Mermaid House


Rates: $275 / night (avg.)
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2
Bed types: (sleeps 8)
Reviews: 4.90 (from 59 reviews)
On Kauai's North Shore located in Ha'ena. As with all properties from Hanalei to the end of the road at Ke'e Beach, this property is in a tsunami evacuation zone This all redwood home designed by world class yacht racer and sailing enthusiast, Peggy Slater, is a non smoking. pet free home. It reflects the builders' passion for the sea and all things Hawaiian. It is a vintage, unique dwelling featuring vaulted ceilings throughout, it surrounds you with both nautical and Hawaiian themes to enhance your sense of a tropical paradise experience. If you are searching for a modern, cookie cutter "off the shelf" type experience, this may not be the best choice for you. There are many other places on the northshore that might be a better fit for you.

The Mermaid House is located on a quiet side road just a seven minute walk to famous snorkeling destination, Tunnels Beach. In the living room, banks of sliding windows open in multiple combinations to take advantage of the trade winds and tropical breezes. A short 90 second walk brings you to the beach at Naue Point and as you turn to the west you view spectacular Makana (Bali Hai) and the Na'Pali coast.

One and a half miles further finds you at Ha'ena State Park and renouned Ke'e Beach renowned for it's spectacular sunsets. This is the end of the road on the north shore Retrace your way across seven one lane bridges to quaint Hanalei town and a gourmet meal, shave ice, or a glimpse of local color at a Farmers' Market featuring tropical fruits and flowers of all descriptions.
Please be advised that as of the reopening of Hwy 560 on June 17, 2019, visitors to Ha'ena State Park, Ke'e Beach and the Kalalau Trail must obtain reservations starting 30 days in advance. Go to : gohaena.com for more detail about reservations, entry and the shuttle service.
The Mermaid House is completely owner operated. It has a Kaua'i County vacation rental certificate: TVNC # 1162 NOTE: the base rate is based on 2 guests. additional guests are charged $12.50 per person per night. Large parties for extended bookings will incurr an additional cleaning deposit which will be refunded if the outclean charges do not exceed the base $220 cleaning fee.


Keywords: beach house

Additional Guest Fee: $12.50 - Per guest per night - For each guest after 2 Registration Number: TA-060-300-6976-01, 580090220000, GE-060-300-6976-01

Mermaid House Reviews



Simon S.
January 2024
Great house, nice beaches close by. Great communication with owner. Only downside, was it was a little farther than most of our activities. I knew this going in. Wanted to be closer to Tunnels and Kee beaches, but waves didn’t cooperate for snorkeling. Would stay here again even though it’s a little farther from activities.


Alyssa M.
January 2024
We absolutely loved our stay at the Mermaid House! This was a trip that I have been wanting to do with my family for years. It was the perfect location, we walked to the beach every day and saw both Sea Turtles and Seals! Thank you, Jane for sharing your special home. We are already talking about when we can come back and stay again!


Topher T.
November 2023
We had no issues at all. Its a beautiful house and set in a great location. Theres a small flight of steps to get inside and very spacious interior.


Topher T.
November 2023
We had no issues at all. Its a beautiful house and set in a great location. Theres a small flight of steps to get inside and very spacious interior.


Ben M.
August 2023
Great stay. We love the area, and this place provides a great opportunity for us to experience haena. We will be back.


Ben M.
August 2023
Great stay. We love the area, and this place provides a great opportunity for us to experience haena. We will be back.


Mary K.
July 2023
The beaches in the area are beautiful. We have stayed in Kauai several times in the past. We very much wanted to stay in Hanalei and this property was misrepresented as in Hanalai until we received the final information which in light of driving times, etc., Haena is a ways away. I understand the enthusiasm in the reviews about the location We very much enjoyed ourselves, but the place is rustic and I think people need to understand that. It’s also in need of a deep cleaning. The sills, the floors, the grout, etc. We had the opportunity to renew our wedding vows together as couples on the beach next to where we were staying. That was a wonderful blessing, and we so appreciated that.


Mary K.
July 2023
The beaches in the area are beautiful. We have stayed in Kauai several times in the past. We very much wanted to stay in Hanalei and this property was misrepresented as in Hanalai until we received the final information which in light of driving times, etc., Haena is a ways away. I understand the enthusiasm in the reviews about the location We very much enjoyed ourselves, but the place is rustic and I think people need to understand that. It’s also in need of a deep cleaning. The sills, the floors, the grout, etc. We had the opportunity to renew our wedding vows together as couples on the beach next to where we were staying. That was a wonderful blessing, and we so appreciated that.


Erika S.
July 2023
This is an absolutely magical place in paradise! The house is beautifully furnished, comfortable but not fussy, and very well equipped. The location could not be better ~ a lovely beach is literally across the street down a small path and Tunnels, the best snorkeling beach around, is a short walk. The mountains are spectacular and the beauty is everywhere. Jane was a wonderful hostess. We hope to return to this little piece of heaven.


Erika S.
June 2023
This is an absolutely magical place in paradise! The house is beautifully furnished, comfortable but not fussy, and very well equipped. The location could not be better ~ a lovely beach is literally across the street down a small path and Tunnels, the best snorkeling beach around, is a short walk. The mountains are spectacular and the beauty is everywhere. Jane was a wonderful hostess. We hope to return to this little piece of heaven.


Karl D.
June 2023
My sister and I stayed at the Mermaid House for four nights. The home is located in a quiet beach house neighborhood. Neighboring homes are close by, but the vegetation surrounding the house provides ample privacy. We found the home and grounds tidy and clean and supplied with everything you need for cooking and dining at home and going to the beach. You can walk to the beach in about 1-2 minutes! And, Tunnels Beach is just down the road! We are looking forward to staying at Mermaid House again and again.


Laura T.
June 2023
Everything was just as promised. A wonderful place to stay in a truly delightful setting. Quick walk to a secluded beach, lovely home to relax in afterwards— we were only 2, but plenty of room for more! Kitchen was extremely well stocked and a pleasure to use. Host was very responsive. Looking forward to a return trip!


Karl D.
May 2023
My sister and I stayed at the Mermaid House for four nights. The home is located in a quiet beach house neighborhood. Neighboring homes are close by, but the vegetation surrounding the house provides ample privacy. We found the home and grounds tidy and clean and supplied with everything you need for cooking and dining at home and going to the beach. You can walk to the beach in about 1-2 minutes! And, Tunnels Beach is just down the road! We are looking forward to staying at Mermaid House again and again.


Laura T.
May 2023
Everything was just as promised. A wonderful place to stay in a truly delightful setting. Quick walk to a secluded beach, lovely home to relax in afterwards— we were only 2, but plenty of room for more! Kitchen was extremely well stocked and a pleasure to use. Host was very responsive. Looking forward to a return trip!


Kelly R.
April 2023
Such a wonderful place to stay, proximity of the ocean is literally steps away, house is perfectly laid out, comfortable and has anything you could ask for. We enjoyed everything this property had to offer including contact with the Owner. Such a delightful place, why would you want to stay in a condo when you have this incredible Hawaiian home? We are a little picky when it comes to places to stay and we had absolutely no complaints... a dream! I can't stress enough how perfect the location was. We will be back... again and again and again!


Kathryn R.
April 2023
The perfect getaway for our party of 8. We loved everything about the Mermaid House- comfortable and clean with lots of space for the 4 children , sleeping to the sound of the ocean, the short walk to a beautiful beach with the stunning sunrises & sunsets. The cottage itself is charming with something interesting everywhere you look. It is obvious that Jane has taken great care and love to preserve the history of her special home. Jane was approachable , easy to communicate with and answered my questions quickly . The Mermaid House is a peaceful and restorative haven and we will definitely be back. Thank you Jane. With Aloha, the Reid and Demers family


Kelly R.
March 2023
Such a wonderful place to stay, proximity of the ocean is literally steps away, house is perfectly laid out, comfortable and has anything you could ask for. We enjoyed everything this property had to offer including contact with the Owner. Such a delightful place, why would you want to stay in a condo when you have this incredible Hawaiian home? We are a little picky when it comes to places to stay and we had absolutely no complaints... a dream! I can't stress enough how perfect the location was. We will be back... again and again and again!


Kathryn R.
March 2023
The perfect getaway for our party of 8. We loved everything about the Mermaid House- comfortable and clean with lots of space for the 4 children , sleeping to the sound of the ocean, the short walk to a beautiful beach with the stunning sunrises & sunsets. The cottage itself is charming with something interesting everywhere you look. It is obvious that Jane has taken great care and love to preserve the history of her special home. Jane was approachable , easy to communicate with and answered my questions quickly . The Mermaid House is a peaceful and restorative haven and we will definitely be back. Thank you Jane. With Aloha, the Reid and Demers family


Andrew P.
January 2023
Fantastic location, great sleeping to the sounds of the ocean, lots of space to spread out, kids loved the day beds.


Ann W.
January 2023
We are a more introverted family and this place was incredible for our needs. We enjoyed the quick walk to the beach and the overall feel of the house. So glad there are still a few of these more traditional feeling homes on the island. The stroll up the coastline each morning was magical and this side of the island gave us a whole different experience than the rest of it. When we come back again we'll be sure to stay here.


Andrew P.
January 2023
Fantastic location, great sleeping to the sounds of the ocean, lots of space to spread out, kids loved the day beds.


Ann W.
December 2022
We are a more introverted family and this place was incredible for our needs. We enjoyed the quick walk to the beach and the overall feel of the house. So glad there are still a few of these more traditional feeling homes on the island. The stroll up the coastline each morning was magical and this side of the island gave us a whole different experience than the rest of it. When we come back again we'll be sure to stay here.


Anne M.
October 2022
What a treasure this house is, full of history and authenticity. If you are looking for a resort style house, this is not it, thankfully! There are a few of these local style houses left that owners like Jane keep as they were in layout and design, but with up to date amenities of today like a fantastic kitchen. I was here with my adult daughter but could see coming back with a larger group and having plenty of space to lounge and feast on mahi after a day with the sea turtles. I haven’t even mentioned the beach yet-show stopper, the water with more visibility than a pool. If you are a sailor or and kind of water person, you must read about Peggy Slater, yachtswoman extraordinaire, who built this house after one of her many transpacific journeys from Cal-one of them single handed! Thank you Jane for keeping her spirit alive in the home as I imagined her putting that first Mai Tai umbrella up the mainmast! THis place is not to be missed and I will certainly be back. Mahalo nui loa…


Heike K.
October 2022
We absolutely loved it here. The house was very clean and very well stocked with everything one might need on a vacation. Beautiful and tasteful decor- we are very sad to leave (despite going home to beautiful Maui). All thumps up.


Lisa F.
September 2022
The living and dining area are perfect for relaxing and getting away. The kitchen has everything you need. If planning to bbq bring charcoal. We purchased a charcoal chimney and left it so no need for lighter fluid.


Heike K.
September 2022
We absolutely loved it here. The house was very clean and very well stocked with everything one might need on a vacation. Beautiful and tasteful decor- we are very sad to leave (despite going home to beautiful Maui). All thumps up.


Lisa F.
September 2022
The living and dining area are perfect for relaxing and getting away. The kitchen has everything you need. If planning to bbq bring charcoal. We purchased a charcoal chimney and left it so no need for lighter fluid.


Anne M.
August 2022
What a treasure this house is, full of history and authenticity. If you are looking for a resort style house, this is not it, thankfully! There are a few of these local style houses left that owners like Jane keep as they were in layout and design, but with up to date amenities of today like a fantastic kitchen. I was here with my adult daughter but could see coming back with a larger group and having plenty of space to lounge and feast on mahi after a day with the sea turtles. I haven’t even mentioned the beach yet-show stopper, the water with more visibility than a pool. If you are a sailor or and kind of water person, you must read about Peggy Slater, yachtswoman extraordinaire, who built this house after one of her many transpacific journeys from Cal-one of them single handed! Thank you Jane for keeping her spirit alive in the home as I imagined her putting that first Mai Tai umbrella up the mainmast! THis place is not to be missed and I will certainly be back. Mahalo nui loa…


Caroline V.
August 2022
The mermaid house was excellent for our family of four. We loved the easy walk to pristine beaches and snorkeling. The house was all we needed, and, yes, the roosters start early but thats ok- get up and enjoy the sunrise. Mahalo Jane!


Caroline V.
August 2022
The mermaid house was excellent for our family of four. We loved the easy walk to pristine beaches and snorkeling. The house was all we needed, and, yes, the roosters start early but thats ok- get up and enjoy the sunrise. Mahalo Jane!


Thomas S.
June 2022
My husband and I spent 11 nights at the Mermaid House and we enjoyed it very much. The house was exactly as described and as reviewed. If you are looking for a tropical escape from the crowds and the rush of everyday life, then this place is perfect. We've been to Kauai many times, but have always stayed on the south shore. Although we made at least one day trip to the north shore on every previous visit to Kauai, we'd never stayed there. It is very different up north - for us this difference was refreshing. The vibe on the north shore, and even more so toward the end of the road in Haena, is laid back, casual, and quiet. The house was perfect for what we needed - fully equipped, lots of space (both inside and outside), and quaint beyond description in the best way possible. Jane was a pleasure to work with and we had no issues with checkin, payment, etc. There is a coffee house and a restaurant within walking distance, but any other conveniences such as a grocery store will require a drive. For us, the remote location was perfect and I hope the Mermaid House is available the next time we need a similar getaway.


Greg R.
May 2022
Really enjoyed our stay! So close to the beach and the sunsets at Tunnel Beach we’re to die for. As VRBO owners ourselves we appreciated the small details. Loved that the kitchen was very well stocked as we cooked most of our breakfasts and dinners there. Our family enjoyed the relaxing vibe and decor very much while we hung out for hours getting caught up with each other’s lives. So glad we didn’t go with a boring condo! Recommend getting your Haena State Park $5 drive- in passes a month in advance since you are so close. We waited too long and had to buy shuttle tickets at $35 a pop then had to drive back to town to catch it. Park was wonderful though and Ke’ e beach was worth the hike, just beautiful!


Flint B.
May 2022
We loved it here we stayed for 10 days next year we are coming back for at least two weeks. I was worried the home we be to warm with no AC but it’s built for ventilation and the fans keep it cool. You can walk to tunnels beach in 5 minutes. Jane the owner was fantastic to work with. The home was clean the kitchen was well equipped the showers were hot the fridge kept things cool. And did I mention the location!!! We have traveled all over the islands I have stayed places that were bigger newer fancier but I have never stayed somewhere I liked more than this home.


Tanya T.
May 2022
If you want to experience Kauai's fresh air and sleeping in paradise you definitely want to stay at "The Mermaid House". Falling asleep to cool tropical winds and waking up to the songs of birds. And lets not forget the chickens. Steps away from the beach. Shoreline covered in seashells. We spent a good day's time enjoying the water and picking shells. A big Mahalo to Jane for being "old fashioned". An experience I'll never forget. Made lots of new memories and first time memories w/ my growing Ohana. We will definitely have to come and stay again. Also would like to mention the "Opakapaka Restaurant" which is also walking distance from the Mermaid Hale. Food is DELICIOUS!! I highly recommend having dinner there. Everything we ordered was "broke da mouth Ono". Gregg the owner is also very welcoming and friendly With all of that said. I highly recommend staying at The Mermaid Hale.


Bonna J.
April 2022
We were looking for a home that had an authentic feel and local charm on the north side of the island near Hanalei - and the Mermaid House was beyond perfect. We could walk to the Beach to enjoy some time on the sand. The walk to Tunnels Beach is a bit longer, but since there is almost no street parking for this snorkeling area, it was nice to be close enough to walk if we wanted (too bad the one day we set aside for snorkeling, the water was too rough.) The house decor is rustic and charming - and really captures the spirit of the islands. It's an older property, but the appliances have been updated and everything we needed was on hand. The property was clean and comfortable. It's not fancy, but that's not what we wanted. There was plenty of bed space, towels and linens, paper products, etc. The house was also equipped with beach gear - a cooler, beach chairs, boogie boards, snorkels, fins, beach towels, etc. The island breeze coming in through the screened windows was all we needed with the ceiling fans. The street was fairly quiet (except the roosters, but they are an issue everywhere in Kauai). The drive to Hanalei was not too far. Jane was pleasant in all our dealings. We still think about the Mermaid House, and we hope we can return one day.


Meghan H.
April 2022
What a great location- the north shore is so incredible. We had easy access to Tunnels and gorgeous scenery. The house was unique- it felt like a more authentic Hawaiian experience than the new, slick condos and resorts. The downside of all the dark wood is that the place felt dark and we didn’t get all that lovely Hawaiian light. The mattresses and pillows could use an upgrade. The lounge beds/couches in the living room were our favorite part. The house had everything we needed for cooking in and adventuring out.


Rachel Y.
March 2022
Definitely book this place if you are an architect or enjoy history. I can believe our luck in finding this super cool house. There's interesting décor all over the house. It was built for maximum ventilation, with high ceilings & venting between rooms. It was just myself & my spouse at the house, but this place can easily accommodate several couples. The kitchen is well stocked (although bring your own coffee if you want something besides folgers - hit up Kauai coffee company!). There are plenty of bath towels, kitchen towels & beach towels. Nice toiletries as well. Really felt spoiled here. Washer out back is really handy & clothesline is situated just under the roof overhang, so even if it rains, clothes won't get soaked again while drying. Don't bother with dryer - it's Hawaii! Beach is accessible from several spots either way down the road. House was very clean when we arrived. Do keep in mind that with it being an older home & it being in the tropics, you are bound to get a few bugs in the house, although we saw just a few as we made an effort to clean up our crumbs, etc. Just don't freak out if you see an ant. It's just an ant. Be nice to the geckos if you see any, they eat the bugs. Lovely home, can't wait to stay here again.


Julie C.
March 2022
After working in the pandemic for over 2 years, this getaway was priceless. The house is old school Hawaii, away from crowds, away from all.. BUT so close to beautiful beaches. They are stunning. We (me and my three boys 5,7,8 walked to a calm part of the beach everyday and played..) the views are truly beautiful, the beach not crowded at all, the waters crystal clear. It’s a 15 minute drive to hanalei, a one minute walk to the beach and about a 10 minute walk to calmer waters for our kids. There was a cooler and some beach chairs to bring along. The house is plenty roomy with a well appointed kitchen, fans to keep house cool, lots of chickens and even some internet (spotty at times but we didn’t care). This is not a fancy house if you are looking for that, try something different but exactly what we love. Jane was so great to communicate with. . We came to get away from it all and this was truly perfect. My boys want to stay a month, me too:) we will be back!


Diana P.
March 2022
We enjoyed every part of our stay from the house, the 2 minute walk to the beach, the variety of beaches along the Northern Coast, the town of Hanalei, the restaurants, and the locals!!!!


James B.
February 2022
This is such a wonderful place. I guess I should say for the 1% that want only newer things, this place is classic so keep looking. But what a classic it is. Beautiful everything, lovingly made, thoughtfully constructed. I'd live there!


Christopher W.
February 2022
What an enjoyable stay. I try and find Hawaii that is from the past. Low key, easy beach access, no crowds, no hype just sounds of waves and birds, and roosters.


Mary C.
January 2022
We loved this property. Very spacious. Beds comfortable and we loved the kitchen. Kitchen was very spacious and had every kitchen gadget you could imagine. This property was not on the beach but a short walk to the most beautiful beach on the island of Kauai. Would stay here again.


Shannon F.
January 2022
Found the house without any issue, location is perfect. Easy beach access less than a minutes walk. The beds were comfortable, the kitchen equips, and the house is full of charm.


Paolo N.
November 2021
The Mermaid House was beautiful, with traditional Hawaiian-inspired architecture and wonderful details from its original owner. Jane was easy to communicate with and determined to address any issue, however minor. The home is a 3 minute walk from a beautiful stretch of beach. At a time of year when Hanalei and the rest of the island were crowded, we felt alone in paradise :) .


ztjenkins@hotmail.com J.
November 2021
Staying at this house was an amazing experience. This location is so awesome, it's off the beaten path and right beside a great beach. We had an incredible time in Kauai, in large part because of this place.


Donald P.
October 2021
Hostess is very nice and attentive. The place is as advertised - a traditional Hawaiian house and not a luxury unit. Nevertheless very comfortable and peaceful. Easy beach access. Beach is very beautiful, making the place a great value.


Jim M.
October 2021
Great property. Better, cooler and funkier than pictures. We are NOT resort people and spend our days on water and trails. Really felt like we belonged in the neighborhood. So cool! If cool and a Kauai experience that harkens back to Kauai of old this is your place. Will absolutely stay again!


Timothy R.
October 2021
Staying far out on Kauai's north shore is always spectacular. The house is a few short steps from the beach, with plenty of snorkeling opportunity. The house is as described, clean, and a great way to get into the spirit of the place. Jane was super attentive, and called me before, and during the trip to make sure that things were going well, and to keep me apprised of important weather/road construction news (we were there during the road construction in Princeville). I would stay here again, and again, and again!


Huette M.
August 2021
We had a great time here at mermaid house! Thank you Jane for your hospitality! Oakleys


jeanna b.
August 2021
even with the road closures due to the Hanalei landslide, the Mermaid House was perfection! would rent again in a heart beat


Kristen R.
July 2021
Our stay was great - 4 adults, two 17 year olds. We are all water people so spent most of our time swimming at the beach by the house or snorkeling at tunnels. We walked to tunnels daily (15 min) as parking there is non existent.The house itself is fascinating and unique! I also recommend doing your grocery shopping in Lihue or Princeville before you get to Hanalei. The house is well stocked with everything you need to cook and go to the beach.


Janine P.
July 2021
This is a great little find in Haena. The beach is a minute walk away, the house was clean and had everything you could need with great air flow and we loved the two Pune'e's in the living area for mid-day naps. As with any place in Kauai, the roosters will wake you up even before dawn. The owner was lovely, very communicative and accommodating. We would stay there again for sure.

Note: Vacancy calendar is approximate. Visit the owner/manager's reservation site to verify your dates.