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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"

Architectural mood lighting for a soothing evening
Aerial view of the main house and adjacent master bedroom area.
Aerial view: main house (R) and master suite (L) connected by covered breezeway
Pool
Pool

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% based on
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 61632 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Ocean view
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi

Rooms & beds

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.

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

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Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

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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

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
Property Registration Number 3770090520000, TA-157-258-9568-01, GE-157-258-9568-01

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Kailua-Kona

Located near the beach, this holiday home is in Holualoa Village, a neighbourhood in Kailua-Kona. Hulihee Palace and Haleo Luau are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Donkey Mill Art Center and Kona Le'a Plantation. KBXtreme and UCC Hawaii Kona Coffee Estate are also worth visiting.
View more Holiday homes in Kailua-KonaOpens in a new window
Map
Kailua-Kona, HI

What's nearby

  • Sadie Seymour Botanical Garden - 15 min walk - 1.3 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 - 31 min drive - 36.3 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Sunset Kai Lanai - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Don's Mai Tai Bar - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Royal Kona Resort Oceanfront Bar - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Shaka Tacos - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Magics Beach Grill - ‬5 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 20 Mar, 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 12 Apr, 2026 start from S$926, 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. 158 out of 171 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 11 out of 171 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 171 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 171 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 171 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ronald K.

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

10/10 Excellent

Ele P.

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

10/10 Excellent

Mary Kay P.

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Trish N.

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

10/10 Excellent

Lori H.

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

10/10 Excellent

Jill A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We really enjoyed our stay at the Onion House. What a unique experience and it is a very special house unlike any other place. You do feel like you are immersed in the nature of the island with all of the screens and fresh air. You can hear all of the creatures at night. The amenities were all high end, including the towels and bath mats in the bathrooms and the supplies in the kitchen along with everything you needed for the beach. Communication from before we arrived and upon our arrival was fantastic. You do want to arrive in the daylight though to try to figure everything out so you can see better as it does get dark at night in the house. I would highly recommend the Onion House if you are looking for a unique place to stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

mabel r.

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

10/10 Excellent

Steve L.

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

10/10 Excellent

Kristin L.

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brandon G.

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David T.

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

10/10 Excellent

Darla B.

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

Best place ever!

This house is a work of art. Jeanne was a wonderful property manager. It was like staying inside a living, loving organism. The outside flows to the inside leaving you feeling like you’re an organic part of the island. This place has spoiled me for any other place.
Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adam B.

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

8/10 Good

Dolores W.

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

Unique experience!

Second time staying at The Onion House, enjoyed the unique experience of living in the environment. Mahalo Jeanne for your watchcare during the hard storms and flooding we addressed while there. Until next time!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin V.

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

10/10 Excellent

Randee R.

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

10/10 Excellent

Julie K.

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

Unforgettable!

We really enjoyed our stay. Jeanne gave us all the information we needed. The house is comfortable (I loved the bed and linens), so beautiful and certainly one of a kind! We had everything we could possibly need. The erupting volcano was the only thing that we left the house for!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John I.

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

Habitual guest

This is either the third or fourth time I’ve stayed. Obviously we love it. As an architect and hedonist, you couldn’t find a better place! We’ll be back. Thanks Jeanne and Terri!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Theresa E.

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

Quick Fun Trip

The property is a one of a kind experience. After a couple nights you get used to all the animal sounds. The pool and view is great and the sunsets are beautiful.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jerry B.

Hands down,, EXCELENT!!!!!! It was an honor to stay in this historic home. One of a kind jewel!!

It was an honor to stay in this Historic Home. A one of a kind jewel!! It truely is one of the best places and attention to details I have ever experienced!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

William B.

Excellent

Very unique property, super enjoyable. Enjoyed great sunsets and a great barbecue on the large deck by the pool. Waking up to all the nature sounds was magical. Loved our stay!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jill C.

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

Staying in a beautifully unique piece of art.

Onion House has been on my bucket list for decades and it did not disappoint. We were beyond happy to eat our meals, hang out in the pool and watch the amazing sunsets from our perch on the hillside. Truly a magical place like no other.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin G.

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

A Work of Art

This was a special stay. The Onion House is amazing. It is such a creative, unique structure. Our family of four absolutely loved our time here in late July, and we will forever cherish the memories of our stay in this work of art.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erik A.

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

Splendor in an Onion

This was the most beautiful home we have ever stayed in. From word work to stained glass, the whole home is a living breathing piece of artwork. Waking up to the birds each morning and drinking our coffee on the lanai was the highlight of the morning. While in the evening we sipped cocktails and watched the sunset from the pool. Not sure how it could have been more magical. Thank you, we will be back every year.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela A.

Beautiful views!!!

We truly enjoyed our stay at the Onion House. Jeanne made sure everything was in perfect order for our visit. Thank you for sharing this remarkable home! Such an interesting history!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2019

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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