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The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe"

Photo gallery for The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe"

A modern building with arched windows and a pool reflecting its structure.
A spacious lounge area with a stone fireplace, comfortable seating, and a view of the outdoors.
A spacious, high-ceilinged lounge with a stone wall and wooden beams, featuring a round table and comfortable seating.
A kitchen with two sinks, a stone backsplash, and a wooden countertop.
A room with a bed, a bench, and a table, all under a yellow arched roof with a view of greenery outside.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
Facing the ocean, this 3-bedroom vacation home accommodates 6 guests. It features 1 outdoor pool and a patio with ocean views. Located in the city center, it offers proximity to the Sadie Seymour Botanical Garden and Donkey Mill Art Center.

Highlights

  • Dive into relaxation
    Unwind in the top-rated pool, your perfect spot for relaxation.
  • Outdoor pool
    The outdoor pool is a refreshing retreat under the open sky - a rare gem in this area.
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Private pool
  • Barbecue grill
  • Patio
  • Washing machine
  • Kitchenette
  • Internet

Explore the area

View in a map
Kailua-Kona, HI
  • Place, Sadie Seymour Botanical Garden
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Place, Magic Sands Beach
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Kailua Pier
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, Kailua-Kona, HI (KOA-Kona Intl.)
    ‪24 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Guest Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Guest Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Guest Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms

Master Bathroom

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Hair dryer

Shared Guest Bath

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe"

PLEASE READ COMPLETELY PRIOR TO BOOKING REQUEST:

Created for the McCormick Spice family, the Onion House is a unique architectural treasure with stunning visual aesthetics. It has been featured on MTV, Travel Channel, Learning Channel, Fine Living Channel, HGTV, Global Architecture Magazine, and Architectural Digest.

You will have the entire house to yourselves. Swim and sunbathe in privacy on the huge lot that is well screened via foliage. You'll feel alone in your world, enjoying the 70' pool (unheated), gardens and lily ponds. The terrace faces sunsets and Kailua Bay, providing the ideal setting for candlelight dinners. The translucent roof and walls of stained glass allow filtered sunlight throughout. The detached master suite features a private walled garden. A covered outdoor walkway leading to the master bedroom structure is flanked by lily ponds and the turquoise pool overlooking the sea.

With grounds of nearly an acre, five minutes from town or beach, this is the perfect base camp for exploring the Big Island. If you google this property name, you can learn a great deal more about it from our personal website. Read the page "Vacation at the Onion House" for more information on your stay.

The Onion House does have limitations that make it unsuitable for younger children (under 12) or individuals who have difficulties with stairs and/or mobility. The owners do no allow guests under 12 years of age. Please contact us for further information. In addition, the Onion House is most ideal for smaller groups of 2-4. Groups of 6, while they can be accommodated, will find privacy is limited. Please also note that this property is an indoor/outdoor property and is not air conditioned.

The rates quoted are for two guests. Additional guests have an additional fee of $25/person/day added to the quote identified in a separate line as "additional guest fee."

Please note that the County of Hawai'i has implemented strict vacation rental regulations which must be clearly published on this site. The Onion House has been officially licensed by the County and these country rules apply to guests:
(A) Quiet hours shall be from 9:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m., during which time the noise from the STVR shall not unreasonably disturb adjacent neighbors.
(B) Sound that is audible beyond the property boundaries during non-quiet hours shall not be more excessive than would be otherwise associated with a residential area.
(C) Rental guest vehicles shall be parked in the designated onsite parking area.
(D) The STVR shall not be used for commercial purposes.
(E) Guests beyond those named on the rental agreement are fairly strictly limited. Hosting gatherings with visitors outside of the rental party is quite limited - Please inquire.

The STVR Registration Number is: STVR-19-361289
The Nonconforming Use Certificate Number is: NUC-19-1205
("Nonconforming" basically means that our vacation rental is not located in a resort zone.)
Hawaii State Tax ID # GE-157-258-9568-01, TAT: T-157-258-9568
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 12
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
No children under 12 due to safety concerns.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking outdoors on deck only.
Please note that the County of Hawai'i has implemented new vacation rental regulations - as a licensed rental, we share them in the rental agreement.

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number 3770090520000, TA-157-258-9568-01, GE-157-258-9568-01
Property # 1194663vb
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Kailua-Kona

Located near the beach, this holiday home is in Holualoa Village, a neighbourhood in Kailua-Kona. Dovetail Gallery and Hulihee Palace are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Donkey Mill Art Center and Kona Le'a Plantation. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's going on at Holua Racquet and Paddle, or consider a night out at Don's Mai Tai Bar.
View more Holiday homes in Kailua-KonaOpens in a new window
Map
Kailua-Kona, HI

What's nearby

  • Sadie Seymour Botanical Garden - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Magic Sands Beach - 3 min drive - 2.7 km
  • Kahalu'u Beach Park - 5 min drive - 5.0 km
  • Kailua Pier - 6 min drive - 6.5 km
  • Four Seasons Resort Hualalai Golf Course - 35 min drive - 36.6 km

Getting around

  • Kailua-Kona, HI (KOA-Kona Intl.) - 20 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Royal Kona Resort Oceanfront Bar - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Don's Mai Tai Bar - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Huggo's On The Rocks - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪L & L Hawaiian BBQ - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪White Nene Coffee Roasters - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe" have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

How much does it cost to stay at The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe"?

As of 1 Oct 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe" on 16 Jun 2027 start from £2,673, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe" pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe"?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe"?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe"?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe" located?

Located in Holualoa Village, this holiday home is within 2 miles (3 km) of Sadie Seymour Botanical Garden, The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory and Donkey Mill Art Center. Kona Le'a Plantation and Magic Sands Beach are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 172 out of 186 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 12 out of 186 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 186 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 186 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 186 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our time there. You definitely want to be ok with nature, bugs, lizards, etc, but it’s a really nice place and nice experience
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful. The owner did a great job describing the property.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed at the onion house for our honeymoon and it was the absolute best! We will definitely be coming back!!
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great time in this one of a kind house. We are normally more budget oriented but we couldn’t pass this one up. It was worth the money. Property was clean and the hosts extremely prompt in answering questions before and during our stay. Lack of a/c was not an issue with the breeze and fans. Actually got chilled during the night and had to add a blanket.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Onion House is a truly unique and beautiful property. The architecture is stunning. The views are so lovely for sunrise and sunsets. We loved the pool. And the artwork.All of the information provided is accurate. Check in process easy.Do be mindful that the property with its beautiful gardens and natural setting invites the local resident creatures to hang out with you. A fantastic experience.The property is also very clean and well stocked. Jeanne, the property manager, was always reachable and very helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful, a little too much nature
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was our 4th stay at the legendary Onion House and hope to make it dozens more. Bonus this trip was visiting with Jeanne for a bit on arrival!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Apr 2026
Mathew - What a treat it is, and the ultimate compliment, to have repeat guests such as you. Thanks for your visit and we hope to welcome you many more times! And yes, Jeanne is indeed the heart of the Onion House isn't she? Terri, Booking Manager
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pool was cool, very outdoorsy feeling, great new experience for us
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

This is a tale of two couples.
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Awesome even if we had the Kona low storm. Loved the pool. Extremely private. Jeanne was great. We’ll be back!
Stayed 14 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Apr 2026
Thanks, Lora - We appreciate your amazingness during a historic storm, and we would love to host you on a return. Jeanne truly enjoyed your family's stay! Terri (Booking Manager)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
The building is one of the world’s unique homes. Nothing like it anywhere. We hung out there everyday. As lovely as the island is it’s the fabulous place to be
Stayed 23 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing place to stay and the Jeanie is very prompt with communication. Probably could have used a pool cleaning during the stay but think we just ended up stay between cleanings. The house is very unique experience and one we will not forget. As long as are not expecting all modern conveniences and embrace being a part of the natural feel of this house, you will love it. For being in a neighborhood, you cannot see anybody else. It is very private. The central location is extremely convenient for getting out and around. It is an unforgettable place to stay.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent, creative design and unique living spaces.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication
Disliked: Location
Host was welcoming, house was amazing, pool was lovely, master bed was very comfortable!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host was wonderful. Really loved this unique property. Great having our own pool!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely fantastic property! Beautifully constructed and decorated. Pool was fabulous and the sunsets were an added bonus. Highly recommend the Onion House!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Unique Stay

The Onion House was a truly unique place to stay. Beautiful views, great gardens and pools, and our host was informative and fun to speak with. Close to town, but with a very secluded feel, it was perfect for a family getaway!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Most Unique House!!

Had a great stay at the Onion House….. the neatest house we’ve ever stayed at! Amazing living areas, the pool and the view are things we will never forget…..they made our stay on the Big Island very special!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Exquisite house with glimmers of creative genius large and small everywhere you look. We splurged for our 35 wedding anniversary victory lap. Thank goodness this was a 2nd trip to this island and we didn’t feel tourist driven. We wanted for nothing but a local grocery, occasion beach day or restaurant, a trip to see the volcano spew and the ONION HOUSE. I never wanted to leave. Be prepared to live in a masterpiece of art surrounded by nature. Magical! and STFUMahalo to the angels and owners for your stewardship and sharing this magnificent home with us.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Feb 2026
Mary Kay - Thank you so much for your assistance, you patience and your kindness as we dealt with the leak issue! You are the kinds of guests all owners hope to have! Terri, Booking Manager
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place!

This place is very unique and beautiful! We love the history book it came with.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The onion paradise

The property is beautiful. Plan to be one with nature. There was no air conditioning but we never missed it. I have never had the opportunity to stay in a place like this. It was a great part of our trip!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Jul 2025
Isn't it amazing how trade winds and cooling fans make something we think is mandatory (air conditioning) isn't missed in a home built for the environment? SO GLAD you enjoyed your stay!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Uniquely Beautiful

What a beautiful and uniquely architected home. We loved the design, the surrounding foliage, the pool, and the location. Thanks!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday at the Onion House

Wonderful stay in a beautiful work of art for my birthday. Peaceful and private gem of a property. Looking forward to a return visit.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One of a kind place to stay

We loved our stay at the Onion House. It is a beautiful house, and one of a kind design. It is quirky so you have to be in the mood for that. Super relaxing, very well located, and just beautiful. The whole house is a work of art.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A gem

The onion house is absolutely the most unique place you could ever stay at. We were completely immersed in nature yet close to everything. The sunsets from the house were spectacular. Everyone loved it and hated to leave. An easy 5 Stars.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

About the host

Hosted by Terri Watson

Host profile image
The Onion House was purchased by Harry and Barbara Last from the McCormick family a few years ago. Barbara had wanted to visit this architectural wonder some time ago and when she learned that the property was for sale, she insisted that they book their stay immediately. Upon awakening in the Onion House the very first morning, Harry fell in love with the unique architecture and as well the engineering structural aspects of the overall property. They both decided that they wanted to be the purchasers, not only to enjoy for their family, but also to continue to preserve and maintain this wonderful property for guests as well. Poring over the construction details of the Onion House also brought back memories. Many years ago in the late 1970’s, Barbara and Harry, a mechanical engineer and inventor, designed, and built by hand a hillside home in the Vancouver, B.C. area, complete with an indoor swimming pool for their three children, all in competitive swimming. In order to combat humidity in the pool area, Harry soon became interested in automatic pool covers, which eventually led to him founding a business in that industry, which still exist as a closely held family business today.

Barbara and Harry will continue to connect with Beth McCormick (the former owner) as an advisor on the maintenance and preservation of the property. Guest contact will be facilitated by Terri Watson, who has also managed guest relations on another Hawaii property for the Lasts. Property Manager Jeanne Awai, along with her staff, who have managed the gardening and maintenance and welcomed the guests to the property for many years, will be staying on as well.

Why they chose this property

There's no place on earth like this. It's a wildly original form of architecture, distinct from any other structure, hand-built by architect Kendrick Bangs Kellogg. It combines the indoor-outdoor living that defines Hawaii with visionary, organic architecture. You've never seen anything like this.

What makes this property unique

A unique part of Hawaiian history, the Onion House is a pivotal piece of the McCormick family history, commissioned by prior owner Beth McCormick's favorite aunt, 'Auntie Dofeen.' and build by well known architect Kendrick Kellogg Bangs of organic architecture renown.

This home is Kellogg's first piece as both architect and builder, and launched the Organic Architecture movement of the Mid-Century Modern craze that dominated Southern California. Kellogg went on to build well-known works such as The High Desert House in Joshua Tree, CA, Lotus House, Wingsweep, the Hoshino Wedding Chapel in Japan and Charthouse restaurant in Rancho Mirage, CA.

We have the opportunity to share this home with guests from around the world, who bring friends and family to celebrate special moments in their lives. Many of our guests are repeat visitors, and the "Onion House Family" spans the globe.

Of note: The Onion House isn't for everyone......
The Onion House is not suitable for families with young children (less than 12), or for those who have difficulty with steps, due to safety considerations inherent in its design. We make no representation of the house as accessible.
Smoking outside only, please.
The Onion House is true Organic Architecture - it is not a climate controlled, sterile resort- like location. There is no air-conditioning (we use many fans!). It is truly indoor/outdoor living in a shelter of roof, screen, glass and rock cooled by nature passive design.

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