An Exquisite Home on an Exquisite Island

Guest: karaoh (Portland, Oregon USA)
Date of Stay: 04/04/11 Review Submitted: 11/09/11

Our stay at Okuma House ended months ago, and it's taken this long to write a review because doing so is a reminder that we are no longer there. We brought three generations and found the perfect experience for all of us. Here’s what we miss the most: 270-degree views of the red/green/gold earth, the warm breeze flowing through the home and taking our cares away, sun salutations on the lanai facing the majestic Pacific, the stunning pool, splashing in the waves at practically empty, infinitely lovely Dixie Maru Beach, treks through the Kiawe trees, sunset picnics on deserted Make Horse Beach (most gorgeous spot on earth), dinners in the comfort of our home prepared by Chef Don, jogs on Papohaku Beach, sojourns to the green East and swimming in bay-like waters there, visits to Kumu Farms, making papaya pancakes in the stocked kitchen, glasses of wine under the stars, lunch at Aunty Ruby's (yummy food and the nicest proprietors), happy hour and hula at Hotel Molokai (a laid-back, lovely, community gathering)…a Hawaii that is uncommercial, uncrowded, and unassuming. Molokai is full of contrasts - arid and lush, rugged and quirky, welcoming and cautious, peaceful and untamed, cozy and adventurous, accessible and remote. It is lost in time, with real and modern people and offerings. Its fascinating history is deeply affecting and added much to our experience. Every person had a story, every corner turned brought new and different beauty. The small main town has quiet charm and surprisingly well-stocked stores (even found my fave almond butter at Outpost Natural Foods). The island is almost devoid of tourist attractions, which was awesome. It was freeing not to have a zillion choices of what to do and where to go -- we took each day as it came and loved how simple and easy it all was. Okuma House was the perfect complement to this brilliant island and the heart of our happy experience. The owners have put their talents and dreams into this home...It is beautifully designed, a piece of art really. Flowing and open, fresh, spacious, impeccable, and elegant, yet warm and intimate with every comfort and amenity. I was esp. appreciative of the lux beds, yoga mats, beach toys, and huge laundry room. Owners provide you lots of ideas on how to best enjoy Molokai. The whole experience - the home/island/spirit - was so heartbreakingly beautiful that we had a desperate urge to bottle it. Since we couldn't, we'll just have to return as often as we can!

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, families with young children, age 55+, girls getaway.

Magical Moments

Guest: Sandy (Kent, Washington, USA)
Date of Stay: 03/14/11 Review Submitted: 03/29/11

A most “Magical” home indeed! Have you ever seen a moonset and sunrise at the same time in the early morning? Have you ever gone swimming under the brilliant light of the moon and stars as wispy clouds gently crossed the sky? Have you ever been awakened by the sweet sound of island birds, and then quietly entered a secluded warm pool for your morning exercises? Have you ever sat with friends on a deck overlooking vast miles of glimmering ocean with an island in the distance as you watched the pink glow of a sunset turn to orange as the sun slowly slipped into the sea? Have you ever prepared a meal in a kitchen a chef would envy, while friends sat nearby chatting about your day? Have you ever listened to a group of Hawaiians play their ukulele’s as you sit only a few feet from the waters edge listening to the melodious singers and watching the graceful hands of a hula dancer telling you a special story? Have you ever driven down a small road next to a beautiful ocean smelling the lush green leaves and coconut trees next to fish ponds, without passing a single car? Have you ever savored a papaya at its perfect time of ripeness or bit into a juicy, freshly picked pineapple? Have you ever been in a perfectly designed home with your own special bedroom and bath where you could escape to take a quiet nap as a soft breeze wafts through the window? Have you ever walked on a long, pristine beach with only a few other people, taking pictures of the spray of the waves as they crash onto the clean, white sand? Have you ever been able to just sit and enjoy the quiet sounds of nature while you read a book you love? These are just a few of the “magical moments” we experienced while staying at this beautiful, comfortable and exquisitely decorated home that is perfectly suited for a gathering of family and friends, large or small. There is not enough room to add all of my special moments, so I invite you to come and visit this idyllic setting for a vacation like none other, a vacation of a lifetime, a vacation to enjoy your own magical moments! The relaxing, Hawaiian energy will stay with you for weeks after you leave. This time I came with friends, next time I will bring my family so they, too, can experience this lovely home on the friendly island of Magical Molokai!!

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

Okuma House on Moloka'i

Guest: Mary Helen (Washington state)
Date of Stay: 01/23/11 Review Submitted: 02/11/11

First you decide to visit Moloka'i because it is Old Hawai'i--connecting with the land and its people. Okuma House was the answer for the "perfect" place for our family to gather. From Okuma House one can enjoy the panoramic views, the peacefulness and remoteness of what is Moloka'i. The owners designed a beautiful house where you feel at home. They have thought of everything to make your stay the best. They and their staff are so helpful and accomodating. The suggestions that had really added to our visit. During our time we could view sunsets and watch for the green flash, saw Humpback Whales breaching from the lanai, swam in the pool everyday as a family, attended the Makahiki Games, had several meals at the local Kamuela's Cookhouse (delicious and full of character), bought lots of Hawiian Sweet Bread from the Kanemitsu Bakery, enjoyed the Saturday Market and bought some fresh local fruit and vegetables, drove Highway 450 seeing St. Joseph's Church and the statue of Father Damien and continued with stops all the way to the Halawa Valley (beautiful), enjoyed the beaches (many times just our family), listened to local Hawaiian music at the Coffees of Hawaii on Sunday afternoon in Kualapuu, thought about the history as we were at Kalaupapa Lookout, enjoyed the "company town" of Maunaloa, adventured into the Waikolu Lookout with a picture perfect view of the Waikolu Valley. ate the last evening at Hotel Moloka'i, and "touched" the sky at night. The constellations and stars are so bright--so close--so amazing! The photos and descriptions for Okuma House give you an idea of what a special place this is. The floorplan is excellent for accomodating 10 people--each with personal space. The views are as described--one night it seemed we saw all the lights possilble to see on Oahu. Our visit was to celebrate my 70th birthday. We are a family ranging in age from 7 to 72. This was a fantastic time and better than we had dreamed our time together might be--thanks to the Grahams for all they did to make our stay "like home" and sharing this special place. We would like to return every year and recommend it highly.

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, families with teenagers, sightseeing, age 55+.

Perfect Family Vacation Home

Guest: ginni (Boulder, Co)
Date of Stay: 12/23/10 Review Submitted: 01/17/11

We had a wonderful Christmas 2010 at the Okuma House. The home is very beautiful, and spacious to have our entire family(10 adults & 2 teenagers) stay for a week. The views from the lanai, pool and decks are amazing. The layout of the house and 5 bedrooms allowed to have private space as well as large kitchen, dining and living room space for all to gather. The home is Perfect. We really enjoyed Molokai. We went diving, fishing, snorkeling, hiking to the waterfalls on the east side of the island, 4x4 to the dunes at Mo'oomi Reserve. Its a beautiful island.

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

Guest: Test (-)
Date of Stay: 11/10/10 Review Submitted: 11/15/10

Test

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Molokai Retreat

Guest: Texas Travelers (San Angelo, TX)
Date of Stay: 09/20/10 Review Submitted: 11/08/10

This house is amazing. Beautiful, breathtaking views from every direction. Our family of 7(including 2 babies) had plenty of room to spread out & be comfortable. The house was spotless, very accomodating. We took full advantage of the pool, great times! The one thing we weren't expecting & it was totally my fault for not asking, was no a/c. It was hot, we were there in September & there were times every day when a/c would've been welcome. But, the beautiful house, the views, the good family times were all priceless. As wonderful as the pictures are, the house is even more awesome in person. The owner is very nice & helpful. We had a wonderful time in Paradise.

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

Molokai Retreat

Guest: Jay (West Linn, OR)
Date of Stay: 06/30/10 Review Submitted: 07/25/10

Beautiful property, first class accomodation, immaculate, wonderful views from inside and outside the home, excellent floor plan for large groups, superb kitchen that is well equipped, easily accessible but yet remote enough to enjoy spectacular night skies, and located near deserted beaches. Molokai redefines Hawaii and is not be be missed, Many activities including fishing, diving and snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, farmers market where you can find fresh vegetables and fruit and meet the locals, and good old fashioned relaxation. We plan to go again and recommend the location and property as a place not be missed. Flight to Molokai on Mokelele Airlines was easy and a wonderful sightseeing and photography adventure. Refer to the properties list of things to do as an excellent guide and resource.

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

Guest: Eric Friedenberg (Calgary Alberta Canada)
Date of Stay: 03/03/10 Review Submitted: 03/03/10

Hawaii is a magical place and Molokai has a great natural beauty. Both these elements come together in this great home. It is aesthetically desgined and is the perfect retreat. This is truly a dream home with a kitchen equipped for gourmet cooking or casual dining.The pool gives a great viewpoint to watch sunsets and jumping whales.Our family and friends loved our stay here and look forward to returning.

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Guest: Brent Friedenberg (Raleigh NC)
Date of Stay: 02/06/10 Review Submitted: 02/06/10

Wow, what a great place. The view is absolutely outstanding. Beautiful home. You live grand. There are large decks on both levels of the house from which you can see the sunrise and sunset over the ocean. It was so relaxing. This is Hawaii without the glitz of fancy hotels and bars. You won't find the stampede of tourists that you find on other Hawaiian Islands. Beautiful beaches, great hiking and boating. I'm definitely coming back and bringing more members of my family.

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Guest: jim thorne (portland, or)
Date of Stay: 01/18/10 Review Submitted: 01/18/10

What an amazing place! We spent two weeks here and really did not want to leave! It really doesn't get any better than this. Beaches just moments away, amazing vistas and sunsets from every part of the home. And the home is so well thought out down to the last detail. Beautiful pool, gourmet kitchen, comfortable beds - everything you need for a quiet, relaxing island get away.

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