We’ve just concluded a year long study of vacation rental occupancy rates. Below is an excerpt from the press release:

“Occupancy rates for Maui, Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island were 62%, 61%, 57% and 50% respectively.

State wide, September had the lowest occupancy rate at 40% while February was the busiest time of year for rentals with an 81% occupancy rate. From a regional perspective, Waikiki had the highest occupancy in the state at 66%, followed closely by Poipu, Kihei and East Oahu (Waimanalo and Kailua) at 65%. The two poorest performing regions were Kapalua with a rate of 46% and the Big Island’s Kohala coast and Puna regions, both averaging 49%.”

Why is the Big Island suffering with such low occupancy rates? As seen in our Hawaii weather page, The Kohala Coast has the best weather in Hawaii. It also has an excellent selection of vacation rentals, and plenty of good beaches. Yet the occupancy rate in region was 49% for the past year!

Makaiwa Bay, one of the Big Island’s nice beaches

An excellent government movie shows the eruption of Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island, in 1959. Although the volcano is still very active, it’s important to remember that seeing lava at Volcano Nationals Park is unusual. We mention this, because great expectations can result in a disappointing trip to the park. Don’t expect to see lava, simply go and enjoy the amazing geology, and let your imagination fill in the details as you walk over an active volcano, with steam seeping from the ground. And remember, you need a full day to explore the park. Consider spending the night at Volcano village, or commuting from Hilo/Puna as opposed to making the very long drive from Kona.

This is the first of 4 segments.

Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4