1 Star -- WARNING: This property management company will take your money and put your family at…read morerisk. We booked a week at Mele Kai (March 11-18) for two families, including kids, one of whom was celebrating a birthday on the island. Nearly $8,000. On March 10, with a massive Kona storm bearing down on Kauai, we reached out to Garden Island Properties to discuss our options. Our VRBO messages went unanswered. Our phone call went unanswered. When we finally got a text response, they told us the rain is what gives Kauai its nickname "The Garden Island" and suggested we bring "a flexible plan and rain gear." We weren't being difficult. We wrote back and told them we weren't opposed to being rained on -- our concern was flooding, loss of power, or being stuck on the island. I asked them directly: "Will my family be safe during this massive storm in your place?" Their response? They told us, "I don't mean to downplay the news coverage, but this is fairly typical winter weather for Kauai." They assured us the rental was "not located in a flood zone." Fairly typical winter weather. Not in a flood zone. Here's what actually happened: The Governor declared a STATE OF EMERGENCY. Roads in Poipu -- the exact neighborhood of this house -- were closed due to flooding. Ho'one Road and Ku'ai Road, right by this property, were shut down. The islands were hit with up to 44 inches of rain and 135-mph winds. Schools and government offices closed. Over 120,000 customers lost power across the state. Beaches were closed under brown water advisories warning of sewage overflow and hazardous bacteria. The Red Cross and Salvation Army mobilized relief efforts. Residents were evacuated into emergency shelters. So much for "fairly typical winter weather." So much for "not in a flood zone." And here's what makes it worse: the forecast they themselves included in their own message showed 90-100% chance of rain with thunderstorms and wind gusts up to 50 mph for EVERY SINGLE DAY of our trip. Their own evidence showed this was not typical. They sent it to us and still told us to come. We never made it to Kauai. We couldn't. It would have been dangerous and irresponsible to bring our families -- our kids -- into that situation. Garden Island Properties refused any refund. VRBO has been contacted twice by phone, was promised a resolution email both times, and as of this writing we've received nothing. $8,000. Gone. For a house we never stepped foot in, on an island we never reached, during a declared state of emergency that the property manager called "fairly typical." This is not a review about the weather. Nobody controls the weather. This is a review about a property management company that had every piece of information -- including their own forecast -- telling them this was a dangerous, historic storm, and they still chose to encourage a family with children to fly into it rather than do the right thing. I asked them point blank if my family would be safe. They couldn't even answer the question. They chose profit over safety. Period. If you are considering booking with Garden Island Properties, understand this: when things go wrong -- and in Hawaii, weather can go very wrong -- this company will not have your back. They will take your money, send you a canned aloha, and wish you luck.

I never leave reviews, but once in a blue moon I do business with a company that's so exceptional,…read moreand whose staff is so above and beyond that I find myself looking for outlets to let others know of my experience. This is the case with the people at Garden Island Properties. A week prior to our departure, we sadly had to cancel our travel to Kauai Island because our daughter was hospitalized. I had already paid in full for our three week rental (60 days prior to our departure date) and I did not purchase insurance. This could have been the end of the story because everyone had already been paid. But, the people at Garden Island Properties worked tirelessly to find another renter so we could recover some of our money. The humanity they showed, and the effort they made on our behalf has made me a loyal customer, and I plan to use them to help me with future rental properties going forth. I will also purchase travel insurance!

We have dealt with this vacation mgmt company for years, and have had nothing but successful…read morecommunication and excellent stays. When the pandemic hit, they worked with us on a unit we had booked in April 2020 to get our vacation rescheduled - twice. Phone calls were returned promptly and they exhibited a great amount of patience with our situation. I highly recommend them

I write this review as a warning to anyone who might be considering doing business with Kauai…read morePacific Real Estate. We rented unit 8233/8234 at Hanalei Bay Resort managed by Kauai Pacific Real Estate this summer and were extremely disappointed in our unit and how we were treated. Our unit had a broken air conditioner, broken floor tiles, broken shower, mold, cockroaches, etc. Additionally, there were some safety issues like hot electrical switches and lack of fire alarms and extinguishers. We paid for and spent 2 weeks in this unit because there was no option for us to move to another unit or find a different rental on short notice. Kauai Pacific Real Estate did nothing to help us during our stay and ultimately seemed dismissive of our concerns. This company took payment for a unit they knew was in disrepair, then acted like they would get it fixed for us, in the end they did absolutely nothing. I have to wonder how many other unsuspecting guests they have treated this way. Kauai is a busy place in July, it's not like we had the option to get another room, move to another resort, or come back another time. We wasted too much of our hard earned vacation time trying to figure things out with this company only to be ignored in the end. Kauai Pacific Real Estate is a predatory rental agency that couldn't care less about your experience once they have your money. They did not care we were uncomfortable, they did not care that we were not receiving the services we paid for. My family spent years of planning and a lot of money on this vacation and unfortunately our time was horribly impacted by the fact that we didn't have a comfortable place to call home and get rest. If you are considering a place to stay or a management company for your property, please take your business elsewhere!

I booked a condo at the Waipouli Beach Resort about 8 months ahead of time. Before booking, I…read morecalled this management company and asked what happens if someone in my family is sick and is not able to travel. The person on the phone told me they would allow us to move our dates if needed. Of course, 2 of my young kids came down with a virus 3 days before my trip, I called to change dates, told them we were flexible, but they would NOT let us change dates. The manager, Sean, told me "All of my staff knows our policy and they would not tell you that." Essentially calling me a liar. They had no compassion or empathy and said "We aren't doing anything wrong, this is our policy." We were going to lose out on $3000 so we ended up still going but it wasn't the easiest or most enjoyable. We also called to request a late checkout the day of leaving but they wouldn't honor that either, 10am sharp. Update: After reading Sean's response, I would like to make it clear he is incorrect in a few details. 1.I did not ask for a cancellation, I wanted to move dates. Prior to booking, I called and the person I spoke to said if I had a sick kid they would be able to move dates. This led me to book, feeling I had insurance from them. 2. I was not upset on the phone when they told me I couldn't late checkout. I told them I understood, but I just wanted to mention on the review that there was no late checkout. 3. I did not have 3 separate people call and threaten them with bad reviews. The other person who called was my mother in law who was going to book with them if they let us change our dates. Even after reading Sean's response, I still feel no empathy from him or the company. I really wish we could have changed dates. This was my 40th birthday, and having to deal with 2 sick kids on vacation was tough. They were not able to enjoy the beach or pool at all. Not to mention, I was shaking and in tears on the phone with him and he just kept saying "this is our policy."

Pros: the condo was super spacious with great amenities…read more Cons: Shawn Allen the manager we have contacted for 4 days with multiple calls made each day and messages left with no return call. We were calling him in regards of a return due to seeing cockroaches in the unit and they were getting into personal items such as shoes and purses. We moved out three days in on a Saturday when we found numerous ones. We took pictures and immediately contacted them to let them know we left the unit. They told me they contacted the pest company and they would be there sometime Tuesday (4 days after us leaving the unit). ADDRESSING TO MY POST AND REPLY MANAGEMENT....yes the property is beautiful and condo. We booked in full in June 23rd. We NEVER received a call back or messages from Manager Shawn Allen since the day we left. We had told them we had many cockroaches in our items. Yes as far as noise from the tenants above us is correct but when we noticed all the cockroaches that was a done deal. We won't stay in a place that we would have the chance of taking them home. I have all the conversations recorded that were sent by text even where they said they had sent out pest control and that was four days after we left the rental. NOBODY SHOULD STAY AND LET COCKROACHES ROAM IN THEIR STUFF AT NO COST. They call customers liars so who would wanna deal with a company like this. I wish I would have read alot more reviews on this company before we booked. We don't want a full refund just a refund for the nights we didn't stay which was 13 nights worth. Own up to your mistakes not make customers the problem. We have visited th Islands for the last 13 years and never had a place with cockroaches.

This is the beach to catch the most amazing sunrises!…read more The sounds of the waves plus the picturesque scenery makes the place ideal.

I wish I could give zero stars…read more Our stay started off on the wrong foot, and unfortunately, it set the tone for the rest of our trip. We checked in, and right away, the room wasn't impressive. There was a strange scent lingering in the air--like something was being covered up with multiple plug-ins. Everything felt dated: the furniture, the decor. The kitchen looked decent with updated appliances, but that was about it. We tried to brush it off and went to the pool (which looked much smaller in person than in the photos), then came back to the room. That's when the real nightmare began. My youngest daughter went to take a shower in one of the bathrooms. Moments later, I hear screaming. I run in and see sewage--yes, actual dark, smelly sewage--coming up from the shower drain. My daughter is crying, I'm shaking, and the stench is overwhelming. We immediately called the front desk, and someone was sent to "unblock" it. I begged the manager to move us to another room due to the smell and potential health hazard, and all he said was: "There are no rooms. You can check out, or stay and we'll send housekeeping." Excuse me? This isn't a spilled drink--they're talking about cleaning up sewage with a mop? I asked if they planned to professionally decontaminate the area, and the answer was no. Just their regular housekeeper. It wasn't until I was clearly desperate--three kids, nighttime, a trip we booked months ago--that they finally offered to send us to their sister hotel for one night. But we'd have to pack up, drive there, then return the next day--basically waste precious time and energy. This was a special occasion trip. We paid extra for an ocean view, and it was supposed to be an anniversary celebration. And to make things worse, nobody seemed to care. The manager responded with a condescending tone like I was overreacting. He actually said, "These things happen once in a blue moon." Okay--then have a plan for when they do! It honestly felt like he thought he was doing me a favor by offering a one-night refund or a small room at a different hotel. No real apology. No accountability. Just a lot of shrugging and gaslighting. We ended up staying, but were only refunded for one night. The second bathroom was out of commission (we didn't feel safe using it), so our whole family had to share one shower for the rest of the trip. The awful smell never fully left the room. Also--the in-unit washer and dryer? The washer smelled horrible, was full of sand, and looked like it had mold in the plastic lining. Just gross. This whole experience left a horrible taste in our mouths. I honestly don't understand how this place is being managed. If the rooms are owned by individuals and managed by this hotel group, do the owners even know how badly things are being handled? What was supposed to be a beautiful anniversary trip with our kids turned into one of the worst travel experiences we've ever had. Stay far, far away from this place!!!

Everything about this cottage is so Aloha but honestly the bed and linens made me feel like a…read morequeen! It was incredibly comfy. Here's my morning around the cottage...

These cottages are adorable and so well maintained. The owners go to great lenghts to make sure…read moreyour stay is fabulous! The location is great, close to many good places to eat and the beach is very close (within walking distance). This is the place to stay and very reasonably priced. Much better then staying at a hotel. Very relaxing and private area. Two thumbs up!

I have had ten transaction on the island of Kauai, all with Robb Wall and the level of service has…read morebeen the same for each one: steadfast and thorough. Robb thinks several steps ahead, anticipates potential issues, and never sugar coats the situation. Real estate transactions are fickle creatures that seem to get crazier in escrow. Robb has always been sure to present realistic scenarios as they might occur, provide problem solving solutions if need be, and provide a realistic sense of how the transaction will turn out. Buying and selling real estate can be an emotional experience and Robb has always done his best to be sure I was informed and prepared as the transactions progressed. Highly recommended.

Robb Wall is a long time resident of Kauai and is very knowledgeable regarding the island and the…read morereal estate here. He is extremely competent and personable. He impressed me over and over again during our buying experience with his vast knowledge and attention to detail. He was attentive and available, and made me laugh, as well. I would highly recommend Robb Wall.

Clean, comfortable rooms in a stunning setting on the Kaua'i coast. I've heard that resorts are no…read morelonger allowed to build so close to the coast, so this is a real gem, especially if you want to get right out on the beach for a beautiful sunrise. The pool area and all the landscaping is especially lovely. All the staff we interacted with were very nice, especially when I lost an item and the front desk gave us a call later for a status update. Parking is easy and convenient, and the Coconut Marketplace with ABC store within walking distance really made this location awesome with easy access to shops, grocery, and food. We really missed the convenience later in the trip at another resort. Downtown Kapaa is also a short drive or walk away. The lack of elevators is a major downside at this location, however. For our party, staying three floors up with no elevators was inconvenient but doable, but for others it could be impossible so please be aware and call ahead if this is an issue for you. I did hear that the resort will be undergoing a renovation soon, and I sincerely hope elevators are a priority.

This is a beautiful resort. You are right on the ocean and if you get up early enough, you can…read moreenjoy the sunrise. They keep everything perfectly neat and clean. You are within walking distance of stores and restaurants. I would definitely return!

Had the most amazing stay at Fern Grotto Inn. It's a very cozy property with different sized guest…read morehouses and cottages. I stayed in CANAL A (Perfect for one person or 2 max). I was welcomed / greeted with a beautiful tropical floral arrangement. There were hibiscus flowers all over the room. The provided me a fresh lei on one of the towel arrangements, that I got to wear around my 1st day there. The place was so immaculate and clean! It was cleaner than my own house! It made me feel so good! Housekeeping prepared a welcome card and note with phone #'s for calls and txts. There was a kauai guidebook on the coffee table. They also had a binder with alot of tips, local recommendations and guides. The mattress is nice and firm, pillows are of a good quality. You will get wonderful sleep there. The plumbing worked well. The hot hot showers were amazing. It is on a removable shower head (just like I have at home) that is so convenient. You do have to take out your own trash, but they provide the trash liners under the bathroom sink. Paul and housekeeping happened to be on site when I arrived. They greeted me so warmly. I was having pain in my knees, and needed help with my luggage. Paul was so kind and helped me out. Cottage A was a charming studio. With a queen sized bed. There is absolutely everything you could need. Paul even prepared 2 beers, 2 water bottles and a box of chocolate in the fridge. It has both a fan and A/C wall unit that works very well! The kitchenette is stocked with everything you could need in terms of appliances, cookware, utensils, houswares, and even tupperware and ziploc bags. The cottage was well stocked with towels, bug spray, sunblock, extra blankets, etc. It was so thoughtful. Oh and the property has free laundry for the guests. They even provide laundry soap. It was outstanding. Such a huge blessing. They even have equipment: kayaking, SUP, ice boxes, beach chairs, beach umbrellas, water shoes, snorkeling equipment, etc. The freezer even has an ice tray and blue ice things to use for your daily picnics on the beach! I property has gorgeous flowers that bloom every day. You will be greeted daily with new orchids, ginger plants, ti leaves, etc. There is even a star fruit tree. Paul showed me how to pick when it's ripe (yellow color). I didn't have to buy fruit, I had so much organic star fruit, it was great! I had an amazing 7 night, 8 day stay. It was so quiet and serene. It's right on the river. Other guests were very nice to me. Every one is pretty quiet and keeps to themselves. It is well located 12 min from the airport. It is on the east side of the island, so you are pretty central to the north and south portions of the island. Nearby is a nice beach within 2 minutes - Lydgate Park. There are chickens everywhere on Kauai. But Paul thought of it all, the room comes with ear plugs. I enjoyed the roosters - it was a pleasant change from city life. I would like to return and stay at the larger cottage - the Ohana house next time! I would recommend this place to anybody looking for a safe, quiet, serene place to enjoy Kauai.

Best place to stay if you want to be centrally located. They provide a home away from home for you…read morewith everything you need. You can even kayak or paddle board right from your backyard on the Wailua River. They have a special personalized touch with all the fine details specific to your stay. Very clean, efficient, and warm home feeling.

We stayed here ten years ago for our fifth anniversary and had a magical time in a lovely unit. All…read morethe convenience of a condo and all the luxury of a hotel. So for our fifteenth anniversary, a return visit seemed like a perfect idea. Boy has it gone downhill. Instead of the daily housekeeping service we had before, there's a $225 cleaning fee you have to pay when you check out (For a two-bedroom condo. Even given Hawaii inflation, that's a level of ridiculous in the hourly rate that's hard to stomach. Also there were muddy handprints on the fridge when we arrived so the cleaners didn't exactly earn the $225 that the people before us paid ). You have to check in at a different property down the road, information that was NOT provided in the confirmation email nor in any signage at the condo. When we did check in, the woman at the front desk of that hotel very excitedly told me that "Because you're staying five nights, we provide you toiletries! (The attached picture indicates said toiletries. All of them. For five people for five nights.) And if you need extra trash bags, you can call us!" Wow. Not sure I can handle such fanciness. There is no WiFi, because apparently we're going on vacation in 2010. There is a coin-operated laundry rather than in-condo laundry. There's one beach chair and some raggedy standard-size bath towels towels that I'm guessing are expected to function as beach towels (because they're a different color and were in a closet) in a condo advertised as sleeping six (luckily we only had five and three were kids since instead of the advertised sofa bed, there was a standard sofa and an air mattress in a closet). Two showers but no tub. The location is great (walking distance to Coconut Marketplace and right on a small, largely private beach) and the condo is a nice size with two lanai (that's why the three stars). Probably it's fantastic if you own here and are customizing your space, but if you're visiting, I'd look at other vacation rentals or maybe try to go directly through the property/owners rather than working through Outrigger, because for what we're paying, it's incredibly disappointing - this is just not presently set up to be a great option for a family on a beach vacation. Outrigger is really not helping their branding with this level of inattention to the kind of details that make an experience special and make you want to come back to a place and recommend it to your friends.