Vacation Rentals by Owner

Close But Far.... [#321446] | View Property

Kealakekua Bay
Cottage, 1 Bedroom + Sleeping Porch, 1 Bath (Sleeps 2-3)
$135 - $175/nt US Dollars
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Traveler Reviews (15)

• 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: Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

  Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

• 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: 2/2

• 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: 7/7

• 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: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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

• 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+, girls getaway, romantic 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 05/31/12
  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: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway, 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: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, 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: Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, 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

• A beautiful cozy cottage

  A beautiful cozy cottage

  • Guest Chris
  • Date of stay 12/22/11
  • Review Submitted 01/17/12
  A lovely, cozy and beautifully decorated cottage that made for a perfect vacation. Charles is a gracious host who was happy to help whenever we had a question, but otherwise left us to enjoy the amazing view from the lanai on our own. We spent hours watching the many birds playing in the bird bath and admiring the fruit growing on the trees just outside the cottage that Charles happily picked a selection from for us. The cottage was well situated outside the hustle and bustle of Kona, but just minutes from the restaurants and shops of Captain Cook and Kealakekua Bay and Two Steps for incredible snorkeling. All in all we just had a wonderful time, would highly recommend it to our friends and will definitely be back to visit Charles and his delightful cottage.

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

  Owner response: I'm so amazed at all the fantastic people that visit us, here at Hotel Pa'amalu. Chris and Abby were such good fun. Chris helped me solve with a small computer issue, that I had been struggling with for some time now. Thanks Chris.... Abby, I just would like to thank you for being so happy and energetic, what a pleasure!!! Always welcomed back!!!!!!

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

• Tranquil, gorgeous cottage in great location

  Tranquil, gorgeous cottage in great location

  • Guest Honey Ryder
  • Date of stay 10/09/11
  • Review Submitted 11/23/11
  Hotel Pa'amalu is a gorgeous serene cottage set in a tropical garden of mango and papaya trees, orchids and native birds. The cottage is cozy, the kitchen is well-equipped, the views over the garden to the ocean are divine, and the bird-bath which attracts numbers of brightly coloured birds is a treat. The photos depict the cottage very well, however the garden and surrounds is even more amazing in person. The location is great for couples wanting to be far enough from the traffic of Kona, but close enough for a trip to the nearby supermarkets for food supplies. Two fantastic bays are nearby - Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay - both which host families of friendly dolphins many mornings of the week. The property is very well-maintained, the owner Charles is warm and friendly and also very respectful of your privacy - he regularly leaves treats of home-grown mangos and papayas outside your doorstep! Charles is on hand to help with any request if necessary, however he is also very discreet depending on what you are after. I highly recommend this gorgeous little hideaway and we will return in the future!

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

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

• Tania And Joe from Santa Cruz California

  Tania And Joe from Santa Cruz California

  • Guest Tania
  • Date of stay 09/27/11
  • Review Submitted 11/21/11
  We had such a wonderful stay, and didn't want to leave. The property is just beautiful.... we the most amazing sunsets from the lanai. Charles is so knowledgeable about all the plants on the property, we enjoyed walking around with him, just taking it all in. The dragon fruit in the morning was an incredible surprise. The location of the property is great. I would highly recommend this property to anybody who would like to get away from it all, and yet be close to everything. Hopefully we will get a chance to return very soon!!!!

  Recommended for: Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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

• Serenity on the Big Island

  Serenity on the Big Island

  • Guest Tika
  • Date of stay 07/02/11
  • Review Submitted 07/15/11
  We booked the hotel Hotel Pa'amalu at relatively short notice for our trip to the Big Island in early July. We could not have been more pleased. The owner has put so much care into making this a very special and serene place. The cottage was very comfortable, clean well equipped and tastefully decorated with textiles and furniture from distant lands. The view of the ocean from the bedroom and the lanai were incredibly peaceful. The grounds surrounding the cottage are lush and offer privacy. From the lanai we spent hours admiring the many beautiful and colorful birds that used the water fountain as their personal bird bath! Charles, the owner, was discrete yet warm and welcoming. The cottage is well located to many attractions including great snorkeling, beaches, hiking and our favorite the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

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

  Owner response: I feel so fortunate to have the opportunity to share my little surf cottage with such enjoyable travelers. Its fun sharing stories and hearing all the daily adventures. Life is a journey so lets keep traveling!!!

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

• Dreaming of Mangoes

  Dreaming of Mangoes

  • Guest sunny1
  • Date of stay 03/01/11
  • Review Submitted 03/07/11
  Spent 4 nights here, 3/1-3/4/11. The cottage is charming, sited well and has relaxing features - the lanai looks out over Kealakekua Bay, you're close enough you can hear the surf; there's a water feature next to the lanai that attracts local birds by the dozen. It's quiet here, save the 0600 bird chorus. Best alarm clock ever! The location puts you near to several activities. To name a few, Kealakekua Bay presents the option of sea kayaking and snorkeling. You can also hike down to the Captain Cook Memorial to snorkel - but it's a very hot uphill return. It's about a 1 hr drive to South Point where you can hike 5.2 mi r/t to the Green Sand Beach, worthwhile and also quite hot in the sun (go prepared!). Saw dolphins, sea turtles and lots of tropical fish around the region. There's plenty of exploring to do - if you like history, check out the Kaloko-Honokohau Nat'l Historical Park. The bay is a great place to see green sea turtles. Or you can avoid activity altogether and read on the quiet lanai! Volcanoes Nat'l Park was an awesome exploration, as well - it'd be a long day from the Kona side of the Island. We explored that from an eastern base. Also really loved Mauna Kea!! The property has amenities that make you at home away from home. The kitchen has everything you need. Things are clean and well maintained throughout. The resident geckos are extremely effective ant eaters. I loved watching them! There are tangelo and grapefruit, mango and banana trees. We came home one day to find 2 fresh mangoes by the door, a charming gift. They were unbelievable! We've already looked at return flights to Kona! There are plumerias and other flowers in the yard. In the evening, there is a sweet, heady fragrance that greets you at the door. The owner is thoughtful, considerate, generous and responsive to questions or needs. Currently would suggest the property to couples or a single traveler looking for a relaxing get-away. There is room for 2 people who have compatible sleeping habits to sleep in a queen bed. I'd stay here again! 2 thumbs up! Oh, our favorite place to eat was Annie's - awesome burgers, beyond beef. Check it out!

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

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

• we loved the Hotel Pa'amalu

  we loved the Hotel Pa'amalu

  • Guest snorkel babe
  • Date of stay 02/24/11
  • Review Submitted 04/05/11
  The two of us stayed here in late Feb/early March 2011 and absolutely loved it. The cottage is beautiful and well kept and furnished with such good taste, reflecting some of the owner's travels. Charles brought us fruit once we were settled in and answered all our questions. It was hard to leave the comfort (the easy chairs) and delight (watching the birds in the bird bath) of the lanai. I would highly recommend the Hotel Pa'amalu.

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

  Owner response: Sometimes I have to stop and remember who's on vacation here. Everyone fits into the island style so quickly, settling in and calling Hotel Pa'amalu home as they explore and enjoy our simple life and beautiful island ,called plant earth!!!

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