Hello fellow fodorites!! I am looking at returning to Maui and then to the BI. Last October we stayed at Aston Kaanapali Villas, which were pretty cool. Never been to BI, so unsure as to where to stay. Looking to just snorkel, relax, etc. I'd like your opinions as to choosing VRBO as opposed to just booking at a condo resort. Good luck & bad luck?? I paid somewhere around $200 a night at AKV, and would like suggestions as to other options. Not necessarily looking for cheaper, just something different. Same on BI--is it worth looking into or just stick with the resorts? I can see where you would have to be a bit more careful as to what to reserve, given the fact you'll have little recourse. Let me know what you all think!!

ttt

I've not been to the locations you mention, but I have used VRBO and other rental sites many times. We have never had a bad experience. That can be due to my research, or good fortune, I don't know. But I do recommend the option.

We had a wonderful 9 night stay in this condo on the BI last summer http://www.vrbo.com/24562.
Art, the owner was great to deal with though most of the details were handled through Sunquest. We had no problems with Sunquest either-payment, key pickup all handled smoothly.
The condo is huge (2BR/2BA) and very well maintained. The 2 pools (1 saltwater) were never very busy. We used the BBQ frequently and it was always clean. No swimable beach in front if that matters. I believe this is an Outrigger property so you could go to that site for more details on the property.
We paid 125/night last summer and thought it was just an excellent deal.
We have also stayed at Kanaloa and can give you some info on that if you are interested but we really liked this condo much better.
As you are planning your trip to the BI, I'd check out Konaweb.com for lots of great info-happy planning!

Thanks 2sweets!!!! I'm going to check into it. Were any of the condos beachfront where you were?? How far away was the beach??

Both complexes were ocean front but not beach front.
Here is a link to the trip report I wrote that includes some descritions of Kanaloa http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=1.
Here is the link to the owners website (#3502) http://www.hawaiian-condo.com/
Depending on the time of year you go and your tolerance to heat, no AC may be a problem.
The Royal Seacliff Condo (VRBO 24562) does have AC.
I think the best beaches for lounging/swimming are up the Kohala coast-Mauna Kea/Hapuna-a 30 -45 minute ride if I remember correctly.
For snorkeling, we liked Honaunau (Place of Refuge), Capt Cook Monument and Kahalu'u (only 3 miles from the Royal Sea Cliff). Let me know if you have any further questions.

Thanks a bunch 2sweets!!! I'll check it out, and certainly will ask if I have them!!