Reviews for Hale Pohaku Vacation Rental - VRBO 206953 - 2 BR Kailua-Kona Condo in HI, Very Private Oceanfront Condo Steps from Beach, Water, Turtles

Unique architecture, stunning setting, helpful owners

Guest Russ
Date of stay 03/01/13
Review Submitted 03/16/13

If you are looking for something more than the standard hotel room or condo, this is worth your consideration. It is hard to find a better location right on the ocean close to Kailua. The building architecture assures privacy while quietly sets itself apart from your standard commercial construction. The lanai, large and overlooking the pool and the ocean, is an outstanding feature. The Kona sunset presents itself while you lounge or dine as if you were the only ones viewing it. The building is neither old nor new, but has a timeless quality consistent with its beautiful location and history. The property is well maintained. The owners live a few minutes away, and are very gracious to help with any questions or requests. They take a personal interest in this unit, and are helpful in pointing you in the direction of attractions which might interest you. The coast outside Hale Pohaku is rocky and not conducive to swimming. The pool is large and generally not used much since there are only six units in the building, so it is like having your own pool. The walk along the shore leads to an unusual cove which is home to several sea turtles, and visitors seem to afford them enough respect to have them be comfortable with people. Tidal pools provide views of shore marine life. A couple of public beaches are near enough, and if you want more, information is readily available about where you can go. The town is a couple of miles away, so it is walkable, but certainly easily drivable. A road leading uphill is close to the condo, so you can avoid driving back into Kailua on Alii Drive, which can be congested at times, if you want to go elsewhere. If the opportunity arose, we would stay here again, and recommend Hale Pohaku.for anyone who is attracted by its description.

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

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/2

Kona coffee, the sea and me

Guest Jim and Glenda
Date of stay 11/11/12
Review Submitted 11/27/12

My wife and I spent November 11 through the 20th at this wonderful condo. The website description is right on as to what to expect when you stay here. The turtle beach and tide pools were right outside your door and great to check out each day. We saw all kinds of critters in the tide pools including eels on one outing. Turtles were a guarantee. Being "foodies" and my wife an excellent cook, we were impressed with the kitchen and how well it was equipped with all the necessary pot and pans, glassware, dishes and bowls, and sharp knives. The Jennair Grill did not work when we first tried it and a phone call to the owner and a 15 minute response time resulted in the element being replaced and the unit repaired. Impressive response. We snorkeled most everyday and in between we visited the highlights of the Big Island from north to south, east to west. At the condo, when we were not walking the beach, we lived on the lanai. We ate all of our meals there, enjoyed beverages, and a nap or two as well. We thought the lanai with it being opened to the ocean along the entire west wall was a major feature of this condo. The condo was clean and the beds were comfy. There were loys of towels, including beach towels. There was some road noise, but we were usually so exhausted from our activities of the day that we hitl the bed and slept very well. We liked opening the louvered walls and getting the ocean breezes and sounds of the waves hitting the beach. Highlights for us on the Big Island was snorkeling at Captain Cook and at Two Step, the Manta Ray night snorkel, visiting Pu'uhonua o Honaunau, going down into Waipi'o Valley, the Volcanoes National Park, and the Hawaiian Botanical Gardens. The drive over to Hilo on the Saddle Road and coming back at night was an adventure in itself. We had a wonderful time on the Big Island and hope to return and stay again at this condo.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 6/6

Great Location and Beautiful View

Guest Glen
Date of stay 10/16/12
Review Submitted 11/12/12

We found our visit to Hale Pohaku very relaxing. Each evening we dined on the lanai enjoying a beautiful ocean view. The condo had most of the things we needed, no steps, and covered parking. The kitchen was well equipped, there were chairs for the beach, towels for the pool, coolers for picnics and soap for the washer plus the normal start up supplies and a sound system for our CD disc. The owners provided recipes and other information on line, emailed us about current events to attend, and even checked up on us when the tsunami evacuation siren went off. If you have not experienced a tsunami evacuation, check the phone book for information. The condo is in a great location for exploring the Big Island but needs a little upgrading.

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

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/3

View of Paradise

Guest Tim
Date of stay 06/07/12
Review Submitted 07/05/12

You cannot go wrong with the location. The view and sounds of the ocean waves 30 feet away from the large lanai is fantastic. Absolutely the best part of the condo? Having your meals and down time on the lanai...early morning, mid-afternoon, and into the evening. Pure paradise. There was some construction going on on some of the outside walls of a couple of the units above and across from our unit during our 2 weeks in paradise. The owners showed great concern for our comfort during the construction, even to the point of bringing us some amazing mangoes from their yard. The construction was not very intrusive. The owners were great to deal with. They provided us with LOTS of information prior to our stay. I will agree with the owners on the point that the sea air has made some inroads in the condo (some rust and wood deterioration) which I believe they were going to address. The small beach and tide pools just outside were very nice to walk. I don't think in the 14 days we were there that my wife didn't see at least 1 sea turtle resting on the rocks each day. All in all, a great place to stay and great owners! Bottom line, would I stay here again? Absolutely!

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

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/4

Great Place to Stay

Guest Tim
Date of stay 06/07/12
Review Submitted 07/03/12

You cannot go wrong with the location. The view and sounds of the ocean waves 30 feet away from the large lanai is fantastic. Absolutely the best part of the condo; having your meals and down time on the lanai. Early morning, mid-afternoon, and into the evening. Pure paradise. There was some construction going on on some of the outside walls of a couple of the units above and across from our unit during our 2 weeks in paradise. The owners showed great concern for our comfort during the construction, even to the point of bringing us some amazing mangoes from their yard. The construction was not very intrusive. The owners were great to deal with. They provided us with LOTS of information prior to our stay. I will agree with the owners on the point that the sea air has made some inroads in the condo (some rust and wood deterioration) which I believe they were going to address. The small beach and tide pools just outside were very nice to walk. I don't think in the 14 days we were there that my wife didn't see at least 1 sea turtle resting on the rocks each day. All in all, a great place to stay and great owners! Bottom line, would I stay here again? Absolutely!

Recommended for: Age 55+, romantic getaway.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/4

Wonderful place to stay!

Guest Debra E.
Date of stay 05/14/12
Review Submitted 06/06/12

This condo is exactly as described. It is a beautiful place to stay. The ocean breeze was wonderful and the views just as amazing. This was our first trip to this island. If you are into snorkeling -- we recommend the "night Manta Ray snorkel". It is a bit pricey but worth every penny. We also found a great snorkeling spot at the harbor and the number of fish and all the different kinds was amazing. The turtles described in the information about this condo were actually right outside the sea wall. I guess they decided to move a little way down the lava beach! We were here with our two adult children for one last family vacation with just the four of us. We couldn't have picked a better place to stay!

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/3

Wonderful place to stay

Guest Debra E.
Date of stay 05/14/12
Review Submitted 05/29/12

This condo is exactly as described. It is a beautiful place to stay. The ocean breeze was wonderfu and the views just as amazing. This was our first trip to this island. If you are into snorkeling -- we recommend the "night Manta Ray snorkel". It is a bit pricey but worth every penny. We also found a great snorkeling spot at the harbot and the number of fish and all the different kinds was amazing. The turtles described in the information about this condo were actually right outside the sea wall. I guess they decided to move a little way down the lava beach! We were here with our two adult children for one last family vacation with just the four of us. We couldn't have picked a better place. Debbie Valparaiso, IN

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/5

Practically IN the Water!

Guest Becca
Date of stay 04/27/12
Review Submitted 07/04/12

A lovely, little condo with a nice pool. We loved the small beach out in the front but if you have difficulty with knees, etc., the access is difficult. That being said, we actually spent most of our time snorkeling the nearby beaches (Kahalu'u just down the road) and saw fabulous fish and turtles and amazing coral. This is a great central location. Bedrooms are spacious and airy. Noise from the neighbors recycling their trash at 6am was an everyday constant and traffic noise hits you about the same time. But sometimes that's the price you pay for paradise! Small trade-off. There were two lamps in the living that do not work; the outdoor shower did not work; there were no extra pillow cases for the extra pillows; and we needed flashlights one night only to find none of them were working. Also, when you are on your way in to the condo and you stop to shop, be sure to pick up toilet paper as they leave only one roll per bathroom. This was my 6th trip to the islands and my first to the Big Island and I can't wait to get back there. Be sure to enjoy the sunset at Sam Choy's restaurant. So much fun and what a view!

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

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/4

The Perfect Home Base As You Explore the Big Island

Guest Anniverary
Date of stay 03/21/12
Review Submitted 04/04/12

It was wonderful snorkeling, sightseeing, walking by the sea wall, seeing the turtles and we had so many other great adventures on the beautiful island, Hawaii...but it was always such a treat to get to be at this condo with its amazing views and gentle breezes.Even the bed was particularly comfortable! It was like coming home to a perfect retreat.

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

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/4

Happy vacationers

Guest Sharon & gang
Date of stay 09/20/11
Review Submitted 11/12/11

This our favorite place to stay on the island. Large lanai near the water, small beach just the other side of the wall, pool, beach towels, chairs, washer & dryer, and a kitchen with everything you need. We will keep coming back. Helpful and friendly owners.

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

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 5/5

Great Condo On The Beach

Guest Tristan B.
Date of stay 06/24/11
Review Submitted 07/13/11

The condo is wonderful and there are no exaggerations in the listing description. It is big, comfortable, and the view is spectacular. The kitchen has everything needed, the lanie is great with the living room and kitchen sliders opening up beyond belief. Bedrooms and bathrooms are big with lots of closet space. There is no air conditioning but it isn't needed the way it is designed, the whole place is vented and there are ceiling fans everywhere. It's located 2 mi from the Kona tourist district where we were easily able to find free parking when we didn't walk. In the other direction sandy beaches are as close. The unit is in a great location and is very private. My only complaint would be is that the master bedroom suffers from some road & bird noise since all the vents are usally open. We definitly hope to come back and would recomend the unit to friends and family.

Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 6/7

Lovely Hale Pohaku

Guest Deb
Date of stay 06/12/11
Review Submitted 06/22/11

We stayed here in June, 2011. It was our first trip to the big island, and we were so lucky to find this beautiful condo. Our group consisted of 2 couples and the condo fit us perfectly. We loved the location, the privacy, and most of all, the spectacular, unobstructed ocean view. We swam in the condo pool and walked the cove. We swam in the cove at high tide. We saw lots of turtles. We saw dolphins from the lanai. We cooked gourmet meals in the fully stocked kitchen and enjoyed eating each one of those meals on the lanai. A mile away is gorgeous White Sand Beach; perfect for swimming and body surfing, which we did under the watchful eye of lifeguards. Some of the biggest highlights were snorkeling at Two Step with a pod of dolphins who frequent the bay, and jumping off the cliffs at South Point. We couldn't think of anything that we didn't like about the condo or anything that we'd change. The louver system on the windows worked perfectly to keep us comfortable. The condo was clean, big, and just as described by the owners. The only surprise was how comfortable the beds were. We've slept in so many places were the beds were too soft or too hard, but these beds were just right and we all slept like contented babies. The owners were communicative, welcoming and helpful. We will be staying here when we return to the big island, and recommend this condo wholeheartedly.

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

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 6/7

Spectacular View; Affordable Price

Guest PJ
Date of stay 05/14/11
Review Submitted 06/06/11

Thanks for sharing your piece of paradise. You truly embody the spirit of aloha. This was the trip of a lifetime for my 88-year-old mother and the lanai view of the ocean made it very special for her. The pod of dolphins that swam by nearly every morning made breakfast a special occasion. We loved making dinner on the Jenn Air stove top in your well stocked kitchen. It was more like staying at a friend's house than a sterile rental condo. One of our favorite adventures was hunting for a pearl for Mom at the local Pearl Factory in Kailua Town. The oyster we chose contained an 8mm pink beauty she had set in a pinkie ring. She admires it daily. Mom has limited mobility so not having to negotiate stairs was a huge plus but the unit bathrooms are set up for active people as the toilets are low and there are narrow doorways and no grab bars in the showers. Your property truly delivered on the web pics and descriptions. I have had the unfortunate experience of booking a stay at a very photogenic unit that was small and not as close to the beach as pictured on the site. Your place was not only as pictured but even a little bit better! I have already recommended this unit to several friends.

Owner response: Mahalo nui loa for your very kind words. We very much appreciate your suggestions for improvements. While we can't change the doorways, thanks to your comments we are looking at elevated seats to accommodate the needs of those having difficulty with the low toilets. We will also be investigating the feasibility of installing secure grab bars.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 6/7

Wonderful Location

Guest Christmas Travelers
Date of stay 01/14/11
Review Submitted 01/05/12

We had the pleasure of staying in the condo from December 16 – 30, 2011. The condo was immaculate and just as described. Before renting the unit, I contacted the owners a few time and they were always very helpful and gave me detailed information in answering my questions and made very good suggestions.The ocean lulled us to sleep each evening. From the balcony we watched dolphins jumping and swimming. The last day a pod of whales came through and put on quite a show jumping completely out of the water and spy hopping in front of the condo. We went on the Manta Ray night snorkel and it was a must-do experience. The Rays did summersaults inches from our stomachs. I took about 4 gigabytes of photos of the turtles swimming and sunning in the cove just to the right of the condo. Providing it is available, we plan on renting the condo again at Christmas in 2012.

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

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 7/7

The Perfect Get-Away

Guest Whale watcher
Date of stay 01/08/11
Review Submitted 01/11/11

My husband & I first stayed at the Hale Pohaku September of 2000. After that we have been coming back almost every year since to stay at this beautiful oceanfront condo! This place is spacious & nicely decorated with a fully equipped kitchen& living area. It has everything. But the best part of all is the huge lanai overlooking the breathtaking ocean! We thought of the Hale Pohaku as our second home and dreamed of one day moving over to the Big Island. Then sure enough, after our stay in March 2009 we planned our move and now live up on the hillside above the Hale Pohaku! But of course we still plan to visit the condo again because of so many wonderful memories. Not to mention the fact that relaxing on the lanai, watching & listening to the ocean's waves & seeing the whales, dolphins & turtles swim by is the best experience ever...!

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

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 6/7

Great Place to Stay

Guest Sandy and Gary
Date of stay 12/01/10
Review Submitted 01/06/11

We spent a month at Sherron and Dennis's condo and couldn't have made a better choice. The building is quiet and tranquil, with only six units, and in a very central location from which to venture out, either on foot or in a vehicle. There is plenty of shopping close by and there are several amazing beaches within a very short drive or reasonable walk away. The condo came with everything that we needed for our extended stay. It was clean and well appointed. The kitchen was fully equipped. The flat screen tv, cable and interent all worked well, as did everything else in the unit. The master bedroom is quite large, as is the ensuite and walk-in closet. There cannot be a better lanai. Whether we were having morning coffee watching the turtles in the cove, the spinner dolphins just off shore or the occasional whale or enjoying the amazing sunsets while having supper and a glass of wine, it was the best. And all very private and quiet. The pool and grounds are very well kept and clean. Walking out the front gate you have two small coves nearby from which to watch the turtles or do some wading or shallow snorkling. We saw turtles everyday. Sherron and Dennis are great hosts. They have much local knowledge and experience and did everything they could to make our stay enjoyable and worryfree. We would definitley stay at Hale Pohaku again.

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

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 5/6

Wonderful stay !

Guest Anonymous
Date of stay 08/21/10
Review Submitted 09/17/10

What a great stay in Kona and at Hale Pohaku. The location of the condo is perfect. Being able to hear the ocean, the wind and the birds at the same time from any part of the condo is a privilege, not speaking of the fabulous view on the lagoon. The way the condo is made is great. In a word, it’s an ideal place to relax and rest while visiting the fabulous island of Hawaii.

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

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 7/8

Guest Clay Sumner
Date of stay 04/02/10
Review Submitted 04/02/10

We just returned from a ten day memorable holiday. This property exceeded our expectations. The ocean view is fabulous, you can spend hours just sitting on the lanai watching ocean activity. We were treated to seeing dolphins, turtles, birds, whales... one day the whales gave us an unbelievable display of breeching..not to mention gorgeous sunsets each evening. You have ready access to the many activities up and down the coast. The condo is very well equipped and met our needs very well. Thank you for the use of your place- we look forward to returning.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 7/8

Guest Allison & Bryce
Date of stay 09/05/09
Review Submitted 09/05/09

We spent a little over two weeks at Hale Pohaku and it was perfect. The view was spectacular and it was wonderful being able to enjoy the sights and sounds of the ocean whenever we wanted to. It was also nice that the condo was so well stocked - we had nearly everything we could ever need! A home away from home. Mahalo Sherron & Dennis. :)

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 7/8

Guest Sue Korth
Date of stay 09/05/09
Review Submitted 09/04/09

I have visited the islands every year since 1989, but didn't discover Hale Pohaku in Kona until 2000. Once I saw it, I haven't wanted to stay anywhere else since. I love the fact that there are only 6 units in the complex. It's almost like having your own home right on the ocean. The view from the lanai is so gorgeous, you will never want to leave. Mahalo to Sherron and Dennis for sharing their lovely condo with us vacationers!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 8/9

Guest Bob and Amy1
Date of stay 07/04/09
Review Submitted 07/04/09

We absolutely loved the condo. It was in a great location and the view and sound of the waves was fantastic. We went down to the little sandy cove several times, and the kids enjoyed swimming in the calm water there. None of us wanted to leave! We really appreciated that the condo was so fully stocked. We used the rice cooker and it was great to have good quality pots and pans to cook with. We tried to eat in for breakfast and dinner most of the nights and having a nice kitchen to do that in was wonderful. We will certainly recommend the Hale Pohaku to anyone going to Kona.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 7/8

Guest Jim Lencioni
Date of stay 04/22/09
Review Submitted 04/22/09

We stayed at Hale Pohaku the entire month of June 2008 and definitely plan to return in the future. The property has fabulous views of, and is so close to, the ocean! Sherron and Dennis were great to rent from-they were very considerate to some construction activity in an upstairs unit that they were not made aware of until a very short time before our arrival. They made a very generous adjustment to our rental fee to compensate for the construction activity. Even considering the construction we thoroughly enjoyed our stay in their unit. Counting the days until we can return to Hale Pohaku.

Owner response: Jim & Sharon were wonderful guests! We so much appreciated their patience & understanding with the unplanned construction. We really enjoyed their enthusiasm and would love to have them visit again.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/5

Guest Starla Roels
Date of stay 03/11/09
Review Submitted 03/11/09

We stayed our second time at Hale Pohaku in January 2009 and loved every minute of it. The view from the lanai is absolutely perfect and now we are so spoiled we cannot imagine ever staying anywhere else on the Big Island. This January we were treated to excellent views of breaching whales and spinning spinner dolphins and already cannot wait to come back. We also love waking up to the birds in the morning and being lulled to sleep by the ocean every night. Mahalo Sherron and Dennis for sharing such a wonderful place.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/5

Guest Carla10
Date of stay 10/20/08
Review Submitted 10/20/08

I've stayed here several times and it is the most beautiful place on earth for a vacation. You can't help but relax watching the ocean that's so close you can almost touch it from your seat on the lanai. A lovely lovely place to stay.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/5

Vacation Rentals by Owner

Very Private Oceanfront Condo Steps from Beach, Water, Turtles [#206953] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (24)

Unique architecture, stunning setting, helpful owners

Unique architecture, stunning setting, helpful owners

Kona coffee, the sea and me

Kona coffee, the sea and me

Great Location and Beautiful View

Great Location and Beautiful View

View of Paradise

View of Paradise

Great Place to Stay

Great Place to Stay

Wonderful place to stay!

Wonderful place to stay!

Wonderful place to stay

Wonderful place to stay

Practically IN the Water!

Practically IN the Water!

The Perfect Home Base As You Explore the Big Island

The Perfect Home Base As You Explore the Big Island

Happy vacationers

Happy vacationers

Great Condo On The Beach

Great Condo On The Beach

Lovely Hale Pohaku

Lovely Hale Pohaku

Spectacular View; Affordable Price

Spectacular View; Affordable Price

Wonderful Location

Wonderful Location

The Perfect Get-Away

The Perfect Get-Away

Great Place to Stay

Great Place to Stay

Wonderful stay !

Wonderful stay !