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High-end vacation rental and hotel markets are reaping the rewards of the Pro Bowl's return as NFL players and their families and friends come in search of luxury.
Roughly 25 percent of Hawaii’s lodging units are home-based vacation rentals, according to a survey released Tuesday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority.
The HTA study estimates there are more than 22,000 home-based lodging units, including condominium units, vacation rental houses and bed and breakfasts. The HTA counted rentals listed on websites such as AirBnB and Vacation Rentals by Owner, or VRBO.
Maui had the most with 8,840 units, followed by the Big Island with 4,986, Oahu with 4,411 and Kauai with 3,614.
Home-based rental units are controversial in Hawaii.
Proponents say these units create jobs, provide added income for homeowners and allow the tourism industry to grow even when hotels are at maximum capacity.
Critics say vacation rentals fill quiet neighborhoods with partying tourists and lead to higher rents for residents. They say the owners often violate restrictions designed to protect neighborhoods and avoid paying appropriate taxes.
The HTA study was conducted by SMS Research at the end of 2013 and between August and September of 2014. The study said hotels account for about 50 percent of all lodging units. Condo hotels make up another 12 percent and timeshares add 12 percent.
"While hotels continue to be the accommodation of choice, the popularity and demand for alternative accommodations, have grown rapidly over the years," said Ronald Williams, chief executive officer of the HTA. "As a knowledge-based organization, the HTA initiated this study to help us, the state, the counties and the industry further understand the reach of this specific market segment. It will provide the counties with information to help them better understand this segment when making policy decisions in the future."
