This place is a gem for military families. I didn't even realize that there were military…read moreaccommodations in Kauai, until some friends mentioned it. Luckily, when I called, they had one cottage left, not renovated, oceanside. I took it and thank goodness I did. Location - This is as far as you can go west in Kauai (in civilization) before you hit the State Park and then Napali Coast. Even though it is the furthest point, Kauai is not that big, so don't deter the location from booking. Waimea is about 10 mins away! Also, bonus, our cottage was one of the non-renovated ones so our rate was even cheaper. Score! Pros: - Price can't be beat. - Stand alone cottage and we got ocean front. Our view was the beautiful ocean and the Forbidden Island, The Island of Ni'ihau and the other little island. The sunsets here are gorgeous (we, unfortunately only had one good day as the rest of our vacay, it was raining). - Full Kitchen (microwave, coffee maker, full stocked kitchen), 2 Closed Bedrooms (1 queen in one and 2 Full in the other), Stacked Washer and Dryer, TV, AC - the deck to go out and look at the beautiful sunset or early morning or just going out there to hear the ocean waves crash - the NEX on post has a commissary section in their store. Not a lot to choose from, but that's just Kauai. Cons: - the little bugs are ridiculous at night! Looks like fruit flies and they just get through the screen. During the day is fine. They just love to come out and play at night. - the moaning of the Wedge tailed Shear Water birds. They have started a colony and they are protected. Every time they dig a hole, the military puts up a wooden shelter over it. They just have the weirdest moaning noises and they only do this at night. We thought it was our own kids fussing to go to bed. No, it's those birds. So, this isn't really the PMRF's problem and more their effort to protect these birds! Overall, you can't beat the price and the best view on land of Ni'ihau. Can't get any closer unless you take a boat tour. Also, the convenience of being able to use your benefits of gas station and NEX is a no brainer. Also, this will be another review post, but the on post restaurant Shenanigans had really great food for the price (closed Mons)! We ate there 2 nights as it was right there on post!

The best if you are able to stay here. The prices in this entire state are sky high. Not sure how…read morethe locals survive. The base have less expensive gas but only premium. If you want to save money shop the chain stores, but that hurts the local business, just like where you live. Much of the local stuff comes from China. Local work at the chain stores so it is good and bad. Groceries compared to where we live were doubled or more at local stores and even on the base. Best prices were at Target and Costco because of bulk buying power i.e. Amazon. Base does have a great restaurant. This island does have something you cannot buy, weather, but just prepare for sticker shock and bring plenty of plastic. My thing is to go to the beach, get sun and pick up trash. Some of God's best work so please treated it kindly. MAHALO!

Fantastic. If only I…read morecould give more than 5 stars, because this rental home is off-the-chart awesome. The house is about 3/4 miles down a one lane dirt road. You're in the country here, far removed from hotel/motel tourist-type locations. The house itself is comfortable and inviting. There's a really nice kitchen that is the center of the main dining/family room. It's set up perfectly for relaxing with family or friends. From the lanai you have a view of the verdant hills while hearing the waves crashing at nearby Moloa'a bay. There are two kayaks at the house that you paddle downstream a few hundred yards to the beach. The beach at Moloa'a bay is great. We were there during some big waves, but still could swim there without fear of getting smashed to pieces. During the summer, it's apparently as calm as a swimming pool with good snorkeling. The backyard at Jade Lily is a magical spot, with a giant shade tree and the stream rolling by. There's a big gas grill that we gave a serious work out. The nightly cost for Jade Lily was a screaming deal. Dealing with the very friendly owners was a breeze. Without question, next time I'm in Kauai, I'm going to stay at Jade Lily.

This was our second time to Kauai in 3 years, both times staying in Hanalei. We were thrilled to…read morefind Hanalei Surfboard House for many reasons. 1: The location across the street from the beach, plus a short stroll into town, is the absolute best. We truly didn't need a car this trip, as we spent all of our time in our little heaven of Hanalei. 2: The property was ideal for a relaxing and comfortable stay. We prefer Airbnb situations when we can find them, and this fit the bill perfectly. The entire property was expertly maintained, from the gorgeous exotic grounds, to the care of the interiors, and the structures were without a doubt built with high quality and integrity. 3. Although there is a few suites on site, there is excellent privacy both inside and outside. No noise issues at all. We loved the covered lanais, both front and back. 4. This really could move up to 1, but the bed and the shower were both top notch! Bed and pillows so comfortable, and that's always our biggest issue. The shower had amazing water pressure and got as hot as you wanted it. 5. Simon - he's a gem! We got to meet and chat with him and it's clear, he loves this place and the people who visit.

The best place we've ever stayed in Kauai & one of our most…read morefavorites ! This was almost 10 years ago . This place is absolutely pristine & clean ! Simon the owner of this Amazing Airbnb is simply a gracious host & everything you need for your stay is available. The grounds are kept & very well maintained. We loved all the retro & eclectic decor surround the outdoors & the inside of our Cowgirl suite was eco& retro as well ! We genuinely loved our stay here & were well taken care of by Simon . We did arrive there when there was a tsunami on the way but it was all good & we didn't get hit by the tropical storm fortunately. Simon also offered his upstairs home in case we had to move to higher ground . Simon was Mr. Hospitality ! I know sometime in the near future we will be back again more than likely on our anniversary. Simon also recommended some great places to eat & venture out too . This place is phenomenal so check it out you won't regret! It's own little paradise.

Nice place, excellent location, and we had everything we needed. We'd definitely stay again in the…read morefuture!

I had the opportunity to recently stay at the Hideaway Cove Villas in Poipu. I stayed in the 2…read morebedroom Villa called The Royal Palms Villa. It was absolutely beautiful, well appointed, and had everything I needed to enjoy a comfortable stay and respite. Parking was very easy right in front of the complex. It is located within a nice easy stroll from Brennecke's Beach and Poipu Beach. The Villa itself is the most private in the complex, and surrounded by lush landscaping. The grounds are very clean, immaculate and well-maintained. Trash and recycling receptacles are well hidden but still accessible. Inside the Villa, I was greeted with a pitcher of ice-cold and refreshing fruit juice. It was so delicious, and I'm glad I was able to enjoy it throughout my stay. The 2-bedroom Villa is beautifully furnished with newer kitchen appliances, dining table and chairs, ceiling fans, air conditioners, comfortable sofa and large screen TV, a queen bed in the Master, and a king bed in the second bedroom. There's also a TV monitor in the Masters bedroom. The centerpiece for me was the Jacuzzi hot tub, located in the master bathroom; the master bathroom is not very large, but the jacuzzi tub with rainfall showerhead head was my little slice of Heaven inside the Villa. It was also equipped with BBQ grill, beach chairs, and books to read. I treated myself to an in-room Lomi Lomi massage and facial. Call Vanessa at Garden Island Massage for more information! The innkeepers were not on the premises when I arrived or throughout my stay, as they were away, but they were always very communicative and responsive. Herb especially was very gracious. One suggestion for travelers, book ahead. I recently tried to make another reservation with short notice, and they were sold out. I hope to return one day soon. As a Kamaaina, I feel very welcomed here.

Our week stay at the cocohut was truly amazing! The first thing I want to say is anywhere that…read moreprovides a french press for our morning coffee is going to be first class! We could not be any more pleased with the amenities and comfort that the cocohut provided us. I don't think we ever took one indoor shower, cause the outdoor one was so very cool! We cooked half the time there with the great BBQ they had provided for us to use. Nice having a cooler for day trips to the beach. The owners were so nice and helpful if we ever needed anything. The thick plants and trees provided a very private and secluded feel to the whole place. We often felt like the only people there. I am going tell everyone about how amazing and peaceful this property is. We will definitely stay here again. Thank you so much Tim and Sarah!

We stayed at the cocohut in September 2013 and enjoyed our stay very much. The owners were very…read morefriendly and accommodating. The grounds around the cocohut are lush and the tropical fruit trees on the property were a treat to glean from. The location is conveniently close to most everything on the north shore. We plan on staying at the cocohut on our next visit to Kauai.

What a beautiful home! It was everything we could have wanted and more. Perfectly situated…read morebetween beaches, great amenities, stocked kitchen and linens, great beach toys, etc. Our family had a wonderful time. We will certainly be back. Kauai was gorgeous and the house made us feel like it was our home away from home. We couldn't have asked for anything more! The rental company was great and everything went smoothly. We will be back for sure! ALOHA!

From the owner: Nestled in flourishing tropical landscape within the highly desirable and upscale Poipu Kai Resort,…read morethis single-story spacious 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath Kauai vacation home is uniquely designed for island life. You will enjoy the best of both worlds: the privacy of this superbly appointed vacation home and the availability of the many amenities that comes with staying in a resort.

Hale O Ani provided the backdrop for our honeymoon in Kaua'i. It is a private residence that…read moredefies simple description and the term "vacation rental" does not begin to do it justice. Hale O Ani was designed and built by its owners and neighbors, Faye and Bob, who also operate the business. Their hospitality is unmatched and Hale O Ani is a pure gem. We wanted something different than anonymous 5-start resorts or generic vacation condos, either of which you can find in abundance all across the Hawaiian Islands. We lucked out when we found Hale O Ani. Hale O Ani is a beautiful home with tasteful Asia Pacific design, evoking the sense of a Japanese temple. It's a place of spaciousness, spirit and peace. It is situated in a residential neighborhood of Kalaheo, on a lush hillside surrounded by fruit trees and friendly neighbors who "share the bounty" of their gardens by placing extra fruit into a communal crate to share. Away from the traffic and strip malls, and yet close enough to get anywhere in minutes. For us, visiting Hawaii, and specifically Kauai, has also been about experiencing the lush tropical flavors of this place, and Hale O Ani became an integral element of that. The guavas from the tree right outside the house, the juicy oranges from the neighbors, the richly flavorful papayas from the Farmer's market don't taste the same anywhere else. Our experience of Kaua'i would have been incomplete without the fruit for breakfast every morning. Faye and Bob put so much heart into Hale O Ani, be it her quest to find the perfect Chinese screens as airflow vents above the doors, her attention to sustainably farmed hardwood for the floors, the poster beds, the buddha statue in the yard, the subtle and tasteful lighting, the idea of turning antique Chinese furniture into vanity cabinets for the bathroom sinks, the list goes on and on. Faye has also collected a folder full of resources and tips for visitors to the Islands, and her orientation of things to do and see was first rate. We look forward to our next visit already.

Architectural Digest living... with comforting hosts... in a tropical paradise!…read more Sophisticated tropical ambience in a secluded setting set the tone for a unique vacation get away. The name Hale O Ani should be amended to "Serene House of Gentle Breezes". Tastefully decorated and comfortably relaxing with all the amenities of a private home. The arrangement of freshly cut orchids revived our spirits after a long day of travel. The hot tub/spa soothed our weary bodies. Our hosts brought us freshly picked avocados, peppers and limes from their garden making us feel more like neighbors than paying guests. In a Kukui nut shell... Hale O Ani is the perfect location from which to explore exotic Kauai. Thanks so much, Faye & Bob! Richelle and I value your acquaintance, personal attention, and warmth. Mahalo, friends. We hope our paths again cross...

Aloha! This review is way overdue and is about our lovely experience staying at the Hale Makai in…read morethe Ginger cottage #4 back in May 2019. If you are looking for the perfect getaway, in need of peace, quiet, a place to detach from the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature, the Hale Makai cottages can provide all aspects of relaxation. Nestled in the depths of a tropical paradise you can find this exquisite beach front property with panoramic views of the ocean and as you walk out onto the sand you can witness a magnificent sunrise (am) and sunset (pm). We originally booked our stay in May 2018 however, due to the unforeseen flooding the Hanalei/Haena Area experienced in April 2018 which caused a lot of damage resulting in the closure of many businesses, the Kauai government imposed a strict ban for tourist to not be allowed to rent in areas that were hit hard, this was due to the safety of the tourist. So, Hale Makai cottages offered to re-book our stay the following year once the Kauai government felt it was safe again for tourist to rent and dwell in the Haena area. Susan play such an integral part in rebooking our stay in May 2019. She exhibited superb customer service and was always on point in answering all our questions promptly. We loved our cottage and it was equipped with everything we needed, comfy bed, linens, dishes, oven, stove, utensils, refrigerator, sink, living room, outdoor patio (we used to eat out every morning and night), soak tub, and beautifully smelling soaps and lotions locally made by Aunty Ina. The breeze felt so nice coming through into the cottage and it smelled like plumeria. It's about a 5-minute drive into the hip town of Hanalei and your surrounded by so many beautiful beaches that are not heavily impacted with tourists. When we were there it felt like we had our own private beach. We really enjoyed our stay here, the cottages are immaculate and the grounds are impeccably well maintained, just absolute paradise! Mahalo!

We have been staying at Hale Makai Cottages since 2006. We absolutely LOVE this place.Stayed here…read morein July 2023 & the new ownership does not disappoint! Matt & Chris were so helpful with our stay. The grounds are amazing & cottages located on the best beach. We will be back and look forward to our next trip.

My girlfriend and I had a great stay in Kauai Garden Cottages (KGC) from 9-15 January 2014. We…read morestayed in the Torch Ginger suite, and it was beautiful. We also were fortunate that the second cottage was unoccupied, so the back porch, which is shared by both cottages, we had completely to ourselves. We wanted a place where we could hide away from the more "touristy" spots, and KGC was perfect. Kalaheo is a nice little village that's somewhat "off the beaten path," especially compared to Poipu right down the road. Also, the cottage is less than 10 minutes from the Kalaheo Cafe' and Coffee Company, a great little place where we ate breakfast daily. KGC was reasonably priced, clean and very comfortable. There is a laundry room, an ample supply of towels, both for showers and for the beach. They provide two complimentary beach mats which were very handy. The room has a small refrigerator and a microwave and a coffee pot. (They provide the first day's coffee.) Also, don't forget to look in the nightstand drawers. They have a copy of "The Kauai Underground Guide" which we found very useful. Some things to note. KGC was perfect for us because we didn't want to be in the more heavily populated tourist areas on South Kauai. However, from the front door to Poipu Beach is about a 20-25 minute drive, so if you have a late evening craving for Lappert's Ice Cream (which we did almost nightly), you're looking at about a 40 minute round trip. The wireless internet works great (we were able to stream Netflix with no issues), but the cell coverage is spotty. Also, if you've been to Kauai before, then you know about the chickens and the roosters. You'll hear the roosters crowing bright and early...but I think you'll hear that anywhere on Kauai. Overall, KGC was a great place to spend our vacation. If you're someone that wants to enjoy the beach and outdoor adventures by day, then retire to peace and quiet by night, then Kauai Garden Cottages will be perfect for you. One final thought...I met Thayne on the day before we left. Otherwise, we never saw or heard from the owners. I saw another review where the writer felt there were privacy issues, and I can tell you this is definitely NOT the case. Our room was very private and very quiet. Also, I accidentally left my Kindle behind in the room, and Thayne was kind enough to mail it back to me, even providing a tracking number. We couldn't be happier with our experience with Kauai Garden Cottages.

Our family stayed in the Torch and Orchid suites for three nights and they were wonderful. The…read morelocation was secluded enough to make us feel like we were far away from tourists, yet a short drive to all of the highlights on the south side of the island. We were greeted by the friendly owners who offered great tips about where to eat and what to see close by. Unlike Ashley B's nasty review, the owners were not intrusive whatsoever. It actually felt comforting to know someone was nearby to make sure nobody broke into the place while we were away. The patio was a great feature. Very serene and beautiful, BUT - the freakin' rooster should be on KFC's next dinner menu. Damn thing started crowing at 4:30 am. Kauai is inundated with the birds, almost to the point of being a plague. Bring a slingshot. The downsides: -No TV (kids were a little disappointed, but we were out most of the day anyway.) -WiFi was a little touch and go and we had no internet on one of the days. -No hair dryers (wife and daughter weren't too happy about that.) -Lighting was not adequate at night, even with all the lamps and overheads turned on. Despite the minor downsides, we had a great time and would recommend Kauai Garden Cottages to our friends and family. Mahalo & Aloha.