John H.
August 2024
Our stay at the River House was nothing short of extraordinary, earning a resounding five-star rating. From the moment we booked the reservations, Mark, our exceptional host at the River Estate, demonstrated an unparalleled level of professionalism and warmth. His communication was impeccable, ensuring that all our needs were met and that the property exceeded our expectations.
The River House itself was a masterpiece of comfort and convenience. We were delighted to find that the kayaks and paddle boards we rented were delivered right to the house ahead of our arrival, showcasing the seamless and thoughtful service provided. The location was ideal for our family vacation, perfectly situated to explore the stunning beauty of Kauai.
The kitchen was equipped with every amenity one would need, including a air fryer that proved to be incredibly useful. Every detail was meticulously attended to, making our stay not only enjoyable but also exceptionally convenient. For an unforgettable experience and a stay that truly feels like a home away from home, the River House and its remarkable host, Mark, set an unparalleled standard.
Juli M.
July 2024
The pictures don't do it enough justice. The home and surrounding yard/driveway is unreal how beautiful it all is. You could stay at the house and never leave if you wanted to. The house had all amenities that you could ask for. There's a little country market store, coffee shop about a 5 minute walk down the road that is the essence of "true" Hawaii. If we ever make it back to Kauai, would definitely stay here again.
Jeff B.
July 2024
We stayed 12 nights at the River Estate and enjoyed every minute. The house is clean, the grounds were well kept and, in my opinion, the property’s greatest feature is the location. This property is perfect for families who want to disconnect from their hectic lives. The location just up the Wainiha river is quiet and peaceful. We found ourselves enjoying time relaxing by the river watching birds and the occasional group of fish swim by. The property was part of our vacation, not just a bed for the night. We planned many of our days with a ‘reset’ back at the house after a morning at the Beach.
An additional benefit to staying here, is the small market within walking distance. There is a place to grab a coffee, a shave ice, lunch or even groceries.
This was our 5th time to the north shore of Kauai and we have not stayed at the same property twice...next time we come, will be staying at the River Estate again.
Janet M.
June 2024
An absolutely amazing property and location. The home was beyond clean, very well appointed, roomy and comfortable. Mark is very attentive and easy to get a hold of. He was very gracious with his time and help with all our questions. He set up having kayaks delivered to the house for our stay which was a huge deal with having a rental car as that would have been a challenge to go get and bring back. We so enjoyed kayaking to and from the private beach just fantastic. Will definitely pass info on the VRBO to friends and family. One of the most memorable vacations we have had. We have done many VRBOs and this one is tops on the list. Don’t pass this one up! Truly an amazing find. Thank you Mark for your time and attention to make our stay what it was.
Kimberley C.
May 2024
Kauai is an extremely beautiful island, and the North Shore is the prettiest part. The home is in an area that is close to everything you could want. Princeville and Hanalei Bay are near; however, you have the seclusion of being near beaches and shops that are local's favorites. The house is extremely clean, and the beds are very comfortable. Kitchen is well stocked, and you are supplied with beach chairs, towels and supplies that are very thoughtful.
Kevin T.
May 2024
Awesome property, easy check in and a great spot to stay
Marc K.
April 2024
If you want a great place to stay that isn't "touristy" and very secluded, this place is it. We stayed for 2 weeks and it was great. There are several local beaches for relaxing days, and it is an easy drive down to Lihue and other locations for more planned adventures. Although not on the ocean, this is located next to a river that goes straight to the ocean which is an easy kayak ride.
The host is very responsive and helpful. We had a bad stone come through and he was helpful to make sure we were prepared for it. Another great perk is this house is on solar, so when we did lose power, we actually didn't since we had battery and solar back up.
Excellent place to stay.
Josh S.
March 2024
Close enough to town and yet felt like we were out in the country! Being next to the creek was a bonus. Incrediblyt well stocked kitchen.
denise s.
March 2024
We stayed at the River House for 7 nights in February of 2024. Our stay was just wonderful. The house is just as depicted, if not better. The river is just outside, the property is nicely landscaped and the neighborhood is quiet. We were close to Hanalei, which we loved! We went to beaches close by and used the provided beach towels, chairs and umbrella.
The Kitchen is well stocked and comfortable. Temperature was very comfortable. We did not use the AC since the weather was in the low 70's. Fans and lots of windows were great.
We did not have much interaction with the Owner but he was always responsive and welcoming. At our request, he provided a crib and high chair to rent. If you want to rent kayaks, etc. he can supply as well. He had great suggestions on restaurants.
Overall, the house provided us with a 'no worries' base for a lovely stay in Kauai. I highly recommend!
Sue Y.
February 2024
We really loved this place and Mark is an amazing host!
Shannon M.
January 2024
Lovely place in a secluded setting with easy access to all things north shore. Easy 6 minute walk to small store, coffee house and eatery. Responsive and helpful host.
Susan M.
December 2023
We loved our stay here with family. The home is very clean and well stocked with needed amenities and extras. The location is close to the beach and local shops - and frequent farmers markets with incredible produce. You can hear fish splash in the river behind the yard and birds any time of day. One of the neighbors across the river has multiple dogs that can be heard starting in the afternoon. Out of the home owners control, but important to note. With windows closed and A/C on the dogs were difficult to hear overnight. The owner was kind enough to offer a late checkout, which was appreciated as a few of the crew had gotten sick while traveling. Would have appreciated a phone call to notify me when he put a $400.00 extra charge through VRBO for a blind that was allegedly not rewinding. Don't remember it being down when I left. Suppose I should have photographed everything prior to leaving. Truly blessed to have had family time in this amazingly peaceful place.
Lori T.
October 2023
The property was beautiful and somewhat secluded. Tropical and quiet.
Scott U.
September 2023
Beautiful property located in a quiet neighborhood tucked away in a peaceful little pocket of the tropical jungle for rest and relaxation. Minutes from beautiful beaches and amazing sites. Mark was extremely courteous and accommodating, and we will definitely be staying here again in the future. Highly recommended!
Neal T.
September 2023
We had a really nice holiday (although put into firm perspective by the tragedy in neighbouring island, Maui). Marks home is relaxing and we had a nice time exploring the area around Hanalei particularly hiking around the nearby national park, botanical gardens and wonderful beaches. Mark provided some really helpful information on the local area and is a gracious and caring host. We really like this part of Kauai as it provides beautiful countryside to explore as well as lovely, spacious and uncrowded beaches. Thanks.
Heather P.
July 2023
Awesome location near the end of the road. Being along the river kept it quiet. Host was awesome arranged bikes to be delivered and suggested restaurants and the best things to do and when to book
Ryan L.
June 2023
Just a perfect home in a beautiful and secluded place. Really top notch all around, Mark the owner is a fantastic resource for the local area and is a great host, providing ample information and personal help organizing surf and stand up paddle boards. 10/10 would recommend to anyone. Big thanks, Aloha
Emily H.
May 2023
We loved staying in this home. Great location. Beautiful setting. Spacious with nice bedrooms and large communal space. Everything you need in the kitchen and for beach activities. The host is available during stay for advice and / or address any needs. If we come back to Kauai, we would stay here again.
Kelsey K.
April 2023
The riverhouse is comfortable and immaculate. The house and property are gorgeous and well cared for. The gentle river, a few steps from the house will carry you to a secluded beach if you let it. About four miles into Hanalei, or the same distance the other direction to Ha'ena & Ke'e beach. Relax. You are going slow. How far is anything on Kauai, really?
We would definitely stay here again. Thanks Mark!
Erika H.
April 2023
This was honestly one of the most magical places I've ever stayed. It was quiet, off the beaten path a bit. It was serene and so peaceful, with a river running through the back yard, lush yard and birds everywhere.
We took advantage of a paddleboard rental, offered by Mark. We could paddle to the beach downstream from us and be on the shore of the ocean.
The lanai was the perfect place for meals, reading books, and playing card games in the evenings and mornings.
Every bedroom had a glorious view, private porch and comfy bed.
River Estate was the best place to retreat to after a day of enjoying Hanalei's nearby destinations.
The shuttle parking lot was close to us, giving us access to the state park. We hiked some of the Na Pali Coastline (make reservations!) and found TONS of beaches nearby (that we basically had to ourselves). Hanalei was our homebase for groceries and some dining experiences, but we ate a lot of our meals right on the lanai.
We loved staying at this beautiful place and hope to again someday!
Andrew S.
January 2023
We just returned from a wonderful stay at the River Estate. Perfectly appointed kitchen, great bedding, excellent furnishings, super clean, full of light, in a quiet area, close to nature, and a host, Mark, who was available, caring and extremely helpful.
Kurt S.
January 2023
We had a wonderful time at this house. It is a comfortable getaway in a beautiful location.
Mark was helpful and gave us several ideas to do on our vacation.
Michael C.
December 2022
This was truly paradise. The location close to the Na Pali Coast and Tunnels Beach was amazing. The house was beautiful and immaculate. The owner had great customer service. It was a perfect week in Paradise.
Simon T.
December 2022
Mark is a wonderful host and the house an idyllic retreat that is true to all one could hope for in an authentic Hawaiin experience - by the River, minutes from a secluded beach by boat/canoe/kayak down river and complete with traditional and real Hawaiin furnishings back at the home along with all modern amenities - thank you Mark for the best experience to be had on the North shore along with knowledgeable and most qualified support from the local vendors when needed!
rick h.
November 2022
The house was great, beautiful scenery. Centrally located. Couldn’t have asked for a better spot. Only hang up was the house had a lot of rules and the owner made the stay a little less than relaxing. First he asked for my home address upon booking, which I was not comfortable giving him (not sure why he needed that). Then he accused me of not reading all of the house rules and threatened to charge me extra for using too much electricity, all in a somewhat aggressive text message. I’m sure he didn’t mean anything by it, but it was frustrating when we were paying quite a bit per night to stay here.
kiley c.
October 2022
We throughly enjoyed our 10 day stay at the treehouse. The location was perfect- very close to hanalei and even closer to what became our favorite beach for snorkeling, Tunnels. Mark was very communicative and accommodating. The property is gorgeous and natural, and having AC in the bedrooms was a huge plus on humid days. We’d definitely stay here again!!!
Gypsy P.
October 2022
This peaceful home makes you feel you are staying in a treehouse, and the furnishings are reminiscent of old Hawaii, which is wonderful! Adventure awaits with the nearby beautiful and rugged Na Pali Coast, with hiking, kayaking and more. The directions we received led us incorrectly to a restaurant called Postcards, and it was a little difficult to find the place, so perhaps this can be updated. However, this is probably because it is so remote and sort of off Google grid - which we loved! We did not get the email information for entry, but Mark was easily reachable and helpful with further instructions. There was a short flash flood during our stay, and Mark was helpful when we requested advice on this as well. It would be better/wonderful if kayaks and SUPs were purchased by owner and included in the stay (and would save money and hassle of delivery, etc.), and would be a good investment for the property. I will also caution visitors to be knowledgable about Hawaiian history and respectful of neighbors. They were not always happy to see us strolling down the street or kayaking down their river, and visitors should be aware of this and respectful. There is a wonderful little store a 10 minute walk away with the best shave ice we have ever had (we live on Oahu)! And they also have friendly cashiers, ono food, little local crafts and goods. The shoreline and surrounding waters are beautiful and away from the hustle & bustle of Princeville. All in all, was perfect for our little getaway, and we plan to return soon! Aloha.
Evan A.
September 2022
The riverhouse was a wonderful part of our vacation. The location and Mark's helpful information made our stay all that much more amazing.
colene m.
September 2022
Beauty and peace all wrapped up in a home with a quiet accessible river running beside it describes River House. The home is immaculate with gorgeous antique furniture and beautiful cherry wood floors. There was nothing missing in the kitchen for those who like to cook. My kind of home. I loved it.
Tyler G.
July 2022
Mark is a wonderful host and helps to ensure you have a great stay. The property is very well maintained and is super clean. It is well equipped and easy to get to. It is a good balance of being secluded but you have pretty easy access to just about any beach that peaks your interest on the north side of the island. I would recommend renting a board or 2 for the week and snorkel gear. It makes things a lot easier when making your activity choice each day. I would not however recommend renting bikes as many of the drivers in the area are not the best and the roads are very, very narrow. Great place for family to get away and spend some time together and create lasting memories. Mahalo Mark for your hospitality!
Rae S.
April 2022
Tropical paradise
Ruth W.
April 2022
The house & it’s surroundings are perfect, beautiful - surrounded by lush natural landscape with a river running through, & only blocks to a gorgeous Hawaiian beach.
Andrew W.
March 2022
We loved our experience in Kauai. Our Host Mark gave us very good advice about park reservations, beaches, bike riding , kayaking and countless other tidbits. The house is very well laid out and comfortable. Kitchen is well equipped and functional. The location is unique and charming. The grounds are beautiful and well maintained. The house is away from the crowd. Kayak to beach . Ride bike to beach/ park/cute store.
Stephanie V.
February 2022
This house couldn't be more perfect! From having all the we needed in the home to make us feel comfortable, to the location-surrounded by lush green trees and plants with the river flowing right behind it and plenty of yard space for my kids to play. The owner, Mark, was very helpful and quick to respond when I had questions and conveniently had kayaks and a SUP board delivered to the house for my family to ride up river to our private beach. It was such a dream and we cannot wait to return!
Barbara L.
February 2022
The property was exactly as advertised, nicely equipped with everything you need and nicely decorated, gorgeous setting and a perfect location for exploring the quaint nearby town and beach Hanalei Bay, the local Wainiha Market, and adventuring off to other beautiful beaches, hikes and waterfalls. We paddled kayaks up and down the Wainiha River to the ocean and a small private beach. It was a short paddle and that worked out great! We also transported kayaks to Hanalei River and that was also wonderful. Highlights include Ke'e beach at sunset and hiking to Hanakapi'ai Falls. Weather was perfect. Take advantage of tips from Mark about what to do in the area!
Rebecca H.
January 2022
We LOVED staying at Mark’s home…it was pure heaven!! Clean, well stocked, amazing location for our kayaks and paddle board (that were delivered to the house), ease of driving to great restaurants and all activities. Terrific bird watching, relaxing, and great privacy on each side of the house. Couldn’t ask for a more perfect, more beautiful, more relaxing place on the island!! Mahalo for everything Mark!!
Samuel I.
January 2022
I spent nearly 14 days at marks wonderful property and was astounded at the quality and, just down right special location of the property. Mark is an absolute treat to work with and made me feel wonderfully welcome and relaxed the entire time I was on property! I’ll be using mark every time I come back to Kauai with out a doubt! Thank you again for the opportunity Mark! Mahalo!
Anthony H.
December 2021
The host is great, easy to get info and recommendations from Mark. The house is clean, well appointed, nothing fancy but solid. Electric bbq is not my favorite but I get not having gas or charcoal at this place. The location is a bit of a drive from things, not horrible it just takes up time. Having the river is amazing, thoroughly enjoyed the kayaking to the beach. The master bed was very comfortable, the grapefruit trees in the yard are delicious, the house layout provides good privacy. The only thing missing in the kitchen are measuring cups. The appliances are in need of replacement. If it was possible to quiet the nearby bridge/traffic noise that is pretty much constant from 6am to about 12am it would be a bonus. The only real big issue was the nearby hunting dogs that live to bark. It didn’t keep us up as long as we closed all the windows and turn all the fans on which really defeats the purpose of the location. Mark was sympathetic and very concerned about it but in the end it just kind of ruined the beautiful location. For the price I expect a little more peace and quiet, a little more current appliances and outfitting. Keep in mind that kayaks are extra. It cost us $450 for two SUP and one kayak for a week. Overall it was a 6 out of 10 for me.
Hideki M.
July 2021
We had the best vacation ever at the place.
Jane E.
June 2021
We loved our stay here. It’s a wonderful home with tons of Natural light. You will hear sounds of Birds and chickens in the morning which we found really nice and a good reminder that you are among nature. Mark’s home is Well decorated, thoughtfully put together, spacious and provided everything you needed including beach chairs/towels/boogie boards. It was a gem of a place, we would be happy to return.
Justin M.
December 2010
I regret posting this because it will probably mean the schedule will fill up even more now :)
River Estate is our favorite place to stay on Kauai, and its owner, Mark, is one of the most helpful, nicest guys you could ever meet.
I will try to describe our style and that will indicate if it's right for you:
- We went to the Kapa'a and Hanalei Sunshine (Farmers) markets, Hoku foods, and bought all our groceries for the week. We did all our cooking ourselves, except for the last night. The appliances are modern, the kitchen is clean and well-maintained, and the utensils are diverse and well-organized.
- We spent most of our time vegging on the beaches, taking day-trips out around the island, and going for hikes.
- On the rainier days, we were happy to sit out on the porch or inside in the living room and just read for a while. River Estate is a great place for this. Very comfortable environment.
- The stereo has an iPod dock. NICE.
- The house has A/C, even though you probably won't want to use it
The master bedroom is all windows, but the location and privacy from trees mean you don't have to worry about neighbors looking in.
I think what makes River Estate different from a lot of places is the amount of detail and care put into its presentation. We've stayed other places where everything just felt cheap and temporary, the owners knowing that the customers were going to trash it. River Estate is not this way. You treat it like your own home because it's kept clean and maintained so well.
Just so I can provide some comments about who this isn't right for:
I would say this is not the right location for someone who can't buy their own groceries or cook. Not the river estate in particular, but Haena/Eastern Hanalei. You're 15 minutes from food at all times by car (there's a little shop nearby but it's a convenience store).
It's also not the right spot for someone who can't take a little rain here and there. The north shore is beautiful because of the rainfall. We didn't mind at all, and had no problem hanging out on the beach while rain clouds passed by, knowing they'd be followed with sunshine.
Overall, A++, our favorite place on the island so far, and Mark is super helpful.
March 2010
The River Estate is pure heaven. Every morning the birds woke us up to yet another beautiful day. Only a short drive to Haena, which we thoroughly enjoyed!! Mark, you have a little bit of paradise on one of the world's most spectacular islands. Thank You!!
Use the "Visit Owner's Website" link to read more reviews from the reservation site, including the latest reviews submitted by recent guests.