When planning a trip, most vacationers want to find the perfect balance between quality and value. Often, the perfect way to find both is to investigate a Hawaii vacation rental near the attractions you wish to experience. These rentals are often cheaper than hotels but provide a more authentic local experience at the Hawaiian Islands.

There are a vast array of possibilities for finding a place to rent on the island. You can leave the job up to a professional, you can search for yourself using the network or print advertisements, or you can leave the job to your future spouse!

However you end up locating a place to stay in Hawaii, remember there are other things you need to investigate. Send mail or speak with the person who manages the house and get any issues you may have down in writing. You need to make clear what your responsibilities are, what needs to be done while you are leasing, and make a checklist of things necessary before you leave the island.

If, for instance, you are staying at a Maui vacation rental, be sure to inquire as to whether or not the property is close to the airport as well as if the rental can be reached using a two wheel drive vehicle.

When choosing a Maui rental, consider asking the owner whether picking fruit or flowers from the yard is acceptable and how much rain might be expected on that part of the island during your stay. Also request any information the owner might be able to provide regarding the neighbors, tourist spots, and amenities.

Keep in mind when making your plans that Kauai is a rural island, so some amenities tourists are used to may not be available. It’s definitely worth asking the rental owner or agent about nearby services, as well as specifying what is included in your Kauai vacation rental (e.g. breakfast, laundry service). Also, be sure to check the latest local weather report for Kauai for the forecast to ensure that you can prepare for whatever weather conditions are expected.

No matter which method you choose to find your Hawaii vacation rental, remember that it is important to communicate with the owner of the rental to insure that you both have the same expectations. If you are staying at a Maui vacation rental, be sure to inquire as to whether or not the property is close to the airport as well as if the rental can be reached using a two wheel drive vehicle. Remember as you plan your Kauai vacations that the island is fairly rural and that there are few and far between tourist amenities. Ask the rental owner/agent which amenities are included in your rental.

- Ellen Gentry