Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do while visiting?

The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest island in the chain. Known for being the birthplace of King Kamehameha, the first ruler of the Kingdom of Hawaii, also known as Kamehameha the great. The island hosts rich historic culture, world class cuisine, lush tropical coastlines, and the bucket list Volcano National Park, just to name a few. Lush tropical forests include the sacred Waipiʻo Valley, boyhood home to King Kamehameha. Polu Hawaii Vacations can help offer personalized sightseeing tips based on your interests. Contact our concierge desk for assistance. You can also check out more activities on our blog.

 

Where can I buy food?

Our vacation villas are only minutes away from extraordinary cuisine, local markets, and grocery stores. Multiple farmers markets occur during the week in nearby towns. As foodies ourselves, we can say Hawaii will satisfy all tastes. We work with local partners to offer additional options to our guests. Contact the Polu Hawaii Vacations concierge desk for options nearest to you or use the map provided in your welcome guide.

 

When is Whale Season?

Hawaii’s largest visitors swim off the coast starting around November and ending in April. Some of our ocean front resorts enjoy a view as the whales play in the ocean not far off the coast. Be sure to shout “whale!” to notify the others if you see one while lounging by the pool. Their activity can vary by day, however, when they’re active you can enjoy mesmerizing breaches as they call for other nearby whales. This is the best ‘free show’ on the island!

 

What is the weather like?

The Big Island is home to at least four biomes. The Kohala coast region (west side) experiences very little rain. As you climb in elevation the temperature cools and grasslands begin. At the peak of Mauna Kea, the world’s largest mountain by mass, you could make a snowball. On the east side of the island, home to the volcano Kilauea, lush tropical rainforests cover the area. This is one of the few places in the world you can enjoy a coconut on the beach, then drive 40 minutes to make a snowman.

 

Where are the best beaches?

Experience some of the most sought-after beaches in the world by visiting Hawaii. The Kohala Coast is famous for black and white sand beaches and great surfs. Hawaii is also home to the green sand beaches, located on the southwest side of the island. Contact the Polu Hawaii Vacations concierge team for expert local advice or search our map for the nearest options.

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Do I need to rent a vehicle?

Taxies and ride sharing services operate on the Big Island. Resort areas such as the Waikoloa Beach Resort, Mauna Lani Beach Resort, and Mauna Kea all offer extensive options that are within walking distance. Many tour operators also offer a pickup from your accommodations. With that being said, having a vehicle while visiting will allow you to see more of the island. You can rent a car from one of the major vehicle rental operators at the airport.

 

What is the food like?

When we take a vacation, it is usually based around great food. Hawaii features some of the best cuisine and local grown items we’ve found. Enjoy seafood, fruits and vegetables, or meats from on-island ranchers. Dine out at endless 5-star restaurants from world famous chefs. It isn’t hard to find extraordinary and wholesome food here.

 

Is Hawaii a good place to bring my family?

People of all ages will enjoy Hawaii. Native wildlife is everywhere on the island and can offer a fun viewing experience during your laid-back days. For the adventurers, geological formations, hiking opportunities, stargazing, and day excursions will keep everyone entertained. Our vacation villas are perfect for families that want to stay close during a vacation. For a parents night-out, the Polu Hawaii concierge desk can connect you with trusted babysitting services.

 

Where is the nearest airport?

Kona International Airport (KOA) is frequented by major airlines. The Waikoloa Beach Resort and Mauna Lani Beach Resort are about 20 minutes away from the airport.

 

What supplies are provided in a vacation rental?

Your vacation rental will be ready to stay in upon your arrival. Polu Hawaii Vacations provides basic kitchen consumables such as cooking oil, seasonings, paper towels, dish soaps and more. We also provide all necessities including bath & beach towels, toiletries, beach gear, bed linens, laundry soap, and cleaning supplies. Read the “features” section of our listings for a full description of villa features. Our concierge desk can procure additional items at your request to be ready upon your arrival.

 

When are the best deals on rates?

Polu Hawaii Vacations offers general promotions throughout the year. Our repeat guests can take advantage of exclusive discounts through our loyalty program. Some units offer additional promotions based on stay length or advance bookings. You can join our email list to be notified about new deals or visit our offers page to view current promotions. Check the listing page of the rental to view our seasonal rates.

 

Can you help me plan a special occasion?

Hawaii is the perfect location for a special occasion. Please connect with the Polu Hawaii Vacations concierge desk to see how we can help you.

 

Can I rent multiple villas when travelling with a large group?

Depending on the individual villa If you’re coming with more than 6 people you will need to book multiple rentals. Please call or email the concierge desk for group booking options.

 

Can I clean the villa myself and save on the cleaning fee?

Our housekeeping team takes pride in their work and will take care of the final cleaning for you. Due to our sanitization and quality of service standards, we cannot allow guests to refuse a final cleaning service. We appreciate your assistance in leaving the villa in a respectable manner. You do not need to wash bed linens, towels, vacuum, or mop upon your departure. We offer discounts for repeat guests with a positive rental history.

 

Is there an early check-in or late check-out option?

We offer early arrivals and late departures depending on availability. Please speak with our concierge team to see if one is available.

 

Is there internet and TV in a vacation villa?

All Polu Hawaii Vacations villas offer TV and high-speed internet included in your booking. Check your guest welcome guide for the Wi-Fi name and password.

 

Is there a fee to park my vehicle?
All Polu Hawaii Vacations villas include free parking for one car at or very near to your rental. If you have a second vehicle, many properties have additional visitors parking nearby, and in some cases, large enough parking at the house. Please speak with our concierge desk if you plan on having more than one vehicle per booking to confirm available options.

 

Can I pay by bank transfer?

You can pay for your rental via bank transfer or credit card. We welcome bank transfers for long stays over 28 days and can offer discounts.

 

What forms of payment do you accept?

You can pay for your villa and other services via credit card. Bank transfers are accepted for long stays made at least 1 month in advance of booking. Contact the concierge desk if you have any questions.

 

I want to buy a investment property to operate as a rental can you help?

Polu Hawaii Properties can help find you a home in Hawaii that is permitted to operate as a short-term vacation rental. We are a licensed real estate brokerage with 23 years of experience on the Big Island. Visit PoluProperties.com to connect with a friendly local agent.

 

I found a better deal somewhere else. Do you price match?

If you have found a better rate on a similar villa please reach out to our concierge team to discuss available options. Vacation rental homes offer a wide variety of views, finishes, and living space. Polu Hawaii Vacations takes pride in offering a luxury experience to our guests with a selection of some of the best vacation rentals on the island.

 

I am a repeat guest. Do you have a loyalty program?

Guests that return to stay in one of our vacation rentals can take advantage of our loyalty program. Contact the concierge desk prior to your stay to lean about exclusive discounts. We look forward to having you back!

 

My question wasn’t answered here. Where can I find more info?

We welcome all inquiries at our concierge desk. Please visit our contact page for available methods. We look forward to having you stay with us!