Hi, I'm tryin to plan a trip to Maui/Big Island and used United FF miles. Now I'm tryin to be prudent with hotel budget. There are so many people on this site mentioning VRBO, it seems to be half the rate. Instead of payin for double occupancy in a hotel you are playin a flat $125 or so a night, correct? Any other advantages or disadvantages? Is Lahaina really touristy, my friend suggested Wailea over it. Thanks for listening to me!!

We almost always stay in a condo because it is less expensive. You are right, the price is for the use of the unit for each night. Additionally, there may be a cleaning fee, and you'll have to give them some kind of security deposit. We have always had ours returned in full, so it hasn't been an issue. There won't be any maid service. As far as the facilities are concerned, you will have some kind of kitchen, so you will have the opportunity to cook some of your meals. Sometimes there is a washer and dryer in your unit, perfect if you are traveling with kids. A one bedroom unit will have a living area in addition to the bedroom, and usually a dining area. I would look for one with a lanai when you are in Hawaii. We eat most of our meals outside when we visit Hawaii. Check out tripadvisor.com . They have reviews of the various developments, and if you go to the Maui Revealed website (wizard publications?) they have aerial views of the properties as well.

Advantages: Much cheaper, parking is usually included, many units are furnished with things like boogie boards, snorkeling equipment.

Disadvantages: These are operated like apartments. Owners want a deposit & sometimes the entire "rent" in advance.
Many of the units are unlicensed. Cleaning fees are extra.

You're dreaming if you think you can find a place in Wailea for $125./night. Kihei...yes...Wailea? No way. Lahaina is very, very crowded. We've been there twice this trip - once just yesterday. It took us over an hour to get back to Wailea due to the traffic in the Lahaina area.

Have to kindly disagree with Kmpordagee. Condos can be less expensive but they can also be more. We frequently stay in a $700/night + fees condo on Maui. As far as not having maid service, ours has daily maid service. Our kitchen is huge and very modern. We also have a large utility room with a washer, dryer and sink. It's elegant, with bedrooms for the kids, a large wrap around, covered lanai with gas BBQ, outdoor furniture and right on the beach. We still prefer condos over hotels, due to the size, amenities, view and privacy.

Hey thanks everyone! I've been lookin around and the best prices for hotel/car were quoted to me from Hawaiiforless.com. I am considering a deal that includes Makani Sands in West Maui and the White Sands Condos in Kona. Anyone familiar with those? I'm checkin out the reviews on Tripadvisor now. Thanks so much for all your help!