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HAWAII
BEACHES
"We had a marvelous time- Sunny & Warm. The house is wonderful. Falling asleep to the sound of the waves and tropical sounds & waking up to the fabulous view - FANTASTIC! We enjoyed all the amenities of the house - like being at home!" -Jerry and Agnes W., Seattle, WA
"We had a glorious 7 day stay at your beautiful home. It didn't rain once! We swam with turtles, visited Volcanoes National Park, the botanical gardens, ate sushi, swam in the tidal pools and just relaxed. Thank you Karri and Matt for making us feel so at home!" - Carol, Don, Sara, and Matt H., Olathe, KS
"What a wonderful place for our office retreat! Turtles, Volcano, snow on top of Mauna Kea. At night the stars are gorgeous. -The Office of Aesthetic Surgical Arts, Eugene, OR
"We had a great time last week at your Hilo house. It was lovely. And we were pleasantly surprised by the outstanding snorkeling across the street at Richadson's. Everyone said Kona had the best snorkeling, but we found Richardson's to be just as good. And the climate - marvelous. Even with daily morning showers, it was great. My other rave about Hilo is that it is so NOT touristy (for Hawaii). The tropical rainforest climate is far preferable to the hot sunny climate of Kona. And the locals are so incredibly friendly. What a great place to vacation. We are back home to 95 degrees with 85% relative humidity, ugh. Anyway, thanks. I hope all was in order when we left. Thanks again" -Flossie M., Charleston, SC
"Just a quick note to let you know how much we enjoyed your place in Hilo The weather was fabulous and the location great. We were away from the beaten path but yet right there close to everything. We saw whales every morning!! Also the sea turtles a couple of time. Richardson's beach was very nice and we were there every day from 10-1. Then to the volcano, waterfalls, and we even took a helicopter ride. Worth It! Thanks again for the opportunity. We will look you up for our 25th!!" -Marcia and Kevin S., Sylvania, OH
"We had a wonderful time. We enjoyed the house, the location, and we loved the rain. We spent most of our time at the beach and just basically relaxed. We had a great time and we will be back. Thank you!" - John, Cody, Kelli, Robert I, Robert II, and Gunnar W., Chino Valley, AZ
"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, Leleiwi). 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 snorkel
gear rental (Aqua Perceptions) is no longer in business, but the Nautilus
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
"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
"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
"What an amazing little corner of the world. We really enjoyed your Beaches house! We must have lucked out on the weather because we has mostly blue skies. We loved exploring Volcanoes National Park, the tide pools, snorkeling at Richardson Beach (we loved the turtles), the waterfalls, the Zoo! Good food at Cafe Pesto, What's Shakin' Smoothies, and Sombat's Thai! Thanks." -Debra, Aaron, Sarah, and Drew R., San Diego, CA
"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
"Second visit (to the Beaches house) for Steve and Nancy. It was just as lovely this time. Mahalo!" - Steve and Nancy L, Portland, OR
"SUNNY HILO -- WOW! It rained at night and in the very early morning only! Beautiful and well stocked home. Thanks. Some must-do's: Volcanoes National Park, Boiling Pots, Rainbow Falls, Cafe Pesto, cheap golf at Naniloa, and if at all possible splurge for helicopter tour, AMAZING. -Donna R., Mill Valley, CA
"We were sad to leave Hilo. It was so beautiful. It only rained at night. Ocean Sushi on Keawe is "ono" and affordable. Sambat's is the best Thai. The locals are very friendly if you are. Remember we all have roots. This house is very child friendly. Aloha from," -Jeremy, Kristina, Shaylee T., and Jim, Rhonda, Emily, and Nathaniel T., Bakersfield, CA
"Thanks, Karri. Great house, great location. This was one of our most relaxing vacations ever. Mahalo!" -Anita, David, and Jaime G., Chatsworth, CA
"Mahalo Nui Loa for sharing your beautiful home with our family. It was perfect. We can't wait to come back... All our aloha" -Kale, Edwina, Ikaika, Koa, Lani, & Kalama F., Reno, NV
"This house was wonderful. I loved the design of the house and placement of everything. We enjoyed snorkeling in the clear water at Richardson beach. A turtle swam right up to us. The Farmer's Markets were awesome and we also found lots of things in the shops downtown. The people were very friendly. One shop owner even let my dad take aikido classes with them, and them told him about great places to surf. Everyone must try the fish from the Suisan Fish Store and hike to see the Volcanoes. The weather is just perfect, especially when compared to Charleston where it is so hot. Mahalo! We loved this house and the gorgeous view." -Leila M., Charleston, SC
"Thank you so much for all of your help with making my mom's trip memorable. She had a fantastic time! The house was better than I could have ever imagined. I will always remember the extra time and special attention you have us. I will look forward to staying in one of your homes in the near future. You will be highly recommended to all of my friends and family. A sincere THANK YOU." -Jennifer O., Phoenix, AZ
"We most definitely enjoyed our stay at 8 Hawaii Beaches. What a beautiful house! And Great Location Too. We only wish we could have stayed longer. Hope to be back soon. Thanks again." -Debbie R., Montreal, Canada
"Where was all the rain
rumored to plague Hilo??? We never saw a drop of rain over our 2 week
stay. The house was absolutely spectacular, just as you described
it. Marvelously equipped, immaculately clean, and very comfortable.
Thank you for accommodating us for the extra nights. We were not ready
to return to Kona. We truly appreciate your introduction to Claire
and Rex. They are warm, kind, and helpful people. My husband spent
hours walking the gardens learning about the native plants from both
of them. We've returned home enlightened by the generosity of the
local people who shared so freely. We've been talking about retiring
in Hilo. We're seriously considering it, and would like to return
later this year to look at property. Please expect our call."
Jan S., Portland, OR
"This house was everything you advertised
and more! We had such a wonderful stay at Hawaii Beach house. The
kitchen is better equipped, and definitely more organized, than
my kitchen at home. My husband's sunglasses lost the small screw,
and we were amazed that your tool kit had a small screwdriver and
extra screw that fit perfectly. This happened all week. Anything
we thought we needed was easily found inside the house. We loved
the beach in front. What a peaceful place. I surprised everyone
and went for a swim in the water, which I've never done in Hawaii
before. This trip has been our best stay in Hawaii. We toured all
the major Big Island attractions, but our best days were spent lounging
around the house, the yards, and the beach. You asked us to recommend
anything you might add to the house, but we honestly could not dream
of anything more. You've both done a fantastic job. We'd like to
come back with the kids (all adults, but still "kids")
during the holiday week in December. Thank you again for an absolutely
outstanding accommodation." -Liz and Lee W., Dallas, TX.
"We returned late tonight after an amazing first trip to Hawaii. Thank you for allowing us to stay at this most beautiful house, and for opening our eyes to all that the spirit of aloha encompasses. We can't stop talking about all the nice people we met in Hilo. My mother, father, and I agree that the spirit in Hilo is so much stronger and more endearing than in Kona. We also prefer the green, tropical feel of Hilo over the dry barren desert in Kona. With the wild orchids, those giant red flowers (that look like they're made of wax), countless varieties of palms, and wild green vegetation, Hilo looks a lot more like the Hawaii we dreamed about for so many years. We would like to return as a family next year and stay in this same house the entire time. The experience was everything we hoped it would be, and more. We really enjoyed the beach, volcano, botanical gardens, waterfalls, and mac nut factory. I loved the Hilo Hattie store in town, and also the farmers market. My father and mother walked each morning at the beach, and had the time of their lives. Thank you for encouraging us to try Hilo, and to stay at this amazing house. With much love and aloha - from my family to yours," -Jean M. and Family, Richmond, VA.
"What an amazing house! We've been to Hawaii 15 times in the past 20 years. It was our first trip to Hilo, and our best trip ever. For the first time, we really felt connected to the local experience. The people were unbelievable friendly. I walked the block each morning to many waives, smiles, and warm greetings. What a wonderful Hawaii. Many mahalos." -Earl and Emile T., Salt Lake City, UT.
"Thank you for sharing your beautiful home in Hilo. We really enjoyed our stay." -Satin and Dave B., Redmond, WA.
"We truly enjoyed our stay here. This is a beautiful home with an incredible location! This was a wonderful stay and we hope to be able to visit again sometime!" -Jennifer and Craig H., Spokane, WA.
"We most definitely enjoyed our stay at 8Hawaii Beaches. What a beautiful house (and great location)! We only wish we could have stayed longer. Thanks again." -Debbie R., Higley, AZ.
"We just returned from Hawaii where we had a wonderful time. The property was every bit as beautiful as the pictures and the people in Hilo were absolutely wonderful. We had a restful vacation and want to thank you for allowing us to stay at your property." -Sheila D., Cupertino, CA.
"We want to thank you so much for letting us stay at the beautiful Hilo home. We enjoyed out time on the island very much & have already told many of our friends about it. Thanks again (actually Mahalo!)" -Karen & Dean U., Los Angeles, CA.
"Just a note to let you
know we had a wonderful stay on the Big Island. The 8 Hawaii beaches
home was wonderfully furnished -- I loved the kitchen, and the walk-in
shower was fabulous. Even though there was quite a bit of rain last
week, it didn't stop us from doing anything we planned. A real treat
was snorkeling at Richardson Beach right across the street, and swimming
with the two resident turtles there! 8 Palms was a great contrast,
and we enjoyed the opportunity to spend a little time there. The crashing
surf was very impressive. Didn't have time to try the surf rods, but
we did find and use the barbecue. (Might be a nice addition to 8 Hawaii
Beaches at some time in the future)." -Barbara B., Seattle,
WA.
"I just wanted to write to tell you what a wonderful stay my family and I had at the 8 Hawaii Beaches house. It was incredibly spacious and perfect for a family of 6! However, we only had 3 people in our party so the space was more than ample. The house itself made us think we were on vacation without even leaving! All 3 bedrooms have exquisite views. Waking up in the morning was impossible to do without a smile on our faces. The tide pond in the front is beautiful with the fish and tropical foliage. The house had everything and more that we needed for our stay. The kitchen was huge, gorgeous, and contained all modern amenities. The black sand beach and prime snorkeling are just steps away in a protected bay area with a lifeguard. It is a perfect family retreat in which we plan on returning in the future." - Shirley H., Sacramento, CA.
"We loved your beautiful home -
would be happy to use it again. We had great weather and enjoyed
walking the "lane" behind Awe 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.
"This was the best trip we've had to Hawaii, and I know the 8Hawaii 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 is 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. SURFRIDER "Nice beach house with all the amenities we needed. The boogie boards and snorkel items were a great bonus. We also appreciated how clean and tidy the house was. Great beach in front. Thank you!" -Davis M, Santa Barbara, CA
"Aloha, we had a wonderful time. The house is very cozy and comfortable. We would love to come back." -Phillips Family, Pasadena, CA
"We made the drive to Waipio one day via Akaka Falls then spent another day at Volcanoes National Park. The weather there was clear and beautiful. Hiked to the petroglyphs and drove to the end of Chain of Craters Road but there was no visible lava flow. Swam at the beach and relaxed enjoying the house." - Rob, Cori, and Alexa R., Houston, TX
"We came for our honeymoon and it was wonderful!" - Chad and Jenny C., Madison, WI
"Beautiful island, great stay!" - Tanya, Angela, and Stephanie T., St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
"This house made our first trip to Hawaii very special. Mahalo and Aloha!" - Ann S., Livermore, CA
"I'm sending you belated
thanks for allowing us the privilege of staying in your "surf-rider"
home in Hilo. We had such a great time - the house was perfect for my
family and the location right across from Richardson Beach Park couldn't
be beat. We especially enjoyed spending time in a less-touristy part
of the islands and hanging out with the locals. We sincerely hope that
the house did not sustain any damage from the tropical storm that came
through a few days after our departure. Thanks again for sharing your
home with us - we will pass along good words to other families we know
who may be interested in vacationing in Hilo." - Patty G., San
Francisco, CA
"Thank you for sharing your great house with us. Your attention for detail was appreciated. It was so nice to rent a house with adequate amenities and all the kitchen utensils! We usually stay in Kona, but love it here now too. We left some beach chairs and an ice chest for future guests to enjoy." - Don and JoAnn S., Mokelumne Hill, CA
"We had a great time! The views and closeness to the beach are wonderful. Ken's (House of Pancakes) and the Seaside Restaurant are good places to eat. The scuba diving out of Big Island Divers is excellent. My wife and daughter loved the shopping. Check out the beach and snorkeling at Mauna Kea and on the way see Akaka Falls. They are all great. Thanks to Matt and Karri! PS: Claire does a great job." -Steve W. and family, Evansville, IN
"Your house was great! My family was very comfortable. This is exactly what we hoped Hawaii would be. The view- breathtaking! We'll stay longer next time. Claire and her family were best of all. We really enjoyed talking with her and we learned a lot. Ken's (House of Pancakes) is great! Loved the zoo. Aloha and Mahalo." -Dawn and Tim G., Woodbridge, VA and Lee R., Spokane, WA
"Karri and Matt: Thank you for a great time! We met and enjoyed Claire and my kids met two local boys who spent everyday showing us everything. We saw wonderful things and places tourists never see. Thank you for a trip we will never forget and for precious memories that will last forever." Donna S. and family, Irvine, CA
"We loved the house and the fact that the beach was just across. Ken's (House Of Pancakes) breakfast menu and lunch at Harrington's, and dinner at Cafe Pesto. All were exceptional. We highly recommend horseback riding at Waipio Ranch and a visit to the farmer's market. Thanks so much for Claire and her children showing the girls around. The house is beautiful and so is the view." -Jerry and Gale W., Dallas, TX
"Thanks for a great vacation. The house was great and perfectly located. The snorkeling at Richardson beach was great. Ans seeing the lava flow from the volcano was awesome! We all had a relaxing day at Ahalanui warm springs- 90 degree water! Waterfalls, rainbows, lava caves, eels, clown fish, macadamia nuts, wild coconuts, kids beaches, lava flows, and so much more- what wonderful memories. Thanks again!" -Dean and Virginia C. and family, Dallas, TX
"Matt and Karri, You made us feel so welcome and your house is most comfortable. Randy, Bill and Teresa and kids, as well as us thoroughly enjoyed our time spent with you and with your extended family. We hope very much to return to your lovely island and to see all of you again. Aloha." -Bill and Kay S., Willits, CA
"We came to celebrate Grandpa Popes birthday. It was a total surprise to him right up to the moment we got to the Aloha airlines desk. He thought it was 2 days at Catalina or a "mystery train" ride. It was 9 days in his favorite place on the Big Island. Ages 22 months to 65 all has a great time. Explored, swam, snorkeled, watched whales, saw sea turtles, fished a bit and ate too much! Thanks for use of your GREAT house." -Popes family, San Luis Obispo, CA, Corona, CA, and Huntington Beach, CA
"We came a long way to visit- all the way from Beijing, China. We had a lovely time in this lovely house, and we're going to try hard to get back. Thank you." -Ted P., Beijing, China
"We enjoyed our stay very much. It proved a great accommodation to our family (with triplets). Your attention to details is very much appreciated. We only wish we could have stayed longer- it's like a home away from home. Thanks for making our vacation a pleasant one. We hope to come back soon! Sincerely," -Michael and Angela L.& family, Redondo Beach, CA
"We had a great time here in Hilo. The Volcano, the waterfalls, snorkeling with the sea turtles, and the gorgeous scenery were all great. The house is lovely and had everything we needed. The board games are fun to keep us entertained in the evenings." -Julie and Justin N., Plano, TX
"Hilo No Ka 'Oe! Mahalo Nui for the perfect gathering place to spend time with the Hilo-Keaukaha gang. The memories live on. Aloha." -Mari and Chip H., Sunset Beach, HI
"Thanks! This was our best trip to Hawaii. This particular area of Hilo is amazing. It gets WAY less rain and more sunny days and beautiful blue skies! We loved our Surfrider stay. The house was perfect for our family. We truly enjoyed Richardson beach and the lovely local folks. Friendly people, great accommodations, and perfect weather. Who could ask for more? Expect a call from us. We're definitely coming back. Aloha." -Ken and Al, New York.
"We loved our stay! Perfect house, perfect company, perfect weather! So much to do. This house was great! Mahalo." -Randy and Cathy T., Hidden Springs, ID
"Great house. Great weather. Hundreds of whales and lots of dolphins. Had a great time. Local residents exceptionally friendly. Mahalo!" -Roy and Sheri V., Vancouver WA
"What a wonderful house and setting. We saw whales and swam with the turtles! Our entire vacation was one we'll treasure. We'll be back! Mahalo!" -David and Taylor R., Paradise Valley, AZ
"Thank you for letting us use your wonderful home. We hate to leave!! Hilo is the best! We drove all over finding more and more breathtaking sights. The Big Island is truly amazing. Every ecosystem imaginable. Get a big kick from the antics of the mongeese (mongooses?). Loved the turtles at Punaluu (that was the best, swimming with them and enjoying them up close). All the different waterfalls are beautiful as are the eco-gardens. Didn't see lava flowing but wandered all around the crater and down to the ocean- especially enjoyed walking on the lava beds. Thank you - Mahalo. We'll be back!!" -Suzie and Heather T., and Mike S., Santa Rosa, CA
"Ah... Hilo. Funky, quirky remnant of old-time Hawaii. Not the first visit, but the first time snorkeling with the sea turtles at Richardson beach... what a gem! With the peace and quiet of this beautiful place- even the brief, torrential downpours could not dampen our spirits. A visit to the Tsunami Museum definitely worthwhile, as is the Farmer's Market. Perhaps the best part was having the comfort and convenience of this wonderful house after a day of activity. For that and more, we're grateful." -Peter R. and family, Grand Junction, CO
"Thanks a lot for a great house. The view is beautiful, and the beach is a spectacular snorkeling place. We saw 27 turtles. The Volcano was awesome. Red hot lava pouring into the ocean. And be sure to stop off at the waterfalls. We really loved this side of the island. The weather was perfect and we took in the waterfalls, horseback riding, and the zoo. People were friendly and the kids loved all the DVD's and videos you had available. What a wonderful place. Thanks." -Gene and Bev. F., Woodland, CA
"Perfect location for a Hawaiian vacation. We all enjoyed the beautiful fish, coral, turtles and warm ocean snorkeling from Richardson beach. Enjoyed the Volcano National park, waterfalls, and Safari helicopter ride to view the lava and waterfalls- great adventure. Lava was not going into the ocean. Saw red lava in the Pu'u O'o crater- waterfalls were beautiful as well as walking through the tropical rainforest, A lovely vacation homes with an outstanding view. Enjoyed the evening rains and occasional downpours." -Yvetta W. and family, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
"Surfriders is the perfect Hawaiian house. What a great view! This is our first visit to the Big Island and we truly enjoyed everything- The Botanical gardens, Volcano National Park, the market and also the festival in Hilo. Thank you!" -Jim and Pat R., Springville, NY, and Bill R., San Francisco, CA
"Had a fantastic time- for me especially. It was my 50th high school reunion and this house is right next door to the house I grew up in (the blue one). The other three tagged along and really enjoyed themselves. Luau, several trips to the Volcano, all over Hilo- They go home today and I still have 3 more weeks. Wahoo! Be back in 5 years for the next reunion." Aida G., Watson, OK
"Thanks! Wonderful location. We did as much cleaning as we could. Great night storms (in late October) and clear mornings. We enjoyed every minute." Zena C., San Jose, CA
"Had a great time! Visiting Hilo was a wonderful travel experience. Nice house!" -Maggie and Mikey D., La Selva Beach, CA
"This was our first trip to the Big Island. It was awesome. This quaint house with the spectacular view made out visit even better. We love Hilo and the Surfrider house. Aloha." -James and Judy P., Prescott, AZ
"We loved everything about this side of the island. Oceanfront view, easy access to several attractions- Volcanoes, Hawaiian gardens, rainforest, falls, etc. We really appreciated and enjoyed the laid-back feel of this part of the island. Great house... We felt right at home! MUST DO: Take the helicopter ride over the Volcano. It was the highlight of our trip." -Duane and Lynn Marie B., Hemet, CA
"Wonderful cozy house, beautiful weather and way too much to do! We loved everything about our stay: the Volcano, the beaches, snorkeling, hiking, exploring, the farmer's market. Hilo is wonderful laid-back town. This was our best family vacation yet. Thanks for helping make it perfect. Mahalo!" -Allie, Andy, Jared & Eric D., Santa Cruz, CA
"We had a wonderful time! Everything here is just a perfect paradise. The house and grounds were amazing, and we could not ask for anything more. Shortly after we arrived, Claire stopped by with the most beautiful topical flower arrangement. She was very helpful in giving directions to the best place to view the lava at night, and invited us over to her grandmother's house for a barbecue birthday dinner. We gladly accepted, and what a treat it was to listen to "tutu" talk about old Hawaii. We tried poi for the first time, and ate a meal prepared with the spirit of aloha. This was the absolute highlight of our trip. We also met several nice neighbors and beachgoers. You were right about the friendly people in Hilo. When we found the battery on our rental car was drained (after a night of leaving the interior lights on), my husband lifted the hood of the SUV, and it took only 10 seconds for two cars to stop and offer help. We were on the road again in no time. We all agreed, this would never happen where we come from in San Francisco and Los Angeles. The people in this area of Hawaii are so special. We had not intended to return to the Big Island soon, but after this trip we agreed to make the Surfrider house our destination for next summer. We plan to return with the kids. Thank you so much for providing this very special place." -John & Liz M. (Marin, CA), and Frank & Kathy W., Los Angeles, CA
"Great house in super location! This house worked perfectly for us this year. Can't wait to go again. If you ever stop renting, I told Diane we're going to have to buy something in Hawaii. We were sad to leave. Please give us a call to chat about our next visit. We plan to return with the grandkids this summer. Be in touch soon. Many mahalos!" -Eric and Ann C., Phoenix, AZ
"I loved the house and loved Hilo. We were sad to have to leave Hilo and head back to Kona for a week. We flew into Kona and drove the scenic route to Hilo when we arrived. Jerry and I were unimpressed with Kona's barren landscape, lack of tropical plants and vegetation, and the haze in the horizon. We noticed the landscape changing, becoming more green and tropical, as we approached Hilo. This is what we dreamed Hawaii would be like. We Since this was our first trip to the Big Island, we divided our stay and did not realize we would fall in love with the Hilo side of the island. We were expecting a lot of rain, but it rained only twice during our stay and both times were at night. At least we know where to come back to! More later when we get home. Until then a thousand thanks" -Meg and Jerry H., Richmond, VA
"I made it home, and wanted to thank you for making my trip so special. I was hesitant about staying alone, but I felt 100% comfortable after arriving at the Surfrider house. This was definitely the right house for me. Thank you for recommending it. The house felt so warm, inviting, and comfortable. I was able to relax from the moment I walked through the door. Claire dropped by and was so sweet and caring. Her children were wonderful. After she left, I felt like I had an instant friend in the neighborhood. I also appreciate your calling to check in on me. You and your crew do a wonderful job at making people feel welcome. I decided that even if I return with friends next trip, I'm staying at this house again. Thank you so much." -Nancy S., New York, NY
"Thanks for providing such a comfortable, immaculate, well-equipped house. We loved everything!" -Pam W., Palo Alto, CA
"Thank you both for
the nice rental house/home. Even the lovely flowers were wonderful.
We simply has a marvelous time. I liked being in town and close to
everything. 24 hour Walmart was a convenience we've never had on previous
Hawaii trips. Your beach location is great. We saw some remarkable
birds at Lava Tree State Park - Highly recommend! Thanks again for
providing such a nice place for us to stay." -Betty and Rob
L., Anchorage, AK.
"The house was immaculate
when we arrived. We did our best to leave it the same. Hope you find
it to be okay. We left a few boogie boards and a fishing guide book
inside the house for future guests. The kids had a lot of fun at the
beach. I was able to stay with the baby and watch the boys on their
boogie boards from inside the house. A fine location and great food
at Seaside Restaurant down the street. The neighbors were very nice,
and we enjoyed walking and talking with them." - Sue and Greg
L., Seattle, WA.
"We had a great stay.
The house was very nice and new addition looks great. The only bad
part about our trip was that we did not spend enough time in Hilo.
I guess we will have to go back! I will definitely keep you in mind
for vacation rentals in the future. Thank you for all your help."
-Brandon D., Concord, CA.
"We had a great time
in Hawaii, and loved the Surfriders house. It was just darling.
I hope we will be able to stay there again someday." -Helen
and Eric H., Washington D.C..
"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.
"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.
"When I booked the Surfrider,
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.
MANGOS
PALMS
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