Todd F.
July 2024
This home is dreamy. It is open-air so you always have the feeling of being in synch with the Hawaiian air. It is uniquely divided into rooms that provide privacy. The Master suite is amazing. There is no air conditioning, so if you are coming in the middle of summer, be prepared to use fans in the evening as it can be warm and stuffy.
The infinity pool was as advertised, and the views of the ocean were surreal. A short 5-minute walk gets you down the beach to a swimmable cove that was never too crowded.
The kitchen was great for cooking large family meals. This home felt so private but you are only 5-10 minutes from restaurants, grocery stores, and shops.
Our party of 6 had an amazing time. The local property contact, Mei, was a delight and welcomed us when we arrived. She was always responsive by text or phone.
Overall, we were more than satisfied with our stay. Mahalo.
Sally W.
July 2024
There was absolutely nothing more we could have wanted in this beautiful home and setting! From the very beginning, any inquiry about the property was addressed with sincere interest in making our stay all that we had hoped for. The home owner identified with how important this holiday was for us,-~ celebrating our 50th Anniversary with the family. The sheer delight and awe that came over ALL OF US will be remembered. The comments and smiles were worth every dollar. We will remember this with love and delight.
As the on-site hostess welcomed us and gave us a tour and orientation to the home, we now all share special memories that we will recall for years to come. Thank You Sheree, Bruce and Mei for all you did to make this time WONDERFUL. We didn't want to leave.
Jaymie D.
June 2024
Beautiful home in great location. Everything was amazing
Mackenzie E.
June 2024
This was the nicest VRBO location I’ve ever stayed in. The unique layout combined with the spectacular view gave my entire extended family the vacation of a lifetime. There were six adults and five kids and everyone had something to do. The pool was a hit, the outdoor space was perfect for everyone and the accommodations were great for each family. The wow factor of this property is like no other, but once you settle in, the amenities make it feel like home. Everything was well organized, fully stocked and Sheree was extremely communicative. If we can, we will be back someday!
Diana W.
May 2024
We had an amazing stay at this property. Exceeded our expectations from the pictures online. We loved being able to hang out in the several lounging spots at the house, being able to walk the beach and tidepools directly in front of the home and easily walk to town. We didn't feel like we needed to leave the property it was so great. Mei, the property manager helped us immediately and gave recommendations. We would absolutely book again.
Greg D.
April 2024
We had an amazing time staying here. Close to everything. Quiet. We didn’t want to leave!!
Can’t wait to come back and stay here again.
Jeffrey H.
December 2023
It was everything we hoped for and more! It's a house on the ocean so there isn't much more to say..I read some of the other reviews and let me say that we experienced the same feel of home away from home as others! We were meet on arrival and given a quick tour, which was great! Then we just unpacked and relaxed after that! Worth every cent!
Jeff N.
November 2023
This is the most amazing property we have ever stayed at on our 16+ trips to Hawai'i. We have stayed at many nice places, several "owner suites" at various high end hotels such as the Kahala and Marriott Montage. This property is in person as it is described in the listing. This was the first time we have stayed at a place with no A.C. and the listing is right, you don't need it! The fact that the house is open all the time and you get the constant crashing of waves is just so relaxing. The master with its open plan and outdoor shower makes you feel like you are sleeping on the beach.
You'll also have the opportunity to shoot some amazing sunsets pictures. The only draw back is that you cannot go into the ocean in front of the home due to the terrain. You can walk around the lava rocks, look in the tide pools but one slip and you'll be looking for the first aid kit (which is provided). Good news is a 5 minute walk and you'll be at great spot to play in the ocean, not much fish to look at but safe great spot for kids and "non ocean" folks.
The house had amazing amenities, including spices and every cooking tool you'll need for inside cooking or on the grill by the pool.
Grocery, shopping and restaurants are literally 10 minutes away.
You really feel like your in Hawai'i at the home and as we all left I asked "how did everyone like the house?" and the answer was...Wow....just wow!
Pietra B.
October 2023
This was our fourth stay at this beautiful home. I can’t say enough about how wonderful it is. When you walk in and see the ocean, just beyond the infinity pool, there’s nothing like it. The kitchen has everything you could possibly need. Two of our family members had to work a bit, and got to make use of the lovely office in the master suite.
The location is amazing, so close to downtown Kailua-Kona (1mile) and some great walks along the beach or over to the botanical garden at the old airport. It’s a perfect morning jaunt.
There is nothing not to like about this house. We will be back!
Darin D.
October 2023
Immaculately clean - stunningly beautiful.
Great for 8 adults.
Pete A.
September 2023
The Kona Bay house exceeded our expectations, and we had a wonderful time there. The location directly on the water is spectacular, and we spent most evenings watching the sunset from the deck and little beach. The large infinity pool is delightful, as is the charming patio with ample chairs and tiki huts for shade. The layout of the bedrooms in three separate buildings worked perfectly for our group of 7 adults (including three couples). The primary suite is particularly magical. We enjoyed cooking in the well-appointed kitchen. We also enjoyed the Queen’s Bath, a protected ocean-swimming cove a short walk down the beach. We would also highlight the huge park (the Old Airport park), with fields, tennis, pickleball, a botanical garden, etc. a few minutes‘ walk from the house. The house is well maintained, and the owners and staff were responsive, friendly and helpful. We give Exotic Kona Home our highest recommendation.
Samantha R.
August 2023
This property had it all. Amazing views, quiet, great neighborhood and right on the ocean. Customer service was top notch and the best nights sleep you’ll ever get. 10/10 highly recommend
Lenora F.
August 2023
This properties location view and family friendly layout are incomparable. The Master Suite is sublime. Some TLC is in order. Kitchen cooktop needs replacing due to insufficient burner heat. No backup gas for outdoor kitchen. Lower 2 bedrooms have insufficient air movement for comfort. Impossible to keep all doors open because of friendly little mongooses wanting to share the house. Pool and gardens are beautiful and house layout fits with nature.
Kelly C.
July 2023
Starting with the negative, check in was not smooth because the owner did not put our names in the system. The helpful guards and house manager (Debi) were very nice but it still took about an hour of us waiting in our car at 10pm to get in the gate.
Positive - the house and location are beautiful. The house is not new so there are a few issues (hard to move doors, stovetop is not the best) but these are minor. The pool is gorgeous and the house is very comfortable and well appointed. We really did not understand that the house had no A/C and we were probably there in the hottest time. It was fine with fans. Location made it easy to make day trips and explore but we really were happy hanging out at home.
Michael O.
July 2023
This felt like a mini compound for our family of 8. Amazing views and a super luxurious and comfortable place to live for a week. The master bedroom and shower were amazing. Close drive to organic grocery store and restaurants. Lava beach out front and short walk to sand beach.
Michael M.
June 2023
The property was not really how it was described. It is a private gated entrance, but the public walks by right on the edge of property along beach, I felt like I was an animal at a zoo on display. Kitchen is dated. Took 15 minutes to boil water on old stove top. No screens so at night unless you went to bed under the grungy bug netting the mosquitos would get you pretty badly. I was underwhelmed for the price. I should have known something was weird with all the extra liability waivers and rules and signs around the house about all the rules. Wicker furniture is never comfortable. Mattresses were comfortable. If you don’t take trash out constantly kitchen fills with flies. Opening and closing big heavy doors was a total hassle and they don’t slide easily.
I had a great time because Kona is cool, but this house is not special. Bug nets and no AC. It was kind of like camping my wife said. 2.5 stars at best and overpriced at best.
Dawn H.
March 2023
Beautiful location, pool area & ocean view! Many persons stopped walking along the path, to take photos of the backyard/pool layout. The pool was a hit for everyone as it was frequented daily to cool off & relax. Though the property description stated an "open air" house, we were not fully aware what that totally meant & it was HOT for all of us, even with 2 floor fans/bedroom. The natural elements of flying cockroaches & ants were daily occurences we dealt with. Many geckos were kept busy "helping" us. Debi was great in explaining everything while walking through the house & having TWO new coffeemakers delivered when the current one wouldn't work. The location is close to the hub of Kona & Walmart which was great!
Spencer M.
December 2022
Tropical paradise getaway; beautiful and interesting. We loved it!
Timothy J.
November 2022
This home is amazing! Very tranquil, it is everything as presented and more. This was a surprise birthday trip for my wife and Sheree and Evan were extremely helpful in making this stay memorable. If you need a chef we definitely recommend Evan, he and his son prepared a wonderful meal for our group! We will definitely be booking this property in the future.
Sascia H.
October 2022
Our group of 8 (my husband and I, our four adult children, one son’s girlfriend and one daughter´s boyfriend) spent ten nights at ´HALE KONA AÉKAI´. This was our third visit to the Big Island.
On our arrival we were greeted by Evan, who had already opened all doors facing the ocean, so while walking in our breaths were taken away, stunned by how amazing the location of the house really is and how wonderful the views are. The pool area is by far the most beautiful one that ever came with a private home we rented. There are many places to sunbath around the pool and also places to stay in the shade – which I really appreciated. The property itself is quite big and offers enough room for everybody to spread out. The house is very well equipped – everything you need is there. We were a bit disappointed by the barbeque, my son would complain that it doesn’t get hot enough (just very poor flames – which was not caused by a shortage of propane) and my husband complained that the regulator knobs of the BBQ would become very hot and you could easily burn your fingers.
We went to different restaurants and really liked the Keei Café in Kealakekua, they offer great food for a fair price and have several vegan options (which was important for some in our group). We also liked the ULU Ocean Grill at the Four Seasons, they also have good vegan options.
Unfortunately there is one major negative memory as well. At the end of our “arrival tour” Evan mentioned that the dishwasher was broken. There is a second dishwasher in the Family Cottage Suite, so I suggested to get that dishwasher down und bring it into the kitchen but Evan wouldn’t react to my suggestion. On the 3rd day of our stay I complained to Even again about this matter and he sent Sears Service the next day. They came while we were gone and I don’t know what they did, but the dishwasher would still not work. Evan came in two days later to vacuum the water out of the machine. That was the last time I have ever been in touch with him. So, in the end we either handwashed the dishes for 10 days or carried them upstairs to the Family Unit and used the dishwasher there. That made us use the plastic dishes as much as possible because they were much lighter to carry up and down the stairs and really reminded me of a camping vacation and not a vacation in this price range. What really bothered me the most is that – neither Evan nor Sheree – ever said “Sorry for the inconvenience”!
Beverly C.
September 2022
This property is spectacular. It offers so much; it is really hard to describe. Lush tropical gardens, beautifully decorated rooms, a well-stocked kitchen, a luxurious pool and a breath-taking view are just some of the features that give this house a resort-like quality. Our family, consisting of eight adults, thoroughly enjoyed our time here. The property is convenient to the town of Kona and to a variety of shopping. Short walk to a beach that is great for little ones if you have them.
Flint D.
August 2022
A spectacular get away. Easy access to all of the island’s amenities. House needs some appliance updating but otherwise is perfect.
Melanie A.
August 2022
The house was amazing, the view was gorgeous.
Cyndi and warren B.
July 2022
Our family started planning our trip 18 months prior to our arrival date and the anticipation and excitement were worth every second. We arrived and we met by Evan with leis for us all and he gave us the house and grounds tour...wow! I think we were all speechless with the sheer beauty of the home and the view. Exactly as pictured! We thoroughly enjoyed the pool and the deck and I think we were only inside long enough to get food and drinks! Plenty of room for all 9 of us with lounge chairs aplenty ! Our family had not been together for years and what a wonderful way to be reunited. The younger folk made their way easily on foot to target and the ‘ town’ which has restaurants and bars and shops in abundance. All in all we were thrilled with the home and location...exceptionally clean, well organized and a very well equipped kitchen ...we were lacking absolutely nothing. Would I recommend this home? without a doubt, yes I would ! It was a dream vacation for us all come true!
Kelly T.
June 2022
Great family vacation- very relaxing- magnificent views and location
LAURIE H.
March 2022
Our family of 10 (6 adults and 4 kids) stayed here in March 2022 for 8 nights. The outdoor space exceeded our expectations and the indoor space on the whole, met our expectations. Our local contact person was personable and helpful…greeting us with beautiful leis, providing activity and restaurant ideas, and responding to issues with some of the kitchen appliances. The property was super clean and stocked with linens, paper products, pantry items and even sunscreen. The pool was crystal clear and the perfect temperature for a cooling dip. Our family spent a lot of time there....relaxing and taking a glorious break from hectic lives back home. The neighborhood was safe, with good security, and the house was within walking distance of Ali’i Drive, Old Kona Airport Beach, Keiki Beach, pickle ball courts and a playground. Our time there ended much too soon, but while it lasted, it was wonderful!
Richard L.
March 2022
Second time visiting this house. Perfect location and overall amazing week and house.
Holly A.
January 2022
Property Manager was great if we had any questions he was able to answer. We cooked most meals at home. Kitchen has everything you need. The infinity pool was enjoyed by all. Beautiful views ! Whales , turtles, dolphins and tide pools to explore.
Loved hearing the waves !
Kelly H.
November 2021
We couldn’t have asked for a better place to stay with extended family. The location was great with lots of room for all of us. We can’t wait to come back.
Thank you!
Sally R.
August 2021
The house and property are stunning in every way. Great size for our family of 12...4 grandkids and 8 adults. Each bedroom was beautiful, the master bedroom out of this world. The kids were in the pool at least 6 hours everyday. This is a home where every detail was thought out carefully and was perfection!
Kathleen C.
August 2021
My husband and I rented this beautiful home for a once in a lifetime kind of trip. Sadly only our children and grandchildren could go, due to our covid tests. The property from my children's eyes was amazing and couldn't be better! They thoroughly enjoyed the pool and everything the house had to offer. The two left burners would not work on the stove. Everything they tried to cook took 3 times longer because the burners kept going out.When we first booked it, I inquired about a chef since the listing said in the amenities "chef available upon request". I wanted to have ONE special night with paying a chef to come and prepare a beautiful dinner. When I asked the owner several times about a chef, I never got a reply. I then after getting it approved with owner, hired a highly rated chef. I could go on and on about how miserable sheree made it for the chef to do her job, and then continued making everyone for the dinner party very uncomfortable by having the chefs assistant move her car because sheree was watching cameras. The house is amazing if you plan on relaxing and NOT planning on any extra services like a massage , chef etc.
Nelda C.
June 2021
We have traveled well in 40 countries in 50 years and this beats everything --ever. The setting on the ocean is beautiful, but that applies to several homes in the same location. This one is extra special because of the furnishings, the extensive landscaping, the negative edge pool, the arge complete kitchen, and the hundreds of extras provided, like ALL the dishes and utensils you could possibly want, a shower in the master suite that you never want to leave, softest towels ever, robes, mosquito netting on the beds, gorgeous art in every room-- even the shower--indoor AND outdoor dishes, fountains and outdoor lighting on timers, 3 complete well- separated suites plus an additional room and extra space for more, outdoor barbecue, numerous 12 foot tall doors that enable full indoor -outdoor living; I could go on and on. The owners are super responsive, the on-site host as well. IF this place is available, book it now!
Trip A.
June 2021
Beautiful property….first time we have done a house rental and were quite satisfied. Patio, pool and master bedroom all orientated directly to the ocean. 3 other bedrooms in back with no ocean views, but can't have everything. All surfaces are stone which can be slippery particularly the stairs, so be careful when wet feet. It was our 50th anniversary, and we had our 2 kids, and 4 grandkids in he house They surprised us by hiring Evan Kennedy the local property manager, also a gourmet chef, to cater a fantastic dinner for us. He also did our check in when we arrived. First class guy. The house is in a gated community with security which makes us feel secluded, however, Safeway, Kona Town and anything else you might want is 5 minutes from the house. Our grandkids were in the salt water pool at least 10 hours a day, clearly a highlight. This is truly a Hawaiian experience with all floor to ceiling doors open to the pool and ocean. The views from the main floor and master are spectacular, and compares to an ocean front suite at a 5 star hotel. We were there in late May so summer weather was starting up. Everything is open with no air conditioning, which would have been nice at night when sleeping. But after 3 days or so, you get used to the climate. Admittedly, we are spoiled living on SF Bay. Bottom line, we would rent this property again. The owner Sheree Matheson was easy to work with and very professional.
David
June 2013
It's difficult to say anything but "wow". We loved the house and location. Nothing better than getting up in the morning and seeing the beautiful ocean, playing golf and coming back to the house to lounge at the pool. There were 4 couples which was a perfect fit for the house. We had planned on eating out more but ended up BBQ'ing almost every night and just enjoying the house. Downtown is a short walk if you do feel like eating out. I highly recommend this property.
April 2013
Another amazing vacation! This was our third time at this wonderful home in Kona. Each year we come we bring a list of activities to participate in and day trips to take. And each year at the end of the vacation we look at the list and there's precious little crossed off. We walk out to the pool area and look around and think there is nothing that beats this setting right here. No need to leave. We're from Washington State, we've seen a volcano. No need to go there. It rains in Hilo. We get enough rain in Washington, thank you very much. No, staying put in this wonderful open air Hawaiian paradise is just fine by us. Maybe someday we'll actually get to that list but not just yet....
Barry W.
March 2013
We stayed at this amazing property celebrating my husband's birthday. Our family came (including our 3 year old grandson) and it was a perfect week. The house has every detail taken care of. The kitchen has tons of space with beautiful appliances and an outdoor BBQ. The huge glass doors open to the beach. The master suite has a shower that is open the the ocean and big glass doors that we never closed at night. The whole feel is spacious and luxurious. We loved our stay there!
February 2013
All-day breezes, ocean waves, sun (and shade when you want it!) and sea life surround you. Plenty of privacy in the house and specacular view and places to relax all over the property.
The most-discriminating traveler will be thoroughly impressed and thankful they booked this property. The house could be the most-exciting of all the places you see on the Big Island!
Very clean and well-maintained. Large kitchen and eating areas for meals.
January 2013
All 7 of us ladies enjoyed our stay in this lovely home. We all felt like home. The house is beautiful, comfortable and was even lovelier than the advertisment claimed. We toured the island and stayed overnight at the volcano. Swam with dolphins and enjoyed the beautiful beaches all around the island. The owner left gave us the name of a chef for the evening as well as a lady that gave all of us massages for the day. I painted 4 small paintings while I was there overlooking the ocean and gardens and sold all of them when I returned to Canada. All the ladies have recommended this site to their friends as we all thoroughly enjoyed our stay. WOW covers how we all felt and we hated to leave.
December 2012
This house is without a doubt, amazing. From the emasculate detail put into every room, to the breathtaking view, you're in for a treat! I recommend that whatever activities are planned to always make it back in time for sunset!
Whether you want an adventure of a lifetime, a romantic getaway, or to relax in the sun during your stay at the big island, this is the place for you.
The people that own this property are truly wonderful.
Many mahalos for letting us have the experience of a lifetime!
November 2012
For the first time in 20 yrs, I think I actually slowed down mentally and physically two days in to our stay here....a well needed rest from my hectic city life and job.
The property was exactly as described/pictured, if not better. Well looked after, clean and well stocked with essentials. Nice attention to details.
The house itself is cleverly designed with open planning and large teak/glass sliding doors making you feel like you're outside in a paradise while you're in the home relaxing. The kitchen is well equipped and spacious....and of course has a spectacular ocean view, as does the 2nd floor master suite and 3rd floor look out.
Only the infinity pool separates you from the beach. An incredible view. With out traveling any further, we snorkeled right outside the house.
The property is located in a very private, secluded section of the Kona shoreline, with private security keeping the ambiance in check at all times. With just a short 10 minute walk we were at a variety of restaurants, hotels, art galleries, boutique stores and even a spectacular La'au.
This was definitely a perfect get away break with breathe-taking views, modern conveniences and luxury features designed to create the most serene and restful vacation I've ever had.
November 2012
This place is simply lovely! What do you say to such beauty? The house opens to the ocean by simply opening a couple doors and the breeze fills the entire space. The intimacy of the sea is at your door step along with a refreshing infinity pool to cool down in. The house’s décor is done in teak wood which gives a warm Hawaiian feel. This place hands down is sooo wonderful and you will enjoy your decision to the fullest. There is access to the wall which is good for a run, evening stroll and there is a sweet sandy beach just a couple blocks away (following the wall). Great for families or couples laying low. You’ll need to make an excuse to leave this gorgeous home as I couldn't come up with many:) Enjoy!
October 2012
Absolutely fantastic trip!! Photos do not do this property justice, it's a must see to believe!! It is truly an oasis. The accommodations are impeccably clean and in perfect order, extremly comfortable! Once we had our groceries, we never wanted to leave! The town of Kona was an easy walk if need be. I would love to rent this home for a wedding someday (hmmm, four daughters????). We have traveled often and this by far is our favorite place to stay when in Hawaii.
September 2012
We just returned from our trip to paradise. The pictures do not do this home proper justice. From the moment we walked through the front entrance, we knew that we had picked the perfect place to celebrate our anniversary. All of our children joined us (from Alaska, Missouri and Virginia) to spend 10 days of bliss. Our youngest son even proposed during our stay - she said "yes". What wonderful memories!
Every sunset was breath taking. It was hard to leave the house to enjoy the Island, but it is only a short walk into the Village of Kilua and to the old airstrip. We were able to enjoy the canoe races and take a couple of day trips (to the Volcano and to the Hilo side). Other than that, we just enjoyed "being there".
Thanks to Bruce and Sheree for opening their home and allowing us the opportunity to experience their piece of paradise. We are looking forward to the next visit!
Use the "Visit Owner's Website" link to read more reviews from the reservation site, including the latest reviews submitted by recent guests.