Vacation Rentals by Owner

Great Condo, Beautiful View!

Guest: Christine (Minnesota)
Date of Stay: 01/23/12 Review Submitted: 02/20/12

This was our first time renting form VRBO, so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was more than pleased with the outcome! From the beginning to end the owner had wonderful communication with me. She answered all of the questions that I had and seemed genuine in wanting our stay to be nothing but enjoyable. Even after we left and I discovered I had lost a silver ring with sentimental value. She graciously contacted the cleaning service and the current renters (although it hasn't been found yet, I still hold out hope!) The description of the condo was accurate and even better than the pictures display. The bedrooms are on opposite ends of a hallway, which is nice if you would like some privacy. There are a couple stairs going into the living room, which makes the home look nice and would not cross most renters mind. Since we have a 14 month old who runs but has no concept of stairs, this kept us on our toes! The property is located in the wonderful community of Princeville. Our favorite beaches were Hanalei Bay and Anini Beach, both very close by. Although parking is not specifically assigned, there was always an open spot outside our door. There were plenty of beach toys, chairs, and towels available for our use. The best part of this condo is it's breathtaking view. Amazing! Our time here went too quick. Someday I dream of going back. I would recommend renting this property. Enjoy!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Home away from Home

Guest: julie (kansas)
Date of Stay: 06/30/11 Review Submitted: 07/14/11

My family and I just got back to Kansas from our "heavenly vacation" in Kauai. The condo was perfect for our family of 4. The cool ocean breeze streamed in the windows and doors of this cliff-top condo and was always a delight to come "home" to after a long day of exploring. The condo had everything we needed and more; and Maya was a delight. We left Kauai for a few days to go to Honolulu and when we flew back to Kauai, our 11 year old said, "It's nice to be "home". It did feel like home. Kauai is so beautiful it was very hard to leave. I'm sure we'll be back!

Owner response:It is such a great feeling to see that you and your family felt at home in our home. It just makes us more anxious to move there for good! You are welcome back any time.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Paradise in Paradise

Guest: Mike & Leslie (Madison, WI)
Date of Stay: 04/21/11 Review Submitted: 05/09/11

This place is nothing short of spectacular. The only problem is leaving it to go see the beauty of Kauai. It will quickly become home away from home. The first thing that hits you is the view from the living room. Open the drapes to the double french doors that provide a full room view of the Pacific Ocean. Walk out on the patio, have a seat, watch the golfers coming through on the Makai Golf Course, and in between, gaze out at the water, with a panoramic look at much of the North Shore. If you are an early riser, sit out with your coffee and watch one of the most beautiful sunrises you will find. Of course, there is so much to see on this island, but when you want to take a break, you won't be giving up anything. The property is comfortably, but exquisitely furnished, and you will find everything you need whether grilling a steak on the Weber Grill on the kitchen lanei, or cooking some pasta in the fully furnished kitchen. The property is minutes from the Princeville Shopping Center, and a short drive from the many north shore beaches. If you don't want to eat in, there are many restaurants within a 10-15 mnute drive. Sitting on the 15th tee of the recently remodeled Makai Golf Course, it is also only minutes away from the world famous Princeville Golf Course, the number one rated course in Hawaii. In summary, this property is perfect for a couple or small family looking for that home away from home. The hardest part is leaving.

Owner response:Thank you so much for the kind words. It is very gratifying to see that others feel as we do about our sanctuary. We hope that many people will be able to enjoy this place before we settle down for our retirement.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Paradise in Paradise

Guest: Mike & Leslie (Madison, WI)
Date of Stay: 04/21/11 Review Submitted: 05/07/11

This place is nothing short of spectacular. The only problem is leaving it to go see the beauty of Kauai. It will quickly become home away from home. The first thing that hits you is the view from the living room. Open the drapes to the double french doors that provide a full room view of the Pacific Ocean. Walk out on the patio, have a seat, watch the golfers coming through on the Makai Golf Course, and in between, gaze out at the water, with a panoramic look at much of the North Shore. If you are an early riser, sit out with your coffee and watch one of the most beautiful sunrises you will find. Of course, there is so much to see on this island, but when you want to take a break, you won't be giving up anything. The property is comfortably, but exquisitely furnished, and you will find everything you need whether grilling a steak on the Weber Grill on the kitchen lanei, or cooking some pasta in the fully furnished kitchen. The property is minutes from the Princeville Shopping Center, and a short drive from the many north shore beaches. If you don't want to eat in, there are many restaurants within a 10-15 mnute drive. Sitting on the 15th tee of the recently remodeled Makai Golf Course, it is also only minutes away from the world famous Princeville Golf Course, the number one rated course in Hawaii. In summary, this property is perfect for a couple or small family looking for that home away from home. The hardest part is leaving.

Owner response:Thank you so much for the great review. We're so happy that you find the condo and Kauai as wonderful as we do. You really did take advantage of so much that the area has to offer. Any time you'd like to come back we will be glad to have you.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Exactly as advertised.....wonderful!

Guest: Texas lady (Weatherford, Texas)
Date of Stay: 10/05/10 Review Submitted: 10/13/10

My husband and I just got back from our first visit to Hawaii and I'm so glad it was on Kauai. I loved the location, very private yet not isolated. One reviewer said you can't see the ocean from the condo, I beg to differ! You don't have access because it's high on a cliff, but the view is fantastic. Very few golfers on the course while we were there and they were not a bother at all. Although there was a lot of hammering going on in a neighboring unit during the day that was annoying, we had an ideal rental (we probably should have been out having fun anyway, but it was so lovely just relaxing in the condo) I hope we can return again, I would definitely rent this unit again. Even beach toys, ice chest, bicycle, boogie boards, towels, etc. were provided. Next time we will stay long enough to make use of all these extras! Thanks Maya and Mark! We had a fabulous visit.

Owner response:We really appreciate your kind words about our condo. Most important of all is that you had a great time in our future retirement home. You described it so much better than we could have ever done. It will be our pleasure to have you over again. Guests like you make all the hard work we put in it worth while. Thanks again, Mark and Maya

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway.

KamahanaProperty #134389

Guest: Lyn and david (Australia)
Date of Stay: 03/13/10 Review Submitted: 03/29/10

This is a superb Condominium, with very high quality furnishings and location. Beautifully quiet - (except for the pesky roosters!) Just a great environment. Handy to shopping -get a card from the supermarket which then gives good prices. We would rate this one of, if not the best place, we have ever stayed in and if we can get back to Kauai would certainly stay here again. Although the weather was poor, the environment and comfort was so great it was perfect for us wind down from our busy lives. Definietly recommend for those seeking quality and peace and quiet. Property is immaculately maintained

Owner response:It is a wonderful feeling to see that you have found our future retirement home to your liking. Since we intend to live there soon we tried our best to make it like a home. We appreciate all your compliments. You described our condo better than we ever could. Thanks again, Mark and Maya

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

WOW

Guest: Nick (Washington DC)
Date of Stay: 01/05/10 Review Submitted: 06/22/10

There is nothing that hasn't been thought about to make this feel more like a second home. The view is bedazzling, the kitchen had everything a serious cook could ask for. My wife and I fell in love with it the moment we got there. We spent three weeks there in January this year. The north coast in the winter has the most fabulous ocean you can imagine. The condo was less than 2 miles from the spa at the golf club where we exercised, took yoga classes, swam in the pool and sweated in the steam room and sauna. Membership worked out at about $3 a day. In the other direction from the spa lies Hanalei Beach, as good as it gets. Coming back from a day at the beach, the golf course, the tennis courts, nothing could be better than heading back to 23 to sit on the patio and look out over the ocean to the lighthouse and watch the albatrosses play with the wind currents. I can't imagine a location that offered all these activities nearby and, at the same time, provided such privacy and isolation. Because this unit sits on the golf course, there is some traffic during the day, but by evening it is quiet and serene. I'm coming back.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

WOW

Guest: Nick (Washington DC)
Date of Stay: 01/05/10 Review Submitted: 06/22/10

There is nothing that hasn't been thought about to make this feel more like a second home. The view is bedazzling, the kitchen had everything a serious cook could ask for. My wife and I fell in love with it the moment we got there. We spent three weeks there in January this year. The north coast in the winter has the most fabulous ocean you can imagine. The condo was less than 2 miles from the spa at the golf club where we exercised, took yoga classes, swam in the pool and sweated in the steam room and sauna. Membership worked out at about $3 a day. In the other direction from the spa lies Hanalei Beach, as good as it gets. Coming back from a day at the beach, the golf course, the tennis courts, nothing could be better than heading back to 23 to sit on the patio and look out over the ocean to the lighthouse and watch the albatrosses play with the wind currents. I can't imagine a location that offered all these activities nearby and, at the same time, provided such privacy and isolation. Because this unit sits on the golf course, there is some traffic during the day, but by evening it is quiet and serene. I'm coming back.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/03/09 Review Submitted: 12/03/09

We are into our final few days of a 1 month vacation at Mark's Condo in Princeville and could not wait to submit our comments. This place is a gem and so is the owner. After booking with Mark I mentioned to him that our flight had been changed and that instead of staying overnight in Honolulu we could arrive late evening in Kauai. Mark offered us the extra day at no charge. He is also allowing us a late checkout as we have a late return flight in Honolulu. The price was right. We checked out many properties in the very upscale Princeville area and believe me this is a bargain. The condo has everything you need and is very spacious with a cathedral ceiling in the living room. I noticed that one other review mentioned that the unit does not have an ocean view. I beg to differ. My wife and I are sitting on the Lanai at this moment and she has spotted some dolphins. I would agree that you are not hanging over the cliffs with a full ocean view but there is a beautiful view. If you step off the lanai you will be gazing at a beautiful mountain range and walk about 50 feet and voila you have your full ocean view. The unit has wireless internet, 3 LED tv's with too many channels. A DVD player. It is a quiet end unit and has a beautiful breeze flowing through so you do not need air conditioning. Right outside the door is the Makai Golf course. We take a 1/2 walk every morning and evening and the views are breathtaking. Weather has been great. We started our vacation on November 11 and other than a record rainfall for the first couple of days the rest of the vacation has been sunny. Mark has contacted us a couple of times to make sure that everything was fine. Locally Caroline is near by if there is anything that is needed. Everything we needed for groceries is within driving distance. We would go to Kappaa Safeway (get a card, it takes two minutes and give you big savings) for large orders or the Costco. For smaller orders the Foodland is walking distance. We would also recommend cocktails at 3:30 at the St. Regis. 1 mile down the road and for a $6.00 beer and free valet service you can enjoy the best view on the island. We will be back. Next time, may with my son and daughter in law. After all there is plenty of room for four. And now back to my binoculars. The lady next door saw her first whale yesterday. The ranger at the lighthouse said that there have now been numerous spottings. There are 6 resident Moli Al

Recommended for:

Guest: Raj Nadarajah (-)
Date of Stay: 07/27/09 Review Submitted: 07/27/09

Just got back from a great 6 nights stay, wonderful immaculate comfortable place with amazing views, you hear and feel the trade winds, will be definitely be staying there the next time we are in Kauai. Mark was really helpful and made the whole process of booking really pleasant.

Recommended for:

Guest: eldnirp (East Pslo Alto, CA)
Date of Stay: 07/18/09 Review Submitted: 07/18/09

We had a great time here. We took short drives to Anini Beach, walked down hidden pathways to Sea Cliff Beach, and Queen's Bath. We bought groceries at the local market (Foodland) and our eldest son surprised us by his cooking abilities. The condo is beautifully appointed and the view is breathtaking and the area is peaceful and relaxing.

Recommended for:

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 04/30/09 Review Submitted: 04/30/09

My wife and I stayed at this condo for a wonderful 5 day stay. It was just perfect. Mark was so easy to work with to set up the rental. He got us all of the information we needed right away and was very helpful in his suggestions. We hiked, took surfing lessons, explored and had some wonderful food. We'll definitely be back.

Recommended for:

Guest: Tien-Yi L. (Cambridge, MA)
Date of Stay: 09/12/08 Review Submitted: 09/12/08

We had a wonderful 11 night stay here. The place is clean, comfy, tastefully decorated and quiet. The unit is at the end of the complex, closest to the ocean. You don't have an actual "ocean view" from the condo, but if you step out the back door you are on a golf course that does overlook the ocean. It feels much more serene and private than many other units in the area. The place has everything you need for a great vacation and the landlord is very nice, flexible and a pleasure to deal with. The pool at the Kamahana complex is small, but we didn't really miss it as we were out every day. Princeville is lovely - a resort community that doesn't feel tacky or intrusive to the nature that surrounds it. Amazing how many "hidden" gems you can find in the area. (Don't miss Queen's Bath or Secret Beach) Highly recommended! Only suggestions for the condo - brighter lighting in the living room for reading, and a table on the back lanai where you can eat. And maybe some non-stick pans.

Recommended for:

Guestbook Comment

Guest: Tom_HAC100013 (Not Specified)
Date of Stay: 08/01/07 Review Submitted: 08/06/07

This is definitely one of the best condos I've stayed in. It was so comfortable. The views were amazing. Very relaxing. All the furniture was new and clean. What a great place to wind down. And what a deal! We spent a lot of time comparing prices with hotels, and they don't match. We got full bedrooms, kitchen and living space with no noise for much less than a hotel would be. And Mark (the owner) was so easy to work with. We'll be back.

Recommended for: