Maui Vacation Rentals Blog ...

Why Maui Vacation Rental Homes Instead of Resort Hotel Accommodations

  

 Email Article  

Tweet  

  

 delicious  

  

  

In the late 1990’s – 2008, when the economic engines of Silicon Valley were running at “full throttle”, it wasn’t uncommon for me to take a break from a hectic real estate career and fly to Maui for several days. I didn’t think twice about calling the Grand Wailea or the Fairmont to make reservations for 4 or 5 days. Most of the time, I would simply stay at the resort, stay by the pool and read a book. It wasn’t unusual to spend several hundred dollars a day – doing absolutely nothing.

In the summer of 2008, I left Silicon Valley for a much more relaxed lifestyle – I moved to Maui. Contrary to my past, I searched for budget accommodation so I could get my bearings and not spend a lot of money. I searched the Internet and came across Lahaina Accommodations – a small Lahaina company with a diverse selection of properties. They had properties priced literally from $69. to $2,200. per night. I called, secured a room and the rest is history.

I had heard about Lahaina Bed & Breakfast properties and Maui vacation accommodations. But, I had never given them much thought - the next two and a half years would educate me and change my views completely. After staying at one of the proprietors properties, I became exposed to her various other properties – one of which we affectionately refer to as 'The White House' a beautiful estate rental property directly on the ocean.

I was hired as more of a property manager of the various properties but it soon became apparent that my role would also act as 'Resident Manager' of the White House. The White House is not only a special home but a special place; as soon as one walks through the door, the feeling is almost spiritual. The many sailboats moored in the distance, the constant sight of turtles right at the wall, the sight of breaching whales before your very eyes (during whale season of course), simply – breathtaking.

My role evolved with each group of guests who stayed here at the White House, with each family who checked in to the White House – and then sadly checked out, my role became clearer and my attachment to the property and our diverse guests increased.

In opening, I had mentioned my respites at various grand hotels – which certainly were a great experience. However, what I have learned and observed is the incredible distinction between staying at a large resort as opposed to a private property right on the ocean front. In making my rounds and checking in with our guests, most times I find the family at various places in the front yard – right on the water. They may be lounging on the lanai reading a book; they may be swinging in the hammock watching their kids out on the paddle boards or watching them snorkel and swimming with the turtles – right in front of the property. I’ve heard the children laughing and “squealing” while playing Marco Polo in the swimming pool – their own private swimming pool.

I have been invited to spend the afternoon with these wonderful families and join them with a barbeque, a glass of wine and substantive conversation. We have guests from all over the world stay with us. Their experiences always get back to me by way of personal notes, our guest book, letters and of course – face to face.

I have arranged a personal chef for these families. I have arranged and evening of massage with professional massage therapists with six to eight massage tables set up right on the front lawn as the sun sets. I have arranged snorkel excursions, luaus, helicopter tours, family day trips to discover Maui.

And weddings, ah yes – weddings. Our close family business also offers weddings; I have witnessed and assisted with the production of some of the most whimsical to the most formal Maui weddings one could dream of. In one fell swoop of an afternoon, we can transform this beautiful front yard into any number of themes – and all done with a Hawaiian minister including the mesmerizing sound of his conch shell. Whether a small intimate group or as many as eighty guests - we are well prepared with your Maui wedding accommodations and a unique Maui beachfront wedding location.

I believe there is a time and place for big resorts. But, I wish I had had the insight and knowledge to know that there are properties and proprietors who can make a family vacation to Maui an absolutely unforgettable and meaningful experience. Begin booking your private Maui vacation rental home or reserve a date for your Maui wedding at our private oceanfront estate home.