The home was well-equipped, clean and comfortable. The area was quiet and set apart. Loved being on the beach -- calm waters, good snorkeling, great views of breaching whales. If one is looking for a remote location, this is it. No cell service and the land line at the house was unreliable. But the WIFI worked for searching online. If you'd rather stay closer to the "thick of things", like more of an urban or community setting, note that this was is well-off the beaten path; e.g., a trip for groceries was a 10-15 min drive. Nice amenities and great response from owner about what was available to us.
Rodney D., San Mateo, HI, 1.18.12
The location was great, just steps from the ocean! Travelled with 3 family units, so the house set up was just perfect. The house is older and shows some wear, but based on the other reviews it was as we expected it to be. Oceanfront houses tend to show a lot of wear from the weather. Well stocked kitchen, nice size rooms. The lanai, and view and beach were just fabulous. we had 4 kids ranging in age from 2 to 7, and the water was calm and just perfect for them to play and swim in. We had no worries about tthem in the calm waters. We were also happily surprised by the snorkeling right outside the house. Not super colorful, but we all saw lots of variety of sealife including a variety of eels, different types of triggerfish and lots of fish we could not identify (we are not snorkeling experts, so it was just great for us!). All in all wonderful vacation in Kauai, and we would return.
Amy H., Long Valley, NJ, 8.28.11
The location was excellent an the house is beautiful.
Gale K., Evergreen, CO, 8.7.11
Where do I begin-from the construction, to the location, to the attention to detail-this place has it all! The grounds are spacious, private and very well maintained, the koi pond is a delight, and being able to walk to the beach(no parking issues for us!) was wonderful. The interior has high quality furnishings and finishes, with all the little extras that make vacationing so much easier. I would recommend the Lily Pad to anyone needing a small, romantic place to stay on the north shore of Kauai-we will be back!
Chris C., Portland, OR, 7.30.11
- What I liked best was the quiet, relatively isolated location and basically on the beach. Also the house was super clean, well cared for, and really well equipped. It was great that we even had things like water shoes and snorkel equipment to use. - The customer services I received was excellent. Vacation Rentals was very communicative beforehand. And when I called Cliff about a power outtage during our stay, he was super responsive. - The best part of my trip was everything! It was all great. - The best restaurant I found was Bouchons in Hanalei. We liked the 2nd story open window view, and the sushi was good too. - The best picture I took of us was on the Kapau (?) trail from Ke'e Beach. - I can't wait to tell all my friends that I finally had a great snorkeling experience. - My advice to someone else staying at this unit would be to be aware of the one drawback of the cottage: Due to the bed setup, it really only accomodates 3 people. It would be ideal if both rooms had Queen beds, and maybe a single trundle in one of them. - The part of my trip I would definitely recommend to other is all of it! - The best "insider tip" I received while on my trip is that I would probably prefer the North Shore -- which is true. - I didn't have time on this trip, but next trip I'm looking forward to boating up the Na Pali Coast.
Marcia Z., Los Angeles, CA, 4.25.11
the only problem with keawaihi hale is that our name is not on the deed.
Alan C., Stowe, Vt, 4.22.11
Beautiful, quiet and serene- abundant plant and animal life- comfortable and thoughtfully well appointed a bit more secluded than we imagined but in a good way- will be sure to tell our friends
Jeff C., Spokane, WA, 3.20.11
Lynn and I had the best vacation of our lives. This was our first trip to Hawaii, to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. While it would have been nice to do this for our first anniversary (alas, we were very poor students at the time), it was nevertheless well worth the wait. The Lily Pad had everything we needed. Perfect for a romantic week together alone. We loved the beach nearby and the snorkeling was a blast. We also hiked Na Pali and visited a local organic farm. Lots of fun. We didn't mind the roosters and the bullfrogs at all, but others might and should know this is part of the local charm. The bed was very comfortable - a big plus. If you like to cook, definitely check out the local farmers market. We had fresh vegetables and fish every day. Couldn't get the gas grill to work, though. We didn't have time for kayaking to the falls and that is something I'd like to do next time. And more hiking. Lynn also missed touring the local gardens; we'll find time for that next visit, too. We also brought more clothes than needed - next time we'll pack lighter and make use of the cottage's washer/dryer. Advice to others is pack light! Our sincerest thanks to you for sharing the Lily Pad this with us. Needless to say this was a once-in-a-lifetime trip for us and the cottage helped to make it special. We will enthusiastically recommend the Lily Pad to our friends and family.
Peter B., Albany, CA, 2.28.11
The best things about Menehune Hale were for us, the floor plan and location, location, location. For three family units (grandparents, couple with one son, and couple with two daughters) the layout of Menehune was ideal. The grandparents got their ocean view room off to the side with the gorgeous bathroom, and the other two families had separate staircases that led to our bedrooms and bathrooms at opposite ends of the house. The main living area was spacious and open to the dining and kitchen areas... and to the lanai which wrapped around the whole ocean side and included the hot tub. The location was ideal for young, first time snorkelers. The reef out from Anini Beach breaks the waves before they hit shore, providing us with very safe and large area to snorkel. The snorkeling just outside the house was perfect for first timers, probably boring for those who snorkel a lot. As you swim out towards the reef (which my 5 and 7 year olds did comfortably) you encounter more and more see creatures. We saw an abundance of fish, and octopus, several eel, urchins, etc. Just down the beach is where the sea turtles hang out.... at least in February which is when we went. My girls never wanted to leave the beach. The house was great, but definitely rough around the edges. It was clean and very well stocked (snorkel gear, boogie boards, towels, all the pots and pans, dishes, etc. you could ever want) but had many electrical appliance issues. When we arrived on a Saturday, the dishwasher was broken. The was a note that it would be repaired soon. It was replaced on Thursday. In addition, the TV blew a fuse and stopped working, the main refrigerator (there were two) didn't quite keep the ice cream frozen and the its door frame was literally hot, two lamps didn't work, and most of the fire detectors are missing. We did call about these things and the house keeper came over the next morning and replaced the TV and the lamps. The hot tub worked and we enjoyed it, but we never quite got the hang of how to adjust the temp. Also, we had to crawl under the house (literally) to switch the tub on after it would turn off. There are more light switches in this house than perhaps any I've ever encountered each with a little label telling you what it goes to. That was more humorous than anything. We enjoyed the awesome winter rain storms AND the chickens and roosters that live... well... everywhere. The bottom line regarding the place was that we would stay here again. The price was right, layout perfect for three families units, and location perfect for kids. My main suggestion is that the fire detectors all be replaced and the hot tub issue (ease of use) be addressed.
Jodie P., Langley, WA, 2.27.11
We had a delightful time. The customer service was excellent, especially when I was trying to find the cottage at night (pitch black, with no lights on)! The setting was very nice, except for the neighbors to the right - a little loud and not such a good view. We loved the fish market (Dolphin) in Hanalei, and enjoyed great meals at Bar Acuda and Mediterranean Grill. Also, the fish market in Kalieau was amazing. The Banana Fruit stand nearby on 56 had beautiful fruit. Also, the Farmer's Market on Tues in Hanalei was great. We also highly recommend Jack Harter helicopter rides (Hughes 500 with no doors). Ben was our pilot, and he was excellent. We will be back, and hope to kayak down the Waileua River next time.
Suzanne H., Louisville, KY, 2.14.11
1. Location, location, location 2. Service was good 3. Best part of my trip was location of home 4. The best restaurant was Lemongrass 5. The best picture was as the cave by Napali climbing vines 6. Mesquito spray
Diana P., Pinon Hills, Ca, 10.11.10
What I liked best about the unit I rented was the access to the beach The customer service I received was great The best part of my trip was being with my family and friends in both the large house and this smaller house, felt like home The best restaurant I found was N/A The best picture I took was of the Napali Coast line from the Blue Hawaiian Helicopter tour My advice to someone else staying at this unit would be be prepared for no air conditioning, but the unit cooled off greatly at night and was fine to sleep in. The part of my trip I would definitely recommend to others is a zip lining adventure I didn't have time this trip, but next trip I'm looking forward to more zip lines and seeing other coasts of the island
Steven S., Clarkston, GA, 10.6.10
the privacy of each room and location to the beach. Postcards in Hanalei. all of us at the house the weather was great and how much we love Kauai Catamaran Kahanu Na Pali snorkeling trip. the wonderful farmer's markets in north shore. going kayaking.
Janet C., Graton, California, 9.21.10
The location was PERFECT!!! It isn't an extremely fancy house which is what we loved. We felt extremely comfortable and could really relax and enjoy the house. And since the water at that beach is surrounded by so much coral there are no waves. It is the perfect place for kids to play and you do not worry about them at all. The North Shore is amazing and the house is a perfect location to Princeville and Hanalie Bay. Zip lining at Princeville Ranch was probably the coolest thing we have ever done and the views were spectacular. We all plan to rent this house again in the future and would recommend it to anyone.
Nikki T., Fremont, CA, 9.8.10
The location is great. The front lanai facing the ocean is a real bonus.
Suzanne T., Orinda, CA, 8.26.10
What we liked best about Noho Kai; -The house was appropriately and adequately furnished with good quality cookware, beach towels, beach chairs, essential cooking supplies and good beds. -Customer Service from booking to problem solving was properly addressed. -Sitting on the beach with a good book!
Robert P., Chilliwack, British Columbia, 2.7.10
The location, right at the end of Anini Road, was perfect.....quiet, except for the roosters and the surf, but not totally isolated. A beautiful deck for reading, eating, observing the ocean. This house was well maintained and well equipped. We did not eat in restaurants. One of the joys was finding our own food and preparing it. Tangerines and grapefruits are right there on trees in the garden. We did not try to catch the chickens but bought ahi and chicken from local stores. The farmers' market on Thursday afternoon at Wailea yielded beans, tomatoes, avocados, carrots, and a variety of salad greens. I certainly plan to recommend this unit (and others in this location) to my family and friends. There was no service for our cellphones, but the wireless internet worked perfectly and kept us linked to the world when we wanted to be.
Dorothy D., St. Louis, MO, 1.30.10
This Property is right on the beach - however it is right next door to the state park. Like less than five feet from campers. The kitchen has not been updated in years, it is missing many dishes and things that you would expect for a rental of this caliber. There are two refrigerators, and one leaks water all over the floor. The beds are very old and the linens quite tattered. The house is in need of a major upgrade - but I'm not sure if it's worth it unless they can get rid of the state park folks who are a serious deterrent for the home. Additionally, there is a river eroding the property and it appears the main house will collapse anytime. However it does have a certain appeal - keeps life real. I'd rent it again.
Michelle L., Carson City, Nevada, 1.18.10
The Menehune Hale met and exceeded our expectations. Spacious rooms, privacy and togetherness space both, were great. The thoughtful amenities provided, including lots of beach towels and beach play equipment were especially useful. I would recommend to those who don't want to be awakened by roosters before dawn to bring earplugs! I also recommend getting instructions on how to operate the jacuzzi/hot tub. Be sure to visit Tahiti Nui's in Hannalei for delicious food (even though it doesn't look much like a restaurant) as well as live music that is a pleasure to relax to. I look forward to returning someday, and have already recommended this great place to several friends.
Mary W., Washington, DC, 9.12.09
We loved our stay at Menehune Hale on Anini Beach. The location of the house is wonderful. Very peaceful and calm. The North Shore area is definitely the best place to stay, and it was wonderful to have such amazing ocean views from the house. We enjoyed many beaches in the area. Ke'e beach was one of our favorites. We loved North Shore Charters for the Napili Coast tour. The Tubing from Kauai backcountry was a great family adventure. Hanalei is the most wonderful town. We ate terrific meals there at Postcards, Kalypso, Dolphin, Hanalei Gourmet, and Wake up Hanalei. We loved the Lighthouse Bistro and the ice cream shop up there!! For others who stay in Menehune Hale, the house is not in pristine condition...many things are worn out. It is the location that is so great. My advice to others is stay on the North Shore!! Driving all over the island isn't worth it when all the best things are right out your back door!
Jane W., Carlsbad, CA, 7.9.09
We stayed at Nakea Home for two weeks. The weather was great for the first week and the second it rained. Normally this would be a problem but in Kauai there is always somewhere sunny to go! Everything at the house was great....the view, the set up, proximity to services and activities. Our favorite place is Hanalei, and every other beach we found! Sunsets at Ke'e beach are amazing! Waimea Canyon was well worth the drive.....it was all terrific...and very friendly people! When we return we are going to do more hiking and go at a different time of year....spring or fall. Kauai is beautiful! I don't have anything bad to say about it. It lacks the overall commercialism the Big Island has but it still has everything we needed and more. Mahalo to the wonderful hosts of the home! They are truly fantastic people and answered every little question we had about the area!
Jodie C., Calgary, AB, 2.25.09
I will write more on the house for that review but my parents were very happy with every thing! As we were!!
Jodie C., Calgary, AB, 2.25.09
We had a tremendous vacation in Kaui. The location of our unit was spectacular. Having the beach at your door was the key for us. We had no problems with our unit during our stay. If the weather is sketchy on this end of the island, hop in your car and head down to Waimea, we always found it sunny. A supply of citronella candles and bug spray is reccomended. The mosquito's are persistent on the lanai. Try the Tahiti Nui in Hanalei for great pizza and live music. A guest register would be a good idea to have available at the rental, it would give visitors a head start during their stay on where to shop and visit. Mahalo, Scott MacMillan
Scott M., Westbank, B.C., 2.9.09
The Kuu Home O Wanini is a very cozy home with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It reminds me of a small beach house. It is surrounded by lush green vegetaion. It has a wonderful balcony with a partial view of the beach. You can hear the birds every morning. Everything you need is here. It is well stocked with kitchen items and towels, beach toys. A nice home to stay in for a small group. We were very comfortable in this home. Great to stay along with family members who stayed in the Menehune Hale home which is in front of this house and just steps away. The beautiful quality of this home is that you get the mountain view from your front balcony and the ocean view from your back balcony. The wood floors are beautiful. It is so convenient to stay here. It is not fancy, but it is so beautiful with the old Hawaiian charm! It has all the amenities and comforts of home. The beds are so comfortable. The views are spectacular! Thanks again Gary and Hawaiian Beach Rentals! Our stay was memorable and priceless!--------------Chris and Gemma.
Christopher W., Riverbank, California, 6.9.08
The Menehune Hale far exceeded my expectations. Believe me the pictures do not really express the granduer and beauty of this place. This house is very grand! I truly love the privacy with each rooms. It is so nice to have my family with me this time. There were a total of 16 of us. We also rented the O Wanini house which is behind this one. The Menehune Hale has separate quarters for each bedroom so each family was able to have privacy with plenty of room. I love the veranda or the balcony that oversees the beach and each morning my family sat to watch the sunrise and beautiful sunset. If you want a quiet and relaxing atmosphere this is the place to be. We have a 5 star time share at Princeville and honestly I would rather stay here. The beach access is convenient and just steps away. Yes, there is a camp ground next door but you would never know it. We are usually the only ones on the beach most of the time. The house has many convenience and up-to-date appliances. I consider it now my home-away-from home. This was my first stay here and I just really love it. You are surrounded by lush green vegetation and beautiful plants and flowers, banana trees and coconut trees. The house has all the convenience of water toys and well stocked towels, shampoo, 2 refrigerators---great for stocking 16 people for food and drinks! Having both houses so close allowed me to spend quality time with my family. This trip was special and this place was absolutely perfect! My children enjoyed watching the birds, geickos(excuse the spelling), frogs, crabs. If you're lucky in the early morning the low tide would expose the reef and you can enjoy watching the fish. One morning I saw an octopus hidden in one of the coves and the next day I saw 3 small more eels. The water is always shallow and great for snorkeling and swimming specially if you have very young children like mine at age 4 and 9. No rough waves to fight against. Just smooth and relaxing. My parents are in their 60's-80's. They just sat in the water edge and enjoyed the view each day.They usually don't go swimming, but they did here because the water was so calming. Menehune Hale is beautiful and so convenient and relaxing. Like I said the pictures on the internet do not do it justice. My family enjoyed their stay so much that we are coming back again next year!!! The house is made of beautiful wood, with gorgeouse tile floors. The suites are roomy and romantic. There are 2 staircases on oposite sides of the house leading to the suites upstairs with their own bathrooms. The grand suite is just outside but still connected to the house. The bathroom is unbelievable......Huge! The view of the beach is wonderful! I cannot express how greatful and beautiful this house is. My family and I just loved it! We made an excellent choice to stay here rather than a hotel. We were able to be together to spend quality time. THANK YOU GARY, and Hawaiian Beach Rentals for everything! MAHALO AND ALOHA!!!!..................Gemma.
Christopher and Gemma W., Riverbank, California, 6.9.08
The Lilly Pad was better than we expected. The photos of the cottage do not do it justice. The pond and grounds were like a tropical botanical garden and the furnishings, cookware, dishes, towels, and bedding were all first rate. We loved the geckos and listening to the frogs, chickens, and rain on the metal roof at night. The cottage is about 100 yards down a dead end road away from the beach road- so it was very quiet and secluded feeling yet still within walking distance to Annini. The owners lived close and were available if needed but did not intrude. We did feel like it was our own little home away from home. The only drawback was mosquitoes but insect repellent kept them at bay. We have been to Kauai four times and this was by far the best place we stayed as far as feeling like the "real Hawaii you dream about but do not usually find". Best beaches were Hideaways in Princeville, if you can get one of the nine parking places, and Mahaulepu past the Hyatt in Poipu. Most good food for the money is the prime rib at The Bull Shed in Kapaa. Go to the Lilly Pad and enjoy the "Old Hawaii".
Mel P., Bend, OR, 5.15.08
Menehune Hale is a dream rental!! I would highly recommend it to anyone wishing to stay at a gorgeous house that is private and relaxing with the most spectacular view awaiting you every morning you wake up. The house is comfortable and spacious and practical. The customer service was excellent!
Santo R., West Hollywood, CA, 3.31.08
Liked best--location, sliding doors Customer service-adequate best part of my trip-being with family best restaurant-Bar Acuda Advice to someone--figure out the lights and the locks, good luck insider tip--hidden waterfall in Kileaua, fish taco truck
Carol B., Walnut Creek, CA, 3.25.08
We had a wonderfull stay at the Lily Pad, wish all our trip had been there. It was so quiet and peaceful and the grounds were just glorious. The sound of the bull frogs at night was so relazing, roosters in the early AM not so much but you have to take the bad with the good. The hosts were very kind to let us stay late in the day as we had a late flight out. The beach was one of the more quite we had been to and was very close. We spent two days just soaking up the sun and reading. Thank you for the CD's which really made us feel in the island mood, I think we listened to everyone. We will defnitely come back.
Gaylin L., Mukilteo, Washington, 2.27.08
Nakea Cottage was a beautiful place to stay! Beach was excellent as well. The view from every aspect was beautiful! Ocean front view - jungle mountian views surrounding. Rain didn't stop us one bit! Had fast 'fixit' service from the owner when the coffee maker went out - truely a good time. Only thing I would recommend is mosquito's are hungry - bring lots of repellent!
Cindy Y., Tehachapi, CA, 2.10.08
The best thing about this house is it's location. Anini beach is fabulous as it's calm and uncrowded, despite there being a park and campground adjacent. Now if you're a sun loving, awesome tan, surfing person, this north shore location isn't for you. On the north shore it rains. Briefly, but there will be rain, at least in January. And since it faces north you won't get a lot of sun for tanning, which suited us just fine. My family thinks Anini is the best place on the island. The house is beautiful, literally on the beach. The master suite is great, decide who in your group gets it before going or there'll be arguments, even tho all the other rooms are fine, even the rear room which is fitted for children. With so many full baths there's no waiting. The hot tub and outside shower were great after a swim. The WiFi worked great for the party member who had to keep working. What we liked best, besides just sitting on the lanai, were hikes to neat places, waterfalls, bathing ponds, etc. Get the Ultimate Kauai Guidebook by Doughty, it has absolutely invaluable directions. Snorkeling on Anini is very safe and easy. You'll need to search around for live coral, but it's out there and there are lots of small pretty fish. A wonderful place for kids and beginners. Chilly in January, so bring or rent a wet suit if you're not from Minnesota. The Princeville Zip line was great fun, excellent staff. It's just not long enough, you want to do it over and over. What we missed most was not being able to power hang glide. There's only one company offering this (Birds of Paradise) and of the 5 days we had available, they were booked up one day, canceled for windy conditions one day and were closed the other 3 days. So book early to leave room for rebook dates. Since they're charging about the same as helicopter rides for a vehicle that costs a fraction of a helicopter, I'm sure there will be some competition soon. We were a large group, 6 adults, so we went to Costco in Lihue and stocked up on essentials and food. Very much cheaper than the Princeville store. There's a nice BBQ pit at the house so be sure to buy charcoal. So we had few meals out, all were OK. The Blue Dolphin in Princeville is good, but the service is so non chalant you'll think you've been forgotten. We rented 2 cars at Budget in Lihue airport and were amazed at the rudeness and bad attitudes of the staff (very untypical of Hawaii). We needed a third car so got it from Avis at the Princeville airport and couldn't have been happier with the service. So try to rent from the off (Lihue) airport locations when you can. Shopping: The North shore shops are trendier, higher priced. We liked Outboard for clothing made in the Islands. Kapa'a has a great outdoor local crafts fair, right on the highway, with lots of locally made things, reasonably priced. If you need basics (fishing tackle, cheap shoes, etc.) and low end souvinirs, like for kids, the ABC store in Lihue is great. Avoid the far north shore beaches, (Ke'e, Tunnels) as they're very crowded, limited parking, and in the winter, unsafe for all but the best swimmers. We were amazed at the crowds on these beaches while our beach was virtually empty. Amazed and very happy. We'll definitely rent either the main house or the smaller house, depending on the group size, on our next trip.
Therese T., Smithville, Tx, 2.1.08
We love Anini beach. The Nakea home was a comfortable well equipped home. We enjoyed watching the whales and dolphins from the front deck. The snorkling was fun also. We saw many sea turtles, beautiul fish, morey eels and an eagle ray. This year we went to the Smith family luau and it was fabulous. We always hike the Napali coast and it is always beautiful. All and all a very memorable trip. I would also like to mention that this is the second time we have booked through your service and both times the service was very hospitable. Mahalo, Karen Gardner
Karen G., Westford, Ma, 1.14.08
The rental location was fantastic. The neighbors were very nice and the owner was very nice. The rental was in fair condition. When we got there we had to re wash the sheets and linens, even had to wash the pillows as they smelled quite mildewed. Found quite a few cobwebs and spiderwebs throughout the residence. All in all we were pleased with the rental. We would suggest updating the linens and bedding as they seem old. Our neighbors had the same complaints about their rental (same owner). The snorkeling rith out front was excellent. We swam with 3 sea turtles and saw lots of sea life. The Olympic Cafe restaurant in kapa'a is the best restaurant on the island. The food is reasonably priced and there is lots of it, huge portions and very flavorful.
Gina R., Chandler, AZ, 10.15.07
Wow-Wow-Wow......Just the most Beautiful place We stayed at in Hawaii......and as Maui residents We go and discover new places a lot all over Hawaii and It was by far our favorite little "love nest"......The place is georgous (in and out), very well kept and taking care with lots of love and attention...everything you may want is there.....The owners are so good, they thought of everything for you to make your stay sososo enjoyable that you may not want to leave. Very relaxing place, jsut georgous. Very Hawaii... A must to see fos sure...MAHALO
Monica S., Kihei, HI, 9.27.07
Our Vacation was wonderful, the Nakea family really knows how to make people feel welcome. We had everything we could have possibly imagined to have, and it was very nice and easy. The place was incredible, and the house perfect. The only tip I have is to take a good bug spray as the mosquitos came around every night. Otherwise we felt as if the whole place for us... I recomend it to everyone with small children as the beach is the best I have ever been to with my kids. Best snorkeling, best fishing, best swimming with or without little ones, lots of shade, and sand...I really hope to go back soon.
Carla G., Glendale, Arizona, 8.15.07
Great house. Open layout with great view and superb deck. Would definitely stay here again.
Melanie W., Boulder, CO, 8.15.07
I meant to enter a rating of "fair" for this rental. It was a bit ramshackle, particularly one of the bathrooms. Would definitely not stay there again.
Melanie W., Boulder, CO, 8.14.07
Great great great house! No complaints at all. My only recommendation would be to get some type of portable A.C. for the upstairs master. Troy Dueker
Troy D., San juan capistrano, Ca, 8.9.07
The best part about the unit I rented was it's location and space.rnrnThe best part of my trip was my wedding, which was held at this location.rnrnI would stay at this place again on my next visit. One day I will buy this house!
Amber M., Encino, CA, 7.3.07
The best part about the unit I rented was the location to the beach. This house combined with the Menehune Hale house held my family and friends comfortably.rnrnThe best part of my trip was my wedding, which was held at this location.
Amber M., Encino, CA, 7.3.07
The Cottage was very comfortable with everything we could use on hand. The customer service was excellent at all time. Mahalo to Laurel Kenney for her expertise and help. Our entire trip was excellent. Accomodations, area, scenery, Island etc... Our only advice would be for the owners to put in toilet paper holders and towel hangers in bathrooms. Otherwise everything else was perfect.
Tim S., Tempe, AZ, 6.26.07
The Nakea Hosue provided just the kind of atmosphere we needed for a restful stay on the Island. The house was well-furnished and provided the private space that we needed for a pleasant stay. Thank you
Richard G., Berkeley, CA, 6.18.07
Steve, the owner was great. He left us chocolates and coffee and said to call if we needed anything. The furnishings were very nice and the cottage had a completely stocked kitchen with nice tableware. The grounds were very well maintained and beautiful. Laundry equipment was clean and new. We had a good supply of towels and beach towels. It was a very nice cottage for a couple on vacation and the price was very good. The bathroom was well stocked and had many items like shampoo and sunblock. Please note, there are geckos that will get in the room. This is the tropics and I have traveled before so we know and expect it. I have found them in fancy hotels, so it is part of life and part of the Kaui experience...............besides they are cute and eat the bugs. Also, there are some mosquitos at night on the Island because of all of the rain and standing water. Make sure you have insect repellant or buy some in town when you land. Thank you!!!
George R., Virginia Beach, VA, 6.11.07
The unit was beyond expectations in every way...secluded, lush and just so "Kauai cottage". Virtually no auto traffic...unit is set off the main road, no one suddenly appeared at the door during our stay. The unit was exceptionally clean, and VERY well "furnished" (upscale beach chairs, cooler, beach towels, gas BBQ, blender--everything you didn't want to lug along was there waiting) The pond is drop dead beautiful, well maintained and the water fall provided that great water sound 24/7. Good breeze, great mix of sun and shade on the grounds. BUT, ya gotta love listening to big frogs croak at night and be willing to be wakened early (I mean early) by the ever present feral chickens. I think these are now the offical State Bird. We LOVED it but if you are city folks, ya might think about it first. Best tip?....check the cupboards BEFORE you shop for food and such. Spices, dressings and even a Pina Colada mix was waiting in the frig when we arrived.
Steve T., Graton, CA, 5.18.07
Location. service was great. Best part of trip was getting up and walking to the lanai to be greeted by the ocean.
Joyce M., Santa monica, California, 5.18.07
We had a great time. The property is beautiful and conveniently located. After this trip we would never consider staying in a hotel on Hawaii again.
Justin B., American Fork, UT, 4.24.07
Lovely clean property that worked exceedingly well for our party of seven (3 families). Pictures on the website do not do this house justice.
Carmen N., Calgary, Alberta, 4.10.07
The Lily Pad beautifully exemplified Kauai. It exceeded our expectations and rivaled the island in serenity and tranquility. Absolutely perfect.
Maria M., CHELMSFORD, MA, 11.19.06
We had a wonderful time. The cottage was stocked with everything we needed to cook and prepare meals with the food we purchased. We were pleasantly surprised to find lawn chairs, beach mats, and even boggie boards and swim fins. The owner and his wife & daughter have thought of everthing. We will come back to this cottage as it was truly paradise.
John B., Citrus Heights, CA, 11.18.06
If you are looking for a very traditional stay on Kauai and absolutely comfortable and relaxing location and home, this is it!!! We personally met the owner and his wife and they are fantastic and hospitable people and we do plan to return to this home for our next Hawaii vacation!!! Mahalo!!!!!
Stan Y., Elverta, CA, 11.12.06
The house was in a good location and had some nice extra's. When we had trouble with the dryer the owner came over right away and fixed it. An improvement that would make us come back is a more comfortable and bigger bed (king size would be nice). Also having a toilet paper roll holder and a towel rack would be nice.
Michele B., Chicago Park, CA, 10.21.06
We had a wonderful stay--it was perfect for families with small children--great beach, not too much "stuff" to worry about damaging, and we had a lovely holiday.
Janet or David S., Kailua, HI, 10.7.06
Beautiful, romantic, private location-pictures don't do it justice. Stever and Caren have thought of everything, fresh tropical flowers, hawaiian coffee and beach towels are nice touches. Just a block from crowd-free Anini beach. Highly recommend!
Dawn S., Williamsburg, VA, 9.12.06
The website does not adequately capture the beauty,rntranquility or comfort of this property!
Carol R., Santa Cruz, CA, 8.2.06
We enjoyed the beautiful views and lovely house. The pool and jacuzzi were enjoyed by all, especially the kids. Other than a few house maintenance issues, a wonderful stay overall.
Renee S., Rockville, MD, 7.10.06
We really enjoyed our 5 nights stay; we feel it wasn't enough- next time we'll visit for a longer period! MAHALO, Lily Pad!
Miki & Jacquie M., Long Beach, CA, 7.5.06
I don't think I would want to rent this on its own, but it is a great steal for being so close to the beach. If bundled in with the Menehune Hale it is great for sleeping extra people. The accomodations are fair but if you plan on being outside and around the island for your stay then it serves its purpose as a functional and affordable stay for 6-8 people.
Kristin M., Ft. Belvoir, VA, 4.29.06
Incedible view, large amounts of space so much to do with it. We had a wedding there, usually frowned on by the locals, but 30 people couldn't disturb the neighbors or the people in the park next door. Probably one of a kind on Kauai. You have to get used to the open air style which comes with some ants. With all its space it is hard for the cleaners to know what has and hasn't been washed so some sheets were missed and kind of musty. No worries there was a washer to take care of it.
Kristin M., Fairfax, VA, 4.29.06
This is one of those rare situations in life where the real place is even better than the pictures! The combination of Lily Pad's location at Anini and this wonderful private place make any time you can spend there special
George M., Wanchai, NA, 3.16.06
If Kauai is Paradise the the Lily Pad must be heaven. We have had the opportunity to visit all the Islands over the years and this is the best of the best.
Richard M., San Rafael, CA, 2.18.06
The house worked perfectly for our large family gathering, and the location on Anini Beach meant we could swim and snorkel as often as weather permitted.
Marnie F., Port Townsend, WA, 1.11.06
A wonderful house, perfect for large groups and family reunions.
Martin T., Seattle, WA, 1.1.06
Very nice accommodations. Only complaint was that the towels had not been dried properly and smelled musty.
Douglas S., Kamuela, Hi, 11.7.05
A beautiful place to be.
Heather M., San Francisco, CA, 9.24.05
From Mark Drewelow.... I think david gave you more detailed feedback
David D., Kupaa, Hi, 1.26.05