ThirdHome Hosts now have protection for up to $5M USD of damage.
By partnering with Truvi, ThirdHome ensures that Guests and Hosts are protected during bookings.
ThirdHome members are now protected by our award-winning risk-management partner, Truvi. In the rare event a ThirdHome Guest causes damage during a stay and doesn’t reimburse the Host, Truvi provides protection for up to $5M in damage for any cause. This offer is global and includes both standalone homes and affiliate resort members.
Guest members continue to be responsible for their actions while staying in a property, and this does not absolve guests of any damage they inflict. However, our partnership with Truvi allows ThirdHome to offer members market-leading prevention. Our goal is to grant additional peace-of-mind for Host members.
What does Truvi Protection cover?
Truvi protects up to $5million USD in property damage caused by the accidental or deliberate; conduct of any ThirdHome Guest.
How much does having Truvi Protection cost?
Access to Truvi Protection is included in your membership fee. This means that as a Host, all Exchanges through ThirdHome will be covered by Truvi automatically.
What do I do when I find damage?
In the unlikely event that a Guest causes damage to your property during a ThirdHome stay: notify your ThirdHome associate immediately and we will reach out to Truvi on your behalf to get a claim started. IMPORTANT: our Truvi protection program has a thirty (30) day reporting requirement from the day the guest departs. Be sure to have someone inspect your home soon after you host and notify us if damage is apparent. Coverage may not apply if Truvi is notified after the reporting period has lapsed.
Terms and Conditions for Truvi Protection apply. Please visit https://truvi.com/screen-and-protect/host-protection/ for more information.
For any questions on Truvi Protection, please contact the Member Experience Team by email at MemberExperience@thirdhome.com or call 1-833-682-7264.
Announcing ThirdHome’s new partnership with USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services
Life is full of the unexpected. So is travel, which is why we love it. But sometimes, things can go wrong. Thus, ThirdHome is incredibly excited to announce our partnership with USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services. We want members to be prepared for the uninvited “what-ifs” with a travel insurance plan.
Here are 5 Reasons You Need a Trip Protection Plan
1. You’ve invested a significant expense in your trip. If you have to cancel, you may lose that money.
Canceling a trip is disappointing enough. You don’t want to lose your entire trip investment on top of it. The Trip Cancellation benefit may provide reimbursement of unused, non-refundable travel arrangements. Read your policy carefully for policy Terms & Conditions, exclusions, and termination provisions. You may purchase the Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) benefit option, and you can cancel your trip for any reason outside those listed in the policy to cover your non-refundable trip costs. (For CFAR coverage, you must purchase your plan within 14 days of your initial trip deposit. Other conditions apply. Read policy for details. Not available to residents of NY).
2. Once you’ve departed on your trip, plans can still go wrong.
Unfortunately, baggage loss or damage is not uncommon. Neither are travel delays. Our plans offer coverage for these scenarios. And if your trip is interrupted due to an unforeseen event, our plans may cover that too. Read the full list of covered reasons for Trip Interruption in the policy.
3. You need coverage in case you get sick or injured while away from home.
If you get sick or injured on your trip, access to emergency medical and sickness coverage is important. Many people mistakenly believe medical care outside the United States is free or very cheap. This is not the case, particularly when you’re traveling outside of the U.S. In fact, many travelers have been shocked at the cost of care abroad.
The insurance plan also includes Emergency Medical Evacuation for medically necessary transportation to the nearest hospital or appropriate facility following a covered illness or injury. Read policy for benefit details.
4. The travel insurance plan gives you access to global 24/7 assistance services.
Let’s say your passport was lost or stolen at the airport. Or your prescription medications were left behind at home. Or you twisted your ankle on an excursion and need to find a doctor. Who do you call, and where do you go for help? Your plan comes with access to 24/7 global travel assistance services. If at any point you have any questions during your trip or need assistance, you can call the numbers provided and get immediate assistance.
5. Protect your vacation, plus emergency medical expenses and belongings while traveling.
We hope your trip goes smoothly. But think of your non-refundable financial trip expense. Would you be comfortable losing it in the event of a cancellation? And perhaps more importantly, think of the expense you could face if you become sick or injured while traveling and need emergency medical care or an evacuation. Purchasing travel insurance can help make your trip more enjoyable and relaxing. And that’s the whole point, right?
For more details on travel insurance benefits and limits, please visit www.travelinsure.com/thirdhome or contact USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services Customer Service at 855-874-0156 and reference ThirdHome account #50054.
*ThirdHome strongly recommends a travel insurance plan; One option is the Tour Protection Plan for ThirdHome travelers underwritten by Starr Indemnity & Liability Company. See website and read the policy carefully for a full list of plan benefits, policy Terms & Conditions, exclusions, and termination provisions.
Have you ever watched the popular program wife swap? In this program, two wives swap homes and live with the swapper’s husband in their home. The drama can be intense.
But part of the program’s fun was getting to see the house swap that went with it. How did the other person adapt to the other person’s home?
Have you ever considered what it would be like to live in someone else’s home?
This could be a house swap where you could live like a local in England or Wales. Here’s everything you need to know.
Presenting Your Home
You must present your home in the best manner possible. It’s not a hotel, it’s a house exchange but that’s a nice thing. It is fun to prepare your home and enjoy thinking about the look on your exchange partners’ faces when they see it.
Create a list. It should be complete and a little detailed. It can end up being intimidating, but it makes your partner feel secure and at home. Remember that a little effort can make a big difference.
Remember to customize and personalize the items according to your time and skills. If you are walking around to check everything is in order, bring a camera, phone, or a notepad.
Including pictures of your house in a manual as well as a house swap checklist. It can be a helpful way to show your exchange partner how your house works. Make sure that the house number is clearly marked and visible.
Spruce Up
Remove weeds and dying plants when you prepare for your house exchange. Tidy your yard and patio. This will create a nice path to your front door. This is how you prepare for a house swap.
A fresh coat of paint is a cost-effective and effective way to make your home attractive as you prepare for a house swap. It’s also a welcome mat that is not only environmentally friendly but also helps you to keep your floor clean. Scratches on the door are also eliminated.
Whether you have an old house or live on the other side of the sea, squeaky doors might be inevitable. A little fat not only solves the problem but also makes it a little less problematic.
You could also consider getting a smart key system on your smartphone to facilitate key handover.
Safety Checks
Smoke and CO2 detectors should be checked regularly and, if necessary, the batteries replaced, too.
You can scald your water as it flows into the shower, but many people prefer 105 degrees C.
Electrical things are easy to repair with a little knowledge. Make a point to tell your replacement where the distribution boxes are located. If there are paint shavings or flakes, it is a good time to fix them.
If there is a stain, or if it is too much for you to notice, let them know in their welcome pack.
It can get stressful during the exchange if they see a stain and wonder if they are the culprit.
A House Swap Can Be Fun
A house swap can be a great deal of fun. You get to experience life in someone else’s home for a short time, and they get to experience life in yours.
It can be a character-building experience if everything is done the right way and you put in the effort to spruce up your house beforehand.
For more information about luxury second homes, be sure to reach out to us today.
Have you heard about people using a vacation house swap to make the best of their getaways? Learn how it works in our brief guide today.
The pandemic brought traveling to a screeching halt. However, the statistics show that 62 percent of Americans now feel comfortable enough to take a vacation.
Have you been seriously thinking about swapping your home for your next vacation? If the idea of seeing new places while not having to pay for a hotel, or vacation home appeals to you then home exchange might be a good option for you.
There are several things to consider when you decide to go this route. Here is a look at what you can expect from a vacation house swap.
Is It Really Right for You?
When you decide to do a home exchange you should think about whether it is really right for you. A house swap vacation will give you the chance to experience new places without having to pay for hotel rooms or rent a home.
However, a home exchange involves having to allow a stranger to come into your personal space.
Do not just think about how exciting it will be to arrive at your destination; think about how comfortable you will be with what is happening in your home while you are away. Realistically examining your feelings will help you to decide whether this is right for you.
How Does a Vacation House Swap Work?
When you decide you want to get involved in a home exchange you will need to find an organization to join. Take a look at vacation house swap reviews before making a decision.
Most home exchange organizations will either charge you a monthly or a yearly membership fee. Although some of them will let you join for free.
Once you have joined, you will be able to search through their database and see what types of homes are on offer. Every organization will have its own guidelines about how to proceed with a house swap. Some of them can even arrange the swap for you.
It is important to note that it is never a guarantee that you will have a successful house swap exactly when you need it. This means that you need to plan in advance if you want to swap your home at specific times.
Make Your Home Appealing
You need to know how to make your home an appealing choice for a house swap. Can you offer perks such as the use of your car, or give approval for guests to bring along their pets?
Tell people about the neighborhood and the type of amenities that are available in the community. For example, if there are shopping centers nearby or restaurants, make sure that you advertise these facts. The more attractive you make your home, the more offers you will get.
Have a Fun Vacation
A vacation house swap is a great way to experience a new community, country, or city and save on accommodations. Having a comfortable home can make your vacation all the more enjoyable.
However, always ensure that you join a great home exchange organization and that you are realistic about what you will be getting and what you have to offer. If you would like to do a home swap please contact us.
ThirdHome is excited to bring Property Management Inc. Malta (PMI) to our partnership portfolio. The company is based in Malta, one of the most gorgeous European destinations, whose capital Valletta was named the “European Capital of Culture.”
ThirdHome will soon begin adding new properties to the Club in Malta thanks to this partnership with PMI. PMI’s expertise in real estate properties and investments will offer members a variety of ways to discover the wonders of this magical country. Click here to learn more about PMI.
Between this partnership and a newly launched ThirdHome Adventures for 2022, ThirdHome members will soon be traveling to Malta! To learn more about the Advenures trip to Malta, click here.
Malta, despite its small size, is a country perfect for adventure. With sunny weather almost year-round, attractive beaches, a thriving nightlife, and 7,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do. The countryside is dotted with medieval towers, wayside chapels, medieval dungeons, prehistoric temples, and impressive grottoes and lagoons.
The Maltese islands are like an open-air museum in a mythic location due to the position of the Maltese archipelago. The islands lie at the center of the Mediterranean being 93 kilometers south of Sicily and 288 kilometers north of Africa. Their vast landscapes and vivacious localities offer something special for everyone! Some of the finest attractions the Mediterranean has to offer and plenty of outdoor activities to indulge in are in the Maltese islands – walking and cycling, to diving in the Maltese sea.
With centuries of history and culture, idyllic beaches, and energetic life, Malta offers travelers the experience of a lifetime!
We are enthusiastic that in partnership with PMI, our ThirdHome members will soon enjoy this charming exclusive spot in the world!
Coming Soon: A Variety of Luxury Homes in Andorra
A unique destination in Europe
ThirdHome is excited to announce its partnership with Andorra Sotheby’s International Realty. The principality of Andorra is a nature lover’s paradise with plenty of skiing, hiking, fishing, and kayaking opportunities.
Andorra’s culture is a unique mix of Spanish and French. Though Catalan is the national language, its geographic location means that Spanish and French are also spoken by many. Andorran culture is best sampled through its distinct Pyrenees gastronomy. Authentic bordas are traditional restaurants, of which there is only a handful left in Andorra. Characterized by their intimate atmosphere and architecture, bordas are converted farm or stable houses. Andorran cuisine incorporates a hearty portion of meat cooked over an open fire. A fundamental part of the Andorran culture is its hearty Pyrenees recipes.
Furthermore, Andorra certainly lives up to its reputation as a shopping paradise and attractive low-tax jurisdiction, which makes the principality a popular option for real estate investments.
We are excited to have ThirdHome members begin booking properties in this brand new destination by the summer of 2021, provided by our partner Andorra Sotheby’s International Realty.
ThirdHome Members are now offered access to “travel agent” rates on luxury airfare with every major airline. These are exclusive rates, and due to industry restrictions, they are never available to the public. Fly for as low as 40% below published prices on international itineraries to or from North America.
Since 2006, Regal Wings has been providing wholesale fares to travel agents and high-end travel companies. To bring you these rates, Regal Wings sources multiple airline contracts. Their dedicated concierge team will deliver an unforgettable custom-made itinerary.
Value and Benefits
Regal Wings specifically provides international destinations, originating or concluding in the USA or Canada, with at least one transoceanic leg – such as Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia (Oceania), and South America. Their core focus is First and Business class seats.
Regal Wings has perfected the personalized “white glove” experience. Even though they are a wholesaler, you can expect a level of service befitting a boutique retail travel agency. Your peace-of-mind is their primary concern. They will hold your hand through any unexpected flight changes or emergencies with utmost care.
There is no initiation or registration fee to use these services. All Regal Wings tickets qualify to earn full frequent flyer miles and airline loyalty points (excluding United PQD on NET fares). Their travel specialists can assist with assigning specific seats and any other specifications you might request, such as meal preferences and mobility assistance.
How to Receive Benefits
Booking via ThirdHome /Regal Wings website:
- Submit a quote request: you will need to provide your name, email address, phone number, and Ambassador’s name. Input your travel details and press “Submit.”
- A Regal Wings travel advisor will contact you to provide a quote and walk you through the booking process if desired.
- Response time: 4 business hours (depending on current volume)
Booking via phone:
- Call the dedicated ThirdHome phone number: 888.734.2594
- Give trip details to the customer care agent. They will assign your quote to a travel specialist. Within four business hours, a travel specialist will contact you to review details of the flight options.
You are also able to submit a quote via email at thirdhome@regalwings.com.
Important Notes
Contact information
- Dedicated ER Phone Line: 888.734.2594
- Email: thirdhome@regalwings.com
- After-hours emergency: 888.734.2594 and follow the prompt for the emergency line, or email emergency@regalwings.com.
- (Note: ‘emergency’ status typically applies to flights within the next 24-48 hours)
Office Hours
- Monday to Thursday: 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. ET
- Friday: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ET
Sample Airfare Grid
These rates are just examples. Fares are susceptible to changes.
ThirdHome members can swap their second homes for incredible resort stays, in prime Mexican destinations, at the fraction of the regular booking cost.
Since 2009, members have been able to exchange time in their second home to travel to unique and inspiring destinations. Convenience, top-of-the-line service and stunning properties keep bringing members back to ThirdHome’s resort stays in Mexico.
Keep scrolling to see these amazing stays.
Nuevo Vallarta
Trade a stay for luxury on Banderas Bay
Beside Puerto Vallarta, on Mexico’s Pacific coast, you’ll find Nuevo “New” Vallarta. And new is an understatement. Nuevo Vallarta’s Vidanta Grande Luxxe resort boasts some of the most modern and luxurious residences in Mexico. Thanks to a recent partnership, ThirdHome members have access to these incredible properties by exchanging time in their second homes.
Member Reviews
“The Luxxe Chairman’s Villa was the perfect spot to experience all that the Puerto Vallarta has to offer.
Let me just say that once my friends and I checked into the villa we really didn’t want to leave. This is quite simply the nicest and most luxurious condominium I have ever experienced. The rooms are huge and the furnishings and decorations comfortable and beautiful. The outside deck was expansive with separate areas to dine al fresco or just sit and read while admiring the view. The entire staff at the residence was extremely friendly and helpful and even provided an in-room coffee service at 6 am each morning. In addition, there is a rooftop bar, restaurant and pool with a view of the entire Banderas Bay that is breathtaking. The Villa is located inside of Vidanta, a large Mexican resort with numerous restaurants and pools and tons of activities for adults and children including nightly entertainment in ‘The Sanctuario’ an extraordinary outside venue. David, the owner, was extremely helpful prior to the visit and provided us with everything we needed to seamlessly register and enter the resort. This property is highly recommended. “
Larry G. Member since 2013
“Where do I begin.
We had an amazing time staying in this 4br Grand Luxxe residence. We used this property for our kids Spring Break this year and could not have been more impressed with the Residence and the property in general. We were 9 total(4 adults and 5 kids) and couldn’t have spread out more if we tried. Everything was perfect and everyone was so nice and helpful. They treated us like as we were the owners…The rooftop pool at the Residence Tower was where we ended our days each and every day. There is a restaurant there and a pool and 2 hot tubs… If the opportunity arises again I will jump at the chance to stay at this amazing property again. Thank You David [the owner] and Thank You ThirdHome for allowing this opportunity for me to come together!”
Mark L. Member since 2017. Second home in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
Riviera Maya
Experience paradise on the Riviera
The Riviera Maya, with hot spots like Playa del Carmen and Cancun, has become one of Mexico’s hottest destinations. Easy access for U.S. east coasters, and calmer Gulf waters, makes this sliver of the Yucatan one to rave about. ThirdHome’s Vidanta partnership has also opened the doors to amazing properties on the beaches of the Riviera Maya. You’re just one deposit away from booking a stay in one of the residences pictured below.
Member Reviews
“Totally fabulous resort and villa!
This was the most incredible travel experience. This 5-star resort was very high end with the most amazing villa, 18 restaurants with fabulous food, a beautiful beach club that served wonderful tropical drinks and impeccable service. The contemporary villa was very large with an amazing balcony including a plunge pool. We all had several spa treatments and there was a nice workout room. The owner gave several perks with the reservation and had great recommendations for restaurants and activities. The Grande Luxxe status gave guests extra perks within the resort. Our family had a wonderful relaxing vacation. It takes a bit to impress us but this was over the top. I highly recommend Vidanta Resorts. ”
Lynn B. Member since 2018. Second home in New Orleans, Louisiana.
“A Luxury Paradise.
The Grand Luxxe apartment is so beautiful, comfortable, big, has great service, it’s real luxury, and the common areas are great. At the beach club, you’ll find anything you need, from any kind of food in the various restaurants, to a really nice mini-market for the comfort of eating something in your place or just have a bottle of wine. The Spa is fantastic! We had a great massage. I higly recomend it. Scott, the owner was very helpful and easy in everything we asked and needed. Thanks, Scott for letting us enjoy this beautiful place.”
Katyna M. Member since 2018. Second home in Venice, Italy.
Cabo San Lucas
Relax at Land’s End
Picture yourself at the furthest reaches of the world, away from the stresses and noisiness of the city. Now realize that vision at Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Surrounded by Pacific waters and the Sea of Cortez, you’ll feel a sense of ease wash over you as you settle into a ThirdHome oceanview residence. Partnerships with lavish resorts like Solaz los Cabos has made swapping your home for a sun-kissed Cabo stay a reality with ThirdHome.
Member Reviews
“Solaz los Cabos: You will love it.
We just spent 2 sun-drenched amazing weeks at Solaz and we could not be happier. The entire staff was warm, welcoming, and eager to help… One of the best amenities is the beach, and it is swimmable!! Many options as far as pools are concerned and the fitness center was ideal. The roof top desert gardens were unique and much more aesthetically pleasing than typical roof tops. Architecturally, a master piece. The interiors of the suites were perfect and the beds were the best ever… Overall 5 stars, and we look forward to our return visit.”
Michael M. Member since 2015. Second home in Gilbert, South Carolina.
“Welcome Home.
The kind attention to every detail in preparation of our stay by the Owners was unprecedented. That level of service and thoughtfulness met us at the property with an informative check in and thorough tour of the stunning home. “Welcome Home” was the kindest greeting! The impeccable design and cleanliness was only outweighed but the spectacular view. We enjoyed the fine services of the restaurant, activities center, beach club and poolside—gracious and unobtrusive. We slept luxuriously and enjoyed the well-equipped kitchen for preparing breakfast. Loved our stay so much we are ready to return and make it home! ”
Frank K. Member since 2018. Second home in Dencarik, Indonesia.
Interested in visiting Mexico soon?
Click the link below to see all available stays in Mexico! Remember, you must be logged into your account to see availability.
Both islands have plenty to offer, but these two distinct islands cater to different types of travelers and offer distinct coastlines.
Maui, the second largest Hawaiian island, is a well-known resort island with 30-miles of pristine beaches. Aside from a gorgeous coastline, Maui offers lush rainforests, farm-to-table dining and world-class golf. Overall, Maui offers more in the way of resorts, traditional beachfronts and nightlife compared to the Big Island. The landscapes are also a bit more predictable than the Big Island.
Per the name, the Big Island (island of Hawaii) is the largest island comprising the Hawaiian archipelago, twice the size of every other Hawaiian island put together. This huge island features about 266 miles of coastline. Its sheer size allows for a variety of climates across the island. Experience tropical weather at sea-level and freezing cold temperature at the heights of Mauna Kea volcano. It’s even possible to snowboard and ski at the top of Mauna Kea, albeit with no ski lifts to take you to the summit. As a whole, Big Island is able to offer more in the way of diverse landscapes, hikes and volcanic exploration.
Maui Beaches
Maui’s beaches are what you’d typically imagine from a tropical beach. Soft white and gold sands make up most of Maui’s best beach retreats.
On the northern coast of Maui, you’ll find Baldwin Beach Park, Ho’okipa Beach Park, and Honomanu Bay.
Baldwin Beach Park is one of the most popular beaches in Maui due to its beauty and public amenities, which include a large parking area and public showers and restrooms.
Ho’okipa Beach Park is more known for its water sport conditions, drawing crowds from surfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts.
Honomanu Bay is more difficult to access and more of a hidden local gem. But its surrounding jungles and gorgeous ocean vistas make it worth the trek.
On the southern coast of Maui, you’ll find Makena Beach State Park, Charley Young Beach and Palauea Beach.
Makena Beach State Park, the most photographed beach in Hawaii, features nearly a mile of pristine white beachfront that’s perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Beware that Makena Beach State Park is divided into Big Beach and Little Beach, the latter being one of Hawaii’s nudist beaches.
Charley Young Beach features nearly a mile of golden sand and lava formed tide pools, perfect for paddle boarding and snorkel exploration.
Palauea Beach is a medium-sized beach frequented by locals. Clear water conditions make Palauea great for diving and snorkeling, but be careful swimming alone here, as there are no lifeguards at this beach.
On the eastern coast of Maui, you’ll find Wai’anapanapa State Park, Hamoa Beach and Koki Beach.
Wai’anapanapa State Park (easy for you to say) is one of Maui’s few black sand beaches and features lush tropical surroundings, deep blue waters and public bathrooms/showers.
Hamoa Beach, a crescent silvery-colored beach adjoining the Travaasa Hotel, is a great family-friendly beach with shaded picnic spaces and crystal clear water.
Koki Beach is a golden stretch of beach that’s popular among local surfers. Strong rip tides and a lack of lifeguards makes it a more dangerous swim, so use precaution. This beach is perfect for picnics and sunbathing.
On the western coast of Maui, you’ll find Honulua Bay, Kapulua Bay and Ka’anapali Beach.
Honolua Bay is a popular surfing and snorkeling spot for more seasoned swimmers. There aren’t any public amenities available at this beach and it must be accessed via boat or by a short jungle hike. This beach is one of the most vibrant and hidden gems on Maui.
Kapulua Bay is part of Kapalua Resort, but still open to the public. It’s also a sheltered beach, making it perfect for families looking for calm tides. Watersport equipment is available for rent at the beach activities desk.
Ka’anapali Beach is a public stretch of beach that runs alongside several shops, restaurants and bars. This beach is appealing to large families or groups who might want to engage in a variety of activities within a close area. This beach is also located amongst many of Maui’s top resorts like Marriott’s Maui Ocean club and The Westin Maui Resort. Lifeguards, bathrooms and showers are available at Ka’anapali Beach.
Big Island Beaches
Many of Big Island’s beaches are colored by the island’s heightened volcanic activity, making for black and green sand. White sandy beaches can still be found in some areas of Big Island.
On the northern part of Big Island, by Kohala and Waimea, you’ll find Waipi’o Valley Beach, Kauna’oa Beach, and Hapuna White Sand Beach.
Waipi’o Valley, home of ancient Hawaiian kings, is also home to a gorgeous black sand beach. Getting to this beach requires a long hike and the beach is known for dangerous currents, so proceed with caution.
Kauna’oa Beach or Mauana Kea Beach is a half-mile sugar white sand beach with calm waters. But Hapuna’s most exciting time of day comes at night when the Manta Ray’s come to feed on masses of plankton. The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel uses a floodlight to attract plankton for a late night Manta Ray show, thus the aptly named Manta Ray Point at Hapuna Beach State Park.
Hapuna White Sand Beach is a beautiful beach, but also one of Big Island’s most crowded. An alternative activity to swimming, sunbathing or snorkeling here is to hike the Ala Kahakai coastal trail, which runs through Hapuna White Sand Beach.
On the southern tip of Big Island, you’ll find Papakolea Green Sand Beach and Punalu’u Black Sand Beach.
Papakolea Green Sand Beach is more remote and require longer hikes to access. But the unusual green sand and calm swimming conditions make it worth the effort.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is another remote beach that’s popular for spectating Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and hiking. Snorkeling can also be fun in the calmer coves adjoining Punalu’u. This beach area features picnic areas and restrooms but does not have a lifeguard.
On the eastern part of Big Island, by Hilo, you’ll find Isaac Hale Beach Park, Richardson’s Beach and Ocean Park, and Carlsmith Beach Park.
Isaac Hale Beach Park only recently became a black sand beach after the 2018 volcanic eruption on Big Island. The eruption also created several thermal ponds, kind of like natural hot tubs! These ponds are not cleaned/treated so enter at your own risk!
Richardson’s Beach and Ocean Park is a black sand beach that’s frequented by families due to its calm waters and tide pools. A marine conservation area within the park makes for superb snorkeling and water visibility. Richardson’s Beach has a lifeguard, shower and restrooms available.
Carlsmith Beach Park, right down the road from Richardson’s Ocean Park, is protected by a surrounding lava and reef barrier making it perfect for children. There isn’t a beach exactly, but a lawn and walkway to enter the water. Think of it as one giant lava formed pool! Turtles also frequent this cove, and lifeguards, restrooms, showers and picnic areas are available.
On the western part of Big Island, by Kailua-Kona, you’ll find Manini’owali Beach and Kamakahonu Beach.
Manini’owali Beach is a white sand beach surrounded by lava rocks at the rear. Dolphin sightings are common off the coast here and the snorkeling is spectacular during calm tides. This beach requires a short walk from the parking area and does not include any public amenities.
Kamakahonu Beach is directly next to King Kamehameha Hotel, and is a well-known children’s beach. Located in a heavily sheltered bay, there are almost no waves at Kamakahonu, making it perfect for small children learning how to swim and snorkel. Beach equipment rentals are available on site.
See Big Island Exchange Properties
Which island is right for me?
Both Maui and Big Island have an abundance of amazing beaches. What you should really consider is what type of travel you prefer, laid-back or active. Maui’s resorts, thriving nightlife, and easy access beaches will best serve travelers who like to unplug and relax on vacation. Big Island is for those seeking lots of activity. Many of Big Island’s most brilliant beaches are guarded by lush jungles and lengthy hiking trails. If you enjoy hiking and exploration, then Big Island is probably the destination for you.
Be sure to check out ThirdHome Rentals for more Hawaii travel opportunities.
ThirdHome Exchange members have recently returned from Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic and Matei Taveuni, Fiji. Keep reading to learn about their ThirdHome experience.
El Ingenio 16 | La Romana, Dominican Republic
Escape to the Dominican Republic’s exclusive Casa de Campo La Romana Country Club with this centrally-located property. With room for up to 8 people, this home is a perfect springboard for a holiday filled with award-winning golf, delicious meals and beachfront lounging for the whole family. Enjoy direct access to the pool and outdoor living areas from the main living space and enjoy rolling golf course views. The house staff will accommodate your every need during your stay at this luxurious tropical retreat.
ThirdHome member Michael says, “Our family of five was so fortunate to be able to experience a wonderfully relaxing week at El Ingenio 16. Our hosts, Pat and Mike, were the consummate ThirdHome hosts. Pre arrival, they made sure that we knew every detail about the resort and their home. The resort, Casa de Campo, has world class golf courses, a lovely beach and numerous restaurants. as well as many other fun family activities (tennis, shooting, horseback riding etc). The house is truly a ‘home’. Thank you to our most wonderful hosts!” click here to read more of Michael’s review.
Raiwasa Private Retreat | Matei Taveuni, Fiji
Perched on the northern coastline of Taveuni Island, Raiwasa is one of Fiji’s most exclusive properties. With private beach access and an infinity pool, this home is packed with reasons to visit. And with room for 6 people, you’ll want to invite the whole family. The full staff of 12 can arrange full-resort amenities during your stay at Raiwasa. Get a massage while looking over the Somosomo Straight or enjoy a 5-course dinner prepared by the property chef. Explore Taveuni’s rainforests, waterfalls and wildlife when you’re not luxuriating in Raiwasa’s wealth of amenities.
ThirdHome member Andy says, “Raiwasa is without question, the best vacation we have ever experienced. From the time we arrived until our plane took off, every need was accommodated and the level of service was impeccable. We took full advantage of the activities offered and learned so much about the special island of Taveuni and Fijian culture. While we did a lot of exploring and activities, there was still plenty of time for a daily massage and relaxing by the pool. To say the food at Rawaisa is incredible would be an understatement. The garden on the property provides so many fresh, local fruits that are served daily. Everything we ate was thoughtfully and beautifully prepared…Raiwasa exceeded every expectation we had. My husband and I went for a week-long vacation just the two of us, but we can’t wait to return with our children. If you are considering a trip to Raiwasa, don’t hesitate another second, book now!” click here to read more of Andy’s review.
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