Reviews for Kealakekua Bay Vacation Rental - VRBO 225250ha - 0 BR Kona Coast Studio in HI, Be Right at the Bay! Studio Steps from Best Snorkeling and Dolphins

Meticulously executed.

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Meticulously executed.

Guest Dave and Laura from Ashland, Oregon
Date of stay 06/14/12
Review Submitted 07/14/12

The Hale Lana studio is thoughtfully designed and meticulously executed to be inviting, comfortable and delightfully simple. The slate floors are surprisingly easy on the feet. The color scheme is restful and well coordinated. The wicker furniture is of very high quality and comfort. The ceiling fans make for comfortable sleeping and are essentially noiseless and in perfect balance. Not that common as we learned elsewhere on this trip. The airiness of the sliding glass doors makes the indoors nearly outdoors. You have supplied very high quality cooking pots and various utensils quite above the norm for rentals we have seen. The location is SO quiet, perfect for those of us who are not seeking the fast lane on our Hawaii trip. The laundry equipment works easily and well and we appreciated the supplying of laundry soap. We stayed at a much different facility in Hilo and cut that side of the trip short to return to the comfort and simple elegance of Hale Lana. Memorable INDEED. And we had GREAT snorkeling right at the Bay and at nearby Two Step. If we return to the Big Island, we will consider Hale Lana again. Mahalo for providing such a wonderful place to stay and such a friendly yet business-like interface.

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two happy campers

Guest rupa
Date of stay 10/30/10
Review Submitted 11/16/10

my friend and i visited from maui. she got the bed and i got the air mattress. we were sooooooo happy with our home away from home. clean, light, beautiful. walk 3 minutes to the bay, swim with the dolphins and then home for a huge brunch every day. only ate out two meals. and just down the road is another fantastic dolphin spot, "two step". we loved the out door shower. would definitely stay here again. actually thought it would be fun to rent both upstairs and downstairs. mahalo again...rupa and nirupam

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

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Repeat Hawaii vacationers

Guest Texas travelers
Date of stay 09/16/10
Review Submitted 10/03/10

Arrived after dark in a rain storm and didn't fully appreciate the beauty of this place until the next morning. Woke up in absolute paradise. Very quiet and tranquil. Great place to unwind and relax. Perfect for 2 people. The studio is very well appointed and the colors used in the unit are perfect for the surroundings. Kealakekua Bay is crystal clear for snorkling and the highlight of our trip was swimming with spinner dolphins. They "played" with us for over an hour. Hale Lana is remote enough for complete tranquility, but within a reasonable driving range for groceries, restaurants and sightseeing. We can't wait to return. Mahalo for making this the perfect vacation.

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

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Clear upon arrival....

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Clear upon arrival....

Guest Lexi and Chris, Brighton, Mass.
Date of stay 09/11/10
Review Submitted 09/30/10

Hi Dennis We had such a wonderful stay hare at Hale Lana! It is a beautiful home and provided everything we needed. It was immediately clear upon arrival and the space is lovely-it's clear how much love goes into this space!

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Mahalo!

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Mahalo!

Guest Susanne and Andres
Date of stay 06/03/10
Review Submitted 06/08/10

Thank you so much Dennis for enabling us to stay in this beautiful slice of paradise. The home is fantastic inside and out; cozy, inviting, comfortable and well stocked. The neighbors are amazing, the snorkeling spots close to home are top notch. And with all the added extras of home we cannot wait to come back again soon. Mahalo, mahalo, mahalo!

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Amazing

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Amazing

Guest Erin and Drew Portland, OR
Date of stay 05/28/10
Review Submitted 06/08/10

The accommodations were amazing. Thank you for the clean and comfortable place!

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Serene

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Serene

Guest John and Diane Winchester, OR
Date of stay 05/18/10
Review Submitted 06/08/10

Serene, comfortable, elegant---thanks so much for doing everything right--from the pebble floored shower to the Chinese red cabinet and all the things in between!

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Amazing place!

Guest pjgoat
Date of stay 05/17/10
Review Submitted 05/26/10

This was a PERFECT place to stay, situated in a quiet neighborhood steps from Kealakekua Bay, Mannin Beach and Ke'ei Beach. A few minutes by car to Place of Refuge as well. The studio is beautifuly designed and executed. It truly feels like a sacred space. Beautiful and private gardens surround it. I could have stayed forever. Highly recommend this location fr your vacation rental. We plan on returning again and again ourselves!

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

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We enjoyed Hale Lana

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We enjoyed Hale Lana

Guest Judy and Pat
Date of stay 05/12/10
Review Submitted 06/08/10

Dennis-We enjoyed Hale Lana very much. Perfect location for day trips. Beautiful guest house and grounds in a lush tropical landscape. We liked the studio with fully stocked kitchenette and grill as well as the outdoor chairs, coolers, etc. We can see why everyones like the Big island.

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Memorable Holiday

Guest Vivian S.
Date of stay 04/22/10
Review Submitted 05/05/10

My husband and I have been to the Big Island once before and stayed near Kailua Kona. This time I wanted a holiday a little out of the main hub. The landscaping of our homestay is a venture on it's own - it took up almost 1/4 of all my holiday photos. I would come back just for this! We liked the well-thought out supplies in the unit, including a blender - great solution for morning fruit smoothies. The fruits from the grocery are the freshest, tastiest ever. Alternatively, there is a private fruit stand on the leeward side of Highway 11 when you come out (turning right) of the top of Napoopoo Road. The beach supplies were great and included a little cooler and storage containers for... what else? fruit salad to the beach. Hale Lana is a relaxed and beautiful setting. Fabulous snorkeling nearby. Easy enough to enter at Mahini Beach. Interesting local features like the macedamia nut/coffee co op (Napoopoo Rd). The locals are so friendly! Also quite convenient for longer road trips to Hilo. Make sure to go to Sig Zanes for hawai'in prints. Generous bathroom, comfortable seating, well stocked with towels and sheets. My only issue was some noise from our upstairs neighbours. There isn't much insulation. Our first neighbours were fine, however; the second group "rumbled" in the morning. Ear plugs did the trick so that we could sleep in. That said, it all comes down to a great! alternate experience of a spectacular island! Dennis is professional and helpful. We had some special needs on this trip and he was very patient in answering all our questions.

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

Owner response: Mahalo for your "five star" review. Sorry some neighbors were a little inconsiderate, but certainly much less than might be found in more urban Kailua. The home is actually well insulated, but everything is open air to catch the pleasant tropical breezes. It is a very low key and quiet area, so we always hope everyone gets that and respects the neighbors and neighborhood!

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Paradise

Guest Missing Hawaii
Date of stay 03/20/10
Review Submitted 03/30/10

My family and I just came back from a week of staying at Hale Lana. We rented both studios. This place is incredible - very resort-like. It was well stocked, organized, and extremely clean. The location on Kealakekua Bay is a very short walk to the water, and the waves at night were very relaxing. Kayaking across the bay and snorkeling can't be missed. The bay is a resting place for spinner dolphins and the area around the Captain Cook monument has coral reefs that are filled with large tropical fish. Just down the road, the Painted Church and the Place of Refuge are also must see attractions. Kealakekua was a very central location on the west side of the Big Island, and it was a reasonable drive to the lava fields on the south end of the island, and also a reasonable distance to horseback riding through the Waipio Valley. We stopped at several beaches between both trips and they were all different and beautiful. Making arrangements with Dennis could not have been more easy or more professional, and we look forward to returning some day.

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

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pristine designer home in quiet village

Guest voito
Date of stay 10/29/09
Review Submitted 11/09/09

My wife and I stayed in the downstairs studio of Hale Lana for 3 nights in October for the first time and were really happy with our choice. Clearly, care and thought was put into the design and construction of Hale Lana. The high-ceilinged accomodations were immaculate with attractive plantation style furnishings and decor. Overhead fans and louvered vents kept the room cool and ventilated and full sliding glass doors on all sides made it feel spacious and connected to the landscaped, contemplative private grounds. Keep in mind this is a studio, so is a little small if you like to spread out, intend to spend a lot of time inside or plan on making complicated meals - but why would you with Kealakekua Bay, Pu'uhonua o Honaunau and so many great places to visit in the area? Distance from Wailua-Kona may also be a plus or minus, depending on your preferences.

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

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Great 15th Anniversary swimming with the dolphins!

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Great 15th Anniversary swimming with the dolphins!

Guest Janelle and Dustin The Dales, OR
Date of stay 10/14/09
Review Submitted 06/12/10

Thank you so much for the effort that obviously went into preparing such a wonderful place for guests! We throughly enjoyed our stay. We had a great 15th anniversary swimming with the dolphins in the bay and snorkeling in a huge underwater "aquarium" at Captain Cook Monument. This vacation will be tough to ever beat. Loved the CLEAN studio and gorgeous tropical landscaping. The beach chairs, cooler, umbrella and all the beach extras were so helpful! Mahalo

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Oasis in paradise!

Guest Oregon beach bums
Date of stay 10/07/09
Review Submitted 10/15/09

We loved staying in this clean, comfortable, beautifully landscaped oasis in paradise! We enjoyed getting to know the friendly local folks in the neighborhood, especially the ones down at the bay renting out kayaks. The kayaking/snorkeling is exceptional! Great food is a short drive away. Coffee tours, fruit stands, and historical sites are also nearby. Dolphins, tropical fish, sea turtles, good coffee, good food, beautiful surroundings, and warm sunshine. . . What else could you possibly need?! Hale Lana is stocked for your beach-going pleasure with beach chairs, umbrella, cooler, beach mats, boogie boards, and washer/dryer and outdoor shower for when you come back from your adventures.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Great accommodations in awesome spot!

Guest SnorkelingGirl
Date of stay 06/27/09
Review Submitted 07/11/09

My husband and I spent 1 week in this studio apartment followed by 6 days in the upstairs 1 bedroom (which was also excellent). We completely love the Manini Beach area with its local vibe and excellent snorkeling (Captain Cook Monument, 2 Step, Manini Beach, Kealakekua Beach). Both upstairs and downstairs were clean and airy, very comfortable, and completely stocked with everything you could need to hang out or make a day trip: beach towels, coolers, well-stocked kitchenette. We loved the convenience of the hot-water outdoor shower and clothesline. The ventilation was excellent with ceiling fans and sliding doors on all sides. The studio is surrounded by a paved patio, and we ate all of our meals outside watching the geckos, mongooses, and the neighbor's cats. The kitchenette worked perfectly for making simple meals, with nice extra touches like a coffee grinder and outdoor gas grill. Although more compact than the upstairs 1 bedroom, the studio was much more spacious than a B&B or hotel room, and we felt there was plenty of room for the two of us. The owner was helpful and responsive to all of our needs. We couldn't have been happier with our stay at Hale Lana, and look forward to visiting again.

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

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Silence is Golden

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Silence is Golden

Guest Jason and Diane G. Fairfied, ca.
Date of stay 06/06/09
Review Submitted 06/10/10

A beautiful studio in a beautiful location. The silence is golden, it's amazing to hear the ocean at night and to see the gorgeous natural wonders of Hawaii. Perfect place for a honeymoon!

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Pristine Location

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Pristine Location

Guest Dale and Joan S., Irvine, Ca.
Date of stay 05/17/09
Review Submitted 06/10/10

Dear Dennis, We adore Hale Lana ! The studio was SO thoughtfully appointed and we had absolutely everything we needed. The location was pristine. Totally beats hotels and resorts! The little extras---cooler, chairs, stocked kitchenette----came in really handy. Neighborhood was very peaceful. LOVED snorkeling in Captain Cook and Two Step---it's why we came and why we'll be back. Thanks for this taste of paradise!

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Fine Art

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Fine Art

Guest Lou and Nancy S. Alexandria, Va.
Date of stay 05/09/09
Review Submitted 06/12/10

This place is beautiful! It's like staying in a piece of fine art; both inside and out! And we love the way the outside is brought in with the walls of windows. We also greatly appreciated the provision of beach chairs and towels. The highlight of this 40th anniversary (so far) was kayaking to the monument and snorkeling. The fish and coral out there are outstanding! If you plan to go, go early and plan to stay at least 4 or 5 hours.

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Place of Tranquility

Guest Love Visiting Hawaii
Date of stay 04/04/09
Review Submitted 04/10/09

We came from a week in Waikiki and to say the least, we were thrilled that the sounds of birds chirping woke us up here versus 6 a.m. trash collection in the city. The condo was fully equipped with everything we could possibly need. Never turned on the TV once, since it would just disturb the peace! It was definitely a place to retreat and unwind.

Recommended for: Romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Great Accommodation

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Great Accommodation

Guest Larry and Ida Fridley, Minnesota
Date of stay 02/21/09
Review Submitted 06/12/10

Everything has been great here. Great accommodation in a perfect location. You thought of all the details--we found everything we needed. The decor of our unit was great. We will others of Hale Lana.

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Quiet and captivating!

Guest Ruth B.
Date of stay 01/25/09
Review Submitted 02/04/09

We were wildly surprised at the charm and taste, not to mention gardening skill, of our hosts at Hale Lana. The studio was thoughtfully laid out and very roomy, with lots of light and very well appointed. Original art on the walls, fine woodworking details, and comfortable and attractive furniture all contributed to a peaceful and relaxed vacation. The studio is a short block to the beach and the best snorkeling and whale watching on the Big Island. The neighborhood, too, is quaint, with charming homes and rich gardens.

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

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Very comfortable, great location

Guest Yukoner
Date of stay 01/09/09
Review Submitted 02/01/09

Very private, well appointed and comfortable studio. The location is great for nearby snorkling, kayaking, swimming with dolphins, and exploring Kona coffee country. Good restaurants and grocery stores nearby as well. In a quiet neighbourhood. Great place for a 'non-social' get away without feeling isolated. We hope to return.

Recommended for: Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Peaceful

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Peaceful

Guest Shane and Sarah North Vancover, BC Canada
Date of stay 08/31/08
Review Submitted 06/12/10

What a great place! We're so glad we found it. Hale Lana was peaceful and quiet and snorkeling was amazing! Thanks.

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Esoteric

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Esoteric

Guest Carl and Mary L.A., California
Date of stay 08/18/08
Review Submitted 06/12/10

Dennis, we want to live here! Thanks 4 the esoteric accommodations!

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Fantastic value gets you near K-bay

Guest Blanca
Date of stay 05/04/08
Review Submitted 05/13/08

This pristine, recently completed studio is very spacious and spotless, nicely appointed with comfortable furniture. Super slate shower both in unit and outside hot shower! All you could want is provided by host. Terrific privacy in this tiny Manini Beach residential neighborhood, flat easy walk to K-Bay. 1 bkj to Kai's rental kayaks. Kayak across 1.2 mi of deep indigo ocean to world class snorkel experience at Cptn Cook Monument. 3 mi to Place of Refuge, also fantastic snorkel experience with turtles. Screened sliding floor to ceiling doors on all sides allow breezes and the sound of waves to lull you to sleep without having to camp outdoors! Definitely would recommend to a friend who is seeking authentic HA experience away from boring resorts. Tiny kitchen is complete enough to bbq (bring charcoal) and fix easy meals - buy groceries on your way in as any stores are 5 mi. back up the hill. Bring your books and slow down your fast paced life. No nightlife here but peaceful beauty and comfort at the Hawaiian pace of life. As a couple we stayed in downstairs studio, great budget spot, but upstairs larger unit must be terrific as well.

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

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Vacation Rentals by Owner

Be Right at the Bay! Studio Steps from Best Snorkeling and Dolphins [#225250ha] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (25)

Meticulously executed.

Meticulously executed.

two happy campers

two happy campers

Repeat Hawaii vacationers

Repeat Hawaii vacationers

Clear upon arrival....

Clear upon arrival....

Mahalo!

Mahalo!

Amazing

Amazing

Serene

Serene

Amazing place!

Amazing place!

We enjoyed Hale Lana

We enjoyed Hale Lana

Memorable Holiday

Memorable Holiday

Paradise

Paradise

pristine designer home in quiet village

pristine designer home in quiet village

Great 15th Anniversary swimming with the dolphins!

Great 15th Anniversary swimming with the dolphins!

Oasis in paradise!

Oasis in paradise!

Great accommodations in awesome spot!

Great accommodations in awesome spot!

Silence is Golden

Silence is Golden

Pristine Location

Pristine Location

Fine Art

Fine Art

Place of Tranquility

Place of Tranquility

Great Accommodation

Great Accommodation

Quiet and captivating!

Quiet and captivating!

Very comfortable, great location

Very comfortable, great location

Peaceful

Peaceful

Esoteric

Esoteric

Fantastic value gets you near K-bay

Fantastic value gets you near K-bay