The 15 Best Airbnbs in Hawaii, from Maui to Moloka’i

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Gorgeous beaches , lush tropical landscapes, rich culture, warm climate, numerous natural attractions —it’s not hard to see why Hawaii is a fan favorite vacation destination all year long. That said, each island has its own unique character and if you’re looking for a more authentic (and private) experience on any of them, a vacation rental is definitely better than a big name hotel. Without further ado, here are the very best Airbnbs in Hawaii, conveniently sorted by island so you can plan your perfect stay and start booking.

20 Truly Exceptional Airbnbs in Upstate New York

O’ahu

1. North Shore Beachfront Retreat

Airbnb

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.

2. The Blue Mango

Airbnb

This cozy guesthouse is newly renovated and sits on two enchanting acres in a peaceful part of Oahu that’s blessedly off the beaten path. Enjoy full access to the lush property, which features mango and avocado trees, and every other form of tropical beauty you can imagine. The generously sized patio has two hammocks where guests can relax and take in the stunning mountain views, the kitchen is fully stocked and the location—just a six minute walk from a quiet and pristine beach—cannot be beat. Yep, if you’re looking for a reasonably priced romantic escape , the Blue Mango checks all the boxes.

3. Kai Lani Condo Ko Olina

Airbnb

When it comes to family-friendly vacations , you can’t do better than this spacious and well-appointed beachfront property. For starters, it’s located within a gated community that’s just a stone’s throw of numerous attractions, including gorgeous lagoons featuring turtles and monk seals and sprawling golf courses. There’s also beach access, and a bevy of boutiques and restaurants nearby to ensure visitors will never be wanting for things to do (or buy). After a full day of basking on one of the area’s four lagoons or being entertained at Paradise Cove Luau, be sure to carve out some time to languish in the luxe and sunlit interior, which features island-inspired coral floors and every amenity you need to feel completely at home in Hawaii.

Maui

4. Star Lookout

Airbnb

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.

5. Menehune Shores 612

Airbnb

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.

6. Pauwela Nights

Airbnb

This modern and newly-constructed rental is a family-friendly oasis and a perfect homebase 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 .

Kaua’i

7. Ocean View Hideaway

Airbnb

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 your 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.

8. Kaiolohia Hale Haena

Airbnb

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.

9. KoolKondo 3203

Airbnb

When it comes to condo living, this is the creme de la creme. 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.

Hawai’i

10. Sunset View Modern House

Airbnb

This gorgeous home has a perfect five star rating and it’s not hard to see why. Panoramic ocean views and captivating sunsets can be enjoyed from the sprawling, wrap-around patio and private pool, or from the open floor plan living area where floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with light. Exposed beams on the ceiling add extra charm to an exceedingly spacious and airy interior and local attractions, including some of the island's finest beaches, are just a stone’s throw away. Basically, this is a very upscale home that you’ll likely fall in love with, but reviews like “we were incredibly sad to leave and secretly wish we could buy this house” really say it all.

11. Waimea Honu Hale

Airbnb

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.

12. Hale Hubner Fern Cottage

Airbnb

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.

Moloka’i

13. Kepuhi Beach Resort Cottage

Airbnb

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.

14. Molokai Escape Condo

Airbnb

Hawaii isn’t exactly known as a budget-friendly destination, but when it comes to accommodationds, 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 onsite ice maker.) The property also has an onsite 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.

15. Oceanfront Cottage

Airbnb

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.

The Best Hawaii Honeymoon Hotels, Resorts and Rentals (from $100 to $118,000)

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.