Honaunau
Studio, + Convertible Bed(s), 1 Bath (Sleeps 2-3)
$110/nt
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Guest: dolphin lover
(Northern California)
Date of Stay: 04/20/12
Review Submitted: 05/03/12
We had a very lovely stay there. Very peaceful, serene, private and Kathy is WONDERFUL! Our objective was to swim with the wild Dolphins every day and that we did. This property is located very close to two step, a dolphin resting area, and to Ho-okena beach another resting place for the dolphins and to kalakakuka bay. We have WONDERFUL UNDER WATER VIDEOS of the dolphins, at rest, at play, nursing babies and the "Leaf Game"! We will be coming back next year!!!!!!!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Greg S.
Date of Stay: 04/02/12
Review Submitted: 04/15/12
Exceeded our expectations: snorkeling close by (Two-Step beach and Captain Cook Monument), situated in a lush tropical garden of banana, guava, avocado trees. The plumeria trees in full bloom when we arrived. Very quiet until the morning when the tropical birds charm you into the day, that was beautiful. We cooked all our meals in the hideaway; the kitchen had everything needed, even a coffee grinder for fresh Kona beans from a local farmer. Ah! Kathy greeted us when we arrived, showed where everything was and recommended many places to visit, and left us alone the rest of our stay. This is a place King Kamehameha would have felt at home. Many cafes and restaurants are close by, and all the ones we went to were gourmet -- homemade delicacies, catch of the day, relaxing atmosphere. Best place to rent a kayak is on the bay, so you can go right in and not transport one from the highway. This cottage is ideal location because we could take day trips to see things on this side of the Big Island, including Kealakekua Bay (where Captain Cook met his demise), Painted Church, Pu'uhonua o Honaunau (Hawai'ian Place of Refuge) with fabulous coconut grove, and many beaches to check out. Our place was clean, towels provided. If more stayed in places like this, the health industry would shrink considerably.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: marion n.
Date of Stay: 02/07/12
Review Submitted: 03/19/12
I spent 4 nights at Tropical Hideaway last month. It was a great base for experiencing this incredible part of the Big Island. The studio was very clean, the kitchen well equiped and lots of little touches throughout made it feel like home. The many colorful strands of lights made for a cool, cozy atmosphere at night. The grounds are beautiful and I enjoyed having breakfast in my own private garden . I loved seeing the full moon and the outline of the palm trees from the bed. The filtered water was nice (convenient, eco friendly and free!) The robes provided a touch of luxury! I enjoyed sunning by the pool in the late afternoon and sunsets at the Place of Refuge, just minutes away. I bought most of my groceries at Bong Brothers and the nearby fruit stand. The absolute highlight of my trip was swimming with the dolphins. Kathy took me out the first morning. The ocean was pretty rough, but we were able to see some dolphin and I felt comfortable going back alone on a calmer day after Kathy's guidance that first morning. On my last morning, I had the most incredible experience of swimming with many dolphin (20+) for over an hour. Just beautiful and unforgettable!!!!! I'm hooked and will return to this special spot.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway.
Guest: Susan & Mike
(Fair Grove, MO)
Date of Stay: 10/04/11
Review Submitted: 10/23/11
We just spent 7 nights at the Tropical Hideaway and had a wonderful time. The grounds are beautiful, it is very private and you have your own hot tub and BBQ. The property is tucked away off the road and sheltered by beautiful gardens. There are mango, papaya, banana and avocado trees that you are encouraged to enjoy. It is a nice walk to cafe that has great espresso and there is a great fruit stand next door. The beach is a short drive or a healthy walk away. There is wonderful snorkeling and dolphins at two-step bay. Kathy is a lovely hostess. She is very thoughtful about your privacy and making you feel comfortable while you are there. Everything you need for the beach is available for you to use: chairs, mats, towels, snorkeling equipment, boogie boards. The Hideaway has everything you need to make simple meals. I was able to master the art of hot-plate cooking while I was there. There is also a toaster oven and microwave as well as the BBQ!. We were able to save a lot of money cooking our own meals instead of eating out 3 times a day. If you like a little adventure this is the place for you. It is clean and the decor is cute. It sort of took me back to the 70's when we were trying to live a "natural life." I really appreciate the fact that Kathy uses green technology at the Hideaway. 40% of the electricity is from solar, as well as all of the hot water. There is recycling and organic material is composted. Thanks Kathy we had a great time!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: D~Nice
(Glorieta, NM)
Date of Stay: 09/23/11
Review Submitted: 10/01/11
Tropical Hideaway was a complete dream come true. The beauty and hospitality was amazing, along with the breathtaking views and sunsets. The place was super clean and comfortable. I exceptionally loved the ambiance and decorations. I completely feel in love with the entire place. The location couldn't have been better. Located just 3 miles from the best snorkeling ever, also "The Place of Refuge" National park was mind-blowingly Beautiful and stunning to learn about. The swimming pool and hot-tub was like the iceing on the cake! Thank you for such an exquisite place to offer people. I feel truly blessed to have found this place. This will always be my "Go-To Special Anniversary Place!"
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Cior
(San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 08/13/11
Review Submitted: 08/24/11
After visiting 3 islands, I can confirm that our week at Honaunau was the best. The hideaway is a unique opportunity to enjoy the benefits of camping in terms of fresh island breezes, the sounds of nature and the view of lush gardens without the hardships of sleeping outdoors. Inside, the hideaway offers all of the comforts of a home with a real bed and furniture, ample kitchenette, running water and flush toilet in the bathroom. It truly is the best of all worlds -- close to nature with the convenience of indoor amenities. For modern comforts, the hideaway offered reliable and speedy wireless internet along with a television, DVD player and small stereo. The private outdoor shower was a special treat, as the scents of nearby flowers are carried on the breeze through the beautiful hand-built bamboo enclosure. It provided a convenient place to get clean each morning after visiting the beach. The private patio also features a new hot tub spa, which was very clean and in pristine condition. We had a great time using the outdoor grass grill to make dinners for ourselves. The grocery up the road from Honaunau offered local island steaks, fresh caught ono fish and an amazing array of organic vegetables and fruits. The kitchenette inside had every thoughtful detail or cooking utensil we needed. A short walk up the driveway leads to a private pool shared by Kathy at the main house. It's not exclusive to the unit like the private spa on the patio, but each time we went swimming we were lucky to have the pool to ourselves, and we imagine it would've been easy to request private time at the pool, if desired. It's a unique pool, possibly a former water catchment converted to a deep soaking pool. The pool is surrounded by lush gardens, and was a beautiful setting for outdoor relaxation. Lastly, Kathy is an incredible host. She was very welcoming, informative and also respectful of our privacy. Her spirit made is feel instantly comfortable and at peace, and she was very helpful when it came to local recommendations. Kathy also offers guided snorkel trips. We were lucky to experience swimming with wild dolphins at Honaunau with Kathy, which will be a special lifelong memory for us. Lastly, the hideaway is a 2-3 mile drive from Honaunau Bay, also called Two-Step. Here, we experienced the best snorkeling of our entire trip -- easy entry to the water, protected bay, impeccable quantity and variety of fish, turtles, dolphins. We are already plotting our return.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Hendrik and Annick
Date of Stay: 07/28/11
Review Submitted: 08/16/11
The stay at Tropical Hideaway was highly enjoyable. The Studio is very comfortable and pleasant. The sense of connection with nature and all tropical delights is very present. The holiday was a highlight. Mahalo!
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Guest: Hendrik and Annick
Date of Stay: 07/28/11
Review Submitted: 08/16/11
The stay at Tropical Hideaway was highly enjoyable. The Studio is very comfortable and pleasant. The sense of connection with nature and all tropical delights is very present. The holiday was a highlight. Mahalo!
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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/16/11
Review Submitted: 08/17/11
My husband and I stayed at this property in July (2011). We usually don't stay in one location for a trip, but this time we did and it was wonderful. We loved our little cottage. It was so peaceful and beautiful and clean. The property is well maintained. It is lush, loaded with fruit trees and very private. We loved the outdoor shower and the hot tub. The pool was lovely, but we never actually made it in! The location was great. There were many good restaurants nearby. Two step beach and Kealakekua Bay are very nearby. The owner was always easy to reach and always helpful with information. The next time we go to Hawaii, we will definitely stay here again.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Alice and family
Date of Stay: 06/25/11
Review Submitted: 08/16/11
It was so great! Thank you for providing everything. What a wonderfully pleasant way to visit this part of the island. Great artwork and dolphins! Oh my gosh! Amazing!
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Guest: Dan and Jamie
Date of Stay: 06/15/11
Review Submitted: 08/16/11
A delightful taste of old Hawaii. An artist's touch applied to a modest retreat that blends perfectly with the elaborate beauty of nature's tropical paradise.
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Guest: Andrea and Joel
Date of Stay: 06/11/11
Review Submitted: 08/16/11
We loved it, and couldn't imagine a warmer place to stay. We really felt like we were in Hawaii, from the banana and papaya trees to the outdoor shower. We loved every minute. Thank you, Kathy!
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Guest: Ian and Laura
Date of Stay: 05/24/11
Review Submitted: 08/16/11
Tropical Hideaway was a great place to stay. Very comfortable, and in a great location--close to the beaches, grocery stores, and a great spot to venture out from. It was the perfect place to finish up our perfect 2 week vacation on the island.
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Guest: Donna
Date of Stay: 05/08/11
Review Submitted: 08/16/11
If peace and quiet and old Hawaii is your thing and you want to be very close to some of the best snorkeling on the island, then this is the place. Relaxation at its finest.
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Guest: Mike and Anna
Date of Stay: 04/22/11
Review Submitted: 08/16/11
You have created a very special place here. We especially enjoyed waking every morning to the symphony of birds around us, as well as that of the palms. We also appreciated all of the fresh fruit. Thanks for making this such a wonderful trip.
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Guest: Kimo & Laniki
(Idaho)
Date of Stay: 01/24/11
Review Submitted: 02/21/11
The lovely & delicious items set out for others to share & enjoy. Mahalo for the kind spirit of Aloha. The very well supplied and cared for piece of paradise - the colors are so soothing & lovely on the eyes - your beautiful photographs - your beautiful soul - Kathy - your grounds honoring & living in harmony with nature - healing gardens with herbs - fruits - florals - garden angels abounding - I am sure and a crystal discovered on a ledge by our bed. I could go on and on, but anyone visiting will have so much more to add to all the good your place feels and is. May we be fortunate to have the pleasure of staying again and will hope others of my family may experience the life changing and healing of your place. My Idaho born and raised husband after every wonderful nights' sleep in the comfortable bed and bedding - would wake up and say to me - he wakes thinking he is in a fairy land. Your location is perfect - your hospitality is perfect. Thank you from the heart. Aloha until we meet again, Jan & Jim - Idaho
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Mary and David
Date of Stay: 01/23/11
Review Submitted: 01/23/11
As the name implies, this truly is a Tropical Hideaway. You have thought of everything to make the place comfortable and functional. We especially appreciated the hot tub. The beach equipment came in very useful as well. Thanks for making this stretch of our Hawaiian getaway exactly what we envisioned.
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Guest: Ross and Sibyl
Date of Stay: 12/16/10
Review Submitted: 12/28/10
Mahalo for your place/hale of refuge. We loved kayaking in Kealakekua Bay, and visiting the Peace Garden. Nice stay, thanks!
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Guest: Eric and Emily Hawbaker
Date of Stay: 10/22/10
Review Submitted: 12/28/10
Kathy, thanks for your hospitality. Our stay in the Tropical Hideaway was very pleasant. We especially enjoyed the fresh bananas!
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Guest: lccnm
(sf bay area)
Date of Stay: 10/13/10
Review Submitted: 11/03/10
We rented an adjacent ohana which is rented out when Kathy's friend is out of town. It is a one room studio with full kitchen and outdoor bath. Just lovely. Only one solid wall and the rest screened in. Complete privacy due to the setting and the surrounding bananna trees. Kathy showed us the property, told us which of the fruits and garden bounty we could share. PS- freshly picked bananas are just inccredible. She took us out to learn about swimming with the dolfins. Then we had 3 mornings of swimming with them on our own. The ohana is meticulously maintained as are the hot tubs and small pool. I have been to the Big Island several times and this quickly went to the top of my list for best Hawaian vacation spots. It rained a couple of nights. Kathy is generous and the very spirit of aloha.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Christine and Nick
Date of Stay: 10/06/10
Review Submitted: 12/28/10
I don't know if we've ever had such a relaxing vacation in a setting as tranquil and picturesque. This was a true tropical getaway.
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Guest: Andrea and David
(Santa Cruz, CA)
Date of Stay: 09/08/10
Review Submitted: 09/19/10
We just returned from a wonderful 3 weeks on the Big Island and our brief stay at Kathy's Tropical Hideaway was an absolute highlight. Of course the dolphin swim, with Kathy's gentle, easy guidance, is something we will always remember. Now add to that our idyllic screened-in studio, the gracefully designed and utterly lush garden surrounding it, our private hot tub, lovely secluded pool, outdoor shower, mango, banana and other fruit trees ready for our picking, cool cats on the property, and watching the sun set into the ocean from our bed! Oh, the peacefulness of it all. The place feels rustic/spiritual but unlike some such spots which are spartan, this one had such a thoughtful set of supplies, feeding both creature comforts and aesthetic sensibilities. Every possible need we might have was attended to. Kathy was a beautiful host -- invisible or available according to our desires -- and her book of photos is very special. I feel we have a new friend. (I read the comment about bugs and want to note that we had no such problem. Just keep the screen door closed and don't leave any food out, and I'm certain all will be well. We loved the indoor/outdoor feeling, and believe me, if the bugs had been on the inside I'd be singing a different tune!) Thanks so much, Kathy. We hope to return again and again. (Re review tips & guidelines: yes, accurate listing and descriptions, yes, very clean and well maintained, yes I would certainly recommend it to those I love, try the Keiae (sp?) restaurant for a great dinner, must visit the Place of Refuge, Painted Church is nice, Two-Step has great snorkeling, and ask Kathy about dolphins. Her notebook of suggestions is very useful; I think all of my suggestions are in there, plus massage therapists and more. It's a great location, so close to the beaches. I recommended it to pet owners, by the way, not because you can bring yours but because you'll see and maybe have access to her cats, which is nice when you're away from your own.)
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, pet owners, romantic getaway.
Guest: Jeffrey
Date of Stay: 08/15/10
Review Submitted: 08/24/10
Everything we needed was provided and well thought out. We would definitely recommend Tropical Hideaway to others. In addition, the highlight of our stay was being able to swim with the dolphins with Kathy as our guide. She has vast experience with dolphins, which she readily shares. She knows where to find them, and showed us how to interact with them in a respectful way. All in all, our stay was a moving and memorable experience.
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Guest: Elisabeth
(Austria)
Date of Stay: 08/12/10
Review Submitted: 09/20/10
My stay at the Tropical Hideaway this past August was even better than my stay last year. I so did enjoyed the Hawaiian indoor/outdoor lifestyle. I was completely comfortable in your studio and garden setting. I especially liked your upgraded hot tube and the beautiful new herb garden in my private yard along with the additional fruit trees that had been planted. It is great to be able to come from the beach and in minutes be sitting pool side at the Topical Hideaway. Kathy, thank you for again supporting me in all questions I had. I look forward to enjoying your place next year and hope it will be available for even a longer stay. Aloha and greetings from Austria
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Mairead
(CA, USA)
Date of Stay: 07/30/10
Review Submitted: 08/07/10
Kathleen is a very helpful and friendly hostess. The location is great for snorkeling sites and hawaiian heritage sites. Kathleen has a good selection of beach/snorkel accessories for guest use. The hot tub and outdoor shower are nice amenities. The grounds are lovely, with a view of the ocean. The actual studio space is comfortable, yet lacks a finished feel. The flooring is a combination of carpet pieces and palm mat over concrete. The screening, while allowing a pleasant breeze, also allows small gnats to enter freely (and they do so in large numbers). The construction has gaps in joints which encourages other larger insects to join you. If you are comfortable with insects and spiders sharing your space this is a great place.
Owner response:The Studio at Tropical Hideaway is an alternative to hotels and condos for those who wish to experience Hawaii in a natural setting of lush gardens. It is screened in the Hawaiian style (no glass), so as to be open to the tropical outdoor setting, pleasant breezes and nature's wonders. In the tropics, there are insects, and unless you stay in a sealed hotel room or use a lot of poison (we do use traps), they are a fact of life here in Hawaii. For two weeks a year, we have gnats on the island during the evening hours. It is unfortunate that these guests were here during that time of year. To my knowledge, I don't know of any construction gaps in the joints to the outdoors. The main room and bathroom are carpeted, and the kitchen has the traditional Hawaiian woven hala mats on the floor. Since this review was posted, I've had many inquiries about the bug situation, so I wanted readers to know that I now spray regularly (and use traps) to reduce any insects. The gnats are around only in the summer for 2 weeks in late July/early August, and they only congregate on light sources, not everywhere in the air. Also, I have a new carpet in the living space, and a larger TV.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, sightseeing.
Guest: Barbara and Art
Date of Stay: 06/25/10
Review Submitted: 08/03/10
This is the perfect place and environment for anyone wanting to have a different experience than is found in the typical resort or condo. The quiet open air, privacy and garden setting are relaxing and very enjoyable. Also, the location is a good compromise between the hustle of Kona and the wild beauty of the Hilo and Puna coast.
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Guest: Walker and Karin
Date of Stay: 04/23/10
Review Submitted: 08/03/10
We had a lovely stay. The space is very tranquil and natural. It's wonderful waking up on a sunny morning to cool breezes and chirping birds, watching sunsets from bed, having breakfast in the yard. The entire property is very well maintained and attractive with a distinctly tropical feel. We hope to come back soon!
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Guest: coral and randy
(colorado)
Date of Stay: 03/19/10
Review Submitted: 03/27/10
The pictures and discription were completely accurate so if this looks like something you would enjoy it would be perfect. We wanted something other than a resort and this offered the privacy, beauty and location we were looking for. Kathy was a great hostess. very helpful but gave us our space. accomodations were unique and wonderful. we loved the hot tub and outdoor shower. we loved that we were separated from the outside by only screens. the landscape is tropical and lush and beautiful. what a bonus to have an ocean view. We would definitely come back. very romantic, good location, wonderful.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Deidre Dore
Date of Stay: 03/03/10
Review Submitted: 03/02/10
Wonderful place, I loved the pool and the greenery and the outdoor shower. The linens on the bed are lovely. Love the outdoor feel of it, and the location is perfect. Great hostess, wonderful artwork. Mahalo.
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Guest: Sherry Rogers
Date of Stay: 02/10/10
Review Submitted: 02/09/10
A real winner for travelers who want a Hawaiian retreat in which to settle, and a fabulous jumping off point for local adventures. A simple very Hawaiian and very charming Studio--tree-house like with screened windows on three sides. Well- appointed with everything one needs from beach gear and snorkeling equipment, coolers, beach chairs, and laundry soap. A lanai with excellent grill, private hot hub and outdoor shower adds to the overall comfort. Mahalo Kathy, your special touches are evident everywhere.
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Guest: Cathy Kirkwood
Date of Stay: 01/13/10
Review Submitted: 01/12/10
Tropical Hideaway is a hidden treasure. From the open air living, to waking up to gentle sounds and the view out to the bay, to the simple thoughtfulness that makes life easy--fresh fruit, a place to do laundry, a place to set your cup, a bed that is soft and inviting--it is a place of healing and returning to joy, effortlessly. Thank you! We'll be back--again and again!
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Guest: Matt & Santana Shoemaker
Date of Stay: 12/21/09
Review Submitted: 12/20/09
We loved this place. The bed was very cosy and comfortable. We loved the indoor/outdoor quality and the art. The towels and bedding smelled really fresh. Often places I noticed on the islands have had a musty smell. Thank you for creating this beauty. We would certainly come back. It's a beautiful area away from the crowds, with beaches, kayaking and good snorkeling close by.
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Guest: Sandra and Gunther
Date of Stay: 11/29/09
Review Submitted: 11/28/09
We enjoyed this piece of paradise very much. It was our great pleasure to stay here. Thank you for caring about our privacy. We hope to come back again. Mahalo nui loa.
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Guest: Marci & Dave Aldred
Date of Stay: 10/19/09
Review Submitted: 10/18/09
The Hideaway is exactly what I picture when I think of Hawaii. I love the jungly atmosphere. How fun to shower and look up to see bananas growing overhead. It is also close to great snorkeling.
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Guest: Dean & Laurel McCulloch
Date of Stay: 02/26/09
Review Submitted: 02/25/09
It was great to commune with nature, and be so close to spinner dolphins, kayaking, and fabulous snorkeling. Lovely views in all directions. Loved the outdoor shower. We would definitely recommend Tropical Hideaway.
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Guest: Jan McKenzie
Date of Stay: 02/21/09
Review Submitted: 02/20/09
Great location, beautiful landscape, easy going inside/outside living. The outdoor shower was lovely. Everything was well equipped, and appreciated having beach chairs, mats, boogie boards, snorkel gear, etc.
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Guest: Chris Stratton
Date of Stay: 11/23/08
Review Submitted: 11/22/08
Imagine you had a really good friend with an awesome studio apartment, open to cool breezes, birds singing. Imagine a private hot tub, an open and secluded garden. Quiet and restful. Imagine Kona coffee, world class snorkeling, historic sites and vistas. No shirts, no shoes, no problems. Now call Kathy!
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Guest: Sherry Lilly
Date of Stay: 11/18/08
Review Submitted: 11/17/08
Excellent setting--pool with a waterfall, private hot tub on the covered patio. Tropical flowers and fruits everywhere. It really makes you feel you are on a proper Hawaiian vacation.
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Guest: Garyet
Date of Stay: 10/04/08
Review Submitted: 10/03/08
We had a great time here. It was very private and we loved jumping in the hot tub every morning after snorkeling and kayaking. The flowers smell heavenly at night. And the fresh flowers in the studio were a beautiful touch. Thank you!
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