Karen W.
May 2023
Great fun! Loved having our own pool and well-provisioned kitchen for breakfasts on the deck. Perfect for our friends' week on the Big Island. Great selection of guide books to help us with our planning. Be sure to check the basement for pool floaties! Thanks for a great stay!
Anne-Marie G.
April 2023
I’ve wanted to stay at The Onion House for 16 years and it did NOT disappoint! Everything about it was magical from the view to how you feel like you’re living in nature with the screens. I LOVED hearing all the birds in the mornings to wake me up. Super close to everything which was great and Jeannie, the caretaker, was phenomenal. Thank you for sharing this home with my family!
Tricia C.
March 2023
We loved Onion House so much. The fantastic architecture and light made the house so calm and welcoming. The pool was the perfect temperature after a hot day. The kitchen was well equipped and the house had everything we could need. The location was great as well. Loved the roosters! I thought that they would be annoying but they were no bother at all and cool to see! Jeanne was so welcoming and wonderful. The only bad part was having to leave!
March 2023
The onion house was amazing !! The view and the landscaping itself is just stunning !! Instead of heading to the beach everyday we spent our time there on the deck and enjoyed the pool. The house was very well stocked when we arrived there. Jeanne the caretaker is a lovely lady. She was easy to communicate with and was a pleasure to meet. For us it was a once in a lifetime experience.
Patti T.
February 2023
Friends told me about their stay at The Onion House. They highly recommended the experience. It was MORE than I expected! Perfect location ... 5 mins from downtown Kona & shopping. I didn't want to leave.
John I.
January 2023
Our second visit. One of the most amazing rental property available anywhere! An architectural masterpiece by San Diego architect Ken Kellogg. Perfectly suited for the environment with complete openness between inside and out. Nicely equipped kitchen, amazing bathes, comfortable beds and a fantastic pool. Can’t wait to return!!!
Ellen H.
January 2023
The online photographs wonderfully show the beauty of the Onion House. I could go on for paragraphs about how delightful and soothing the environment is. But also, the floor plan allowed for wonderful family time together as well as space for individuals to have “down time” alone. This is important when traveling as a family with independent, adult children. The master bathroom had an unusual and not pleasant smell, which I guessed came from the natural lava stone walls. The other bathroom didn’t have the same type of walls or the unpleasant odor. The kitchen is definitely a one (or two) person space! It worked best for us to be in it alone, or to assign one person as the cook at the stove!
January 2023
We had the most amazing time at The Onion House. I have been wanting to stay here for 15 years and finally the timing worked for us. First impression was magical, I have never stayed in a house like this before and I feel it's perfectly stated as "luxury outdoor living". It took us a day or two to adjust to the feeling of living outside with all the screens instead of windows but once we adjusted it was heavenly. We became friends with the geckos living at the house and actually looked for them throughout the day (they stay pretty well hidden). The house felt very tidy and clean, very little bugs considering there isn't much between us and the outside world. We enjoyed listening to the neighborhood roosters chat with each other and the other various birds chatting about. The house is old- built in 1962 and she shows her age in a charming way...I swear I can feel Aunt Dofeen's spirit in every corner of this special house. We CANNOT wait to come back.
KRIS W.
December 2022
I've dreamed of staying here since I discovered it over five years ago. My sister from the mainland was coming and wanted to stay somewhere special, so I booked The Onion House. Unfortunately she cancelled but I not me! I read of it's fascinating history and looked at dozens of photos. However, I was unprepared for the grandeur of the experience. There is so much detail and art in it's construction and it's furnishings that it clearly was, and continues to be, an astonishing labor of love. A craftsmen myself, I was continually intrigued by every thoughtful detail; from cement work to light switches, walls of lava rock and stained glass. There was simply nothing lacking in the house in the way of amenities. Although it's situated in a residential neighborhood, I felt totally alone in the privacy of the house and it's amazingly landscaped yard. I had a few friends over for an outside dinner and it was marvelous. I feel so grateful to have been able to experience myself within the magical embrace of The Onion House ... and I hope to return one day. Many mahalos!!
Scott L.
December 2022
The experience was first class.
Elizabeth (Betsy) M.
November 2022
I am so thankful to have recently enjoyed my second visit to Onion House. Knowing what to expect made this visit even better than the first. This is such a special place, I so look forward to my next visit.
barry s.
October 2022
Wonderful amazing property. Beautiful historic house. Loved staying here and the Island is so beautiful
Rocco A.
September 2022
I found the property to be the most interesting and inspiring property I have ever stayed in. I am an architect and the creativity displayed in this home were beyond expectations. I plan on returning as soon as time allows. I found it to have everything needed to have one of my most memorable vacations. I say this as someone who has travelled the world. I also found the management to be exceptionally helpful with any of our needs. Thank you for the use of your property. Rocco
Katherine F.
August 2022
This was our 2nd time staying at the Onion House and it did not disappoint! This time was just as awesome, if not more awesome, than the first time we stayed 6 years ago. The place is an absolute Polynesian Paradise (not a boring hotel room or condo) and you will have a constant feeling of aloha surrounded by flowers, palms, pool, and the most unique architecture around anywhere! It is even more beautiful than the pictures if that is even possible. Every turn and every time the lighting changes the house and gardens look more spectacular than just before. It is so fun to wake up to the open air with the birds and breeze and glow from the translucent roof and stained glass. Sunset is gorgeous. The pool is unreal. So much fun. Beautiful day and night. We brought our 2 college-aged sons again and they just loved it just as much if not more like they did when they stayed as middle schoolers. They said it feels like a place James Bond would stay and they are right- it's a very cool and sexy house! The trails around the house are fun to explore, like having your own private rain forest. The view from the pool area on all sides is awesome. We are active travelers so we enjoyed a lot of activities on the island. We hiked Polulu Valley, hiked Kileau Iki Trail, did a manta ray night snorkel (very cool), did a day time snorkel to Captain Cook (recommend the company Sea Paradise), snorkeled at Two Step (amazing fish and reef with easy water access), Kahalu'u Beach Park (crowded and hard to get in the water due to rocks, but only 10 minutes from the house and lots of fish), and Punalu'u Black Sand Beach (fascinating snorkeling with the most diverse fish we saw and only place we saw sea turtles), drove to South Point (very windy!), did a tour of Kula Kai Caverns (highly recommend- very educational and different), hiked up the cider cone at Mauna Kea Visitor Center, went to Hilo and saw some waterfalls, hiked Makaula Cloud Forest Trail in Kona (rainforest with lots of ferns), and hiked Ohi'a Trail in Kona (dry through Ohi'a trees). We still had plenty of time to enjoy the house! If you have never been to the Big Island there is so much to do and it doesn't take long to get anywhere so it's easy to explore and enjoy the Onion House at the same time. Everything is immaculate and clean. HIGHLY RECOMMEND staying here- you will never want to stay in a boring hotel or resort again!. We will be back!! Thank you Jeanne for a wonderful stay!
Nancy B.
July 2022
We loved The Onion House! Hope to be back someday.
jennifer l.
May 2022
Definitely not for children
Just like the description-lots of steps and angles and critters
Very relaxing
Elizabeth (Betsy) M.
May 2022
I hesitate to write this review because I want this place all to myself. From the time I pulled into the carport, I was in awe. Having read the background of the Onion House, I have to say Dofeen and Kendrick Kellogg created a space so amazing that absorbs all of your senses. There is so much to take in, I lost all sense of time and day, releasing control to the beauty of the house and grounds. I’m already planning my next visit 🌺. Jeanne provides all information you could ever need, such a bonus welcome to paradise!
Catrina & Richard W.
May 2022
This property is not only met, but exceeded our expectations.
Was close to everything we wanted to do and see. Very private and the most unique structure I we ever experienced. The openness to nature was amazing.
Trish V.
May 2022
It’s hard to put into words how amazing the Onion House is! We have been waiting 2yrs to stay here and it was definitely worth the wait. Location is great, amazing views of the ocean and you cannot beat staying in such a work of art! Everything you need is there and communication is the best I’ve dealt with in a vacation rental. We loved all the writings about the history from the start of the build to it coming back to life. My husband is an architect and he was definitely in awe of the detail and design put into this place. We can’t wait to come back!
Stephanie G.
April 2022
My family and I loved this house, it was like staying in a work of art. Communication and experience was one of the best I’ve ever had. Thank you for sharing your beautiful home with us. We will cherish this.
Tincy G.
April 2022
So glad we stayed here. You discovered something new each day. But needs attention to the security system, some of the furniture and instructions on what to do when it rains so hard that water comes into the house from multiple directions.
Still this minor inconveniences were far out weighed by the house and its story.
Michael K.
April 2022
We enjoy coming back to the Big Island from time to time and we have always stayed at the Onion House. The only first-time, unwelcome event was that the neighbors currently have a couple of roosters - so much for quiet hours.
March 2022
It is a magical property - loved our stay there.
Wini H.
February 2022
We totally enjoyed our stay. Felt like living outdoors but in luxury. Beds were comfortable, shower hot, pool was perfectly situated for great views (if a bit nippy) and the gardens beautiful and wildlife cheerfully noisy😁 👍👍👍👍
Libby G.
February 2022
This historic property is magical. I'm sure back in the day it was even more so. Property boasts beautiful gardens and grounds. They are nice a short walk around the property. Back in the day you can see that there were multiple fountains that are no longer working. The view from the pool area is lovely. The kitchen is definitely only a two person kitchen at most but well appointed with cooking supplies. No amenities such as seasonings or oil. We truly enjoyed our stay. The property is advertised to accomodate 6 people....however extra charges beyond two. Thank you to check something wonderful off of our bucket list!
John & Rose H.
January 2022
This house is amazing! Very unique and eccentric. Everything you need for staying in and cooking is provided - minus the food. The pool and gardens are stunning. We loved how the main house and king en suite bedroom were separate.
Stay here…you won’t regret it!
Kelly H.
January 2022
The Onion House is a truly magical getaway. My parents, brother and our partners (6 people) all stayed for 4 nights. The property is gorgeous - you have a ton of privacy. We absolutely loved hanging by the pool. The hosts were fantastic to communicate with and super helpful and accommodating when we needed anything. Can't thank them enough!
James R.
January 2022
Loved this property. Jeanne was great. Kitchen and bedroom was perfect.
Tim R.
December 2021
The Onion House is a delightfully quirky place to stay. A true indoor/outdoor living experience.
The property was accurately represented in the listing description. The rental agent was prompt and courteous with response to inquiries. The maintenance staff did a wonderful job and kept in contact with us during some very stormy weather displaying a real concern about our comfort. It was a genuine pleasure all around.
Ann W.
December 2021
We were drawn to the Onion House because of its architecture and gigantic private swimming pool. It didn't disappoint. Staying there was like living in a tree house or a giant screened porch -- open air living in total comfort. Birds and geckos made themselves at home in the lush gardens surrounding the house. Each evening, after watching the sun set into the ocean, we enjoyed dinner on the terrace and a swim in the moonlight. Every morning, we awoke to the sound of the neighbor's roosters (!), then tumbled from bed into the pool while coffee was brewing. It was a private oasis in an otherwise busy area of Kailua-Kona. I'll admit it took a few days to get used to the layout of this unique home -- so many stairs where we didn't expect them, yikes! But in the end, the Onion House charmed us all. It's perfect for two couples. Beds are very comfy. Plenty of towels and supplies. The laundry room and washer/dryer are awesome. And the communications with all the folks who care for the house were outstanding. P.S. Bonus: The most wonderful little French restaurant, La Bourgogne, is just a block away!
Jennifer M.
November 2021
I don't know how I can sum up how wonderful this experience was. The house itself is every bit as breathtaking as the pictures. The view is amazing. The house was clean and stocked well enough with cooking supplies and a barbecue grill. We made most of our meals at the house and didn't have any problems.
The house was clean with more than enough pool and beach towels. There is a water filter so no need to stock up on bottled water.
We really appreciated Jeanne taking the time to give us a tour of the house and show us where everything was.
The neighborhood is quiet and very safe, which was great to take in a morning walk. It's only about a 15 minute drive from Kailua town, where most of the restaurants and shopping is located.
There is really amazing snorkeling all within a 25 minute drive of the house. One spot, in particular, Kahalu'u Beach Park is only a 7 minute drive.
My friends and I would definitely stay here again.
anne l.
November 2021
All of us (four sisters) enjoyed the Onion House--the amazing house; gorgeous pool, all the various outdoor and indoor areas, the beautiful plants...we loved it!
James H.
November 2021
Staying at the Onion House was certainly the highlight of our trip to Hawai'i. It is an iconic property that has intrigued me for over 30 years - and I finally got to stay there. The architecture is certainly 'unique.' It is well maintained, has beautiful grounds, and stellar sunset view. November was a perfect time to visit and the weather was very pleasant. The hosting team (Jeannie & Terry) provided the right level of support for the booking and trip without being intrusive.
Birke K.
October 2021
We are completely in love with the Onion House. I admit my expectations were high and I was afraid of being disappointed but the house exceeded all expectations. I’ve stayed in some lovely art houses and eco retreats which were beautiful but short on luxury. The bed in the master bedroom was wonderfully comfortable. The shower was hot. The kitchen seemed very functional (I didn’t cook much). The pool was perfect. I loved the sound of the birds and the sense of seclusion. It felt very private. I’m glad I’ve been to the Big Island many times because I really didn’t want to leave the house once I got there. There were stores and restaurants very close and it’s in a very handy location. I would very much like to return.
Hilary G.
September 2021
Absolutely stunning one of a kind house. A must stay. Would 100% return. Thank you
Robert R.
September 2021
Its a beautiful piece of architecture!
Property needs updating from plumbing, lighting and furniture
outdoor lighting is either unfunctional or nonexistent...
The Rooster's on both sides of the home start crowing before dawn and don't stop till about noon, problem being most of the house is screened in so noises are everywhere...bring earplugs unless you get up before dawn.... Needs outdoor covered sitting area, no place to sit outside during the rain (rains often) patio umbrellas are too small so when you are seated at the outdoor table the rain drains off the umbrella down your back...
Beautiful place but 2 days is a long enough stay!!
David E.
August 2021
I will dream about this house for the rest of my life. It seems impossible to me that this architectural masterpiece and artistic gem is available as an "accommodation". It is a privilege to be a guest here. Mahalo nui loa to everyone who so lovingly maintains it. Our time here was perfect and inspirational.
Sherry F.
August 2021
We have traveled a lot and this by far was one of our best vacations!! Thank you! We will definitely be back!!
Becca R.
June 2021
We had such a lovely time at the onion house! The check in process was very smooth and communication by the owner and property manager was excellent. We loved having our own space and private pool. Far better than staying a hotel in the area!
The house is driving distance from the beach, which was just fine for us but worth noting :) the lack of air conditioning (though noted as having AC on the amenities portion of listing) was barely noticeable as the fans circulate air and the house cools down nicely at night.
Overall we had an excellent time and would 100% stay here again!
Arceli (Sal) S.
June 2021
I’m not sure what I can add that hasn’t already been said but the Onion House truly is the most beautiful combination of the built and natural environments.
Architecture and ocean/sunset views to inspire?
A pool that makes you want to abandon your plans?
A responsive and communicative team should you need it?
check. check. check.
Thank goodness for people like the owners, Terri, Jeanne and the team that maintain this property, who embody the aloha spirit in sharing this special place with the rest of us. I’m already plotting my return.
Use the "Visit Owner's Website" link to read more reviews from the reservation site, including the latest reviews submitted by recent guests.