Close But Far....

• What else could you ask for...

  What else could you ask for...

  • Guest Chuck
  • Date of stay 06/02/13
  • Review Submitted 06/11/13
  Well if you've read any of the previous reviews, then there really much else I can say. Our week at Hotel Pa'amalu was nothing less than exceptional! Our first visit to the Big Island and what better a place to start each day. Charles was great, made us feel right at home. We'd come back here and will, hopefully next year, without a doubt.

  Recommended for: Age 55+, romantic getaway, girls getaway, adventure seekers, sightseeing.

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• The Hotel

  The Hotel

  • Guest Darrell S.
  • Date of stay 12/27/12
  • Review Submitted 01/06/13
  First of all, the owner of the property is a great guy, very friendly and accommodating. He showed us around the bungalow, and gave us information related to the property, and how to get around. He even gave suggestions on where to eat, and what sites to see. Second, the bungalow itself is very nice, well kept, and recently renovated, with nice features, such as a full kitchen, television with cable, WiFi internet connection, and a big comfortable bed. The screened in porch was definitely a bonus, with a nice view of the bay. If you are on a trip by yourself, or with one other person, and want to see the sites of the Big Island, this is definitely the place to stay. Located close to Kona, it is easy to reach the bay, and the dive/snorkeling/kayaking shops. Also, it is roughly 2 -3 hours to the volcano and the black sand and green sand beaches. If I am ever on the Big Island again, this bungalow will be the first place I choose for a stay.

  Recommended for: Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, sightseeing.

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• Restful & Wonderful

  Restful & Wonderful

  • Guest Centre of Canada
  • Date of stay 12/06/12
  • Review Submitted 12/31/12
  Everything is as described and pictured. We chose this property at the end of a tour of Maui and Oahu. We are glad we chose the Big Island last and wonder if we will ever go to the other islands again! Charles is the consummate host: knowledgeable, discreet and responsible. His agent, Scooby the estate manager, is simply what makes the property so delightful. The trickling hollowed-out log just in front of the lanai draws many interesting birds to it. Although almost impossible to get a picture of them, just sitting on the lanai and watching them first 'stage' and then indulge in an ornis-bath is worthy of 15-20 minutes a day! We see these same exotic birds in the Sunday Paris bird market so to see them in their own habitat is a real treat. The airy lanai can be so calming and wonderful that sometimes you sit down to plan and then stay to read a book, think or dream. Regardless, the walk down to Manini Beach Park (south side of Kealakekua Bay) is only 10 minutes; there is a sandy entry for snorkeling and grass to sit on. The park is not very crowded and also has picnic tables for a day-long sojourn. Outside of Hotel Pa'amalu, there is "two-steps" (Honaunau Bay) --an exceptional snorkeling area with spinner dolphins galore; it is next to the national park and about a 4km drive away from the property. Also, there is a good choice of eateries "up top" ...Annie's Burgers and others. A local market is also available for purchasing what you need to make your stay effortless (i.e., not having to drive for breakfast & lunch). Charles has outfitted his property with the basics (salt/pepper, oil, sugar, flour, etc.). You will be accompanied in your cooking by a couple small green orange-spotted geckos (body about as long as your forefinger)--harmless and wonderfully colorful. There are lots of towels and beach accoutrements (chairs, snorkels, masks, etc.). If you must work, the high speed internet is very good. Also, a large screen TV with every channel known to man is available for evening movie watching. <Charles turned us onto the surfing channel which we managed to watch by the hour; then again, the Vans & Pipeline Masters were on! > If the opportunity arises again to visit the Big Island, we will be staying at Hotel Pa'amalu. It is simply wonderful for rest and relaxation (and, good sleeps!). Mahalo Nui Loa Charles & Scooby

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

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

• Tranquil studio cottage

  Tranquil studio cottage

  • Guest J & S
  • Date of stay 10/22/12
  • Review Submitted 10/30/12
  My wife and I prefer quiet places off the beaten path. We don’t need to be near where the action is but rather I bit away from all that. Hotel Pa’amalu offered what we were looking for in our stay on the Big Island. Charles has assembled a very clean, artfully arranged ocean view cottage in the midst of a wonderful tropical setting. We felt very comfortable and were not in need of anything. Charles has an amazing array of tropical fruit trees and plants of which he generously kept us provisioned. We missed the mango season but got to enjoy and amazing treat called dragon fruit among other treats from his garden. The plantation manager “Scooby” is a delightful little Poi dog who is full of personality and charm and we welcomed his daily visits. If you are looking for a comfortable, peaceful, clean little get away cottage to relax in, this is your place. Charles was a gracious host and was available when we had questions but was never intrusive. I gladly give him 5 stars in my recommendation.

  Recommended for: Romantic getaway.

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

• Lovely Retreat from it all...

  Lovely Retreat from it all...

  • Guest DeAndria
  • Date of stay 09/10/12
  • Review Submitted 10/04/12
  Amazing Place! Planned this vacation trip to arrive during "Mango Season" and we were not disappointed! In addition to the Huge Mangos Charles grew & shared with us, we were delighted with so many other wonderful things! Warm rains greeted us as we arrived refreshing the area and gave everything a sparkling effect. Comfortable & relaxing accommodations with beautiful flowers & fruits. The plumerias blossoms were intoxicating in their fragrance and my new favorite flower! Friendly local folks Ken & Dale who live down the road ...wonderful sharing stories and their knowledge of the history of this area. Bernie at the coffee and macadamia nut co-op just down the road, Happy little dog pal Scooby, & of course wonderful hospitality from Charles when we inquired for some local suggestions. Small beach area close by to snorkel and relax, to wonderful places to find organic food stores & restaurants for fresh fish in the nearby fishing village Keei. This was a first trip to Hawaii for me and a friend and we had a blast! Visited wonderful Natl. Parks & fun beaches south & north for snorkeling, shopping & sightseeing. However, we always felt immediately at ease again returning to our own little place of peace and restoration in Kealakekua Bay. This bay was by far the best clear water snorkeling on the island! We also enjoyed kayaking to Capt. Cook which again is just a few minutes from the cottage to see the most beautiful fish & coral. Enjoyed seeing the spinner dolphins from a distance and later in the trip got to swim with sea turtles! Adventure and relaxation all in one! Loved having the flexibility to not have to eat meals out all the time except when we chose and had some amazing tasting fish and locally grown fresh fruits and vegies! Highly recommend this place to anyone wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of work you leave behind... to embracing the resident geckos, beautiful birds who serenade you with their songs as well as their incredible beauty and variety throughout your stay. Charles has indeed made a little piece of paradise here for anyone who wants to stop, be in the present and enjoy each and every moment! We truly loved this place and will tell all our family and friends to consider this in their future plans if they come this way! Thanks for the peace & privacy but also your lovely hospitality & making the trip so memorable!

  Recommended for: Families with young children, age 55+, romantic getaway, girls getaway, adventure seekers, sightseeing.

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

• Perfect Hawaiian Getaway

  Perfect Hawaiian Getaway

  • Guest Dick & Judy
  • Date of stay 08/15/12
  • Review Submitted 08/28/12
  Everything we hoped for, beautiful setting congenial host, privacy, close proximity to snorkeling, restaurants, sight-seeing,shopping. This was by far our favorite place for a vacation, even had a friendly pooch , Scoobie, who came visiting often, Could sit in lanai for hours and watch the birds fritter in the bird bath, and look at the stunning vies of the bay, but there were many beautiful places to see and visit, Our host was very helpful when we wanted advice or had questions about flora and fauna, It was a beautiful 50th Anniversary. IIt

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

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

• Cottage in Captian Cook area, Hi

  Cottage in Captian Cook area, Hi

  • Guest jules
  • Date of stay 07/24/12
  • Review Submitted 07/31/12
  Wonderful experience. We truly felt like we were having the 'authentic' Hawaiian experience. The owner provided fresh fruit and hints for local sites. We even had our own resident 'dog' Scoobie. Over all it was a great stay and we enjoyed doing a little of our own cooking and then dining on the veranda with an ocean and sunset view.As an aside, I would recommend the Sea Quest snorkel trip. The 5 hr trip will take you to three snorkel sites (one Cpt. Cook Monument...near the cottage) and is only about 25 minute drive from the cottage. Good value for the money.

  Recommended for: Romantic getaway.

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

• Tropical Paradse, Hawaiian style.

  Tropical Paradse, Hawaiian style.

  • Guest Ina
  • Date of stay 05/25/12
  • Review Submitted 06/01/12
  We are finishing up a two week stay here on Hawaii, and have had the very good fortune to spend the latter half of it at "Hotel Pa'amalu" on the beautiful southern Kona coast. We are very pleased with our experiences at this cottage.The decor is very stylish without being fussy, cottage is immaculate with all the best that technology has to offer (strong Wifi and every channel you can think of on the t.v.) Mother Nature all around- (but with screens to keep the bugs out) it's all here- delicious fruits from the garden, a delightful array of pretty birds and sweet-smelling flowers (the owner studied Horticulure) and a one of a kind bay just two minutes down the road, a spectacular place to swim, snorkel, kayak, dive, or just dream.......Where else are there honesty stands along the road where one can buy fresh fruit, vegetables, eggs? Just pick out what you want and leave the money in the box...... Quiet and very safe. The owner is a sweetheart and clearly cares very much about ensuring his guests have the best possible time.

  Recommended for: Families with young children, age 55+, romantic getaway, adventure seekers, sightseeing.

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

• Paradise Found

  Paradise Found

  • Guest Sarah
  • Date of stay 03/20/12
  • Review Submitted 04/02/12
  Charles has created a beautiful, peaceful, enchanting, comfortable get away. I have stayed in over 12 different resorts and vacation rentals along the Kona and Kohala coasts over the years and this is by far my favorite. This craftsman-style cottage is beautifully furnished with oriental area carpets, beautiful wooden furniture, bamboo floors, stunning marble and stone counter tops and wooden cabinets. The photos do not capture how immaculate, lovely and gracious this cottage is! The landscaping is equally stunning, with exotic, fragrant blooming trees and plants everywhere attracting an abundance of butterflies and birds. The huge stone birdbath brings a parade of colorful birds just feet from the lanai to delight your eyes and ears. Everything you need and want is thoughtfully provided, from beach chairs and towels, snorkel, fins, sun umbrella, ice chest, blender, yoga matt and wash machine. Charles was available with helpful and accurate information about delicious restaurants, hikes and adventures nearby, which are too many to list. My husband, 19 year old and I enjoyed 12 magical days of complete relaxation, luxury, swimming, snorkeling, Kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking and sun. Two world-class snorkeling and diving spots are just minutes down the road. We swam with dolphins right off shore three days! The water is calm, warm, crystal clear and teaming with colorful corral, turtles, and tropical fish of every color and variety. We feasted on fresh tropical fruits, enjoyed glorious sun and moonsets, and were grateful to be far from the noise, crowds and bustle of Kona. This is your own private retreat into paradise!

  Recommended for: Families with young children, age 55+, pet owners, romantic getaway, families with teenagers, girls getaway, adventure seekers, sightseeing.

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

• Quiet, rustic comfort

  Quiet, rustic comfort

  • Guest hbunny
  • Date of stay 01/28/12
  • Review Submitted 02/02/12
  My wife and I spent a few days here in January, 2012 on our "babymoon" - our last vacation together before our first child is born. The cabin is extremely quiet and comfortable, with everything you need and nothing you don't. It's far enough from the tourists and shops of downtown Kailua-Kona to feel off-the-beaten-path, but close enough to include luxuries like broadband Wi-Fi and plenty of hot water for showers and dishes. If you want to head into town, it's a 20-30 minute drive on the beautiful island belt road. The cabin is spacious and airy, and the lanai is a beautiful place to watch the sunset or read a book. The kitchen is well-outfit and we cooked most of our meals. We did our shopping right up the hill at the grocery store in Captain Cook and grilled local grass-fed steaks and fresh mahi mahi. Eating breakfast and dinner on the lanai is better than any crowded restaurant. Charles even provided us with fresh mangoes and bananas from the trees in the yard. This cabin is a great base for exploring the west side of the big island. You'll wake to cool, quiet mornings and return after a day of exploring to a peaceful sunset. At night, all you'll hear are the waves. The property is very clean and well-maintained -- and Scooby, Charles' little dog, will try to charm you into letting him inside (don't fall for it!). Be sure to check out kayaking and snorkeling in the bay just down the road (be aware you'll need a permit if you want to land your kayak at the monument, but you can tow your boat and snorkel without one). The locals at the boat launch will rent you snorkels and boats at reasonable rates (bring cash). You can get good Hawaiian shave ice and kona coffee just up the street. The best nearby white sand beach is a 30 minute drive south to Ho'okena Beach Park. Plan on starting your day early as the best weather seems to be before noon and the clouds and rain come in the evening. Be aware that this is a fairly rustic experience. There's no laundry or dishwasher, and you will be entertaining a number of Gecko houseguests. My wife and I LOVED it, but if you're looking for a climate-controlled resort with daily linen changes this is not the place. But, there are perks (big screen TV with cable, gigantic walk-in shower, comfortable bed, beach towels, bar-b-que, etc.). If you're looking for someplace to become your laid-back home on the island, then look no further. We highly recommend it (especially for couples) and would absolutely stay here again

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

  Owner response: Someone keeps steering wonderful guest my way Mahalo VRBO!!!! I feel so fortunate. Wyatt's grilled Mahi Mahi was unreal, and I really appreciated the excitement as Stacey and Wyatt prepare for Aprils gifts. Take care, Aloha CC

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

Additional information about rental rates

Hawaii GE and TAT tax will be add on. Approx. 13%

Departure cleaning fee of $90.00 will also be added.

Deposits are non refundable. They may be applied to other open days.