SOME COMMENTS FROM OUR GUESTS...

"Well we're back home, and having great difficulty adjusting to "big city" life, after our wonderful trip to Hilo!! Needless to say, the 8Hawaii Beaches house, exceeded our expectations. It's a beautiful house, with great views and every amenity you could ask for. We were very fortunate with regard to the weather, as it only rained at night and very early in the morning. Our days, were all fairly sunny and perfect for beach time at Richardson's. We took advantage of many of the other local sites, and visited the Volcano, Rainbow Falls, Hawaii Tropical/Botanical Gardens, Zoo, Tsunami Museum, and several other beach spots (Onekahhakaha, Leieiwi). We also dined at good old Ken's Pancake House a couple of times, as well as Seaside and Harringtons. We did find a place called Uncle Billy's (Banyan Drive) and found it to be excellent service, great food and they even had a small Hawaiian show (3 musicians, several dancers). We enjoyed it so much, we went back a 2nd time and would suggest you add Uncle Billy's to the list of restaurant recommendations. The local Walmart was also a good place to shop, at decent prices and very conveniently located near Safeway. One of the places in your literature for snorkle gear rental (Aqua Perceptions) is no longer in business, but the Natilus Dive Shop near the Farmer's Market had gear, and good prices. You had also mentioned a book we'd find in the house (Hawaii, the Big Island Revealed), which despite our search, we didn't find.......perhaps the previous renters forgot to return it. During our stay, we visited the University of Hawaii @ Hilo, which is on the list of colleges that our younger daughter is interested in. Of course, we have two more years before she gets to the point of selecting a school, but she fell in love with the small campus environment, and has worn her UH baseball hat non-stop for the past week. We did notice, you also have a house in Santa Cruz, and the University of Santa Cruz in on her college list as well, so we just might be interested in renting that one sometime in the next 12-18 months. Karri, our family has traveled quite a bit (several cruises, 3 other trips to Hawaii, extensively in Mexico, and many other vacation spots). However, this trip ranks very high on our all-time favorite list!! As you had mentioned, the people were friendly, the pace was pretty kick back, and the scenery was absolutely gorgeous. Thank you very much for allowing us to rent your home, and for the wonderful hospitality. p.s. Claire was fabulous.......greeted us on our second day, checked on us to see if we needed anything and was so friendly, it was as if we'd known her forever." -Bill, Janice, Megan and Melissa D., Mission Viejo, CA, Beaches guests.
RESPONSE: Thank you! We replaced the Big Island Hawaii book, and will add Uncle Billy's to our restaurant list this month. Special thanks for letting us know about Natilus Dive Shop. Loved the thought of your daughter wearing her UH Hilo cap. We welcome your family to back to Hawaii anyime. I look forward to meeting you on your Santa Cruz visit! Warmest aloha, Karri

"I wanted to let you know that we had a wonderful time in The Beaches. The house is very lovely and comfortable. On top of all its amenities, we particularly were impressed with the huge shower upstairs. After the beach we could all wash off quickly. And I loved the Dynasty stove top. It is much better than what I have at home and although I didn't do a lot of cooking noticed how fast it cooks. I would like to have one of those. Hilo is a charming town (even the staff at Safeway are kind). I soon became used to driving again and the drivers in Hilo seem to know that plenty of people driving are tourists because they are very patient. We all enjoyed the beach and went swimming several times a day. I was happy to see the colorful fish and we saw large sea turtles while swimming and were lucky to see a mother and cub whale several times. The girls had fun learning to surf with Claire's boys. Claire and her family are very nice people. We often went to Ken's for breakfast or for just a great chocolate milk shake. I think that Pesto's is excellent. We had lunch there twice. You should receive your keys in a few days. I hope that we will be able to visit again. Thank you." -Charlotte H., Tokyo, Japan, Beaches guest.

"I've been in the hospitality industry for 28 years, and your homes are very well appointed and leave nothing to be desired. Both the Orchids and Mangos houses were outstanding- very clean and well done! You have quite literally thought of everything. I look forward to coming back to the Mangos again next year." - Roger and Ellen T., New York, NY, Mangos and Orchids guests.

"Aloha! Your home is truly magnificent. We were blessed with sunny skies all week- could even see the top of the volcano. We were impressed with how well stocked the house was. The koi pond brought a lot of joy. We spent hours kneeling by the pond, watching the brightly colored fish. The frogs were an added treat. The soothing sounds of the beach added to the overall comfort felt by everyone staying at the house. The beach in front was wonderful for the kids. They saw turtles dolphins, and made quite a few friends. My daughter cried on the day we departed. She is ready to return already! We all look forward to coming back again soon. Many thanks for all the extras and your excellent hospitality." -Robert and Cynthia V., Chicago, IL, Beaches guests.

"By far, this was our finest stay ever in Hawaii. Well worth the expense. The house and gardens are incredible. We met a palm tree farmer in downtown Hilo, and had the pleasure of touring his farm south of Hilo. He introduced us to orchid grower and we're now considering starting a business in San Diego working with both of them. All of the people we met were wonderful. Hilo has a real charm, an inviting and comfortable feel. Please thank Claire and Rex for us. We bought Claire an orchid as a "thank you," and noticed before leaving she had planted it in the yard of the house. They are real keepers. We will definitely be back this year. We may bring the in-laws when we return. Thanks again for providing such a splendid retreat!" -Kevin & Virginia C., San Diego, CA, Beaches guests.

"We've returned home completely relaxed and with renewed spirit. We had a lovely time at the Mango house exploring the Big Island of Hawaii. One question remains, "Where was all the rain rumored to plague Hilo?" For years people have told us it rains daily in Hilo. We had no rain during our stay. Blue skies, and warm days with refreshing and cool ocean breezes. I prefer the moderate Hilo temperature to the hot and sticky summers in Kona. Hilo and Keaau are exceptionally beautiful areas. We'd like to return when John retires. Thank you for sharing." -John & Susan F., Boulder, CO, Mangos Guest.

"Your place is incredible! Thank you for having it available. We tried to tred lightly and leave it in good shape. Let me know if anything was unacceptable. It was an absolutely great space for us. What I loved the most was the home feel instead of the rental fee we had on Kauai. Tile floors, real towels, and cookware, and thank you for ceiling fans. I love the ocean but the air really bugs me. Only complaint was no local channels and we could have watched our Seattle Mariners a couple of times. Thanks again and know I'll recommend ot to friends." Matt L., Seattle, WA. Palms Guests, October.

"We had a great time at the Surfriders house. Thank you for all your help. The beach was a good wake up call each morning. The house was well provisioned and very organized. Our only regret this trip was not spending more time in Hilo. Before actually experiencing it, we assumed it would rain the entire time. Beautiful weather, nice people, and unbelievable scenery...We're tossing the guide book and returning to Hilo again! Hope you'll have us back." Ron and Tara M., Seattle, WA, Surfriders Guests.

"Very nice suite, comfortably furnished, fantastic tropical setting, great view of the ocean, beautiful sunsets. THIS IS PARADISE! (Even for post-honeymooners over 50 like us). Our 6th time in Hawaii and unforgettable!" Rick & Gabriella Z . New York, NY, Dolphin Den .

"When I booked the Surfrider House, I fully expected it to be a condo at the beach. I was shocked (in a good way) when I arrived and realized it was a house. You should add pictures of the exterior of the place. Nice to have the privacy of a home at the beach. This was our first experience in a vacation house (not a condo), and we now prefer homes. My son and daughter had a great time learning to snorkel. I think the beach equipment and video games were a real bonus. Thanks for asking Arlene to bring over the fishing poles. We never did come back from the beach long enough to use them, but it was nice of you both. We plan to try your bigger house with my in-laws next trip." -Mike and Sue M., Mountain View, CA, Surfriders .

"This was the best trip we've had to Hawaii, and I know the Hawaii Beaches house was key to our experience. We concluded long ago that East Hawaii had a lot more to offer than the tourist areas in Kona. Our biggest problem was finding a house on a beach where we could snorkel. In the past, we had to drive 20-30 minutes to a swimming beach. This house is unbelievable inside, and the location cannot be matched. We love Richardson's [Beach], and had been driving to it for years when visiting Hilo. When we entered the house, we were surprised anyone would rent out such a nice place. It's just beautiful. We took excellent care of it, and hope everything was up to par at checkout. Please expect us back next year." -Jerry S., San Francisco, CA, Beaches guests.

"Your condo is lovely and so incredibly clean. When I check into a hotel I usually make the management move me at least three times. My standards are very high and few places meet them. Dolphin Den definitely does!" Kari S. CA, Dolphin Den Guest.

"We loved your beautiful home - would be happy to use it again. We had great weather and enjoyed walking the "lane" behind Uwae Street. The master bedroom suite is so wonderful- loved the shower...and the closet too! Wayne lived on the lanai up there. I even carried dinner up there one night- thanks for the candle! We ate in two nights, ate at the Seafood House the other two- freshest fish we ever had! We really appreciated the fresh, clean, throw rugs in the bathroom and the fluffy big towels. PS: Great kitchen- loved the cooking utensils and lovely dishes. Thanks again!" -Margie and Wayne D., Roseville, MN, Beaches Guests.

"Thanks for a great stay. This was our first experience renting a house instead of a hotel. We thoroughly enjoyed the Surfriders house. It was nice to have to have such a well equipped kitchen. The Richardson Beach was fantastic. We went to the beach every day and saw the same turtles (we think) each morning. The snorkeling equipment was a wonderful extra. I really liked the feel of Hilo. What a pleasant change from Honolulu.The weather was beautiful, the local people were very nice, and I liked the green foliage and the sounds of waves rolling in at night. We left the windows open and the sounds were heavenly. The restaurant and activities guides you provided were very helpful. I can't think of anything you might add to make for a better experience. My grandson loved the video library! We hope to return next year. " -Carol J., San Diego, CA, Surfriders Guest.

"We found Seawatch by accident; if only all accidents could turn out like this. Even though we worked long hours most days of our two weeks here, it was such a pleasure to come "home" every day. We have enjoyed our stay at Seawatch more than any vacation we've had. Sam, you and Dan are wonderful hosts and very special people. We will stay in touch and will be back in the not too distant future. Next time it will be a true vacation. Thank you for allowing us to experience Seawatch. Mahalo." Don and Betty W. Dana Point, CA, Sea Watch Guests.

"I really liked Dolphin Den... it had everything I needed and was "homeowner" clean." -Trichelle, Dolphin Den Guest..

"Our family very much enjoyed Hilo. We [explored] the entire island in 7 days. We think Hilo side is more beautiful than Kona side, maybe we like the green. We liked your beach house. In the beginning we had some difficulty sleeping because of the sound of the waves. Each one of our family has pages of unforgettable memories. One week is just not enough for the big island. I will introduce Palms to friends and church members. Again, we really enjoyed staying at the beach house." -William S., Pasadena, CA, Palms.

"What a great place. We love the Surf house, area, and your awesome cleaning crew! My mother was stunned by how fast her security check was refunded. She called me to say the postmark was the actual day of our departure. I am glad "the crew" was happy with us. We were certainly pleased with all the special things you provided. The house was very clean and comfortable. Thanks so much for everything. You really have your program together and I will recommend your properties to friends. If you have houses on other islands, we're interested in visiting Kauai next year." -Margo M., Huntington Beach, CA, Surfriders Guest.

"We came to celebrate Christmas with our two sons who are studying at the University of Hawaii, Hilo. We loved Sea Watch and can't wait to come back. We saw turtles every day. Roy fished right out in front and caught a rock cod, 2 puffer fish, and 2 eels (oh no!) The last evening the whales came! There were several times they came close to shore and one jumped all the way out of the water (breaching) twice! What a wonderful vacation for all of us. Mahalo and Aloha." Bonnie B. and Roy T. Cambria, CA, Sea Watch Guest.

"Our family thoroughly enjoyed our stays at your houses. They are lovely, very well provisioned, and situated in spectacular settings. I continue to conjure up the images of the black lava yards and cliffs and blue ocean in my mind's eye and to conjure up the sounds of the crashing surf and blowing palm leaves and leaflets in my mind's ear...We managed to squeeze in lots of activities with the top four favorites as: viewing the four, frolicking humpback whales from the deck of Palms; snorkeling in the Kapoho tidal pools; viewing the red, glowing lava flows of Pu'u O'o at night in the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park; and hiking through the rain forests with hugh tree ferns and then across the lava-encrusted Kilauea-iki crater. One outstanding personal experience for me was to go to see the new black sand beach beyond Kalapana. From my visit to the Big Island in 1966, I have a photo of the absolutely beautiful black sand beach at Kalapana (and I even have some souvenir sand!). Now it is under 75 feet of lava. Quite incredible to see how dramatically Mother Nature can do her geological thing in such a short time. We will definitely come back and stay for a longer time. We loved Hilo and its much less developed ambience as you had described." -Roberta S., Carlisle, MA, Mangos and Palms Guest.

"What a wonderful house! I loved sitting on the lanai and viewing the white water coastline. Such a relaxing experience...a safe distance from the stress of ordinary life! At night we used the sun porch quite a bit. I found the house to be very spacious, comfortable, and clean. Please pass our thanks along to Arlene and John. They were exceptionally nice and friendly. Next time we'll bring another couple to share the place." -Mary D., San Jose, CA, Mangos Guest.