Vacation rentals come with costs outside of just the base rental fees. While most of these costs are also incurred when staying in a hotel, as they are included in the rental-related fees, Exotic Estates is setting a different standard and listing these fees separately to eliminate confusing cost breakdowns that make it difficult to compare quotes. 

Take the time to review the short list of the main fees encountered at Hawaii vacation rentals below and please reach out to your Villa Specialist for further details.

1. Propane Gas Use Overage

Any normal usage of propane won’t incur additional costs. However, overuse of tiki torches, firepits, and pools are the main culprits. It good to be aware of your resource usage, and a Property Manager can help you determine your status during your stay.

Winter Pool Heat

Yes, even in Hawaii, though the days are warm, wintertime means cool nights and some guests prefer pool heating for comfortable swimming. Some vacation rentals come with heating and others don’t. Usually pools are heated using propane, costing roughly about $200 per day, depending on the size of the pool. The normal temp of a pool in Hawaii is usually slightly under the temperature of the air, ranging from high 70’s to low 80’s. During the winter months this can drop to the low 70’s, which is generally when guests choose to heat the pool. Although this will be presented to you prior to signing the rental agreement, be sure to find out what it costs if it’s not included.

2. Cleaning Fees

Cleaning fees are standard and, in most hotels, and hidden in the rates. When renting a vacation home in Hawaii, the cleaning fee costs are up front and are usually dependent on the size of the home, group, and length of stay. Some homes require an additional mid-stay cleaning fee. A standard cleaning fee for a luxury home in Hawaii will run between $450-$1500.

3. Security Deposit

Some vacation rentals are moving to a policy of collecting a credit card at the time of check-in in lieu of collecting a hard-cash security deposit. However, many private vacation rentals still require a refundable security deposit to ensure owner-protection against any potential damage. These fees are collected in advance and will vary provisional of the home and returned after check-out, and the home is inspected and any damage assessed. Due to the expensive nature of elite luxury-category homes, security deposits will range from $3,000 and upwards of $20,000.

4. Hawaii Accommodations Taxes – TAT & GET

Hawaii occupancy tax consists of two different taxes, which you will find on your rental agreement. This includes Transient Accommodation Tax (TAT) and General Excise Tax (GET).

TAT is calculated based off of the nightly rate of your vacation rental and is 10.25% as of January 1, 2018.

GET is collected from every consumer purchase in Hawaii, included accommodations. This rate is 4.166% on Maui, Kauai, and The Big Island and 4.712% on Oahu.

The sum of TET and GET tax is 14.962% of your nightly vacation rental rate on Oahu and 14.416% in all other Hawaii counties.

5. Resort Use Fees

Many of our vacation homes are located in resort-areas and allow access to resort facilities for a fee. Most of the time, these fees are due to the resort at the time of check-in and are not included in the original payment. For example, our Hualalai homes, located in the Hualalai Four Seasons Resort, include a daily resort guest fee that ranges from $65-$250 per person, per day, plus tax.

Most fees will provide guests with access to amenities like sports clubs and spas, beach and pool services, exclusive restaurants, concierge services, and golf courses. However, a perk is that sometimes our guests will enjoy a reduced-price access to some exclusive resort services, like at The Club at Mauna Kea, which offers beach-service on one of the Big Island’s best swimming beaches.

Still the Best Value

Vacation Rentals are still the best value for your trip to Hawaii. Vacation rental related fees will range depending on the island, style of home, and whether or not you choose to stay within a resort. When shopping for your rental, we encourage you to compare costs, especially those that might be hidden. Be sure to review any of these costs with your vacation rental agency before you sign your agreement.

At Exotic Estates, we pride ourselves with providing a clear and transparent breakdown of costs at the outset and our Exotic Estates Villa Specialists are availabel to answer any question you might have about a home in our collection. Guests all have access to our first-class Guest Services Department, which is there to support you during your visit and answer any questions on usage fees front.

Happy travels!

Maui Restaurant Buzz

1. Lineage Maui - New October 2018!
Tel: (808) 879-8800

We’ve had staffers who recently went to Lineage Maui tell us it was awesome! Fun, trendy atmosphere. This is the new restaurant of Sheldon Simeon, of “Top Chef” fame. The restaurant features local Hawaiian and Filipino food with a twist.

Chef Simeon says that most of the dishes at Lineage were inspired by recipes he learned from his Filipino parents and grandparents. Growing up near Hilo, Simeon would often have hunt and fish to bring back the meats necessary for family meals. It was during this time that Simeon learned many of the Filipino recipes that are featured on Lineage’s menu.

With 80 seats and a bar area, Lineage has an intimate and cozy feel. Simeon says he wants guests to feel as if they just walked into a friend’s home when they enter his restaurant. To give this effect, carts will make their way through the restaurant and offer small bites before guests order their main meal. A few of these small dishes include boiled peanuts, kimchi, and cone sushi.

The restaurant offers “cart dishes,” which are similar to Dim Sum. We’re told that the pipikaula (Hawaiian jerky) with cuttlefish was yummy as was the pohole (edible fiddlehead fern) salad!

We’ve heard rave reviews about his pork and peas – a Filipino comfort dish - and that the squid luau and smoke meat and onion were on point! An interesting hook, we ordered the chicharron which they serve with their homemade chili pepper water in a cool bottle, which you get to take home with you.

As far as drinks, a team member reports the following:

• Makule Kiawe – a version of a Manhattan - is strong and delicious. Not too smoky.
• The South Side Southside – a team member loved this, a gin drink, but the flavors were light and not an overbearing gin flavor. Served with Wasabi Peas and ginger. Great cocktail to start with!
• The Latitude 20 – a tequila drink that we’re told is delicious!

They also have a great selection Sake.

As far as vibe, we’re told it’s ideal for date night or adult friends dining together.

Visitors who are new to Hawaiian or “local” cuisine will be in for a treat. However, if you’re looking for an inexpensive local place, be sure to try Tutu’s.

2. Tin Roof
Tel: (808) 868-0753

Lineage promises to be just as successful as Simeon’s first Maui dining location Tin Roof. Situated in a tiny strip mall near the Kahului Airport, Tin Roof has been incredibly successful since it opened its doors to guests in 2016.

This tiny eatery is best-known for its affordable takeaway bowls inspired by simple Hawaiian cooking. Customers at Tin Roof can order rice bowls filled with garlic shrimp, ginger-marinated chicken thighs, deep-fried pork belly, or chop steak for under $10. Tin Roof also offers poke bowls, garlic noodles, a kale salad, and a spicy chicken sandwich. Unlike Lineage, Tin Roof is designed for locals and visitors on a Maui vacation who are looking for a quick bite.

OTHER MAUI FAVORITE DINING SPOTS

West Maui Restaurants – Lahaina to Kapalua

3. Lahaina Grill
Tel: (808) 667-5117

We are big fans of Lahaina Grill, which our Maui team members feel is still the best restaurant on the island. This is a wonderful restaurant that continually gets good reviews from our guests.

4. Honu (Hawaiian for sea turtle)
Tel: (808) 667-9390

Our local team members love Honu, a seafood restaurant in Lahaina. It’s great for families and the menu offers something for everyone. Our team feels that Honu is among the top restaurants on Maui.

5. Merriman’s
Tel: (808) 669-6400

incredible setting, Happy Hour is really a bit of a misnomer, as they just serve a pricey “bar menu” on the lanai and call it a Happy Hour. Our team members report that the food is good, but the ambiance is unbeatable. For that, they are a top Maui restaurant.

South Maui – Kihei to Wailea

6. Maui Brewing Co
Tel: (808) 201-BEER

There are multiple locations of Maui Brewing Co., but the brewery in Kihei has expanded. It’s huge and instead of having the food trucks outside, they now have a full menu available from their own kitchen. We’re not sure about a food verdict just yet, but they have some fun drinks on offer, including nice cider options as well as their freshly brewed beers. The space is enormous!! Definitely a good spot to check out if you have craft beer lovers in your group!

7. Ferraro’s
Tel: (808) 874-8000

This restaurant has great views and is one of the only places on the south side of Maui that’s on the water. Ferraro’s is an open-air space, boasting sunset views, plenty of seating, live music and a hula dancer from 5:30-6:30 nightly. They have everything from Dim Sum to cheeseburgers! The food is “decent: but it’s really about the views and you are paying for the name here (Four Seasons).

8. Monkeypod

Tel Wailea: (808) 891-2322
Tel Kaanapali: (808) 878-6763

Still a Maui favorite. There is one in Wailea and in Kaanapali. Everything from Ahi to Maui Cattle Company Cheese Burgers and Bulgogi Pork Tacos. Reservations are imperative

Maui North Shore Restaurants – Paia Town Area

9. Mama’s Fish House
Tel: (808) 579-8488

This is a Maui favorite. We’ve recently been told by regular Maui guests who love the restaurant recently that while Mama’s is still good, it’s, “not as good as it used to be or not worth the price tag and drive.” That’s something to consider for folks staying in West Maui, as it’s on the North Shore, near Paia Town.

Note: it’s a far drive  from Lahaina and they don’t take reservations for more than 8 people. 

Lunch and dinner menu are the same so while it might be an expensive lunch, daytime is a great time to dine there.

10. Hailiimaile
Tel: (808) 572-2666

Nice restaurant with everything Ahi Poke and Caesar Salad to Grilled Rack of Lamb.  Still good and nestled into a fun spot, upcountry from Paia town. Be mindful of drive time if you’re staying in Lahaina.

Note that Café de Amis, Café Mambo, Island Fresh Café and Pa’ia Flatbread would also all be in the mix for the north shore.

Maui is well-known for its miles and miles of pristine white sandy beaches and gorgeous sunsets; it’s no wonder travelers from all over the world choose to visit this tropical destination.

While each Hawaiian island offers its own unique scenery, Maui beaches are best for travelers looking to lounge and those traveling with young children. There are plenty of beaches to choose from for your family vacation. Whether you’re looking to explore its unique black or red sandy beaches in Hana or merely looking for a convenient beach near shops and restaurants to keep your family entertained, there is no doubt Maui has it all.

Traveling with family is always a memorable experience; however, if this is your first visit to Hawaii, choosing the right beach for your family is essential to ensure everyone has an enjoyable and safe experience.  

To help make your visit to Maui seamless, we’ve compiled a list of our five favorite beaches that are perfect for kids.

Safety First: Be Aware of Weather Conditions on Maui

Aside from proximity, it’s essential to know about each area, and its beaches before your visit. While you may think Hawaii is all about sunshine and rainbows, what you don’t know is how quickly the weather can change on any given day.

Weather on Maui can vary depending on the part of the island you decide to visit. If you plan to visit during the summer, expect to have warm, humid weather and trade winds. Luckily, you’re on an island, and it’s just a quick drive down to the beach where you can cool off in the refreshing ocean. Typically, during the summer months, you will find most beaches on Maui to be moderately calm. West and the northern portion of Maui is always a great choice, especially if you’re a novice swimmer.

During the winter season, you may find the ocean to be rough and choppy, especially on the northern shores. Nonetheless, the humid weather during winter is much more relaxed and bearable for those traveling with younger children. While west Maui is usually reasonably calm throughout the year, it’s best to enjoy beaches on the southern portion of Maui as the beaches are most peaceful during the winter season.

Pack your swim trunks and lather up some reef-safe waterproof sunscreen; it’s time to hit the beach!

Beaches with Lifeguards on Duty:

Not all Maui beaches have lifeguards on duty. While lifeguards are there for your safety, they are usually the last resort in the event of an emergency. It’s essential to practice general safety precautions before entering the water, be aware of posted signs, and always keep an eye on your children.

Here are Six Safety Precautions to be mindful of to have the best vacation possible.

BEACHES ON WEST MAUI

Baby Beach

You can find this charming little beach on West Maui, in Lahaina. Due to the distant reef barrier, the water is always gentle, and the sun keeps the water at a warm temperature. The depth of the water is no more than two or three feet, no matter how far out you decide to swim. Baby Beach is perfect for children of all ages, though, it is especially ideal for toddlers as they get to splash around freely and build castles in the soft velvety white sand. If your children are not avid swimmers, this is a great area to introduce children to their snorkel gear and teach them how to
swim.

As you head further into the distance, you will find plenty of fish and tide pools to keep kids entertained. The coral reef is not recommended for children to explore alone; these rock-like organisms house other sea creatures and can be very sharp. If you’re looking to explore the tide pools, wear reef shoes and do not climb or touch the coral. Coral reefs are very much alive and play a unique role in the ecosystem.

Just behind Baby Beach, you will find a shaded picnic area with barbeques and public bathrooms with outdoor showers. Parking is free.

Another reason why Baby Beach is voted number one for families, it’s centrally located between Lahaina Cannery Mall, Lahaina Gateway Shopping Center, and Front Street in Lahaina. When you’re ready to head into town for some delicious shaved ice and looking to shop around town, it’s just a quick 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from the beach.

Kapalua Bay

Kapalua Bay is another favored beach on the West Maui and ranked as Hawaii’s best beach. Its picturesque beaches and clear turquoise water is what you would expect when visiting Hawaii’s beaches. This area is excellent for snorkeling and swimming.  

There is limited parking in this area; it's best to start early and pack lunch as there aren’t as many restaurants walking distance from the beach. Public bathrooms are reasonably clean, and outdoor showers are available for guest use. 

Ka’anapali Beach

Located between Maui’s resort hotels and Canoe beach in Lahaina, you will find Ka’anapali Beach. It’s well-known for its stretch of white sandy beach and fantastic snorkeling areas near Black Rock.

While there are many shaded areas along this spectacular beach, this beach can get crowded during certain times of the year due to the resorts and nearby shopping. The beach at Ka’anapali is great for playing on the beach, building sandcastles, and whale watching during the winter season.

If your kids become restless, Whalers Village Shopping Center is just a quick walk away and has a fun outdoor play area in the middle of the mall near the food court. You can also find public beach parking and restrooms in Whalers Village. If you plan to shop or visit restaurants, you can request for validation for up to 3 hours of complimentary parking.

BEACHES ON SOUTH MAUI

Kamaole I, II, and III (Lifeguard on Duty)

Located along South Kihei road, all Kamaole beaches are known to be family-friendly Maui beaches. However, Kamaole III (also known as King Kamehameha III) is favored by locals as it boasts a playground near rolling grass hills and is excellent for snorkeling. All Kamaole beaches feature outdoor showers, public bathrooms, and parking spaces.

In addition, when you’re looking to take a break from the sun, Kamaole Beaches are located near many shops and restaurants in Kihei. Opt for a scenic walk into town to experience local food, grab a refreshing beverage, or browse through shops for fun souvenirs. There are lots to do in this fun town.

Sugar Beach

Located on the north end of Kihei, Sugar Beach (also formally known as Kealia Beach) is known as the longest beach on Maui, this beach stretches from Ma’alaea Harbor and ends near resorts in Kihei.

If you're looking to enjoy the beach but want to avoid getting too much exposure from the sun, north Sugar Beach (near resorts) is another baby beach for toddlers and younger children. Sugar Beach is also an excellent location for infants, as there are ample shaded areas along the shoreline, and shaded beaches are generally hard to find on Maui. It’s best to start reasonably early if you plan to visit Sugar Beach, as it is very calm in the morning and can get fairly windy later in the afternoon.