13 Beautiful Vacation Rentals in Hawaii (Updated 2024)

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I’ve been lucky enough to visit Hawaii three times, exploring its islands and staying in some seriously breathtaking vacation homes. Whether you’re dreaming of a beachfront villa on Maui, a jungle hideaway on the Big Island, or a luxury retreat on Oahu, these 13 stunning homes on Airbnb and VRBO are perfect for soaking in all the beauty Hawaii has to offer.

From private pools with ocean views to lush tropical settings, each spot has something special that will make your stay unforgettable. I can’t wait to share my favorite finds with you—get ready for some serious island inspiration!

The 13 Coolest Vacation Rentals in Hawaii

Here are the best Airbnbs and VRBOs in Hawaii by category, considering factors such as amenities, trip types, and budgets. The following sections will cover each listing in more detail.

• Top Overall: Pineapple Cottage Farm Stay
• Best Luxury Villa: Unique Beachfront Estate
• Most Romantic: Hale Kokio Home
• Best for Large Groups: Hawaii Beachfront Home
• Top Cheap VRBO: Peace of Paradise Jungle Getaway
• Coolest with a Pool: Treehouse with Hot Tub and Swimming Pool
• Top Beach House: Kilauea Oceanfront Accommodation
• Best with a View: Hawai’i Villa for Rent
• Most Unique: Hale Hubner Treehouse Cottage

If romantic island getaways, beach houses, and luxury rentals in Hawaii all sound good to you, you’re in for a treat! Below are some of the most unique stays in HI:

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1. Pineapple Fruit Cottage

• 📍 Location: Hakalau, HI
• 💵 Price Per Night: $175/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 4 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: Ocean views, private farm, citrus grove, hanging bed, and modern amenities
• 🌟 Perfect For: Relaxation, tropical escapes, nature lovers

Nestled in a private corner of Hulili Tropical Fruit Farm, Pineapple Cottage offers a peaceful and scenic retreat. This 720 sq ft cottage features stunning ocean views, where you can watch the sunrise from a comfy rocking chair or the unique hanging bed on the lanai.

Inside, enjoy a king-sized Sleep Number bed, a futon, and a walk-in shower. Go outside to the citrus grove, where fresh lemons, limes, and oranges await.

Guests can explore the farm’s orchards, sample fruit, or relax while surrounded by nature. Umauma Falls, a short 10-minute drive away, and Akaka Falls, just 15 minutes away, are must-visit natural wonders. Nearby, Hilo is perfect for exploring or dining, offering both adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.

Whether you’re relaxing in the grove or exploring nearby waterfalls, Pineapple Cottage offers the ideal tropical getaway.

2. Beachfront Estate with Scenic Ocean Views

• 📍 Location: Anahola, HI
• 💵 Price Per Night: $793/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: Oceanfront location, hot tub, large yard, beach gear, gated property
• 🌟 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🌊, family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, peaceful getaways 🏖️

Located in Anahola, this 2500 sq ft beachfront estate is a dream for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. With panoramic ocean views from the spacious lanai, you can unwind in the private hot tub or stroll across the large, beautifully landscaped yard.

Indoor, the home features vaulted ceilings, a well-equipped kitchen, and ample living space perfect for families.

Just a short walk to Hole in the Mountain, the beach offers opportunities for snorkeling, sailing, and surfing. Anahola Beach Park is a 10-minute drive, ideal for beach activities, while Princeville, only 23 minutes away, offers golf and dining. This stunning estate promises the ultimate Hawaiian retreat.

3. Hale Hubner Treehouse Cottage

• 📍 Location: Volcano, HI
• 💵 Price Per Night: $167/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 4 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: Pine wood interior, queen-size futon, private lanai with stargazing views, wood-burning stove
• 🌟 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌿, peaceful getaways 🌙, small families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Nestled in the heart of the lush hapu’u fern and ʻōhi’a rainforest of Volcano Village, Hale Hubner Treehouse Cottage is a cozy 750 sq ft retreat just 8 minutes from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 

The house features a spacious open layout with high vaulted ceilings and expansive windows offering stunning views of the tropical foliage surrounding you.

This unique hideaway sleeps up to 4 guests, with a master bedroom and a queen-size futon in the living area. Enjoy the tranquility of nature with the sounds of birds and rain surrounding the property, making it an ideal escape.

Located just 2 miles from the Halema’uma’u Crater at Kilauea’s summit, this peaceful retreat is close to Hilo, Volcano Village, and Hawaii’s Vanilla Farm, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

4. Scenic Island Beach House 

• 📍 Location: Haena, HI
• 💵 Price Per Night: $520/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 5 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: 1-minute walk to the beach, tropical island-style bungalow, accessible for those with mobility needs
• 🌟 Perfect For: Family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, honeymooners 💍, beach lovers 🌊

Welcome to the Island Beach House, a peaceful retreat nestled in the tropical beauty of Haena. Just a minute’s walk from the beach, this bungalow is ideal for families or honeymooners. Enjoy stunning sunsets and the tranquil sound of the ocean right from your front door.

On the inside, the open and airy design with high ceilings and skylights offers a relaxing atmosphere. The spacious kitchen features handmade Hawaiian hardwood counters, and the open living area creates a welcoming space to unwind.

Just steps away from Tunnels Beach, famous for snorkeling and water sports, this home is also close to Hanalei for local dining and shopping. The property is designed for accessibility, with a ramp and roll-in showers to accommodate all guests.

Nearby, explore the breathtaking Na Pali Coast for scenic hikes, or take in the views at Princeville Golf Club. Whether you’re snorkeling, relaxing by the beach, or enjoying a round of golf, this spot provides the perfect base for your Kauai getaway.

5. Peace of Paradise Retreat Cabin

• 📍 Location: Keaau, HI
• 💵 Price Per Night: $131/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 2 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: Secluded jungle setting with tropical landscaping, private outdoor shower, large windows with lush garden views
• 🌟 Perfect For: Romantic getaways 💕, nature lovers 🌿, peaceful escapes 🌺

Welcome to Peace of Paradise, a Big Island sanctuary surrounded by lush tropical gardens and an acre of fruit trees. This unique retreat features three separate bungalows connected by wooden walkways, offering open-air living spaces that immerse you in nature.

Throughout, the cozy living room bungalow offers floor-to-ceiling windows, a small TV with a DVD player, and a peaceful space to unwind. The master suite, just across the lanai, includes a full-size bed with mosquito netting, a soaking tub with garden views, and an enclosed outdoor shower.

Start your mornings among the mango, lychee, and starfruit trees, or take a 15-minute stroll to Hobby Garden Hawaii. Hilo, just 20 minutes away, offers local shops and dining. For nature lovers, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a 45-minute drive, with trails, lava tubes, and steaming vents. 

Whether you’re exploring or simply relaxing, this retreat is the perfect Big Island escape.

6. Volcano Big Tree Sanctuary

• 📍 Location: Volcano, HI
• 💵 Price Per Night: $290/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: Luxury rainforest retreat, four fireplaces, outdoor sauna from Finland, gourmet kitchen with granite counters
• 🌟 Perfect For: Romantic getaways 💕, rainforest retreats 🌿, nature lovers 🏞️

Nestled in the rainforest, the Volcano Big Tree Sanctuary offers a peaceful and luxurious escape in Volcano, Hawaii. Set on two beautifully landscaped acres, this private retreat features a hot tub, two outdoor hot showers, and a Finnish-imported sauna house.

Ideal for couples or families with older children, this 2-bedroom, 3-bath home includes a king and queen deluxe bed, along with a double futon in the upstairs den. Inside, enjoy the four fireplaces, a great room, and a fully stocked gourmet kitchen.

Just a short drive to Kilauea and Volcano House, the sanctuary is also within easy reach of Kilauea Military Camp and Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, where you can enjoy scenic hikes and lava viewing. 

Whether you’re exploring the island’s east side or simply relaxing in the sanctuary, this home provides the perfect base for your Hawaiian adventure.

7. Magnificent Mountain View Retreat

• 📍 Location: 5105 Kapiolani Loop, Princeville, HI, 96722
• 💵 Price Per Night: $400/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: Air-conditioned bedrooms, exotic wood floors, modern kitchen, garden views of Mount Namahana, beach gear included
• 🌟 Perfect For: Family escapes 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, tropical retreats 🌺, golf lovers ⛳

Set in the heart of Princeville, this spacious 3-bedroom, 3-bath condo offers breathtaking views of Mount Namahana and a luxurious, breezy indoor-outdoor living experience. The home includes a king-sized master suite, a queen bedroom with a private bath, and a third bedroom with a bunk.

With air conditioning in every bedroom, exotic wood flooring, and a modern, fully equipped kitchen, you’ll feel right at home in this tropical hideaway.

Spend your days relaxing in the lush garden, firing up the BBQ, or riding the included bicycles to explore the area. You’re just minutes from Hanalei Bay, Hideaways Beach, and Anini Beach, with Queen’s Bath and Princeville Makai Golf Club a short walk away.

Shop and dine in Princeville Village, or take a scenic 13-minute drive to the charming town of Hanalei. Whether you’re watching the sunrise from the lanai or stargazing at night, this Princeville retreat offers the ultimate Kauai vacation experience.

8. Big Island Paradise

• 📍 Location: Captain Cook, HI
• 💵 Price Per Night: $255/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: Expansive ocean-view lanai, tropical garden with fruit trees, Hawaiian music, and décor
• 🌟 Perfect For: Romantic getaways 💕, family trips 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, beach lovers 🌊

Set above the South Kona coastline, this 2-bedroom retreat is your slice of aloha. With sweeping views of the Pacific from the lanai, lush tropical landscaping, and a professionally decorated interior, this home blends island charm with modern comfort.

The living area opens to the large lanai, perfect for lounging or enjoying al fresco dinners while soaking in unforgettable sunset views over the ocean. Both bedrooms feature queen beds, including a new Nectar mattress in the second room—ideal for couples or small families.

Enjoy outdoor rinses in the garden shower or savor local fruit grown right on the property. You’re just a short stroll from the private black pebble beach at the bottom of the street, and a 14-minute walk brings you to Pebbles Beach and the scenic South Kona shoreline.

Spend the day swimming at Ho‘okena Beach Park, or drive north to explore Kailua-Kona for shopping and dining. Whether you’re paddleboarding or just relaxing on the lanai, this is true Big Island bliss.

9. Hawaiian Dream Temple

• 📍 Location: Haiku-Pauwela, HI
• 💵 Price Per Night: $379/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: Private wraparound lanai, eco bamboo design, access to tropical shared pool & waterfall meditation gazebo
• 🌟 Perfect For: Romantic honeymoons 💕, family getaways 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, wellness retreats 🌺

Welcome to Hawaiian Dream Temple retreat, a handcrafted 1,800-square-foot eco-cottage tucked in the hills of Haiku. Perfect for couples or small families, this peaceful hideaway blends tropical beauty with quiet island comfort.

Within, the bamboo design and open-air flow create a breezy, relaxed atmosphere. Two queen bedrooms, a full kitchen, and an oversized Jacuzzi tub offer all the comforts of home.

On the outside, you’re surrounded by vibrant gardens, with shared access to a 40-foot freshwater pool just a short walk away.

Nearby, explore the surf town of Paia, swim at Kuau Bay Beach, or watch windsurfers at Ho‘okipa Beach Park. Whether you’re soaking in the hot tub or exploring the island, this spot is pure Maui magic.

10. The Ocean on Kauai’s Sunny West Side

• 📍 Location: Kekaha, HI
• 💵 Price Per Night: $275/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 4 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: Authentic sugar plantation-style cottage, updated kitchen, spacious garden, private lanai
• 🌟 Perfect For: Romantic getaways 💕, small families 🌴, nature lovers 🌊

Unwind at The Nene Nest – a plantation-style cottage just 152 steps from the ocean on Kauai’s peaceful West Side. Perfect for couples or small families, this cozy retreat blends vintage charm with modern comfort.

On the inside, you’ll find high ceilings, original wood floors, tropical fans, and air-conditioned living spaces. The home features two spacious bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a garden lanai ideal for quiet mornings with coffee or relaxed outdoor dining.

Step out and stroll to Kekaha Beach Park, known for its stunning sunsets, warm breezes, and long stretches of white sand perfect for beachcombing or whale watching.

Nearby, discover Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Spend the day exploring Koke’e State Park, browsing local markets in Kekaha, or dining at nearby restaurants. Whether you’re at the beach or hiking the canyon, The Nene Nest promises an unforgettable Kauai stay

• Read next: Top Hidden Gems in America

11. Hale Kokio Home

• 📍 Location: Kilauea, HI
• 💵 Price Per Night: $375/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 2 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: Private lanai with hot tub, tropical garden views, outdoor shower, loft space
• 🌟 Perfect For: Honeymooners 💕, nature lovers 🌺, couples seeking privacy 🌴

Step into Hale Kokio, a magical, romantic cottage on North Shore Kauai, a private retreat nestled in the lush tranquility of Kilauea Farms. This peaceful 750-square-foot getaway is surrounded by tropical beauty, including swaying palms, colorful hibiscus, and fruit trees like bananas, coconuts, and seasonal grapefruit.

Inside, you’ll find one charming bedroom, a cozy loft, a full kitchen, and an airy living space that opens directly onto a covered lanai with a private hot tub. The outdoor shower, garden paths, and secluded setting make it ideal for a romantic stay.

Just minutes from the town of Kilauea, you’ll enjoy easy access to local gems like boutique shops, bakeries, and yoga studios. 

Spend your days discovering Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, swimming at Anini Beach, or exploring Hanalei Bay. Secret Beach and Princeville Botanical Gardens also lie nearby, offering unforgettable tropical scenery.

• Read next: Island of Molokai Travel Guide

12. Tropical Maui Retreat with Waterfall Pool

• 📍 Location: Kihei, HI
• 💵 Price Per Night: $475/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 4 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: Waterfall pool with a slide, outdoor shower, private lanai, Koa wood floors, tropical garden
• 🌟 Perfect For: Relaxing getaways 🌴, family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, nature lovers 🌺

Discover Hale Manu Mele – a 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom cottage in a tropical garden in Maui Meadows. Ideal for couples or small families, this peaceful retreat blends privacy with convenience, just minutes from world-class beaches like Keawakapu Beach North, Wailea Beach, and Kamaole Beach Park.

Enjoy an open floor plan with a fully equipped kitchen featuring granite countertops, a cozy living area, and access to a private deck where you can relax and take in the island breeze.

The pool, shared with the owner, is available daily from 9 AM to 8 PM. Additional amenities include Wi-Fi, an outdoor shower, and a BBQ grill for your convenience.

Nearby, explore snorkeling, surfing, and diving opportunities at Molokini Crater or spend the day at the Wailea Resort for shopping, dining, and golf. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, enjoying the beach, or hiking nearby trails, Hale Manu Mele is your ideal Maui retreat.

13. Beautiful Kaohe Sunset View

• 📍 Location: Kilauea, HI
• 💵 Price Per Night: $850/night
• 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
• 🔥 Unique Features: Oceanfront bluff views, outdoor shower, luxurious Hawaiian Plantation-style design, covered lanai with fire pit
• 🌟 Perfect For: Family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, nature lovers 🌺, beach lovers 🏖️, luxury getaways 🌴

Welcome to Kaohe Sunset View, a remodeled 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home perched above Kalihiwai Bay. This spacious retreat offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Kalihiwai River, and surrounding mountains, making it the perfect spot for families or groups.

Inside the home, enjoy a fully stocked kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a dining area, and two living areas designed for relaxation. Outdoors, a covered lanai with lounge furniture and a fire pit invites you to unwind while watching the sunset or spotting whales in winter.

Just a short drive away, you’ll find Kalihiwai Beach for surfing and bodyboarding, Anini Beach for its calm waters, and the Princeville Golf Club. Explore the Princeville Botanical Gardens or take advantage of the local hiking trails.

Whether you’re relaxing at the house or exploring Kauai’s natural beauty, Kaohe Sunset View offers an unforgettable stay.

Top House Rentals in Hawaii: Coolest Cottages and Beach Houses for Rent in the Hawaiian Islands

Have you ever stayed in a unique Airbnb or VRBO house rental in Hawaii? Let me know in the comments or on Insta, as I’m always looking to add to this round-up of the most unique beach house rentals in Hawaii!

Looking for more adventures around the US? Check out these dreamy destinations:

– Top Maine Cottage Rentals

– Unique Rentals across the USA

– Best Lake Winnipesaukee Vacation Rentals

– Top Airbnb Homes in New England

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Charity De Souza is a freelance travel writer from Orlando, Florida. Traveling full-time as a digital nomad for over a decade, her favorite travel memories include skydiving in Switzerland, eating sushi in Japan, and snorkeling with sea turtles in Indonesia. She currently resides in Porto, Portugal with her husband. You can follow her adventures at www.charitydesouza.com and on Instagram @marriednomads.