The 17 Best Airbnbs in Hawaii, from Maui to Moloka’i

• Sleeps: 6
• Price: $1,413/night
• Why We Recommend It: family retreat, good for groups, beachfront, ocean views, water activities

Here, a roomy three-bedroom residence that occupies prime beachfront real estate and boasts sweeping ocean views. The open floor plan of the living area provides a breezy and oh-so relaxing place to lounge that’s very much in keeping with the tropical, laid-back island vibes. The master bedroom is located on its own floor, ensuring privacy and an intimate space for couples to enjoy, and the additional bedrooms—both comfortable and beautifully designed—make this a perfect family retreat. When you finally tear yourself away from the sun-drenched and well-appointed interior and are ready to explore the beach, you’ll be pleased to find that the property is thoroughly equipped with everything you need, including snorkel gear, surfboards and more.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: from $367/night
• Why We Recommend It: oceanfront, direct beach access, panoramic views, luxury amenities, air conditioning, washer/dryer

This immaculate, luxury condo, which occupies prime beachfront real estate on famous Waikiki beach, features an expansive interior with an open-floor plan and every modern amenity under the sun. Bright, airy and beautifully furnished, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better place to relax. Oh, and did I mention that you’ll also be treated to panoramic ocean views from up on high? File this one under ‘elevated island escape.’

• Sleeps: 2
• Price: from $227/night
• Why We Recommend It: couples’ retreat, close proximity to natural attractions, tropical garden, luxury amenities

This elegantly decorated king-size studio features a sprawling backyard with lush, impeccably landscaped tropical gardens and stunning mountain views. The property, which is located in a tranquil and private gated community, is also just a stone’s throw away from a seven-mile stretch of white sand beaches. The interior is well-equipped with cooking essentials and modern amenities, including WiFi, a large Smart TV, a washer and dryer—pretty much everything you could want for a comfortable stay for two.

• Sleeps: 3
• Price: $605/night
• Why We Recommend It: natural beauty, mountain views, private backyard, amenities, romantic retreat

As the name suggests, Star Lookout is a secluded jungle hideaway that’s just right for watching gorgeous sunsets from the patio and (you guessed it) stargazing when the sun goes down. It also boasts breathtaking mountain views and a private backyard featuring lush gardens and an outdoor kitchen, to boot. The interior benefits from numerous amenities, including central air conditioning, a very well-stocked kitchen and a host of children’s items for those traveling with a tot in tow. In other words, this rental is best-suited to couples looking for a romantic retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the island, yet still within easy access of the beach (it’s 20 minutes by car), but it will do just fine for a small family with a baby on board, too.

• Sleeps: 3
• Price: $317/night
• Why We Recommend It: mountain views, bay views, close proximity to beach, luxury accommodations, natural beauty, shared resort amenities

Welcome to Menehune Shores, a stunning one-bedroom condo that lives up to its claim of providing luxury living to visitors on the island. The interior design is elegant, the space is filled with light and the owners furnished it with supreme comfort in mind. There’s a shared pool that guests can enjoy and the beachfront location provides easy access to the soft sand shores of Kihei. Oh, and did we mention it’s a top-floor suite with panoramic mountain and bay views? Bottom line: this property achieves the perfect combination of luxury living, natural beauty and beach proximity that every island visitor dreams of.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: $657/night
• Why We Recommend It: ocean views, top-notch amenities, close proximity to beach, good for families, peaceful retreat

This modern and newly-constructed rental is a family-friendly oasis and a perfect home base for guests wishing to explore the Road to Hana, as well as the upcountry and North Shore of Maui. Aside from its prime and very serene location, Pauwela Nights has some pretty impressive on-site amenities: there’s an absolutely massive bathroom with a soaking tub, two spacious, king-sized bedrooms, a covered patio with expansive ocean views and a living room that’s furnished with comfort in mind and large enough to accommodate up to six people (though the rental only sleeps four). As far as family retreats go, you’d be hard-pressed to find better accommodations in Maui.

• Sleeps: 2
• Price: from $289/night
• Why We Recommend It: couple’s retreat, historic cabin, expansive property, mountain views, ocean views, close proximity to natural attractions

Immerse yourself in nature with a stay at this historic 1920s log cabin—a refreshing departure from the flashy high-rise condos and high-end resorts of the island. Perched at an elevation of nearly 4,000 feet, this charming rental boasts sweeping mountain and ocean views, and close proximity to both the beach and the National Park Summit District. There’s also the added benefit of cooler nights, which you can enjoy from the rustic and oh-so cozy interior. (In front of the fireplace, perhaps?) Best of all, guests can enjoy six private acres of lush outdoor space, which glowing five-star reviews describe as “breathtaking.” If you’re looking for a romantic upcountry retreat, this one fits the bill.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: from $408/night
• Why We Recommend It: jungle setting, complimentary excursion, historic home, central location, couple’s retreat, lake access

Located atop a scenic jungle gorge, this lovely Hawaiian cottage promises guests unmatched views of the surroundings and what one of many five-star reviews describes as “an immersive experience with nature and the land of Maui.” The open and breezy interior is small but well-appointed and brimming with historic charm. Best of all, the hosts provide a one- to two-hour jungle tour so that guests can acquaint themselves with the land and even do some foraging during their stay—an experience that many reviewers describe as being a highlight of their trip.

• Sleeps: 3
• Price: from $565/night
• Why We Recommend It: ocean views, interior design, close proximity to beach, amenities

You would have to shell out thousands per night to enjoy ocean views like this at one of the island's luxury hotels, but this swoon-worthy property serves them up for a fraction of the price. Aside from the spectacular scenic views, you will also be treated to a tastefully designed interior with a zen (i.e., feng shui) aesthetic. Take a short walk down the hill and you will be deposited onto a postcard-worthy beach; when you're done with the sun, retreat back to your well-appointed pad where an immaculate, air-conditioned space waits, complete with plenty of amenities, including a washer and dryer for your sandy beach clothes. Basically, this one is a home you’d be perfectly happy to move into for good.

• Sleeps: 6
• Price: from $831/night
• Why We Recommend It: natural beauty, mountain views, private backyard, beach access, amenities, good for families

Tucked away behind a six-foot-tall lava rock wall sits this traditional Hawaiian home—a truly magical rental with a location that boasts breathtaking views of the mountains and waterfalls in the conservation lands that surround the property. This spot is also within walking distance of the pristine Tunnels Beach and has a lush tropical backyard of its own that matches the natural beauty that lies just beyond it. The spacious interior is filled with natural light and features gorgeous local artwork and charming cedar wood detailing throughout. Other amenities include air-conditioned rooms, a private hot tub and outdoor shower, beach gear and pretty much everything else you need for a comfortable stay.

• Sleeps: 6
• Price: $956/night
• Why We Recommend It: ocean views, resort amenities, beach access, luxury accommodations, good for families

When it comes to condo living, this is the crème de la crème. The floor-to-ceiling glass windows in the expansive and tastefully decorated living space provide such overwhelming views of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll feel like you’re floating above it. The bedrooms are spacious and clean, and one of the two bathrooms is the size of a master suite itself. The resort amenities are endless (think: pool access, tennis courts, hot tub, BBQs) and the property is just a short ten-minute walk away from the beach—assuming you’re not too hypnotized by the views from the sofa, that is. Suffice it to say that this rental will please anyone looking for penthouse-style luxury.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: from $422/night
• Why We Recommend It: private hot tub, backyard, family-friendly, washer/dryer, close proximity to natural

Located in the forest just five minutes away from Volcano National Park, this gorgeous A-frame cabin features floor-to-ceiling windows and doors that open up to a sprawling and truly exceptional outdoor space, complete with a private hot tub, fire pit, and, of course, gorgeous natural surroundings. As for amenities, you will be wanting for nothing: there’s a washer, dryer, WiFi and, by all accounts, a very well-stocked kitchen. Book this glamping experience and you will be treated to a perfect home base for visiting all the Big Island’s most prized attractions.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: $345/night
• Why We Recommend It: natural retreat, secluded location, luxe amenities, amazing outdoor space, good for families

A hidden gem nestled in the lush green hills of Waimea—this property offers a very private escape that promises instant relaxation in a beautiful natural setting. Natural wood floors and ceilings with exposed beams create a warm and cozy vibe that blends seamlessly with the classy and decidedly luxe design of the custom interior. By all accounts, the amenities are fabulous and include exclusive access to the grounds where guests can enjoy the private backyard, which is surrounded by gorgeous gardens and features both a fire pit and grill. There’s nothing not to love about this wonderful property—just keep in mind that you will need a car if you’re planning a beach day, since the nearest one is about a 30-minute drive away.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: $249/night
• Why We Recommend It: natural retreat, secluded location, luxe amenities, amazing outdoor space, good for families

This exceedingly private retreat in Volcano is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, which can be viewed from both the wrap-around deck and the home’s elegant interior, which features high vaulted pine ceilings, wood floors and classy furnishings. The location is also a dream come true for nature lovers, since Volcano National Park is a mere five minutes away by car. Couples and small families who are seeking an oasis that showcases the island’s beauty and provides easy access to natural attractions should look no further than this budget-friendly find.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: $331/night
• Why We Recommend It: beachfront, ocean views, good for families, outdoor amenities

Here, a quaint resort cottage with unparalleled ocean views and a location that’s within walking distance from the beach. (Note: the water at the nearby beach is too rough for swimming during winter, but gentle during the summer months.) There’s also a generously-sized patio, plus a pool, grilling area and an expansive grassy lawn where kids can romp around. Due to its location on the west side of the island, this is also a particularly peaceful retreat that’s blessedly removed from the more touristy areas. The homey interior is modest but breezy and sunlit, and the perfect five-star rating suggests that guests will be wanting for nothing.

• Sleeps: 3
• Price: $143/night
• Why We Recommend It: budget-friendly, beachfront, resort amenities

Hawaii isn’t exactly known as a budget-friendly destination, but when it comes to accommodations, there are exceptions to the rule. This condo unit is one such exception and glowing reviews indicate that it doesn’t disappoint. Given the price point, you can assume the accommodations are fairly basic—there’s no kitchen, for example—but there’s a lovely patio and the interior is described as being clean and simple. (As for the lack of kitchen, there is a mini fridge, coffee maker and toaster, plus a flat screen TV and an on-site ice maker.) The property also has an on-site restaurant and bar, and guests can also enjoy access to a shared pool and other resort amenities, as well as a backyard area and close proximity to the beach. Anyone planning a trip to Hawaii on a budget will be delighted by the accommodations and prime location of this cute condo.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: $271/night
• Why We Recommend It: ocean views, resort amenities, quiet beach, natural retreat, secluded location

This charming oceanfront cottage is located in a resort complex where guests can enjoy access to the amenities, which include a shared pool and backyard with grilling stations. The cottage itself has a private patio and a lovely interior that features high, vaulted ceilings, large windows and comfortable furnishings. Overall, the experience at this rental is one that will whisk you away from the tourist trappings of other islands whilst delivering total serenity, complete with wildlife, natural beauty and almost untouched beaches.