|
The Fergusons’s and Garnett’s (Washington D.C. and Jamestown,
Rhode Island)
Thank you so much for sharing your gorgeous house! It was paradise –
both the pool and the ocean view. We learned if you go out to the
wall and look in the surf, you will see many turtles! After about a
week of searching for whales we saw on breach – which was amazing!
The pool is refreshing and nice – especially in the sun. One
recommendation – do the Captain Zodiac snorkeling trip in Kona,
highlight of our trip. Thanks again for everything!
The Ryan's and
the Blake's (Washington State) Thanks for sharing your beautiful
home with us. Everything was wonderful. We had all we needed to make
our stay on this side of the island very memorable. We really
enjoyed the restaurants in Pahoa Town. Made several trips to the
lava flow (great pictures) and local farmer's markets. Saw whales,
sunrises, sunsets and took several dips in the pool. Mahalo!!
The Crowe's
(Rutherfordton, NC) We have once again had a wonderful stay! I hope
we will be able to return again in the next few years. We missed
seeing you during the week. Hope all turns out well. We have
had a great time. Mahalo!
Ed and Judith
Jan 22 - February 5th Williamsburg VA - Thank you so very much for
sharing your special lovely home with us. We thoroughly enjoyed our
time here. We do not know how we are going to be able to sleep back
at home without having the ocean to listen to. We sincerely
appreciate all the very nice amenities you provide - the well
stocked kitchen - such nice cookware. The lemons you shared from
your farm wee fantastic- made lemonade and a lemon pound cake. A
special highlight was seeing whales travel past - Wow! And the
turtles are so very special also! Thanks for suggesting Kaleos - we
had lunch once and appetizers once. Wend to the Farmer's Market
here twice and to the one in Hilo on Wednesdays. Kaleo's pasta with
shrimp, scallops and Mahi Mahi in lobster cream sauce was absolutely
divine! I am definitely "jumping around" but your attention to
detail is obvious and appreciated. Ed snorkeled three times - at hot
pond, on Kona side, and at the Tide Pools where coral was absolutely
beautiful. Ed went on the Lava Hike with a nitive man to the point
where lava was flowing into the ocean. Not an easy hike to do - so
hot he could smell the soles of his shoes burning - But he loved it.
Thanks again for your hospitality - We wish the very best for you.
If you are ever in Williamsburg, VA look us up. PS: The fresh
Hawaiian flowers were a special touch.
Pam & Laurie &
Family (London, Ontario Canada) Thanks so much for helping to
make Pam's 50th birthday trip so very special. Your home is just
beautiful and we were all very comfortable. The whales and turtles
were wonderful to watch every day. We will miss the ocean crashing
into the rocks and we will even miss the frogs. A wonderful ending
to our month here in the islands. Mahalo
Anne, Chuck -
Dennis and MaryAnn (Olympia WA) Where to begin - Your home is
wonderful. We have thoroughly enjoyed our week here. We saw turtles
and whales - awesome - To be able to sit outside on the lanai and
have the whales crashing right there is unbelievable! You have
thought of everything here! Kaleo's in Pahoa is wonderful. A must do
dinner! Drive to the end of 130 - get a tour guide to take us out to
lava flow - amazing! Thank you so much for having this beautiful
home!
Ray and Kathy
(Volcano Village, Hawaii Island) Many beautiful sights - Mahalo
Nui
Keith
and Peggy & Ed and Anna (Aberdeen, Washington) Aloha, Two
couples fro the Pacific Northwest ventured to the Big Island to get
away from the West Coast winter and while here experienced some of
nature's wonders. We arrived on March 1st to sun and wind. Ka Hale
Ma Kahakai was everything and more than expected. now for a little
relaxation...during our two weeks we were privileged to see the
mountain blow off steam & ash, lava flow from its southern fissure,
whales jumping and rolling in front of the house and numerous
turtles feeding. We experienced a spectacular thunder and lightning
storm followed by monsoon rains, and felt the tremors of a 4.8
earthquake. Every night we fell asleep with the gentle sounds of
waves crashing on the rocks and the mating calls of the couqui
frogs. To cap off our adventure we were serenaded by the Tsunami
sirens and forced to evacuate the house at one o'clock in the
morning. We had the pleasure to witness the professionalism of
the local law enforcement and fire personnel that stood vigilant
throughout the ordeal. Luckily Hawaii was spared from any major
damage.
Through it all we got enough sun, enough golf, enough snorkeling and
enough of the local fare to keep us satisfied until
our return.
After all, isn't it just about having enough in life to keep you
satisfied? Thanks for a wonderful house - a wonderful island - and
wonderful memories. Mahalo.
The Schols
(Olympia, WA) I would like to thank you for letting us stay at your
home this past week. My mom and I had a wonderful time on the island
(and staying at the home on some days, watching and listening to the
waves) Thanks again.
Charmaine and
Dave (Guilderland, New Your) We have truly learned
to relax in your beautiful home. Two weeks is the longest vacation
we have taken in YEARS! It was enough time to see some of this plush
rainforest area, explore Kona for a luau and overnight and still
find time to totally chill. The Botanical Gardens and Onemea
Bay was especially enjoyable. My head was spinning trying to take
all the photos I could! If only we lived closer - It's a long flight
to thing about returning. We have many great memories of our trip,
celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary - 9-12-10. This was our
anniversary gift to each other. The best thing we could do! Thanks
for sharing your perfect home! Mahalo and Aloha
Rich and Alice
(Reno, NV) As you are well aware, anticipation ca be more than
reality - in this case reality was way more than anything we had
anticipated. We immediately felt at home when we walked through the
door. It was hard to leave to see and visit the wonders of this
island. It is even harder to leave to go back to Reno and reality.
This is such a paradise setting. Everyone has certain things they
want to do and see. Here are some things we did and you might enjoy:
Kaleo's restaurant in Pahoa, the Tsunami Museum, the hot ponds, go
to the farmer's markets - Hilo is good - the one coming into Pahoa
is very good...There is a French lady cooking crepes when you first
get into the market - don't miss them. If you drive to Kona.
consider doing the Atlantis Submarine ride - it was very unusual.
Enjoy the view, we saw spinner dolphins on morning and turtles every
day. Enjoy the house and the island! Thanks to you, Chris and Stan
Deb and Scott
& Toni and Randy (Land of Lakes, Florida) Thanks so much for
letting us enjoy your wonderful home. Had a great time. Loved the
pool and the sound of the ocean all day and night!
Kim, Molly and
Micah (Harstine Island, Washington) What a find - on Craig's
list! This house was perfect for our stay in Pahoa! Beautiful place
for our friends and family!! Great accommodation and great
price. Would love to come back again someday. Thanks!
The Tannert
and Vasquez Families (Apple Valley, CA) As so many before us
have mentioned, what we expected was not what we experienced. It was
so much more! We cannot thank you enough for the time we have had
here. We leave here rested, calm and relaxed. We did so many things
while we were here, Your maps and info were wonderful! I'd say two
of my favorites were the tide pools and the thermal heated pool.
Both of them were amazing! Go to the tide pools early though!
Mahalo, Stan and Chris!
Carol and
Elton (St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada) A great home. We have
enjoyed the tide pools, thermal pool, lava walk, volcano tour,
botanical gardens, turtles, good food and watching the waves crash
onto the rocks. We packed in quite a bit for 6 days but have
thoroughly enjoyed this side of the island. Mahalo and Aloha!!
Amy, Greg and
Janet & Steve and Anita (Wichita, Kansas) We came from Kansas
and found paradise here. We came to film beautiful spots in nature.
Spots made as only God can. The shot.....1.Ocean - at the breaking
point - don't doubt - have faith 2. Lava Fields - God won't abandon
in desolation 3. Garden of Eden - creation and obedience 4. Volcano
- even a God who gets angry - loves beyond all. Reverend Amy's
messages were in perfect harmony with this beautiful island. Your
home worked out just as we needed, and it was most comfortable. You
provided everything we could ask for. Thank you very much.
Karen and Jay,
(Phoenix, AZ) Loved watching the turtles in your "Ocean backyard".
What a beautiful thing you offer to people so willingly. The
sanctuary you have created in Hawaii makes thoughts, feelings, and
dreams come back to your heart from you head. I wish you God's love
and blessing with your final decision here. My soul feels He will
guide you.
Doug and Darlene (San Diego) Mahalo Chris and
Stan! The location of your beautiful house is perfect! Waves
crashing on the lava, blue sky with amazing tropical clouds, a
breeze to keep us cool, and we saw both the sun rise and sun set
over the ocean. The stars were exceptional and the sound of the
waves helped us to sleep peacefully, We even enjoyed the frog's
song. Watching the Green Sea Turtles in the waves was a true
highlight. Thanks again for the use of your lovely home and all its
fine amenities. We would love to return!
Sharon, Karen, Jean, Lisa, Becky, Nan and Louise (Louisville,
KY) WOW!! What a great place to enjoy our vacation. The sound (and
sight) of the waves was so pleasant to enjoy both day and night. The
house had everything that we needed - awesome amenities. We have
stayed in numerous rentals throughout the US, and this is the best
-by far. Kaleo's (restaurant) was wonderful and we really enjoyed
the drive to the Waipia Valley. (Be sure to stop at the 50's diner
and Tex Drive-In. We truly enjoyed our week on The Big Island!
Ray and Suzanne (New Orleans, LA) The location view and
amenities made the house the perfect vacation spot. What a beautiful
island! Pahoa is a great funky little town. Love that "Moco Loco"
breakfast at the Black Rock Cafe, had a chance to visit The black
sand beaches, rainbow falls, Hilo, Macadamia Nut Factory, The
Volcano, Hawaiian Tropical Botanical Garden (Do not Miss!), Ahalanui
Beach Park, farmer's market's, in Hilo and Pahoa were neat for
shopping and local flavor, Turtles are cool to watch in afternoon,
cool breezes and waves crashing, had a super time and will always
remember this vacation. Mahalo...
The Cole family (Woodinville, WA) Stayed one month....Stan
and Chris - We could not wait to return to your beautiful home. Art
was in heaven being here an entire month, and the rest of our
family was thrilled to enjoy the time that we had. Have to say it
was very difficult to leave the house - especially the first few
days which we spent totally unwinding and catching up on R & R. We
also did see many beautiful sights - one that stands out is the
sunset at Mauna Kea, even though it was freezing!! It was a
joy to see the sea turtles every day - I spent hours trying to get a
good photo! Your home and hospitality are the absolute best - thank
you so much!!
Pete and Laurie (Dayton NV) The best word for this trip and
our stay in your beautiful home is "PERFECT" From the moment I saw
your home online and spoke to you on the phone, I was certain
everything was going to work our perfectly - and it did! The photos
online made this look like a little piece of piece of heaven. Even
at that, we were blown away by the home's design, the views, the
power of the surf crashing against the lava rocks, the refreshing
tropical breezes, the pool, and the enchanting flora and fauna. When
we arrived late Saturday night, you were waiting with a welcome
smile and kind greeting. Unlike many vacations, where you need the
first few days to wind down, we were immediately relaxed. Our life
on the mainland is busy and stressful. Your home gave us a haven to
reconnect with each other and with ourselves. Our spirits are
refreshed and regenerated. Opening your home to people like us is a
gift. Thank you is not enough.
John and Maureen (Trabuco Canyon, CA) Chris thank you for
greeting us and sharing information about your home and the area.
You and Stan designed the perfect oceanfront home. Love all the
decorative touches like the turtle in the tile entry and the
tropical plant wall treatment on the stairway. We enjoyed the drive
near Mekena, the volcanic lava, the Sunday farmer's market, the
turtles, and the lanais with heavenly breezes. We marveled at the
sunrise and were lulled to sleep by the frog's serenade. Our stay on
the Big Island of Hawaii began on the Kona side with 58 friends and
family visiting for our son's wedding. Then we were off to Waikoloa
resorts area. Enjoyed shopping and the Milky Way along with billions
of other stars. Thank you for allowing us to stay in your vacation
home to relax and enjoy the Hilo side. This was an awesome ending
for our trip in paradise.
Kimmy and Karl (Oregon) Loved it here! Greatest bed and pillows.
Slept like a baby. So nice to meet you. I think this has been
my favorite home of all I've stayed in.
Jay and Martha (Irvine, CA) Had a wonderful time!! Mahalo
The Fawazes (California) Thank you for all your hard work and
attention to detail. We will miss your little slice of paradise and
the honu too. Good Luck with everything. Mahalo
The Harts, Hyder's and O'Quinn's (Texas) Had a
wonderful time, just wish we could have stayed longer. We enjoyed
the house and the view. Loved the turtles and the ocean.
Janet and Stephan from Switzerland...
Mary and Michael (Chino, CA) We arrived at this wonderful
place after an unbelievable stressful trip. Over 48 hours, 4
airlines later we arrived here and all the chaos of the past few
days was forgotten. Then house is beautiful situated on the cliff. I
never grew tired with the sound of the ocean!! What a luxury to
drift to sleep and awake to that marvelous sound. We did lots and
lots of exploring in our 8 days that became 6 (after the air plane
problems). Don't miss the beach at Waipio Valley and you need a four
wheel drive to get down there - but it's worth every last penny!
Great experience going to the summit of Mauna Kea - a once and a
lifetime experience. Thanks for a wonderful visit to your beautiful
home.
Dayle and John Yates (Spokane, WA) Loved your house! What a
great setting - Ocean is so calming (relaxing by the pool with a
glass of wine isn't bad either) Explored, ate good food - nothing
better. Thanks so much for your hospitality. Dayle
Loved it. Thanks for sharing. The surf was outstanding, sunrise
beautiful. Thanks again, John
Liz Crane, (Reseda, CA) We had a wonderful stay in your
beautiful home. Thanks!
The Hubeny's (Chicago, IL) To our "hosts", Stan and Chris -
When we booked our vacation to the Big Island, we sought R & R, a
bit of adventure, a bit of culture and knowing/finding out about
"Hawaiian Paradise". No Let Downs! Your home is lovely and very much
a "labor of love" from all the details, the location - peace, surf,
sunrise, home-comforts ~ all add up to a great experience. This was
my haven: we were near to the "country" and still felt very pampered
in the environment. Enjoyed our outings on the East side and seeing
all its beauty ~ so, so distinctly different from Kohala! Being able
to become more immersed in the daily Hawaiian "Life" truly
heightened our appreciation for his state's unique culture and aloha
spirit. Truly appreciate your home, your island, your environment.
Thank you for being part of our wonderful memories of a dream - come
true vacation.
The Hupp Family (Ohio) We can hardly say thank you enough for
the use of your beautiful home during our visit to the Big Island.
We were so comfortable here and just blown away by the beauty
surrounding us. November may not be the best time to visit but it
certainly whetted our appetites to visit again! So many wonderful
places to visit and new things to do and see and taste. We loved
every minute of this vacation. "at home" and away!! Thank you again
- until next time...
Recommended" Sea Quest Snorkel Tour to Captain Cook Bay - best
snorkel trip ever!
Akaka Falls and what's shaken smoothies.
Lava Tree Park, Botanical Gardens, Kilauea, Mauna Kea observatory -
don't miss, Wai Pio Valley - unbelievably beautiful.
Jon and Liz (Napa) Yountville, CA This is our 4th trip to the
Big Island - we've stayed a week one time, a month another. But
we're settled in to the routine - arrive in Kona, get sunburned,
then come to Puna to cool off and soak in the tropical beauty.
That's why we love the Big Island - just keep driving, you'll find
something different.
Best Bits this trip:
- Farmer's Market Hilo - always! Just can't get a bag of starfruit,
Lilikoi, pineapple, papaya and ginormous avocados for $20 back home.
- Punalu'u - We sat on black sand with turtles lolling all around.
- Ahalanui - nothing like a hot bath! Great new find on our list to
do again.
House is beautiful, waves amazing as always! Thanks, Gracias, Mahalo
|
(House by the sea)