It's difficult to confidently declare one Hawaiian island to be superior to another because they're all charming, lovely and accommodating in their own way. Thus, when choosing which one to visit for your next vacation you won't really go wrong, but it's important to choose the isle that will best suit your personality. The Big Island is for those who don't mind a crowd, Maui is probably the most family-friendly, and Molokai is for those who enjoy straying from the beaten path.



This smaller, lesser known spot represents the Aloha state in its rawest form; the land hasn't changed very much over the years, there's not very much development in terms of hotels and such, and in some parts you're more likely to see fishing ponds and quaint villages rather than air conditioning and t-shirt stands. If that sounds like music to your ears, then Molokai it is.

The best way to really become immersed in this quiet atmosphere and authentic culture is to book a vacation rental that's delightfully tucked away from it all ? not that there's much to escape from in Molokai. Try the eastern part of the island for a beautiful taste of the beach and the lush vegetation. This is considered to be the finest region, and luckily it's dotted with a few vacation rentals that will further enhance this alternative vacation.

Instead of searching in vain for a free spot on the beach or fighting your way through traffic to even reach the shore from your high-rise hotel, you'll be able to calmly stroll from your back door to dip your toes in the water in no time at all. Check out the view of Maui, it's just a few miles away, and while you'd like to visit there someday be glad that you're doing things your own way. It feels pretty good to stop and soak in the sweet sound of undisturbed nature, and doing this has a way of relaxing you at warp speed.

In East Molokai it's possible to snorkel, sail, dive, kayak, and explore the vast array of historical sites and parks. Old churches, volcanoes and viewing reefs up close will punctuate the time you spend lounging, floating in the salty sea or just catching up with your special someone before a breathtaking backdrop of island splendor. Some people fantasize about being marooned on a desert island, in possession of the basic tools for survival of course but cut off from the headaches of technology and stress. Reserving a cottage in East Molokai will make this wish come true, and make it better than you ever thought possible.

Wake up when you want to and enjoy a cup of coffee on the lanai. Stroll around the land adjacent to your little house, appreciating that you can see no evidence of urban development, pollution or even a single neighbor. When the desire to experience the presence of other people does kick in, the town is a short drive away and contains a few shops, restaurants and other establishments that will take care of your basic needs. Speaking of needs, within the walls of your temporary home there will be nothing missing.

From towels to sheets, a blender to a dishwasher, making yourself at home will be easy. If you want to stick to your routine of eating toast for breakfast while checking your email, feel free. If you want to mix things up by switching to pineapple and a jog on the beach, that's also quite acceptable, even recommended. Basically, whatever you want to do is the order of the day, as vacation homes tend to bring out the freedom to choose with no pressure of watching eyes, deadlines, or guilt.

Live it up in an , making sure to relish this unique experience before it's time to head back to structured society. With any luck, this little break will inspire you to take a piece of the island home with you in the form of memories and a refreshed state of mind.