June 2025
Our recent stay at Villa Makai was genuinely unforgettable and one of the best lodging choices we've made while visiting Hawai'i. Tucked right between the Marriott and Hilton on A-Bay, it offered a noticeably more serene, spacious, and scenic environment — without the hefty resort price tag. If you're traveling with family or just appreciate a quiet morning with your coffee, this place is perfect.What really stood out was the balance it struck — private and peaceful, yet perfectly positioned. Within minutes, we were walking to the pool/hot tub, the Lava Lava Beach Club for sunset cocktails and dinner, or grabbing coffee and shopping at the nearby shops. The beach access was super easy and we actually swam with a sea turtle right out front in A-Bay. The Villa itself was spotless and well equipped. The host was incredibly responsive, thoughtful, and made everything easy from the moment we booked. One unexpected perk was the garage parking and storage — loaded with everything we needed for a perfect beach day: chairs, snorkel gear, etc.We also took advantage of the Hilton day passes that came with the stay, which was a fantastic bonus. The lagoon there was perfect to snorkel and spot more turtles.If you're trying to decide between staying at one of the big-name hotels or booking something a bit more peaceful, don’t overthink it — Villa Makai wins hands-down for value, comfort, and location. We’re already dreaming about coming back!
Ben C.
June 2025
As described! Very nice
Joy S.
June 2025
Chrystal was very responsive
Corey D.
April 2025
Great place. Clean, comfortable, easy access to pool, beach, shops. The complex pool is nice and a good alternative to busier, noisier resort pools and has a view of A-Bay.We also used the included Hilton pool pass and it worked with no issues.Included towels and beach supplies were super convenient.
Megan J.
April 2025
I stayed in the condo with my husband and friend. It was perfect. Each bedroom had its own bathroom and the lanai had a partial view of the beach. It was clean, spacious, comfortable and perfect in every way. The host was communicative and quick to respond with any questions. The beach is so close to the condo and there were great food options which were also walkable. And it was also super close to Hapuna Beach and many great towns on the northwest part of the island. We would stay here again in a heartbeat.
Melanie E.
March 2025
Such a beautiful & clean resort grounds & condo. Lovely view from this condo’s lanai, Kolea’s beach club & down at the beach at A Bay as well. We stayed in a different condo & loved this complex so much last year. We could not wait to return this year.We still had a lovely two week stay this year; however, because of the vog that drifted here to Waikoloa (from the smoldering volcano, Kilauea), I was disappointed I could not enjoy being outside as much at Kolea this year.
April S.
March 2025
Unit was super clean and very well appointed and stocked. “A” beach within walking distance. All beautiful.
Lynne H.
February 2025
Our stay in this beautiful condo was almost perfect. The unit itself is absolutely beautiful, and is stocked with just about everything you could possibly need. From just about any dish or appliance to fully stocked spices and condiments and bathroom toiletries there really isn’t much left out. The pictures listed are true to life and up to date and there wasn’t a speck of dirt anywhere. Most of the check in instructions and information were absolutely clear and easy to follow - however we had a small issue with the thermostat and it took several days to resolve that. When you’re in the unit you don’t have full control over the temperature- they don’t want the temp to be set below 72 which we were totally fine with, but the settings kept causing the a/c to shut off at night and the temperature would go up and made it very stuffy in there. We tried communicating with the property manager, asking for the temp to be set to 73 degrees from 10 pm until 7 am (we had only limited control of the thermostat), and after more than a few messages back and forth with limited responses, it seemed to be resolved. The pool area was very nice, with an infinity pool and very large hot tub, comfy beach chairs and plenty of big clean towns. It never got too crowded while we were there. Tried leaving more info but apparently there’s a limit on how much I can write! \_(ツ)_/
Janet S.
December 2024
Great property - excellent unit. The Condo had everything we needed to enjoy our stay. We took advantage of the Hilton pass and visited the property pool and beaches daily. Close to everything. Would definitely consider returning for a future stay. Mahalo!
John K.
November 2024
Wonderful condo. Wonderful location. Excellent access to beach club, nearby hotels.
Leslie F.
October 2024
We have nothing but positive things to say about our experience. Location was great - loved the beach and pool as well as the natural ponds. Loved having access to golf and the Hilton. Everything you need is right there- restaurants, groceries and shopping. The condo was perfect. Nice size, well maintained and had everything you needed.
Laura S.
September 2024
Wonderful property! It is everything and more than in the listing. We had 2 couples and the location was perfect with access to the only sandy beach in the area and walking distance to stores, restaurants and the Hilton. Beautiful condo with everything you need. Will stay there again!
Thank you.
Blaire M.
August 2024
We loved this home and the location. Chrystal was so responsive and helpful. The location was perfect and the space had everything we needed. We loved sunsets on the porch and the accessibility to the beach. We can’t wait to return!
Catherine C.
July 2024
Amazing location and condo. We had everything we needed for our family and easy access to the beach. The Hilton pass was perfect for us to meet up with family at the hotel. Overall an amazing stay and would come back again in a heartbeat.
Michael H.
June 2024
The location is great. Very short walk to pool, beach and restaurants
Erica M.
May 2024
We thoroughly enjoyed our time at this beautiful Kolea condo. The location is excellent, so close to A Bay and Lava Lava Beach Club and a short drive from Hapuna Beach. Chrystal was great to communicate with. We would love to come back!
Carol C.
April 2024
It was fantastic. The unit has everything you might need and more. Loved that they had basic condiments. Three coffee makers. We really enjoyed the green turtles,we saw some everyday. Lovely hotels. It was an amazing vacation.
Jocelyn P.
April 2024
This property absolutely lives up to the beautiful photos and 5 star reviews - spacious, clean, very well located within the Kolea community and the Waikoloa area. We loved it and will recommend it to family and friends!
Ilse L.
April 2024
We had an amazing week here! Our family (with 9 & 12 year old kids) loved the Kolea pool, A-bay, exploring the Hilton (the kids loved that we could use the pools and water slides) and visiting local beaches. The condo has towels, beach chairs, umbrellas, boogie boards, snorkel gear (including kid’s size), coolers - everything you need for a fabulous beach day. The condo itself is clean and beautiful, with everything you need to grill or cook. We loved early morning coffee on the deck. The host was welcoming and very easy to work with. We’ll stay here again!
Bryan p.
March 2024
This condo was beautiful, clean, spacious and had all the amenities (and more) that we needed. The host exceeded my expectations for responses to my questions before and during our stay. I appreciate places like this that have recycling available. I would stay here again in a heartbeat.
Ashlie S.
February 2024
We had just a couple of days here, but we wish we could have extended it to a full week! The property was absolutely beautiful, well appointed, comfortable, and had a very happy vibe! The location was also super convenient to the pool and clubhouse as well as the beach. The owners were incredibly responsive and helpful, and the check-in and checkout process could not have been easier! We loved every minute and can’t wait to come back! Mahalo, Chrystal!
Karen H.
February 2024
The condo is beautiful and well-equipped. Some ocean views and the sun set in the right spot so we could view it from the second story patio. Close location to the community pool, which has a view of the ocean. Walking distance to restaurants and stores. Also, great selection of beach chairs and toys which we used when we drove to other local beaches. We would happily stay here again.
Brent W.
January 2024
This property has it all. It is beautifully decorated, fully equipped, and a 2 minute walk to the pool and to A Bay. We have stayed in many VRBO rentals and this one is by far in a class all by itself. The owner had everything we could possibly need. She has plenty of dishwasher detergent, soap, paper products, plastic ziplock bags, service ware, kitchen appliances, basically anything you need. K cups were provided but there is also a Cuisinart coffee maker and expresso maker. There are 4 beach chairs, a collapsible wagon, two beach umbrellas, and plenty of wave boards and snorkeling equipment. In reality all you need to bring is food and clothes. The owner was quick to respond to my questions. The complex is gated and a 5-10 minute walk to shops, restaurants, and the Hilton. Access to the Hilton was a definite plus but we only used it one day because there is so much of the island to see. This rental is a 10 minute drive to Hapuna Beach. There is a black sand beach nearby. Golf is also close. The airport was 20 min away. I cannot give this place enough accolades other than to say we will stay here again when we return to Hawaii. If this review doesn’t convince you to rent this unit then you are missing a truly amazing place. Mahalo!
Caroline L.
October 2023
We enjoyed 2 weeks at Chrystal’s well-equipped unit. She has thought of everything to make one’s stay comfortable- coffee to welcome guests, beach towels and beach amenities, snorkel gear and picnic coolers etc. The apartment is beautiful and well appointed. Close to shops and restaurants and to the pool and beach to watch the sunset. Chrystal was very quick to respond with any question we had to ensure we enjoyed our stay to the most. I couldn’t recommend this more.
Reave S.
October 2023
We stayed for a week for our honeymoon and it was the perfect location! Almost directly on the beach and right next to the pool. Short walk/drive to shops and food and various beaches on the Kona coast. Not to mention being a high end place in and of itself. Highly recommend!
Robert R.
October 2023
We enjoyed tour stay thoroughly. The new owner is very communicative and was available when needed. The condo is beautiful, well stocked, and the surrounding grounds are beautiful. Highly recommend.
Dan K.
July 2023
Well kept property in a great complex with beautiful grounds and nice amenities. Super close to the beach, hotels and shops. Highly recommend.
Andrea A.
July 2023
We had a weird situation with renting this condo, but it all worked out in the end. I had reserved this condo when it was under the ownership of the previous owner (some of my questions went unanswered several months ago). About a week before we were supposed to check in, my reservation was cancelled since the property was being sold to a new owner and I was instructed to rebook under the listing for the new owner. There were some complications with getting rebooked, but in the end, it all worked out. Once I had the info from the new owner, everything went smoothly. The new owner and the property manager promptly responded to my questions. In the end, we had a really wonderful time (though I sure had some stress about a week before we got there). The condo is really large, has very nice furnishings, and had virtually everything we needed for our stay there. There were plenty of towels, paper products, laundry detergent, and dishwasher detergent. There were two coffee makers (with coffee) and spices (but no condiments, so buy those if you want some). It also is really well-equipped with everything you need for the beach (6 beach towels, beach chairs, snorkels and masks, beach bags, and some other toys). We had trouble getting the gas grill to work, but the owner said she'd look into it. We loved sitting out on the lanai for our meals and coffee in the morning. Overall, once the reservation situation was resolved, we had a really wonderful time and would definitely come back.
Matthew C.
June 2023
Overall we had a great stay. The property was very nice--spacious and clean with all the amenities promised in the listing. The beach club has a nice pool and beach access, which we used. We also took advantage of the included passes for the neighboring Hilton resort pool: this sprawling complex is impressive and the kids loved it. I loved being able to enjoy it for a few hours then leave the crowds and noise behind to return to my quiet condo!
A few negatives:
Communication with the owner was sketchy. Her email with the check-in instructions landed (unbeknownst to me) in my junk folder. Not knowing this I tried messaging her through VRBO and calling her number (listed on VRBO) the morning we were going to arrive. No response. As I'm writing this almost a week later, she hasn't responded. Fortunately, I found the email while waiting at the airport in Maui, so no harm there.
I also messaged her about the location of the condo's beach chairs and boogie boards. Again, no response.
Finally, it took me a solid three days to memorize the seven-digit code to open our front door. Does it really need to be seven digits?
Nevertheless, I'd stay at this condo again in a heartbeat.
Jodi B.
March 2023
What a beautiful week we had in Kolea! The property was amazing- clean, well stocked and comfortable. It was great to have toilet paper, shampoo, conditioner and soap all included! The kitchen had everything you could want to cook any meal. The beds were incredibly comfortable including the sofa bed! We were a little leery about booking an entire week for 5 in a two bedroom condo but the space was plenty! The pool had a malfunction halfway through our trip but it wasn’t even a problem since the beach was so close and we had access to the Hilton which we went to twice and the kids enjoyed thoroughly! Close to shops and a fantastic coffee shop! Peggy answered all our questions quickly. We had a little snafu w vrbo not getting us the check-in info but a call to Peggy solved it immediately and didn’t hold us back for a second. We arrived early and we’re directed to talk to Lindsay (cleaning crew) about checking in early. She let us drop our bags and even got us in to the condo an hour early! Definitely a week to remember!
Sylvia R.
February 2023
Very clean condo in good condition. Close to pool and beautiful beach with nice gear available for use. We did have issue with elevator not working at crucial times and reported. Also issues with Internet access; however owner and her assistant very responsive to help resolve. Would be helpful get info a little sooner but all went ok.
Aileen M.
January 2023
We had a truly fantastic stay at Peggy's property at Kolea -- it was so great that we booked our return visit before we left! Peggy's service was 5-star from the very beginning. She sent access information several days before our visit, and called me to ensure we'd received them and that the condo would be set up to suit our preferences. When we arrived, the condo was exactly as advertised, if not better. It is a short walk from A-Bay beach and very close to the complex's pool. The location is great -- you have everything you need within a short walk. The condo itself is as clean and comfortable as a hotel (e.g., comfortable beds, top-quality linens, spotless cleaning), with all the additional comforts you expect from a condo (every appliance, utensil, laundry, etc.). We made great use of the well-stocked activity closet -- with beach toys for the kids, coolers, beach towels, everything you could need -- and appreciated the extra touches like beer in the fridge upon arrival. We've stayed in many VRBOs and this one was top-notch. Mahalo, Peggy! We look forward to our next stay on the Big Island in 9E!
Mike W.
December 2022
The unit was a nice as listed. However basic communication was very challenging. I would definitely avoid booking with her again due to that. We were within hours of check in and still had not received checkin info or anything from properly/rental manager. We attempted via the app, calls and texts - no reply. Finally VRBO stalked her down and got us the info. We then finally checked in to a nice unit and reached out to manager again with a question - never heard back at all. Nice unit but there were serval others in same complex available - I’d book with one of those where communication could be more standard and not a crazy chase for basic info.
Callie L.
October 2022
The property itself was wonderful—except we didn't have hot water in either shower and the host failed to respond about fixing it. Response time was about 24-36 hours each time, and she just didn't respond sometimes. Luckily it was summer in Hawaii, so we powered through, but it was not pleasant to take cold showers.
She also didn't send check-in information, even after I reminded her 24 hours before, until I texted her as I was getting on the plane from the mainland, very stressed that we had never once heard from her.
She finally replied, and said she was having email issues, but VRBO is also a website, and an app, so it was frustrating to hear the excuses of email being broken as a reason why she didn't provide us check-in info in a timely manner. With the hot water issue, we texted her instead since she said her email was broken, and she still barely responded and never fixed the issue.
Susan J.
October 2022
Small but very clean.
Danny L.
August 2022
Next to pool, beach, and snorkeling. We used BBQ on patio almost every night and had dinners on patio. Very comfortable beds!
Edward L.
August 2022
Beautiful property, well appointed, beach equipment a plus.
Jeff G.
August 2022
Property is very well maintaned. Check-in was super easy, the unit looked exactly like the pictures and had a nice assortment of kitchen, grill, beach, pool, etc items for use. The communication with the host was excellent before our visit and we had no need to contact her during our stay.
The unit is very well located about 2 minutes from the pool and A-Bay beach and a ten minute walk to the King/Queen shops. Also, it's a quick drive into town or to other great beaches in the area.
We would aboslutely stay here or at any other property owned by the host without hesitation.
MACHIKO U.
August 2022
We hope to be back next year. Mahalo!
kendall eric s.
July 2022
Smooth from start to finish. Great facilities, lovely and beautiful inside and out. The pool and beach access as well as the Hilton access was phenomenal! The toaster oven was the only flaw. I’d come here and will come here again! Mahalo nui nui! Eric & Joy
Melisa T.
June 2022
A wonderful place to stay in Waikoloa. The condo was beautiful, the location perfect and we thoroughly enjoyed our week at Kolea. The kitchen had everything we needed and the equipment in the recreation closest made our trip to the beach even more enjoyable. My family and I highly recommend staying here.
Jiyun L.
June 2022
This was our second time and once again, the place was perfect. Clean, well-equipped, conveniently located. We hope to come back again!
Lisa Z.
May 2022
Our family of 4 (kids 4 & 6) had a great time at this property. We have stayed in many properties over the years and this was one of the best! It was so clean, the kitchen was fully stocked with pots, pans, spices, multiple coffee maker options, plenty of towels, beach gear etc. The location was also excellent! Super close to the pool and A-Bay. You also have access to the Hilton pools & waterslides which our kids loved!
This was one of the best vacations we have ever been on and we will be back to stay at this condo again!
Jamie B.
May 2022
My husband, my 3 teenage kids and I stayed at this beautiful condo located in perfect location. condo was very clean and had everything we needed to make our stay comfortable.
The condo was close walking distance to pool area, which provided a connection gate allowing us access right on the beach. Which was very convenient as w our goal was just to lounge and relax and at the pool and beach. It was great!
peggy was very friendly and made booking easy. We would definitely recommend this property and hopefully will be back to stay again.
Thank you for having us!
Aloha The Baxter’s
Jesse A.
April 2022
The condo was really nice. Walking distance for family to beach and pool. if your looking for a place to relax and chill this is it!
Kristen C.
April 2022
We lucked out and booked this condo last minute for our last 2 nights on the big island. Our only regret is not booking it for our entire trip. The condo is gorgeous, incredibly comfortable and so well stocked. The walk to the beach or pool is so easy and we had everything we needed for a great beach day from the condo. The property and Waikoloa area can’t be beat in terms of beauty and weather. This is our favorite rental we have stayed out in all of our travels and will absolutely be booking it again for our full trip when we return to the big island!
Ronald R.
October 2021
This beautiful condo is in in a spectacular location. All I can say is WOW! The condo was spotless and better than advertised. It is just a short walk from the beach. Every morning of our week stay, my wife and I made the short walk, strolled just passed the Lava Lava Beach Club (which has a wonderful restaurant right on the beach) and snorkled with the colorful reef fish and friendly Hawaiian Green Trurtles. The condo is fully equipped with great beach gear. The kitchen is well stocked with everything but the food. The beds were the most comfortable I’ve experienced in a rental. I would trade the master king bed for mine at home! I highly recommend this unit and we will plan on returning as soon as we can.
Daniel H. K.
October 2021
We had a truly wonderful time at Kolea Beach condos. The unit was beautiful with all the "mod cons" and then some. Really, you could not ask for much more. Beautiful 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo decorated in great taste and style, located practically on A bay beach (just a short 50 feet walk from the swimming pool). Cold beer in the fridge on arrival, plethora of coffee making devices and ingredients, etc. The pool was really lovely and we found ourselves going back and forth from the beach to pool regularly. Highly recommend!!
Valerie F.
October 2021
It was everything Peggy said loved all the
Extras she even welcomed us with a box of chocolate Mac nuts. The master was big with a soaking tub. Sunsets were amazing would go again and again ! ❤️🏝
Timothy M.
September 2021
We were more than satisfied with our stay at this unit this past week. The location is excellent , in a private, gated resort. The The lush landscape, easy walking paths to great shopping, including a grocery store, restaurants, and a beach you can swim at (not on the lava rocks), were all added bonuses. Lava Lava Beach Club was a fun place to dine, and right on the beach near the unit! The infinity pool was refreshing and not crowded (when we were there). The unit itself had many amenities to make your trip easy, including beach chairs and snorkeling gear, 3 types of coffee makers, coolers and boogie boards! We ate breakfast and dinner out on the covered balcony, and enjoyed the views of the flowers and tropical birds. The bedrooms were nicely decored and the beds were super comfortable, which was a welcome surprise! We enjoyed having the extra large pool towels also! The carport was really nice for the car, so it was not so hot when we had to get in it. The location was excellent for going to the pretty beaches, not too far from the airport, and for exploring the North Side of the Island. If you go to Volcanoes National Park, it is about 2 hour drive there, so leave early! The building has an elevator also, which is useful when carrying up groceries or luggage. The unit was very quiet, however, this is during Covid restrictions, so perhaps the resort property had low occupancy at the time. The air conditioning was a very welcome feature, since it does not cool down a lot at night and the humidity can make it uncomfortable without AC. We chose this unit over going to a resort hotel, wanting to be able to cook and have meals in the room in case restaurants were shut down, and we felt we got a far greater value and experience! We would stay here again!
Carrie C.
September 2021
Peggy’s condo was exceptionally clean and looked just like the photos. Great location, easy check-in, quiet area and within easy walking distance to shops and restaurants. All in all a fantastic stay!
Mike M.
September 2021
From the time I made the reservation through check out Peggy was always a text or call away. The condo is perfect for a family with 2 large bedrooms and baths. The location is central to all that Kolea has to offer and is conveniently located near the Kings and Queens Shops.
The condo has everything you need to make your own meals and has a BBQ to boot.
I highly recommend this condo if you are looking for a base for your Big Island vacation!
caridad A.
September 2021
Spectacular
Suzanne M.
August 2021
It was so nice to enter the air conditioned condo after a long hot day of traveling. Everything was clean and set up for our arrival just as described. Our favorite thing was the lanai, which was heaven on a breezy morning or evening. The grill worked great and we made the yummiest burgers using the tastiest ground beef we bought from the Island Gourmet in the Queens Marketplace (just a short walk from the condo). We also thought it was so cool that we could walk to Lava Lava Beach Club. We found that if we went down around 4:30pm we had a shorter wait and also allowed for a view of the sunset. We were also able to see the pretty lights of the Lava Lava from our lanai. The jacuzzi is spacious and has great views of the fish pond and beach. You can even catch a glimpse of the Marriott luau from the jacuzzi on certain nights which adds a great ambiance. If it is not too windy the pool area will be lit up with torches at night. So fun! All of the best beaches are so close to the condo... Hapuna (hot and sunny with nice waves) and Beach 69 (calm, more shade and fun snorkeling). I recommend leaving for the beaches early, around 8:30/9:00 so you can snag a good spot. But A Bay beach, right out front of the condo holds a special place in our hearts. Sometimes you can see turtles here which is amazing. We watched the sunset every night there. It was breath taking! It can get windy down there sometimes so if there is a calm night plan to take family photos then. : ) For shave ice you can just walk to OBISIC in the Kings Marketplace. It is out of this world good! We will definitely be coming back to Kolea Resort again. If you are able to book condo 9E do it! You won't be disappointed.
Use the "Visit Owner's Website" link to read more reviews from the reservation site, including the latest reviews submitted by recent guests.