Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a vacation on the North Shore of Oahu in Hawaii is very exciting and it's only normal that some questions may arise. Below you will find a list of FAQ's or Frequently Asked Questions that we receive about our Properties. Besides what you find below, please feel free to email, call, or text us for additional information or clarification. Any and all questions are welcome.
Booking
Who do I call with questions or concerns during my stay?
Throughout your stay, you may reach out to Damon Darchuck, 24/7.
When do I receive arrival instructions and the property address?
You will receive an email with arrival instructions 3 days prior to arrival.
How do I check in to my vacation home and get access?
Access instructions will vary by property. You will receive an email with arrival instructions 3 days prior to arrival. Most commonly, Donna or Damon will be there to greet you. In the event that they are not, lockbox and gate codes will be shared. Please text or call Donna when you have your car and are heading north.
What are the taxes and fees?
Total Taxes charged on gross rental income – 17.75%
General Excise Tax: This is also referred to as the Hawaii Sales Tax. The General Excise Tax (GET) has a base rate of 4% with a 0.5% additional surcharge on Oahu. You’ll thus be required to pay a total GET of 4.5% on the gross rental income of your vacation rental.
Transient Accommodations Tax: The Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT) is charged on short-term rentals with a rental period of fewer than 180 days. The TAT is charged at 10.25% of the gross rental income.
Oahu Transient Accommodations Tax: Lastly, homeowners on Oahu who provide short-term rentals are also required to pay the Oahu Transient Accommodations Tax (OTAT) on all income generated from rental periods of fewer than 180 days. OTAT is lived at a rate of 3%
Property
How often are the homes cleaned?
Each of our vacation homes are professionally cleaned before and after each guest. Your reservation pricing will include the cost for the departure cleaning. For guests staying 3 weeks or longer, one or more mid-stay cleaning service is required. Happy to arrange additional cleaning, for additional fees, during your visit if you prefer.
What items are included in my rental?
Our homes are fully equipped with everything that you would need for your stay. We stock the homes with comfort and convenience in mind for your home away from home, with everything from linens to towels to basic kitchen supplies to baby items to games to bath products, dish and laundry soaps and more. Before you pack it, reach out to Donna to see if the home has it, or if she has it to share. Recommendations for rental companies for additional items to what we have to offer, are in our recommendations pages. Donʻt hesitate to reach out with any specific questions.
What are the benefits of our vacation homes?
Love hearing feedback from our guests about what made their Hawaii vacation home experience extraordinary. Feedback about the most important benefits of a home rather than a hotel range from cooking together in the well equipped kitchens, dining on the lanais with spectacular views, ability to spend more time together, yet enjoying privacy and their own space too. Our guests feel that our homes provide all the comforts of home and that they love the feeling of coming ʻhomeʻ on their vacations.
Around Town
What local attractions/restaurants do you recommend?
Visit our recommendations tab on this site for links to restaurants, activities, groceries, wine etc.
Do you need reservations at local restaurants?
There are a few restaurants that do accept reservations, but mostly no reservations accepted. See our list of recommended restaurants. Those with an asterisk * accept reservations.
North Shore
When is surf season?
Winter waves start late September until April. May through September are the serene summer months, with an occasional swell. The opposite is true on the south shore.
Can you see whales from North Shore?
Yes, you can see whales from the North Shore from December to May when humpback whales, also known as koholā, migrate to the area to give birth and raise their young. Some recommend taking a whale watching tour or chartering a boat to see the whales up close, but you can also enjoy seeing them from each of our beachfront homes.