November 2023
We absolutely loved our stay. We spent 10 days on the Big Island and had a blast. This was our third VRBO in the area and this was by far our favorite home.
The home is well appointed with anything you might need. Beach towels, beach chairs, pool floats, snorkle gear, etc. The kitchen is extremely well stocked with anything you might need. There’s a brand new grill out back. The sonos sound system and tv’s theoughout were great. 6:00am college football from the hot tub was a great way to start the day.
The house has incredible views all around. Wonderful sunsets. Great views of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualalai.
The home is in a great area in North Kohala. Quiet and chill with lots of activities nearby. We’ve already re-booked for next year. A 10 out of 10 no doubt.
Suzanne F.
October 2023
I can’t properly express how much we loved this vacation and this amazing property! The views will take your breath away from every room and from the beautiful outdoor spaces. The house is thoughtfully maintained and exactly as described. There was plenty of room for our family of five. We all hope to be back soon!
leslie R.
October 2023
This property was perfect. From the beds, linens, kitchen appliances and the outdoor space. We could not have enjoyed it more! Hopefully we will be back one day!
Nancy I.
October 2023
This house is everything and more! The trip was an annual vacation that I take with my two adult sons (ages 27 and 30). We have stayed in many VRBO homes. This one is spectacular!!
We thoroughly enjoyed this home’s many amenities. Beds and rooms were comfy and spacious. The setting was gorgeous from the interior design to the landscaping and infinity pool area. The kitchen was well stocked and we enjoyed the fruit basket. We appreciated the products they provided for us in the bathrooms too!
The home is located conveniently to excellent dining and is in a gated community which made us feel quite safe. On arrival, Sophie greeted us with great tips for fun activities. Thank you, Sophie!!
We all wished we could stay for a month in this relaxing and beautiful home!! I would definitely return.
M'lyssa G.
October 2023
An incredible view! Very comfortable home. Well equipped. Perfect host. Loved our stay!! An hour from Kona two to Hilo. Although, the drive anywhere felt long it was a beautiful ride in every direction. We didn’t want to leave and if the Lord permits we’ll be back there soon.
Kelly M B.
July 2023
The house was everything we dreamed it would be and more. Don't hesitate. Best VRBO stay ever.
July 2023
We have stayed in a number of rented properties and none lived up to the advertisements. This one far exceeded our expectations! The pictures of the house and amenities were compelling but when we got there and actually saw the view, decor, and complete kitchen accessories, we were blown away! The attention to detail was appreciated.
The build quality of the house was excellent and the floor plan to maximize all of the ocean views was spectacular.
We will be back again!
Howard K.
May 2023
We stayed here in April 2023. The property was absolutely spectacular. In addition to the wonderful view of the ocean, the pool, hot tub, and fire pits…the hosts have thoughtfully prepared the property for the many needs you might have. From sunscreen and aloe to pool and beac gear, kitchen gadgets and appliances, to helpful directions and guides. There are lots of different areas to sit and relax, room for many to stay comfortably.
It feels like living in a luxury home, not a rental property.
Highly recommend. This property exceeded our expectations in every way.
Mark Z.
April 2023
Our six-night stay was fantastic. We would have liked to stay longer but the property is popular and booked, for good reason. We agree with the other comments praising the location, views, quiet neighborhood, well-stocked kitchen, bath, laundry, pool/beach supplies, books, music, games, whales (in season) and especially the great property manager, Sophie.
We look forward to staying at this property again.
Kenneth E.
April 2023
If you're considering staying at this house, stop thinking about it and do it, you will not be disappointed. They say "it's the little things that matter" well, the host got this one right.
The house is a little bit of a drive from the airport, but we never tired of the old lava fields on the way there. Once you walk in the front door, you'll be amazed at the open floor plan, the view that extends past the lanai, the infinity pool and on out to the ocean. Our first morning out on the lanai, we watched a very large pod of spinner dolphins swim by and finally on our last day there were three whales that swam by, no more than 50 yards off the beach.
We were greeted by a large welcome basket with Kona coffee, chips, chocolates and a pineapple. Each bathroom had a welcome basket with many personal hygiene items.
We had excursions we wanted to do on the Island, but we contemplated just hanging out at the house, it really is that nice, even the couch was amazing, fall into it and your done for the night.lol
The host also owns a dive and snorkel business and she set us up for the nighttime Manta Ray snorkel, which was the highlight of our trip. We counted 12 Manta Rays that night to include "Big Bertha," a Manta Ray with a 16' wingspan.
I really just want to go on and on about the house, but you truly have to experience it to understand my gratitude and excitement that the host has opened this home up to vacationers. We will definitely book this house again on our next trip.
Stephanie B.
April 2023
I stayed here for a week with my husband, three adult children (19, 23 and 25) and my dad. The house was absolutely perfect for us. There was plenty of room, the outside patio and pool are gorgeous. We saw whales and dolphins right off shore. The last two days of our trip my kids wanted to just stay at the house because they loved it so much. This is probably the best stocked rental I have every stayed out, everything from dishes, to toiletries, beach chairs, pool floats, snorkel gear. You name it they had it! The house sound system was a great feature. There are lots of TV's but we never once watched TV. The views from the master bedroom were extraordinary. The house is in a very quiet neighborhood. The only thing I would be aware of is there are not many restaurants nearby, most nights we drove back to Waikoloa to eat (about 20-25 minutes). Go to Costco when you land, it is close to the airport. We cooked breakfast every day at the house and some lunches. The Seafood Bar and Grill nearby was excellent. We probably had the best poke on the island at the Kawaihae market. Sophie, the property manager was super easy to get ahold of. Everything during our stay was amazing. We can't wait to come back.
Ken H.
February 2023
Villa is exactly as advertised. Ocean views the best. Last week of January visit gave us many whale sightings close by every day. Woke up most mornings to the blow of the whales. House had everything we could want for beach or poolside.
Steven L.
January 2023
When we booked we could tell from the location, the pics, and the previous reviews that we were in for something special. The experience, however, exceeds in every way. The property manager Sophie is outstanding was communicative throughout our stay to make sure any questions were answered and all needs fulfilled. And the house has everything we needed. More than that though, the WHALES!!!! Yes we saw them and yes we HEARD them. We laid on our pool floaties one afternoon while a mom whale taught her little calf breathing, rolling and breaching. For HOURS.
We also snorkeled and fished with Captain Major and the boys from Big Island Shaka on their 26' Scout which was an amazing experience. We booked a snorkel trip but also saw dolphins and cruised slowly amongst the whales multiple times.
10 stars is not enough. Thank you Sophie and the team and we look forward to returning.
Stacey and Dave C.
January 2023
We stayed at the house for 12 days over Christmas and Nee Years. Waking up every morning to spectacular views is a great way to start the day. Everyone loved the pool. There was something for everyone and that made it easy to spend tons of time together as a family. A car is necessary in order to go places and get things but that is true for every place we have ever stayed on the big island. I would definitely recommend
John T.
December 2022
This house is the best vacation rental we have stayed at on the island. While we stayed as a couple, this house could comfortably accommodate a family of 6 or more. The panoramic ocean views and sunsets were fantastic and we were able to see dolphins on several occasions. The infinity pool and spa were also fantastic and we found ourselves spending most of our vacation relaxing in the ample seating around the pool. The house was extremely well-stocked and organized, with lots of extra kitchen, bath, and laundry supplies. We cooked several meals at the house. The stove, oven, and grill were all clean and easy to use. The outdoor TVs and Sonos sound system were great features. The A/C worked well and held a comfortable temperature throughout. Pam and Sophie were very responsive and a pleasure to interact with. We'll definitely be back!
Natasha M.
November 2022
Where to start - the home is AMAZING! Beautifully appointed and situated. Each of the three bedrooms has an en suite bathroom, all had amazing views and were super comfortable. The home has everything you need. My family stayed here for our anniversary celebration. There was a travel crib for our grandaughter and games for the little ones. There were beach chairs and umbrellas for when we ventured out. We loved the sound system in the home and the lighting was an added bonus. Plenty of outdoor seating to view dolphins that swim by almost daily or take in the beautiful sunsets and sunrises. We will certainly be back. Sophie and Pam the property manager /owner were always quick to respond or make helpful recommendations. The neighbors were super friendly as well. Only items to note - the snails are poisonous (don't let little one's touch them). And be sure to follow directions as written (don't put the address in GPS, you'll wind up on the top of the mountain). In all, this is one of the best vacations I've ever experienced. A very special place indeed. We hope to return soon!
Susan P.
October 2022
The house is over the top. The views! The amenities! The patios! Can’t think of anything that we would change! AC in the bedrooms was wonderful! The sound system was fantastic! The pool was spectacular! We will definitely be back!
Philip G.
September 2022
The view and grounds of this property are amazing. The property overlooks the ocean and down the coast and has a south exposure which is perfect. You don’t get the blazing sun in the home all afternoon but do get sun on the pool. The grounds are beautifully landscaped with gorgeous flowering plants everywhere. The lanais are extensive with a pool fire pits and spa with plenty of seating everywhere. The outdoor space is just perfect. The home is decorated in bold decor, which is open to personal taste. It was great for a vacation stay.
Home was well stocked with everything, especially cleaning products soaps and shampoos. Lots of beach stuff in the garage. Master is separated from the other bedrooms. Master has a cool outdoor shower. Guests bedrooms have a nice sitting room of their own.
Only criticism is the home did smell musty and could use a really good deep clean.
Jennifer A.
July 2022
This house is amazing. It looks exactly as it does in the listing. It’s impeccably maintained and is incredibly well stocked. Anything that you might possibly need on The Big Island they have in this house— from flashlights to see the volcano at night to a smoothie machine to every bathroom amenity imaginable. There are also so many TVs in the house (including outside in view of the pool and hot tub) set up with Direct TV and Apple TV. The technology set up here is amazing! The hosts are so receptive and helpful. They made our trip wonderful. I honestly can’t recommend this house enough.
Lindsey K.
April 2022
We have stayed at a lot of different houses on the big island. This one was perfect. The bedrooms were so comfortable. We loved having the pool and outdoor areas, and the location was perfect for us. We wouldn't have changed a thing!
Kevin H.
March 2022
Chose this for a family of 6 vacation - 2 parents + 4 kids over 20. All the reviews are on target - here are our favorites: (1) main Lanai is a hangout spot for any time of the day - we used it heavily!; (2) binoculars (provided) plus the view provided daily opportunity to watch whales and dolphins; (3) SONOS sound system in every main area inside and out allows you to set whatever vibe you want; (4) Kawaihae is off the beaten path and this neighborhood is isolated - no "resort" feel whatsoever; (5) very nice gift basket for us when we arrived with many local food/drink products; (6) if you're comfortable in the water, there is world-class snorkeling that's walkable from the property; (7) ALL of the amenities - pool stuff, beach stuff, cookware, towels, grill, etc, etc.
Thank you Pam and Sophie.
Shannon G.
March 2022
This house was AMAZING! We could HEAR and SEE Whales right off the coast; fin and tail slapping, pulsing and breaching. It was awesome! The pool was PERFECT!!! The outside shower in the master was so divine that I’m going to add one in my next home..
Comfortable beds, nice and plentiful towels, pool toys, beach toys. Kitchen was well-supplied, and a thoughtful basket of Kona coffee beans, pancake mix, fresh pineapple and other delights was very much appreciated.
There were big baskets on each bathroom counter that included not only hair products, but skin products, face masks and all kinds of other amenities.
The property manager, Sophie, was incredible. Very thoughtful, friendly, helpful and gracious..
We loved everything about the home and cannot wait to come back!!!!!
We would give it 10 stars if we could!!!!
Maura N.
March 2022
Incredible experience, the host and assistant were very accommodating. We loved the scenery and pool.
John F.
February 2022
First off, the view from this house is ridiculous. Sure, there's properties in Hawaii with great water views, but to have three mountains (i.e. volcanoes) in the background, as backdrop for the panoramic expanse of ocean --- magnificent. We've made many trips to Maui, always staying in direct oceanfront condo units, with Lanai & Molokai as backdrop, but this was phenomenal. I suppose houses up the mountainside have similar views, but can they hear the surf or see water movement? Dawn was especially regal, when the skies were generally cloudless, with the sun rising behind the mountains; snow could be seen on top Mauna Kea & Mauna Loa, & the observatories were clearly outlined on top of Mauna Kea. The view also included the western coastline of South Kohala, all the way down the coast to just short of the airport. Daily whale activity added to the view.
Of course, the house itself was outstanding, too. The description (& pictures) in the vrbo listing are accurate, so I'll not repeat them. The MBR bed was comfortable (no backaches like at home), there were plenty of plush bath & pool towels, there were books/games/toys in the cabinets, a DVR in the living room (we didn't check the other TVs), a welcoming snack bowl in the kitchen, plenty of leftover condiments in the fridge & pantry, shampoo/conditioner/dishsoap/dishwasher detergent/laundry detergent/fabric softener, pool toys/rafts, & two pair of binoculars. The pool & hot tub were immaculately clean, & well utilized (by all of us). The sliding screen doors (to the lanai) were high-quality heavy-duty doors, yet even our 3-yo could open/close them without a problem. The whole-house Sonos sound system was an especially nice feature - we generally had it on all day, everyday. Playing Hawaiian music while admiring the view was hypnotizing. And finally, the firepits (2) were also a nice touch; sitting around one after sunset was a daily occurrence (tho beware of mosquitoes).
A word about the weather, because I've read (elsewhere, not here) complaints about the brown hillsides from lack of rain (our neighbor said this area averages 8 inches of rain per year). But how can one complain? Except for clouds over the mountains in the afternoon/evening, we had nothing but blue skies every day (eight day stay), & it was never windy. And the neighborhood was beautifully landscaped - a plethora of flowering shrubs & palm trees. The humidity was low (40-50%), & we never once needed the A.C.
Mary H.
February 2022
We loved everything about this beautiful house. It is a fun happy house with the best whale watching views we've ever experienced. The artwork is outstanding and lots of little touches around the house make it special. We were well taken care of by Sophie who made our stay so easy and enjoyable. Totally 5 stars all around.
Ken O.
December 2021
The property is ideally located with outstanding views, gorgeous landscaping, all the amenities provided for a perfect stay. Comfort, beauty, and aloha all inclusive.
helen h.
December 2021
My daughter and I had talked about the first vacation for their baby Lincoln (8 months) had to be to Hawaii! We could not have had a better house, with perfect bedding and toys, and pool, and views! Just the perfect first adventure with him!! Thanks Pamela and Sophie
Julia K.
October 2021
Our family of 9 traveled the big island to celebrate & renew our vows. Pamela & Sophie were quite the hosts. They went above & beyond to make us feel at home, special, and comfortable ... and we did. We loved everything about this home & our stay. The views were epic and decided to renew our vows at their home. That scenery is my new mental picture for mediation. We only had one problem....we didn't want to leave. Thank you both for everything. We all had the best time ever!!! Cheers to 30 years xoxo
kris p.
October 2021
Great trip, perfect house, awesome property manager. Could not have asked for a better stay.
Shea G.
August 2021
Better than the photos. Spectacular property with everything a family could need. Terrific communication with property owner/manager, beautiful welcome baskets on arrival with lovely bath and body products. Stunning ocean views from every angle. Great sunsets. Kitchen had plenty of spices, amal appliances, and cookware although another few (nonstick) skillets would be useful.
Pool was warm and inviting, fire pits were gorgeous, stargazing was perfection. Spa was difficult to get hot which was only real downside.
The surround sound throughout and music area with a lovely piano, ukuleles, and other instruments was amazingly special.
Short drive to a very good fish market and convenience stores, as well as world class restaurants at Hapuna, Mauna Kea, and the Auberge.
Would rent again in a heartbeat.
Neta M.
August 2021
Beautiful house, fabulous pool, best weather on the island! The most restful stay we've had in years. Everything you need is either at the house or a short drive away. Great little market, fish house, burgers, dive shop, and beach within 10 minutes. Pamela is a responsive and friendly host. We will be back!
Allison C.
July 2021
This was a fabulous experience. The house was amazing and host was even more. The house is walkable to the water and is great for a family with all ages. The hostess has the house stocked with everything needed for a beach and pool vacation. Highly recommend this property!!
Erik W.
July 2021
We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful place to spend time in Hawaii. The home was extremely comfortable, fun, and clean. Thanks for an amazing time!
Albert B.
July 2021
This property is spectacular. The views in every direction and interior decor are unmatched among rental properties. The home has a gourmet kitchen and is fully stocked with all the kitchen tools you’ll need to cook and serve the best fresh meals on the island. Our family of eight enjoyed every moment at Whale Tail. Access to Mauna Kea and the Westin Resort was a huge bonus allowing us to chill at the beach with drinks and lunch. Don’t miss the hiking along the shoreline cliffs and hidden beaches on the trail directly behind the property. Pamela and her team were accommodating and very helpful. Recommend a dive trip or two through Big Island Divers. We’ll be back again. This house was the highlight of our 2021 Hawaii vacation.
Jason L.
June 2021
Amazing stay. Beautiful home with incredible views. The owner, Pam, was great to work with and was always quick to respond with an email or text. Already looking forward to our next stay.
Laura P.
April 2019
My husband and I cannot say enough great things about this house. The property is located about 20-30 minutes from the airport and only 5 minutes from the Mauna Kea Beach Resort and the Hapuna Beach Resort where you can rent water toys and have beach service if you'd like.
The home is truly spectacular and the pictures do not do it justice. The furnishings are comfortable and luxurious without being formal. The mattresses in the rooms are fantastic-so comfortable and provide a great night's sleep. Every amenity is available at the home (up to date technology, outdoor TV, indoor and outdoor stereos, hot tub, pool, fire pits with comfortable outdoor furniture). There are so many places to sit with all day views that it is hard to decide where to lounge. During whale season, you can see and hear the whales right from your deck and you will likely see dolphin daily too. The sunsets are breathtaking. The neighborhood itself is lovely with million dollar homes. It is a great place to take daily walks.
The island has so many things to offer for every taste (hiking, beach, fishing, golf, cute art towns, volcano, caves, mountain and observatory). It is a fantastic place to travel with couples or family as there is something for everyone. At the end of an adventurous (or relaxing) day, everyone can meet back at the house and gaze at the million stars in pure luxury. It is so much better than paying the exorbitant prices at the Four Seasons or Mauna Kea.
You have more room and luxury without the crowds.
We plan to come here every year!
Mark J.
April 2019
We had a fantastic time at this incredible home. The Big Island has so much to see, but you might find yourself simply enjoying the fantastic view from the patio for hours on end. Beautifully decorated and meticulously prepared for guests, each bedroom has a stunning view of the ocean with the Kona region and Hualalai Volcano in the background. We really enjoyed all the outdoor living spaces in addition to the beautiful living areas, all with an integrated Sonos sound system with more speakers than you can count....play music from your phone or from services built-in to the system in any combination of rooms/outdoor living areas. Huge kitchen - also with the same great view. The "smart home" features also included Alexa and Phillips Hue lights throughout, so you can ask for the weather, news, or turn lights on/off by voice.
We'll definitely be going back!
Donna J.
April 2019
Wonderful vacation home with plenty of comfortable outside space to enjoy the incredible view. We observed daily whale activity just off shore. The community is gated and very quiet. Short drive to good local restaurants or cook at home in the large well equipped kitchen. This house would be perfect for a family or several couples to enjoy.
Rory B.
April 2019
We had a great stay at this beautiful rental! The views are stunning and we saw whales every day of our stay while we relaxed in the infinity pool and hot tub. The beds are super comfortable and the layout is great for families. The gated community is very well maintained and the landscaping flawless. Close to Waikoloa Village and Hawi with access to lots of great snorkeling sites and beaches away from the traffic and bustle of Kona. Perfect.
Use the "Visit Owner's Website" link to read more reviews from the reservation site, including the latest reviews submitted by recent guests.