For those who don't know, vacation rentals are usually stand-alone houses with full kitchens. In Hawaii, many of them are located right on the water and boast private swimming pools and Jacuzzis as well. A few have their own tennis courts. Vacation rentals usually require a minimum of one week stay. Depending on the size of the group traveling, vacation rentals are often comparably priced with per-person hotel room rates, especially if the group takes advantage of the full kitchen for preparing their meals. It's similar to how a cab can be cheaper than the bus or subway if there are enough people sharing the fare.

Knowing this, it's easy to vacation like a VIP in paradise and experience Hawaii the way the rich and famous do. This trip stay in a luxurious beach front home, fabulous estate or private villa when visiting the islands. You'll never catch a VIP in a hotel mingling with the tourists, packed like sardines on Waikiki beach or waiting for elevators. They enjoy their peace, tranquility and solitude, unimpeded by the tourist throng--and you can too. Right now, depending on the number of guests in your group, you can vacation in style in Hawaii for less than a hotel stay....it's like getting a free first class upgrade by staying in a first class Hawaii vacation rental home.

Each of the Hawaiian islands has something unique to offer. Oahu, the gathering place, is where Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, Honolulu and big wave surfing are found. It is the most populous and modern of the islands and has the most nightlife. Kauai, the garden isle, is the oldest and most tropical of the islands. Its scenery is the stuff of movies and television settings. Mount Wai'ale'ale, the wettest spot on earth, Hanalei and Bali Hai are all found on Kauai. Maui, the valley isle, is famous for championship golf courses, whale watching and Haleakala Crater (inside of which all of Manhattan would fit). Lahaina, former whaling capital of the world, Hana, where Charles Lindbergh is buried, and the resort area of Kapalua are all found on Maui. Hawaii is not only the name of the state, but also the name of the largest island. Local refer to it as the big island. It is an island of contrasts and home to big game sport fishing, black sand beaches, desolate lava fields, tropical rain forests, spectacular waterfalls and volcanoes.

But remember, Hawaii is a year round vacation paradise and the best accommodations are booked early. Pacific Islands Reservations advises you to make your reservations for all Hawaii vacation rentals and bed & breakfast accommodations at least six months in advance. Holiday dates are usually booked up to a year in advance, so plan accordingly.