Vacation Rentals by Owner

Quaint, affordable cottage stay south of Kona

Guest: bagelboots (Seattle, WA)
Date of Stay: 04/22/12 Review Submitted: 04/30/12

My wife and I spent our "babymoon" cooking out, sitting by the big-house pool, and chilling out to the sounds of the birds & the bees in this nice little cottage in the midst of Kona coffee country. Warm during the day, cool in the evening, some intense rain showers at night during our visit. Saw the sites (volcano, Two Steps, Place of Refuge, Greenwell Farms & family store) and took things easy. If you enjoy cooking while on vacation, this is a great spot. The Greenwell family-owned ChoiceMart just up the road has lots of choices, incl. locally-sourced meats & veggies. Candi & Mike are doing a fabulous job with the place, and Bamboo & Happy are great assistants!

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway.

A Perfect Vacation Spot!!

Guest: Nancy (Gaylord, Michigan)
Date of Stay: 02/15/12 Review Submitted: 04/14/12

My husband and I recently spent a month at the Maka Nui cottage. Candy and Michael are the consummate hosts! There was a wonderful welcome basket filled with fresh fruit, coffee, Hawaiian bread and chocolates that made a perfect breakfast that first morning after the long flight. Everyday we enjoyed picking mangoes, papaya and bananas that grow in abundance on the property. They gave us great suggestions for day tours, restaurants and special festivals. The cottage is well furnished and the view is spectacular. The best recommendation I can give is that we have booked it for a month again next year.

Owner response:We are pleased that you enjoyed our small part of Hawaii. And look forward to seeing you again next year! Mahalo Candi

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway.

We'll be back!

Guest: marion (Bounder, CO)
Date of Stay: 01/27/12 Review Submitted: 04/14/12

Wonderful getaway on a beautiful piece of property with lots of good views and yummy fruit trees. Candi had a warm welcome and was attentive to every need. We especially liked the privacy of the deck and the location just a short drive from good snorkeling at two step and Captain Cook. Thanks so much for making this a wonderful vacation! Marion & David

Owner response:We are pleased that you enjoyed our small part of Hawaii. And look forward to having you again Mahalo Candi

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

Great ! Great ! Great !

Guest: Alex (Aliso Viejo, CA)
Date of Stay: 01/25/12 Review Submitted: 04/18/12

The Cottage was PERFECT for my wife and I. It felt like we had the whole place to ourselves (Well, we had to share it with a couple of amazing Geckos, joining us at meal time, they loved bananas, and one of them even went for my Longboard Lager !!! JE-JE). So peaceful, quiet, beautiful. A view to die for, at breakfast, dinner time (amazing sunsets). Convenient, close to restaurants, market, 2 step beach snorkeling, and more. Wish we could have stayed longer ... But there WILL be a next time, and it will be longer. Candi really took care of every detail, and had excellent information on all the places to go visit and things to do, thank you ...

Owner response:Even tho you were here such a short time, we hope that you will come back so we can show you more of our side of life Mahalo for your kind words! Candi

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

What we wanted

Guest: LFC (Victoria, BC)
Date of Stay: 01/01/12 Review Submitted: 03/20/12

The strongest review that We can give is that we would come again and that I have recommended this property to others. When things came up Candi took care of it. We want to feel welcomed and looked after on holiday; Candi will do the same for you.

Owner response:Mahalo! We are thrilled that you enjoyed your time here in our little slice of paradise. Look for ward to having you & many other's here.

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

Great Place, no reservations

Guest: Guests (Vancouver)
Date of Stay: 12/02/11 Review Submitted: 01/02/12

A beautiful, tranquil place to stay and an ideal location for touring Kona. Fantastic view and surrounded by fruit trees, coffee, etc. Really ideal, and Candy provides a lot of help and extras.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Privacy Supreme, Far Superior than A Hotel Suite

Guest: Kyle (SEOUL)
Date of Stay: 11/06/11 Review Submitted: 12/07/11

First of all, I don't write reviews. For Mike and Candi, they provided an amazing experience and setting for my honeymoon. I wanted to write this just to explain to anyone considering this place that, yes, I will be back to stay with Mike and Candi and that, I will be back to move to Hawaii someday. When I do, I hope that Mike and Candi (and Dennis) will remains lifelong friends, because when you stay here and you take the time to meet these 3 amazing people, you will be enticed by their knowledge and romance of the island. They are great, relaxed people who I hope to know for a long time to come. They made the experience welcoming, private and exceptionally comfortable for my wife and me. The coffee that they make is also one of the best Kona cups I have had and I bought as much as my suitcase would hold. If you are considering a hotel instead of a house, you are wrong. Just wrong. We had to transition to a hotel because of a previous booking for our last night and were very disappointed with out $250 a night place. This place was exceptionally better and I will return.

Owner response:Mahalo Kyle & Julia. Knowing you came such a distance for your honeymoon we are glad it was all you were hoping for . We also enjoyed your visit & help picking coffee that day! We look forward to having you again here on our slice of paradise. Mahalo Candi & Michael

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

The perfect retreat!

Guest: Paul & Jill (Broken Arrow, OK)
Date of Stay: 06/15/11 Review Submitted: 07/26/11

This was the third year in a row that we have stayed with Candi and Michael. The Maka Nui estate has every thing that one could want when staying in the coffee region of Kona. I can not imagine staying any place else on the island of Hawai'i... This is a working coffee farm so it may not be the place for everyone. But if you enjoy peace and quiet, solitude, a little wild life and a fantastic view of historic Kealakekua bay and the south Kona coast then this is the place to stay. But really makes the place is Michael and Candi and of course Bamboo and Happy. They go out of their way to make their guests feel at home. We are already planning our trip for next year. The three weeks that we spent this year was the best vacation that we have ever had (wish I had more vacation!!). Staying in the Captain Cook area allows one to enjoy the temperate climate of the Kona coffee region (no A/C required!) with quick & easy access to first class snorkeling/scuba areas and the "tourist areas" of Kailua-Kona along Ali'i drive. We can't wait to return next year. We recommend Hale Pali to everyone we encounter who is thinking about visiting Hawai'i. Mahalo Candi & Michael!!!

Owner response:Mahalo ! It is so nice to have repeat guests as like having old friends come for a visit! Thanks for your help this year with the coffee & such. I know that the dogs miss you as much as we do, altho it is the treats I think they miss the most! LOL! Maybe we will get to your neck of the woods someday & really look forward to seeing you next year! Candi & Michael

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

The Honeymooners

Guest: Rick and Holly (Columbus, OH)
Date of Stay: 06/07/11 Review Submitted: 06/14/11

We were sad to leave this beautiful property; as it became our home away from home. When we first arrived and stepped out of our car, Happy came bounding down to greet us. He also greeted us every morning and enjoyed nights on our lanai. The welcome basket of fruit, coffee, and flowers (all grown on the property) made it feel like home. We enjoyed the freshest of fruit for smoothies and some homemade guacamole. With the cottage on the side of a mountain, the plentiful vegetation, and gorgeous view of the bay it feels like you are alone in paradise. However, a trip to the bay for snorkeling or to Kona is never far away. This cottage was the perfect relaxing getaway.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway.

3rd Time's A Charm!

Guest: The Gopleruds (Elgin, IL)
Date of Stay: 03/25/11 Review Submitted: 04/27/11

Yes, this was our THIRD time to visit Candi and Michael, and it certainly won't be the last. We feel so lucky that we found this secret piece of paradise. So cozy, so quiet, so perfect. If you're looking for the "non-tourist" way to stay in Hawaii, this is your place! Candi and Michael are GREAT hosts, helping out with ANYTHING you need--info, advice, boogie board, extra beach chair, etc. The cabin is clean and well stocked with not only the goody "welcome basket", but also necessities like spices, oil, or things you don't want to buy. And the endless supply of fresh fruit--right out the front door--is priceless. Thank you for ANOTHER wonderful 5 days. We can't wait to come again and stay longer. And "hugs and pets" to the official mascots, Cosmo, Bamboo and Happy--love their daily visits. Donna, Brad, and Katie

Owner response:Aloha! Mahalo for making this your favorite spot! Altho w/Katie heading to collage , I bet you will have a fine quiet time for the 2 of you next time. Maybe. We wish her all the good luck in heading on to higher education. Candi & Michael

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Relaxing, convenient and, most of all, reservations handled promptly and professionally

Guest: H & E (San Juan Capistrano, CA)
Date of Stay: 01/12/11 Review Submitted: 02/12/11

A very pleasant experience. We were especially impressed with the reservation process, the welcoming reception on arrival and the continuing help offered by Candi and Mike during our stay.The location is quiet and relaxing, but, as others have commented, a variety of more energetic activities are nearby. The view from the cottage goes on "forever". . We would return to this property and recommend it to other couples.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Ah Bliss! Second Time at Pali Hale

Guest: COartist (Colorado)
Date of Stay: 11/06/10 Review Submitted: 11/20/10

My husband and I just spent our 2nd vacation in two years at Pali Hale (first time time Nov. 2009). We were there 10 days this time. It was just as lovely as the first time--the cottage was spotless, the fridge was stocked with milk, juice, bread and the fruit basket also contained some of the estate's own coffee (very good)--which was nice our first morning there since we had arrived at Kona airport late at night with no energy to shop. It was great to see Michael and Candi again--they are the perfect hosts-friendly and helpful but allow you to have your own space--and what a gorgeous space it is. The flowers, fruits and trees are lush and gorgeous--coming from late fall in Colorado, it was a study in contrast. This was our 16th trip to the Big Island (since 2000) and, at this point, we come to relax, not to be busy going and doing every day. And there is not a more perfect place to do that than the cottage. I read lots of books, floated in the pool and managed to cook some pretty good meals (cooking is one of my hobbies). My husband snorkled at Two-Step and the Bay and did some paintings and drawings at Ke'ei Beach (he's an artist). And we spent time with old friends who live nearby. Our favorite time is morning coffee (Kona, of course) on the lanai, looking down at Ke'ei and the southern Kona coast as the sun crests Mauna Loa and illuminates the lanscape. Restaurants we enjoyed this trip include: Kalama's on the road to Napoopoo --great burgers and fresh fish sandwiches; Ke'ei Cafe on the main highway--we always go there--dinner for two with wine abut $90 (they don't take credit cards); Holuakoa Cafe in the little artsy-coffee town of Holualoa above Kailua--wonderful fresh locally grown ingredients--dinner for 2 with a good bottle of wine $100); Kona Brewing Company in Kailua-town--nice patio, great pizza and beer--natch, Rapanui in Kailua--Pacific Rim cuisine--delicious and very affordable. If you want a beautiful, private, quiet and reasonably-priced place to spend time-stay at the cottage. We certainly plan to return for a third stay!

Owner response:We are always so happy to have folks return to the cottage! As we get to enjoy the beauty of this place daily, knowing others can relax & soak up the aloha is great! Hope to see you again as all guests join our o'hana and our family just keeps growing

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

Great retreat

Guest: Happy Cannuck family (Burlington, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 10/16/10 Review Submitted: 01/23/11

I was looking for a place where I could catch up on work. This little cottage was perfect - great / fanastic views - comfortable bed - excellent internet connection - wonderful hosts Candi and Michael gave me great tips as to where to go and what to see when I wanted breaks. Pictures on the web of both the cottage and house where also stayed over Christams with our full family are exactly what you will find when you arrive. Great and numerous area restaurants within 15 min drive of the estate along with grocery stores and other facilities provide easy access to everything you need but away from the built up tourist areas. Short drive down the hill side provides access to great snorkling, kayaking and swimming with hiking trails nearby for exercise. Overall a great place to spend a week or two on the big Island and Candi and Michael bend over backwards to make sure you are comfortable and have everything one would need.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, sightseeing.

A great place to stay and experience the big island!

Guest: Isaac (Vancouver, BC, Canada)
Date of Stay: 08/31/10 Review Submitted: 09/09/10

We just came back from a 7 day stay at Pali Hali and loved it! The location is in a nice quiet area of Captain Cook away from the Touristy area of the island, but not too far from anything (only 20 mins to the town/airport). It's definately an ideal place to experience the true island lifestyle! We woke every morning to fresh mangos picked right from the tree - we've never had mangos this good before - and fresh Kona coffee provided in our gift basket. The view of the bay is amazing, we spent a lot of time simply sitting on the Lanai and taking in the fresh ocean breeze and the view. Our furry friend 'Happy' would often visit and if you love animals you won't miss out. Wished we could have spent more time on the island for sure! The location is great as the best snorkling on the island can be found down the hill, we highly recommend the Kealakekua Bay Captain Cook monument and at "Two--Step" at the "Place of Refuge" for any avid snorkler. Candi and Michael were both wonderful hosts and helpful with suggestions for things to do on the island. Our only complaint was the amount of bugs in the area (mostly at night), we accidentally left the screen door open the first night and were infested by insects attracted to the light (months, gnatts, etc.). Obviously a tropical climate is expected to have lots of insects, just remember to always close the door (unfortunately my girlfriend is a bit freaked out by bugs). Also ensure to clean your dishes right away and not leave food out or you'll be visited by friendly local ants. Other than that we'd definately would love to return again! We highly recommend this place for a good gettaway from the busy city! Thanks again Candi!

Owner response:We are soo happy you enjoyed your stay here! it is a true blessing to share the wonders of island living. I never thought to tell you to keep screen shut I assumed you knew that is why we have screen doors! LOL! As for the ants , yes in the tropics it is important to protect your food as there is no stopping those kinds of bugs. if it is out they will claim it!!! Hope to have you back to visit us as Happy is still going down to look for you. He is a silly guy!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect in Every Way!

Guest: Alan (Tacoma)
Date of Stay: 07/01/10 Review Submitted: 07/29/10

My month-long stay is drawing to a close, and I do NOT want to leave! Candi and Michael are perfect hosts; extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and always willing to go the extra mile. This property is ideally located with beautiful views, grounds, and amenities. Restaurants and night life are close by, yet this property is quiet, peaceful, and relaxing. In a word, it is "paradise". I would highly recommend this rental and plan on returning myself. If you're planning a wedding, family reunion, honeymoon, or just some R & R, you must consider this property (there is a larger house on the property for rent as well, and it is stunning!). Also, if you left pets at home as I did, you will be kept company by Happy, Bamboo, and Cosmo....most likely the best four-legged hosts ever!

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

Celebrating 35 years with 10 days in Paradise

Guest: Paradise Dreamin (Paducah,Ky)
Date of Stay: 05/22/10 Review Submitted: 06/05/10

This location was the perfect surprise from my husband for our 35th anniversary trip-10 days of great mornings on the lanai sipping Kona coffee, the abundance of fruit in the gardens below, listening to the birds sing while enjoying the temperate climate, tropical breeze- very peaceful and relaxing!! The setting was perfect from the scenery to the quiet nights-slept better there than I have in forever!! The pictures on the website truly reflect the cottage, except the grounds are so much more lush and interesting!! I really learned so much about tropical fruit and the trees on which they grow!! Mike and Candi do a tremendous job maintaining this property and it is beautiful. I can only begin to imagine what it must take to keep the grounds as lovely as they do. The cottage was very clean, and everything was in working order there as well, with plenty of linens, as well as milk, bread, coffee, enough to get us through that first morning as we arrived late!! Now THAT'S service!! It was like coming HOME!! AND, we were greeted with the standard fruit basket, box of macadamia chocolates too! And, for our anniversary- gift of a little baked something as well! I could go on and on, but I think you get the idea here. Would I recommend this property? Without a doubt. It's close enough to town to get there and have a ball if that's your thing. It's close enough to get to the bay to snorkel. It's quiet enough so you can sleep good at night. Candi will give you lots of tips as to where to buy things at a better cost, where to go, etc for this or that. She's lovely. They're both great. You can't beat the price either!!! We pretty much saw the whole island while we were there- it's great- GO and stay with Candi and Mike- you won't be sorry!!! PS: We were there in late May, and we DID find the pool is a little too cool to jump in at that time, even though my husband did get in. So, I'm thinking if you're going to want to use the pool maybe later in the year would be a good time.

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

Wonderful, quiet getaway

Guest: Graham & Sherry (Port Townsend, WA)
Date of Stay: 04/25/10 Review Submitted: 05/10/10

We have thoroughly enjoyed our 11-day stay here. The cottage is very private and quiet – well, except for the myriad of birds around. We particularly liked that the elevation here means we didn’t need air conditioning but were always comfortable. When we arrived the doors were open (screen doors closed!) and we didn’t touch them during our entire stay either for warmth or security. The cottage had everything we needed during our stay including resident geckos who were more entertaining than TV. Candi and Michael were wonderful hosts who went above and beyond to make our stay special, including hosting our wedding by the pool. We appreciated the recommendations on places to visit and where to eat. We liked Annie’s for good burgers and salads, Patz Pies for great pizza and Mi’s Italian Bistro for a splurge on our last night. The location is convenient. We were comfortably able to drive to the north coast, Hilo and the active lava flow on the east side of the volcano (a highlight) on day trips. We particularly enjoyed snorkeling at Two-Step (just down the road) and the Captain Cook Monument – the latter visited first on a Sea Quest boat trip (very worthwhile) and then by hiking down the trail. Allow an hour each way for the hike and take plenty of water. It’s hot and fairly steep, but the snorkeling at the bottom is great. We would certainly be more than happy to return here to continue exploring the island and would not hesitate to recommend it.

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Unbelievable, AGAIN!

Guest: Brad, Donna, and Katie (Elgin, IL)
Date of Stay: 03/23/10 Review Submitted: 04/01/10

Just finished a 5-day stay at Pali Hale--our 2nd time there. Why did we return? Because of Candi and Michael! Incredible hosts: there when you need them and armed with an array of suggestions about the island (where to eat, where to snorkel, what to avoid, etc). And they keep the cottage/grounds so inviting that you just HAVE to come back! Thank you to your "furry" hosts too: Happy, Bamboo, and Cosmo, too. They add to the charm of feeling like you're visiting old friends. If you're looking for a quiet, peaceful, well-stocked place to stay AWAY from the tourist traps, look no further. The basketful of treats when you arrive, the ready-to-pick fruits right out your door, the UNBELIEVABLE view, the beautifully landscaped property--it's all right here. We WILL return for a 3rd time (and more!). Thank you again, Candi. You guys are the best!

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Maureen Jung (Oakland, CA.)
Date of Stay: 03/04/10 Review Submitted: 03/04/10

We just got back from a wonderful 9 day vacation at Hale Pali.We love Kona, but our new favorite spot is Captain Cook! Candi & Michael are great, we could not have had better hosts!!We love the privacy, the beautiful birds, Happy & Bamboo, all the fruit to eat,but we especially loved having our private pool with a view.Truly paradise!

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Guest: Dave & Connie White (Redmond, Oregon)
Date of Stay: 03/02/10 Review Submitted: 03/02/10

What a hoot! We just spent a week at this cottage after spending ten days in Kailua Town. It is so quiet but yet a relatively short trip into town for shopping or dining. The cottage is clean and well stocked to get you into enjoying your stay in paradise. Candi and Michael were a great help. The fruit trees just steps from the Lanai was a great touch. If you are looking for a place away from the tourist hustle of Hawaii, this is it.

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Great cottage

Guest: kanne (Juneau, AK)
Date of Stay: 02/22/10 Review Submitted: 03/01/11

How delightful to find everything we needed right at our fingertips! A fully supplied kitchen meant we didn't have to run to town for simple supplies. We enjoyed being surrounded by fruit trees and waking up to birdsong every morning. We hope to return.

Owner response:Mahalo Kathy! We are glad that your stay was a good time . I try to make sure all is there to make folks feel at home. Hope to see you again Aloha Candi

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway.

Guest: Derek and Beth (Baltimore, MD)
Date of Stay: 02/13/10 Review Submitted: 02/13/10

We just got back from a weeklong stay and we wish it could have been longer! The reviews don’t lie! Pali Hale is a great place to call home while vacationing on the Big Island of Hawaii. The sweeping vistas, fruit for the picking, and a quiet respite made it all worthwhile. We enjoyed fresh-picked oranges with every breakfast! We were also close enough to downtown Kona for a sunset dinner trip, a spectacular beach named Makalawena (well worth the hike needed to get to it), snorkeling at Captain Cook, and Pu’uhonua o Honaunau or Place of Refuge, a national park with a turtle cove and swaying coconut trees. Candi, Michael, Happy, Bamboo, and Cosmo were the perfect hosts. We highly recommend staying at Pali Hale!

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Guest: Italgirl (Petaluma)
Date of Stay: 02/08/10 Review Submitted: 02/08/10

We so enjoyed our three days here and wish we could have stayed longer. This is a very private spot, the pool and views are gorgeous. Mike and Candi are helpful but never intrusive. This is a great location for exploring to the north or south- out of busiest part of town but close enough to go in for dinner if you want to. Next time we'll stay for a week!

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Guest: Tracy & Darren (Coos Bay, Oregon)
Date of Stay: 10/30/09 Review Submitted: 10/30/09

Pali Hale is a lovely retreat! Being avid snorkelers, this location was perfect for my husband & I to explore the waters of Captain Cook Monument (stunning) and Two-Step (wonderful) before spending the day exploring the coast, watching lava flow into the ocean at night, or just lounging by the pool. Happy the dog & Cosmo the cat kept us supplied with furry affection, which was a big selling point for us. Candi was a very gracious hostess and we enjoyed our visits (her advice was also much appreciated!) The fruit basket was delicious and the leis for our Anniversary were lovely! We not only highly recommend Pali Hale, but we will assuredly stay there again. Thank you for everything!

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Guest: Anthony & Jackie (Seattle, WA)
Date of Stay: 09/28/09 Review Submitted: 09/28/09

Good thing we got our payment in on time, because this place is outstanding! As a former UA employee who has traveled many times to Hawai'i, I'll recommend this my new favorite stay on the south Kona coast. We're serious cooks, so the well-appointed kitchen was essential--thank you Candi! Some Pali Hale highlights: Swimming in the private pool after dark, looking up at the stars! Picking a couple bananas, a papaya, some citrus, a pineapple and throwing them in the blender! Driving 10 minutes down the hill to one of Hawai'i's coolest archeological sites, Pu'uhonua o Honaunau, right next to Two-Step, one of the top snorkel spots in all Hawai'i! Listening to the exotic bird calls! Pali Hale is gorgeous, peaceful, and conveniently located. Candi and Michael take good care of guests. You have two nice dogs and a nice cat to interact with if you like. We'll be back! Mahalo Candi and Michael!

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Guest: John Campopiano
Date of Stay: 09/23/09 Review Submitted: 09/23/09

Although we "booked" this property about 7 months in advance of our visit, the owner rented it to someone else and we were forced to scramble for another property. Even though we followed all their instructions regarding payment, they simply returned our check and said, "sorry". This owner is not to be trusted.

Owner response:Aloha, As any of my previous guests or anyone who contacts me knows I ask for payment in 10 days . During that time I hold the dates. As John has stated he did request dates 7 months in advance. I did hold them until Sept which is when he said he wad going to pay, but as owner did not see payment the dates were taken out of my control. In fact I had to email to remind him of payment! I offered him a beautiful place 3 doors down but he refused. At no extra cost & it came w/breckfast!!!(I was going to pay the differance) So again I am sorry for the mix up & hope to hear from you all. Mahalo Candi

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/07/09 Review Submitted: 08/07/09

This place is amazing! The private pool is clean, cool and gorgeous, and the property is amazing. You really can pick breakfast from the fruit trees outside the house every morning! It's far enough outside of Kona to be quiet, but close enough to easily go where you want. I wish I could go back sooner! Thanks for a great stay.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/28/09 Review Submitted: 07/27/09

Wonderful time, Candi and Michael were very hospitable - great fruit, this was a quiet, peaceful retreat. So if you are looking for a place with lots of action, noise, bars, bright city lights - don't come here - it is a retreat and peaceful place. If you are into snorkeling - this is your place, went every day, just down the hill. If you want to explore the island - the highway, far enough to be quiet, but close enough to be convenient. By the way, Candi, great recommendations on food and attractions. Thank you - hope to be back sometime.

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Guest: Dennis & Anne Gilbert (Snohomish, WA)
Date of Stay: 07/14/09 Review Submitted: 07/14/09

We just returned from 10 relaxing days here. If you are looking for a peaceful location away from the crowds, this is it. The views and grounds are beautiful. The abundance of fresh fruit was a delicious bonus - mangos, papayas, pineapples, avocados, oranges, etc. Great snorkeling and kayaking are only minutes away. Candi and Michael were wonderful hosts.

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Guest: Jill & Paul (Broken Arrow, Okla.)
Date of Stay: 07/09/09 Review Submitted: 07/09/09

What can we say that hasn't already been said! We just returned from one week in paradise! We are already planning to come back next year. One week was not enough so we are planning for two next year. We can truly say that this was the best vacation that we have ever taken. The cottage is perfect with the beautiful view of the bay and all of the fruit trees and pineapple right out front. The grounds are absolutely beautiful thanks to all of the hard work that hosts Candi, Michael, Bamboo and Happy put in. They are the best! We would without question recommend this rental to anyone who is looking for privacy and a peaceful, beautiful place to stay on the big island. Paul & Jill Keim Broken Arrow, Okla.

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Guest: Pat & Jim Conway (Pittsford, NY)
Date of Stay: 07/08/09 Review Submitted: 07/08/09

We recently returned from a wonderful 2-week stay at Pali Hale, where we spent an incredibly relaxing vacation. The setting and location were perfect---secluded and peaceful, but a short drive to shopping and restaurants. Candi and Michael were excellent hosts, and Bamboo and Happy were welcome daily visitors! Our own fresh mangos, papayas, and white pineapples were such a treat. Thanks again for everything!

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Guest: Jeremiah & Britt (Los Angeles, CA)
Date of Stay: 06/17/09 Review Submitted: 06/17/09

Hale Pali is astonishing. My girlfriend and I just returned from a phenomenal 12 day trip to the big island where we stayed at this former "mac" nut farm and current coffee plantation high above Kealekekua bay on the Kona coast. The lanai on the guest cottage has such wonderful sweeping views of the bay below and the Kona farms that we often found ourselves lounging until mid-day, sipping coffee, and just enjoying the serenity. A huge bonus for us was the availability of fruit every day at Hale Pali. During our time there we ate the local pineapple, mango, papaya, banana, avocado, coconut, lemons, & even a few mac nuts. Amazing just to be able to step outside your front door, grab money-can't-buy-this-kind-of delicious fruit, and snack away! Finally, Candi and Michael (and Bamboo & Happy) were consummate hosts who welcomed us to the island with incredible warmth and sage advice on restaurants and travel directions. Would we stay here again? Absolutely! Our best to Hale Pali. We miss it already.

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Guest: Jennifer and John Subasavage (Snellville, GA)
Date of Stay: 04/23/09 Review Submitted: 04/23/09

This place is amazing. We traveled to Hawaii to get married at the Place of Refuge (very close to this cottage). The property is so beautiful, we almost considered moving the wedding here! The view is amazing, Candi and Michael and very friendly and willing to bend over backwards to make you happy. The fruit trees are very nice to have for snacks. Snorkeling at Two Step is fabulous and Candi and Michael provide the snorkel gear. The cottage is very comfortable and easy to get to. It is also in a great location for exploring Kona, South Point, or the northern part of the island. We really can't say enough great things about this little piece of paradise. If it's available, rent it!

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Guest: Jo Ann and Galen Mackenzie (Boulder, Colorado)
Date of Stay: 04/20/09 Review Submitted: 04/20/09

This is an amazing vacation cottage on a gorgeous 5 acre property which has stunning views of the ocean and surrounding valley. We just got home and are already planning our return visit. The cottage is very peaceful and secluded which is what we were seeking. The only sounds we heard from the cottage were the sounds of exotic birds and periodic rain showers. Hale Pali is surrounded by Palm trees and assorted fruit trees and flowers bloom everywhere. Banana, papaya, avocado, mango, lemon and pineapple grow right in front of the cottage and are just steps away and available to guests. We picked fresh fruit daily as we took walks around the property at sunset. The house has the comforts of home. Plenty of towels, pillows, blankets, reading materials, a TV, washer/dryer. The kitchen is well stocked with essentials for cooking. It was nice to have a full size frig,cabinets stocked with basics, decent coffee maker, dishes, blender, gas grill, etc). We grilled almost every night and ate outside on the cottage deck or by the large pool. For daytime activities, we used the cooler, beach chairs, and an umbrella for our picnics and spent time at Captain Cook bay and Place of Refuge (best snorkeling we have found in Hawaii). Both are only 10 minutes away so the easy drive was a big bonus (we stayed in Kona last time and spent way too much time driving to this bay.) We were able to snorkel and kayak in the early am before the masses arrive. Another nice benefit is that the entire 5 acres is available to guests. The caretakers, Candi and Michael, live up on the hill out of view so we felt like we were the only ones on the property. They are extremely helpful and available if needed but unobtrusive. They love the place and it shows in the way they look after the cottage and the gardens. Another nice surprise for us were their dogs, Happy and Bamboo, who greeted us in the morning and evening (they seemed to just know the right times to stop by and say hello). We looked forward to seeing them each day. Obviously, we recommend this to anyone who is seeking a beautiful getaway and solitude in a "home away from home". We stayed a week and found it very hard to leave.

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Guest: Donna, Brad, and Katie (Elgin, IL)
Date of Stay: 04/06/09 Review Submitted: 04/06/09

We spent 5 glorious days here--much too short! If you're looking for a peaceful, serene, restful place, look no further. The cottage was spotlessly clean; the "welcome basket" of coffee, juice, bread, fruits was very generous and helpful; the view you had every morning to eat your breakfast was indescribable; the grounds were meticulously cared for which added to the beauty; and the friendly visits each morning by Happy and Cosmo were most welcome! We took advantage of the use of beach chairs, towels, cooler, snorkel, etc. We also BBQ'd one evening; used the washer and dryer, and even the pool. Of course the unlimited fruit right off the trees was inviting too! This place has it ALL. And Candi and Michael are so friendly and welcoming. We will DEFINITELY return!

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Guest: Dan & Sheila Waltrip (Overbrook, Kansas)
Date of Stay: 03/20/09 Review Submitted: 03/20/09

We just returned from a two week stay and it was like paradise. Candi and Mike are great host and went above and beyond to make sure our stay was the best it could be. Lots of fresh fruit to eat, that was growing right by the Cottage. There was snorkel gear to use, along with everything needed for a day at the beach. Thanks again and hope get back soon.

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Guest: Meredith Rodger (Ottawa ON)
Date of Stay: 03/02/09 Review Submitted: 03/02/09

This property is a beautiful, quiet, peaceful spot with all the tropical fruit you can eat and amazing views - the only problem is leaving! Once you settle in to Pale Hale and realize you can wander around the gardens, pick what fruits you want (and now fresh vegetables - wait until you see what Candi and Michael have done to the greenhouse!)., and sit by the pool why on earth would you want to leave? We did go down the hill to snorkel at 'Two-Step' and in Kealakekua Bay, and to relax at The Place of Refuge which is worth more than one visit (get the trail guide at the desk before heading out to the lava tube). We also enjoyed the historical parks which recreate pre-contact Hawaiian life. Candi and Michael are the best hosts we have experienced. They have spot-on advice for places to visit, snorkel, eat, and park! They are warm and friendly, eager that your stay should be a good one and that the cottage should have everything you need, so relax, enjoy, and plan to stay longer!

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Guest: Guenter & Sue (Anchorage, Alaska)
Date of Stay: 02/02/09 Review Submitted: 02/02/09

We just returned from our second visit to the beautiful & peaceful cottage of Pali Hale. This year we stayed for 9 nights instead of 4 like last year. Wish we had stayed even longer as there is so much to do nearby. It felt like coming home to see Candi & Michael and to be greeted by Happy & Bamboo. As last year this was a real luxury for us with the Aloha basket and fresh fruit to pick, clean cottage, refreshing pool, and such gorgeous surroundings. Candi & Michael are excellent caretakers & hosts. They are there if you need anything and give you plenty of space to relax. We are looking forward to next year's visit here. If you have any questions, call us - we can recommend this without any reservation.

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Guest: kathy (Hanford, California)
Date of Stay: 01/28/09 Review Submitted: 01/28/09

12-14-08 A bit of heaven on earth is Pali Hali. From the moment you drive through the gates you know you are somewhere special. Truly nature greets you and you are overwhelmed by the view, the peaceful setting and the beauty of the tropical flora. You know your spirit will be blessed by staying here. Then it gets better when you meet Candi and Michael. There are those special individuals you cross paths with that you know could become life long friends and extended family. The aloha spirit is alive and thriving thru Candi and Michael. OK so now the rest of the story. Thoughtful basket of goodies, comfortable bed, very clean hali, extra goodies like travel guides, ice chest, snorkeling gear and if you want to keep in touch wireless internet and tv. We made friends with several geckos that like to eat coconut syrup right off your fingers! As other guests have stated do not miss going to the bay. We were able to swim with a pod of dolphins 3 times during our stay. The kayak trip to the monument provides great snorkeling. Oh such wonderful memories. My only regret is I am not there as I write this!! Mahalo and Aloha!

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Nothing better!

Guest: Quiet and relaxing (Tampa, FL)
Date of Stay: 01/23/09 Review Submitted: 04/12/10

This review is waaayyyy over due (Sorry Candi), but my stay during January 2009 was everything I could have asked for. Coming from the hectic Bay Area of California, this quiet Coottage was just what I needed and everything I could have hoped for. It was only outdone by the gracious hospitality of my hosts! Thanks for everything Candi & Michael. I hope to be back one day!

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Guest: Mike and Marlene Paulson (Sidney, B.C. Canada)
Date of Stay: 01/05/09 Review Submitted: 01/05/09

I don't know what I could add that hasn't already been said. This is a little piece of heaven. If you want quiet, you've got it. If you want night life, its just a few minutes away in Kona. Lots of good eating places close by and only about a 2-1/2 drive to one of the most beautiful volcano on earth. Sit on the deck and look over the bay. This is the life. Will definately be coming back. Candi and Mike are the best hosts of any place we have ever stayed. I can't give enough positive feedback about this place.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 11/21/08 Review Submitted: 11/21/08

If there is a such a thing as a 12-star accommodation, it's the Pail Hale house, and it's highly recommended for any vacationer seeking a stunning spot on the Kona coast. We stayed on the Big Island for five days and were so happy to have met Michael and Candi who were the most hospitable property managers. We were also huge fans of Happy and Bamboo their fun and loving dogs, and last but not least, Cosmo the cat. Upon arrival, we were met with an arrangement of beautiful flowers, handpicked fruits and Kona Coffee. The house was spic-n-span which was a relief since our last rental, the Mango Shack on Kauai, was a bit of a mess. The Pail Hale house had great amenities; a strong shower head, functioning kitchen, stereo, cable tv, snorkeling gear, beach towels/chairs, and a gas bbq. The property also has beautiful botanical gardens, gorgeous birds, and fruits galore. Finally, it's a majestic spot to have a bbq or drinks while watching the sun descend over the Kona coast. During our stay we drove to the top of Mauna Kea to watch a sunset and gaze at the stars, hiked the crater at VNP and watched the lava flow into the ocean, kayaked across Captain Cook bay where we snorkeled amongst hundreds of dolphins. All of those activities were truly memorable, but the highlight of my trip was getting engaged to my beautiful and lovely best friend at Honaunau National Park. Our stay in Kona will forever be etched in our memories.

Owner response:These guest's were such darlings! I hope that their life is flled w/joy & laughter. Candi

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Guest: Bob Brush (Austin, TX)
Date of Stay: 11/09/08 Review Submitted: 11/09/08

Candi & Michael, Thanks for making my stay last month so enjoyable. Especially appreciate all the fruit for the picking and eating. If you are in reasonable shape, highly recommed the hike down to the Captain Cook monument. The trailhead is just up the road. Don't forget the snorkeling gear. Also, enjoyed the daily visits of Happy and Bamboo. Great coastline view from the lanai, pool, and most vantage points on the property.

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Guest: Doug and Rosalie (Fenton, Michigan)
Date of Stay: 10/26/08 Review Submitted: 10/26/08

We last stayed at Pali Hale 4 yrs ago so our visit this month was a return one for us. It was even more beautiful than before. As soon as we entered the gate we saw that the macadamia nut trees had been replaced by coffee trees and the plantings of tropical flowers was more lush than ever. There is even a beautiful new small garden of tropical plants to walk through, apart from the landscape plantings. No need to: -go to a botanical garden -go find a viewpoint of Kealekekua Bay because the view of it and sunsets from the lanai are wonderful -buy fruit because you can have all you want (much of it waiting for you in the cottage when you get there)! And, if you really want to stay connected, there is wifi in the cottage. The cottage is private but you can stroll the grounds and use the pool as much as you want-we had it to ourselves every day. We have been to the Big Island many times and have seen many signts so we decided this time to relax most of our week there instead of driving around, and really enjoy being in Hawaii. Pali Hale was the perfect setting for just that. Candi and Michael are great hosts (thanks!) and ensured that the cottage and our stay was the best. We look forward to our next visit!

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Guest: Robin & Jason Day (Charles Town, WV)
Date of Stay: 10/20/08 Review Submitted: 10/20/08

Wow! We just got back from our stay at Pali Hale. It was more than we had imagined. We felt like royalty on a big, gated estate. The cottage was perfect and the view is magnificent. Candi and Mike were wonderful. The perfect hosts. The geckos did scare me at first when i put my face in a flower an there was one staring back at me. After that, we were good buddies. The beach chairs, mats, and cooler came in very handy. We used them everyday. The location of the house is perfect. It's close to Capt. Cook Monument(i mean a 5 minute drive down the hill) and the best snorkeling on the island. We went snorkeling everyday we were there at either Two-Step or Capt. Cook. It's a quick drive to Kailua where all of the night life is. The Coffee Shack has great food and it's just down the road with an excellent view. The Fish Hopper in Kailua is a little pricey but was the best food we had on the big island. Short 10-15 minute drive to Kailua. Perfect mix of quiet/quaint and close enough to the night life if you desire. One last thing, I just need to mention that the day before we left 3 dogs (a mama and 2 pups) showed up at the door of the cottage starving and sick. Not knowing what to do, I fed them and left a note for Candi hoping she would get it before the dogs left. When we returned, she had taken care of the dogs and loved them like her own. Soon after the Humane Society came to nurse them back to health and find loving families for them. I can't thank Candi enough for sharing the same passion for animals as I do. Candi and Mike's dogs Happy and Bamboo are great. It helped me cope with missing my animals at home. Thank you for a wonderful week. Mahalo

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Guest: Reinhilde & Lutz (Graz, Austria)
Date of Stay: 10/07/08 Review Submitted: 10/07/08

Pali Hale was the perfect base for our one-week stay on the Big Island. Candi and Mike were fantastic hosts, and we still dream about the welcome-basket of fresh tropical fruit. The view down towards Kealakekua Bay was great, and the grounds felt like a quiet, private botanical garden. Perfect for relaxing. We also loved watching the little pretty geckos patrolling the outside of the house. Very friendly little guys that are supposed to bring luck. Thanks for a wonderful week, Reinhilde & Lutz

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Guest: Sara & Jeff Klinger (Greenville, NC)
Date of Stay: 10/07/08 Review Submitted: 10/07/08

I can wholeheartedly give this property my highest recommendation. It was paradise. The place was perfect, the view was amazing, and Candi was the perfect host. We felt instantly welcome and at home. Oh how we wish we were still there. Mahalo Candi. We loved it. Sara and Jeff Klinger

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Guest: diana gilley (Medford, Oregon)
Date of Stay: 08/26/08 Review Submitted: 08/26/08

We spent two wonderful weeks in July 2008, at this little slice of heaven! Fresh fruit, ideas for the best places to shop, eat and visit abounded! Michael and Candi were great hosts, friendly and helpful. Their "mascots", Cosmo, the cat, Happy, and Bamboo, the dogs, were great visitors - quiet and respectful! We came home refreshed and relaxed! Tom and Diana

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Guest: Elisa and Corey Stone (Salt Lake City, UT)
Date of Stay: 08/16/08 Review Submitted: 08/16/08

This estate is exquisitely beautiful. We loved enjoying the views, pool, gardens, and abundant fresh fruit. Mahalo Candi, Michael, Happy, and Bamboo--you made us feel like ohana from the moment we arrived until, with great reluctance, it was time for us to drive away. We wish all future guests a joyous and peaceful stay on this island. It is the youngest place, geologically speaking, on the planet; it grows every day, and if you are lucky you will see fire and water collide as Pele's lava flows into the sea. It was our privilege to visit the Big Island for the fourth time. We hope it will be our honor to return. Until then, with much aloha . . . Elisa and Corey Stone, Salt Lake City, Utah

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Guest: Tom and Sue1 (Chicago, Illinois)
Date of Stay: 06/29/08 Review Submitted: 06/29/08

Aloha is the feeling at Hale Pali. It is a wonderful place with great views, comfortable and very clean accomodations. The grounds are beautifully maintained with an amazing variety of plantings. Mike and Candi are very gracious hosts and an invaluable resource. We loved touring the coffee belt, snorkeling with dolphins and visiting the volcano. We recommend Senior Billy's for lunch or dinner and the Aloha Cafe for breakfast. We hope to return to the Big Island and look forward to staying at Pali Hale again. We felt like we were estate owners! ~ Mahalo

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