayaking Basics
Sea kayaking trips range from a few hours to a many weeks. Developed for the active sport of paddling on lakes, bays and the open ocean, most ocean kayaks are made for one or two paddlers. Size and configuration of the kayak are determined by the type of trip you want to make; for example, specialized kayaks such as surf skis are narrower than the typical open-water ocean kayak. Some may have upturned bows, providing better performance into ocean waves and better wave-shedding properties. The length of the ocean kayak affects both its cargo capacity and the ease of staying in a straight line in the water–its "tracking" ability. Very long ocean kayaks are easier to paddle straight, but are harder to turn and maneuver, so they are used mainly for long, open-water trips. The width of the ocean kayak also affects the cargo capacity, the size of the cockpit and overall stability.

Recreational Sea Kayaks
Most recreational sea kayaks are molded in one piece with a "cockpit" to sit in, "foot wells" to brace the feet in a comfortable position with the knees slightly bent and a backrest to provide support and comfort. Hooks along the side and top secure accessories and gear for snorkeling. Some fishing kayaks have rod rests for open-ocean fishing. The one-piece construction eliminates any need of bailing or clearing out water from the hull in rough water or after an overturn. Modern molded sea kayaks are light and easy to transport, as well as easy to use.

Ocean kayak paddles for recreational use are usually made of aluminum, plastic or wood, with high-performance paddles formed of lightweight materials like carbon-fiber. Ocean kayak paddles are made of two spoon-shaped blades on the ends of a shaft, usually "feathered" or set a a right angles to each other. As one blade pushes through the water, the other passes through the air at a right angle, reducing wind resistance.

The paddles are attached to the kayak with a tether, so you can’t accidentally lose it–no chance of being up the proverbial "creek without a paddle." A few practice strokes in calm water will give even the rank beginner at sea kayaking a feel for how easy it is to move, turn and control the kayak. If you are a beginner, stick with short sea kayak trips for starters. Sea kayaking tour guides and rental businesses will be happy to show you just what to do. And remember, you can do this!

Ocean Kayaking Techniques
If the kayak overturns or if you have been enjoying open-water snorkeling in one of Maui’s secluded bays, you can get back into the kayak by following a few basic steps.
• If the kayak is upside down, reach across the bottom of the boat and grab the scupper holes or accessory hooks. Bring your knees up and onto the bottom of the boat. Lean back and the boat will roll over. Lighter kayaks can be flipped over easily.
• Position yourself near the cockpit area facing the kayak. Let your feet float to the surface behind you by floating on your stomach.
• Reach across the boat to the far edge and swim up and on the kayak so your bellybutton is across the centerline of the boat.
• Roll over on your backside, swing your feet into the foot wells, and you’re up and ready to go. If you miss the first time, just line up in the middle of the kayak again until you make it. Easy does it, and you’re ready to paddle again.

Of course, you shouldn’t forget the basic safety rules to prepare for that long-awaited kayaking trip onto Hawaiian waters. A little preparation can mean the difference between having a once-in-a-lifetime dream trip on Hawaii seas or a disappointing experience.

Simple Ocean Kayaking Tips:
• Always wear a life jacket. Coast Guard regulations require a lifejacket on all kayaks. Wearing the lifejacket will keep your head above water in case of an upset and add insulation to your body.
• If you are a beginner, seek qualified instruction to learn paddling and water safety techniques unique to ocean kayaking.
• Be aware of weather conditions and ocean water temperatures present in the area of Hawaii you plan to kayak. A wet suit or dry suit will keep you comfortable in cold waters, and a simple, long-sleeved shirt can provide protection from intense sun in warm conditions.
• If you are striking out on your own, tell someone your paddle plan, including: where you are going, what you will be doing, how long you expect to be gone and how many people are in your party. Then, do not vary from that plan.
• If you are taking an ocean kayaking tour in a new area on your own, check with the locals regarding currents, shoreline conditions and usual weather patterns. Have an escape route and an alternative place to get off the water if environmental conditions make it necessary. And remember to let someone know your alternative plan as well as well as the original one.
• Always have water and some food with you.
• Be aware of offshore winds that may make it difficult to return to shore.

Hawaii Ocean Kayak Tours
Fortunately for the casual ocean kayaking enthusiast and occasional visitor to Hawaii, ocean kayaking tour operators can and will provide just the right kayak for whatever kind of kayaking tour you have in mind, along with life jackets, snorkel gear, reef shoes and fins. Kayaking tours provide instruction in basic ocean kayaking, lead groups to the best local spots for snorkeling, ocean fishing, wildlife observation and out-of-the-way Hawaiian beaches and coves.

Local kayaking tour guides have a huge store of information to share about local Hawaiian landmarks, native traditions relative to the area, and all wildlife unique to Hawaii. Get out there on the water. Ocean kayaking tours are fun! Hanalei river kayaking on Kauai is especially a blast.   

– By Brenda Mathews