Better than Paradise

Guest: kauai lovers (Washington, DC)
Date of Stay: 08/26/09 Review Submitted: 10/08/09

Though we'd like to keep it a secret, everyone should get the chance to stay at Twin Hearts. Upon our arrival we were greeted by the owner bearing gifts in the form of aloha spirit and the best organic pineapple you've ever tasted from his garden. The cottage is so lovely you almost don't want to leave the first few days after a long trip. Situated on a quiet road and secluded by the lush, tropical plants and flowers, it has everything you need and more: a private lanai with hot tub, grill and dining space with views of both the ocean and the mountains, outdoor shower, washer/dryer, comfy king bed (plus good bedding!), modern and fully equipped kitchen, cozy living room with big pane windows for daydreaming and novel-reading. The cottage is very clean and well-maintained by the owners. When you DO decide to leave the cottage, the North Shore of Kauai evokes a feeling of straight-up laid back worry-free existence, and it's our preference to other parts of the island. Within walking distance is Kahili or Rock Quarry beach where you can watch local surfers or frolic at the mouth of the Kilauea River. The adventure highlights for us include kayaking the Na Pali Coast (but avoid the arrogant guides employed by Outfitters on the South Shore), floating in Queen's Pond, snorkeling at Hideaways Beach, and eating lots of shave ice with ice cream in Hanalei - truly a cultural adventure. We're also big fans of the local farmers markets and fish markets (the ahi is phenomenal) dotted along the main highway. They're way cheaper, fresher and tastier than shopping at the Safeway in Kapaa or Foodland in Princeville where prices are obscene and the quality terrible. For packaged goods, swallow your pride and stop at the Wal-Mart in Lihue or Long's Pharmacy in Kapaa. They offer the same product as Safeway for a fraction of the cost. If we could change one thing about our stay at Twin Hearts, it's that next time we'll stay for AT LEAST two weeks instead of one. Aloha and Mahalo!

Owner response:Wow! We know that most all of our guests adore Twin Hearts, but not all go out of their way to write a sweet and glowing report like Kristin and Matthew have. There is no need to keep Twin Hearts a secret...just book far enough in advance to assure availability... Yes, we do try to make everyone feel at home in the most unobtrusive manner we can, which is easy to do on our 7.5 well-tended acres. Our gardens and orchards are growing, and we love when our guests find greens and fruits and even a few eggs to take back to the cottage to enjoy. If Twin Hearts sounds like the kind of place you would enjoy and if you can relate to what Kristin and Matthew have to say about the cottage and about Kauai, call or e-mail for a booking today! Aloha, Bruce and Cyndee

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, girls getaway, age 55+.

Going the extra mile

Guest: Thomas P.
Date of Stay: 12/21/11 Review Submitted: 01/21/12

My wife and I booked a 15 night stay at Twin Hearts for the 2011 Holidays. We secured the peak time by booking in May. This was going to be the first trip together with our little son and our second visit to the beautiful island of Kauai. Shortly before our planned departure we learned that my wife was expecting! We would have pursued the itinerary, but the OBGYN instructed her to avoid any air travel due to pregnancy related risks. We promptly informed Bruce, the owner of Twin Hearts. With just 12 days left until our planned arrival date finding last minute bookings was challenging. But Bruce was great! He utilized the whole arsenal of modern communication to promote the opportunity - from Craig's List to email blasts. With quite some success. Eight of the 15 nights were re-booked and our refund was quickly processed. We will certainly be visiting Kauai again one day not just to stay at wonderful Twin Hearts (or its larger sister property Hale Kai Kalani...), but to meet Bruce in person who did such a wonderful job for us. We also encourage all visitors of Twin Hearts to purchase travel insurance against unforeseen events, which Bruce generally recommends at the beginning of each rental. Tom P., New York

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers.

Going the extra mile...

Guest: Thomas P.
Date of Stay: 12/21/11 Review Submitted: 01/21/12

My wife and I booked a 15 night stay at Twin Hearts for the 2011 Holidays. We secured the peak time by booking in May. This was going to be the first trip together with our little son and our second visit to the beautiful island of Kauai. Shortly before our planned departure we learned that my wife was expecting! We would have pursued the itinerary, but the OBGYN instructed her to avoid any air travel due to pregnancy related risks. We promptly informed Bruce, the owner of Twin Hearts. With just 12 days left until our planned arrival date finding last minute bookings was challenging. But Bruce was great! He utilized the whole arsenal of modern communication to promote the opportunity - from Craig's List to email blasts. With quite some success. Eight of the 15 nights were re-booked and our refund was quickly processed. We will certainly be visiting Kauai again one day not just to stay at wonderful Twin Hearts (or its larger sister property Hale Kai Kalani...), but to meet Bruce in person who did such a wonderful job for us. We also encourage all visitors of Twin Hearts to purchase travel insurance against unforeseen events, which Bruce generally recommends at the beginning of each rental. Tom P., New York

Recommended for:

Wonderful getaway

Guest: D&M (Northern California)
Date of Stay: 12/15/11 Review Submitted: 12/22/11

We loved our stay at Twin Hearts and would recommend it to anyone who loves peace and quiet, privacy, gorgeous surroundings and convenient location. The bed was very comfortable, the owner Bruce was very knowledgeable and helpful with ideas of things to do and places to eat. The cottage was really clean and beautiful inside and out. My husband ran to the beach and back every day ( it less than a mile away, with some downhill). It is near a beautiful garden open to the public (must make tour reservations). The owners' cat and dog came to visit us occasionally, but other than that and the frog, shooting star, and rainbows, we felt completely secluded. Wonderful, romantic spot!

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

My Perfect Honeymoon @ Twin Hearts...

Guest: Ben L.
Date of Stay: 06/12/11 Review Submitted: 06/25/11

My new wife and I stayed at Twin Hearts from June 12-22. It was truly paradise... First of all, I am never staying at a hotel again if I can avoid it. The simple pleasure of having a home, mixing and mingling as a local, cannot be accomplished at a hotel. I highly recommend that anyone utilize a vacation rental website when booking a vacation, especially a vacation in paradise. Twin Hearts was perfect. You know that feeling of buying something that is totally awesome, unique AND local??? that is what you get when you rent at Twin Hearts. The owner Bruce is just a great human being, offering up plenty (too much - lol) advice on what to explore based on my interests. However, even though his home is relatively nearby (although it is entirely out of sight), I never saw (or heard) from him. At times, I felt like I might be annoying him (lol!). Also, I am a Dad who took a honeymoon during Father's Day weekend. Bruce was kind enough to invite me over to join him and his family (and a few local neighbors) in a softball game. Bruce is an awesome dude. Specific to Twin Hearts, it comes with a very comfortable bed, stocked kitchen, nice appliances, is open air, cool decorations, outdoor shower, hot tub, sweet porch, gas grill, kayak, water shoes, hammock, washer/dryer, coffee maker, tv/dvd, wifi and of course everything the subtropics should offer (including lizards you idiots). It is located 10 minutes to a super low key beach (which come to find out is a favorite of many locals I spoke with). In fact, me and my new wife found ourselves alone on the beach (!). Twin Hearts is also located halfway between Princeville/Hanalei and the more populated Kapaa/Lihue, but is still located in the north shore setting. My highlights: - Na Pali coast dinner/snorkel tour (AWESOME!) - luau (we did Smith's) - kayaking trips (our favorite was Kalihiwai River and the THREE level waterfall with a pool at the bottom of each - my wife and I were alone in the top pool for two hours (!) - hike Kalalau Trail - snorkeling at Tunnels, Ke'e and Moloaa - beach at Secret, Hideaways, in addition to the one near Twin Hearts - local shops in Hanalei, Kapaa - hike Waimea Canyon (or just drive there) - buying local leis, fish, coconut, pineapples, etc at roadside farmers markets (and Kileaua Fish Market too) - AND hanging out at Twin Hearts... drinking wine in the hot tub while watching movies or just nature in general. Do the right thing... stay at Twin Hearts!

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, pet owners, adventure seekers, age 55+.

Perfecto!

Guest: Bob and Carly (Indianapolis, IN United States)
Date of Stay: 05/10/11 Review Submitted: 05/16/11

My wife and I came to Kauai for 2 weeks and spent the first week down in Poipu and the second here at Bruce's Twin Hearts Cottage. It's our last night here as I write this review and I have to say this has been an awesome vacation. Twin Hearts is extremely special. It's a short hike to the beach, which has VERY low traffic. It is a huge beach and we rarely saw other beach goers, but got to watch some really great surfing. The cottage is very quaint and perfect for a couple looking to get away. The hot tub is super clean and the interior very breazy and relaxing. Satellite and wifi allow you to watch and surf at night while winding down with a nice glass (or multiple bottles in our case) of wine ;) The location between Kapa'a and Hanalei Bay is very convenient, but DEFINITELY RENT A CAR. Really you should do this regardless of where you stay on the island. You definitely don't want to wait around or pay for cabs. This entire experience has been amazing. We left no stone unturned, stopping at EVERY town on the entire island over our two weeks here. Here are the highlights: -Driving South and West down past Waimea to the white sand beach. -Hiking Waimea canyon (bring LOTS of water - seriously pack at least 2 camelbacks plus a couple of bottles of water) -Na' Pali boat cruise was WELL WORTH THE MONEY! We went into caves and had a blast! -Eating at many of the local restaurants -RELAXING -RELAXING -RELAXING!!!! We can see why many of the locals are transplants from the mainland. They have it right. This is truly paradise. Thanks to the Fehrings!!!!!! PS we loved hanging out with the orange cat we named "Robot" and the two sweet dogs from next door. We spoiled them with treats every night, and they kept the roosters from cocka-doodling too early for us :) PSS the folks that complained about the lizards are crazy! The couple of geckos that cling to the windows at night are super cool to watch. -Bob and Carly Ullery www.facebook.com/ullery

Owner response:We are happy that Bob and Carly came and enjoyed Twin Hearts. We appreciate their many positive comments. It seems like they managed just the right mix of exploration, activities, and relaxation! Many guests seem to enjoy visits from our pets, and they love the attention. We do, however request that guests do not feed them, as they get plenty in their bowls and we'd prefer that they do not get in the habit of seeking handouts. For those guests who do not enjoy the animals coming by, we provide a large squirt gun which effectively discourages them for the duration of the visit. We invite you to be our guests at Twin Hearts. Please try to book as early as possible to ensure the greatest chance of availability. Aloha nui loa, e komo mai, Bruce and Cyndee

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, pet owners, adventure seekers, age 55+.

First Hawaiian Vacation

Guest: SS&BGB (Washington State)
Date of Stay: 04/11/11 Review Submitted: 04/20/11

We visited Twin Hearts and the Island of Kauai in April 2011. It was a much-needed vacation after several months chasing deadlines. Following a couple of underwhelming days on Oahu, we arrived at the beautiful and enchanting Twin Hearts cottage, where we instantly felt at home. Bruce and Cyndee have decorated with impeccable taste and an eye toward convenience. Falling into "chill mode," we prepared many of our own island meals in the well-equipped kitchen and enjoyed the hot tub during a couple of rainy north coast mornings and evenings. We walked to the beach, took a wonderful tour of the Botanical Gardens just up the road from the cottage, enjoyed the little towns of Kilauea and Hanalei, walked the bike trail in Kapa'a, as well as reveled in the best lattes and coolest vibes on the island at Small Town coffee (Kapa'a). The grounds at Twin Hearts are lovely and private, surrounded by the melodious sounds of shama thrushes and other exotic birds. Curly and Cosmo, the kitties, kept us company, too, and made us feel right at home. It was hard to tear ourselves away on the last day! You can bet we'll be back!

Owner response:We are always glad to hear when guests have a memorable visit, and will be happy to host Rick and Melinda again in the future. They came with a great attitude...do some exploring but leave time just to chill out and drink in the beauty of Kauai, and of Twin Hearts. They were lucky enough to find availability for their requested dates less than two months prior to their arrival, and will be thinking further ahead for their next visit to Twin Hearts. We suggest you do the same, and come visit! Aloha, Bruce and Cyndee

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, age 55+.

Beautiful honeymoon cottage/vacation rental...

Guest: Chip and Ann (New Jersey)
Date of Stay: 07/30/08 Review Submitted: 06/30/09

Twin Hearts, in my opinion, is the ideal honeymoon setting. The cottage itself is beautifully crafted, and there are more activities close by than we were able to cram into our short stay. The hottub is the icing on the cake. If you are looking for privacy and some serious "alone time", this is the right place. We were visited daily by 2 of the friendliest dogs we've ever met - and felt bad when we had to say goodbye. For those that aren't used to staying in the tropics, there are geckos everywhere. They will get inside the house, no matter what you try to do to keep them out (I don't even bother...). They are harmless, cute, and quite fun to watch on the windows at night. Bring bug spray - Kauai is known for its mosquitios. I would absolutely love to stay here again - and perhaps next time I'll be able to convince my wife to try the kayak...

Owner response:We are so happy to have hosted yet another satisfied honeymoon couple at Twin Hearts, and strive to make each experience comfortable, effortless, and special. It is wonderful when our guests return for anniversaries as well! Think ahead so that you are not disappointed by possible lack of availability! Aloha, and e komo mai!

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

Lizzard Haven

Guest: 272007 (Aiea, HI )
Date of Stay: 10/22/08 Review Submitted: 11/10/08

The amentities were nice, especially the hot tub. The location was great, partial ocean view and nice 10 min. walk to beach. The setting was gorgeous, just beware of the bugs and lizzards! They liked to come inside the cottage through the screens, especially at night. If you don't mind "roughing it" on a pricey vacation this is the place for you. We ended up leaving early and not being compensated. Just a little warning.

Owner response:We are very sorry that this particular couple was disappointed with their stay at Twin Hearts. They booked the cottage for a one week stay 6 months before their arrival, and were given a military discount. After the second night, the husband called me over and told me that they could not stay and longer. Having never had any guest depart early from Twin Hearts, I asked if there was a problem. He apologetically told me that he had a massive phobia about "lizards", having been tortured with them by his older brother and a "friend" in his youth, and that he had seen a couple of them inside the cottage and became "rigid with fear" and had to "eat standing up".. Of course, I felt badly that anyone was so badly afflicted with a phobia of this nature and magnitude. Naturally, our geckos in the sub-tropics are pervasive and find their way almost everywhere. Most people find them both cute and entertaining, and they appear as harmless characters on t-shirts, mugs, and in auto insurance commercials here. They are also helpful in that they dine on any bugs that find their way into and around the cottage. I offered to see what I could do to move the geckos out of the house but the couple had already packed and were determined to leave. They asked that I refund their security deposit, which I did immediately, and in cash. However, we only refund paid dates if we can re-book them, which is difficult at the very last minute, and which we were unable to do in this instance. This is typical of single vacation rental properties, where the loss of income can be devaststing. I asked if they had geckos in Honolulu and was told that there were plenty of them, but not on the 17th floor of the apartment building where they resided. I suggested that, given his phobia, they always inquire about geckos when booking accommodations in the sub-tropics. Our belief is that where no geckos are in evidence, enough pesticides have been sprayed as to potentially be injurious to your health. We use mechanical methods and contained traps, not chemical spraying, to keep geckos and other pests at bay. Do we get them all? Of course not. Thus, if you have lizard phobia or if possibly seeing the occasional roach or a few ants will ruin your vacation, you may want to book at a high-rise hotel, and ask for a room near the top. If you are seeking a more realistic stay at a beautiful private cottage on acreage surrounded by nature, please consider staying at Twin Hearts.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers.

Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/01/08 Review Submitted: 10/18/08

My husband and I stayed at this beautiful cottage last December (2007) for our honeymoon. It was the most wonderful vacation we have had. This cottage is perfect for a couple who wants privacy, yet access to nice restaurants and a great yoga studio if you continue north on the road. You will need a car. There is a perfect private beach that you can walk to from the house. There are other beaches nearby north of the cottage and lots of hiking. I would also highly recommend driving around to the other side of the island to hike through the canyon. We spent a whole day hiking. Near the canyon, there is a very sweet roadside cafe that serves the best pulled pork sandwiches I have ever had! The owners have great guides in the house to help you find whatever it is you want to do. I would highly recommend this house. One of my favorite memories was lying in the hammock in the yard with my husband watching the falling stars.

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