Ocean View 2 Bedroom Kahalu’u Reef

Hotel Description

Honestly, when I first pulled up to this place in Kahalu’u, I wasn’t expecting much from the name alone – but wow, they really weren’t kidding about that ocean view. You know what hits you first? The sound. Even before you see the water properly, you can hear the waves rolling over the reef, and it’s this constant, gentle whoosh that becomes your soundtrack for the entire stay.

The two-bedroom setup is actually perfect if you’re traveling with family or another couple – I mean, you get real space to spread out without feeling like you’re stepping on each other’s toes. The kitchen’s nothing fancy, but it’s got everything you need, which is clutch because honestly, eating out for every meal in Hawaii gets expensive fast. What really got me though was how they positioned the living area. You wake up, stumble out for coffee, and boom – there’s Kahalu’u Bay spread out in front of you. The reef creates this natural pool that’s incredibly popular with snorkelers (fair warning: it gets busy around 10 AM when the tour groups show up), but from your lanai, you get this perfect bird’s-eye view of all the action.

The location is sort of genius when you think about it. You’re right there at one of the Big Island’s best snorkeling spots – I’m talking about seeing green sea turtles just casually munching on algae like it’s no big deal – but you’re also close enough to Kailua-Kona that a quick grocery run or dinner out doesn’t become this whole expedition. Parking can be a bit of a circus during peak hours since the beach attracts day visitors, but staying right there means you can just walk down whenever you want. Early morning is magical, by the way – the water’s like glass and you’ve got the place mostly to yourself.

The unit itself feels lived-in rather than sterile, which I actually prefer. Sure, the furniture’s not going to win any design awards, and the bathroom could use some updating, but everything works and it’s clean. The air conditioning keeps things comfortable (you’ll want it – those afternoon trade winds don’t always cooperate), and there’s enough hot water for everyone to shower after a day at the beach.

What really makes this place special though is that reef ecosystem right outside your door. I spent hours just watching the water change colors as clouds passed overhead, and the sunset views – well, let’s just say my phone storage took a serious hit. The snorkeling here is legitimately world-class, but even if you’re not into that, just floating around in the protected bay area is pretty therapeutic.

One thing to know: this isn’t a resort with concierge service and daily housekeeping. It’s more like borrowing a friend’s well-located apartment, which means you’re responsible for your own towels and toiletries. But honestly, that’s part of the charm – you feel like you’re actually living in Hawaii for a few days rather than just visiting. For the price point and that location, it’s honestly hard to beat.

Rooms

• Holiday Home with 2 × 2 single beds and 2 × 1 large double bed for 4 adults, 3 children

Reviews

• Sharon from United States (8/10)

  Location, parking, access to the beach and pool.

• Lisa from United States (7/10)

  Location good but high floor is not good for climbing

• Adrian from Australia (7/10)

  Great location

• Meush from United States (8/10)

  Location. View from balcony.

• Liliana from United States (7/10)

  This was our first time using a condo-apartment and it was the best decision. We had access to a kitchen, washer & dryer, bathrooms, two bedrooms and a beautiful balcony .

• Charity from United States (9/10)

  The views from the back balcony and living area are absolutely amazing! The beaches across the street are within easy walking distance, with excellent snorkeling. It’s also a great spot for surf lessons or to watch the surfers in the morning. The management was also great about accommodating a late check-out since we had a late flight. The kitchen was decently stocked, and having a laundry room was great. Most of the restaurants we went to were within a 5-15 minute drive in either direction, so it was centrally located too.

• Grant from New Zealand (9/10)

  The view and location.

• Dan from Canada (5/10)

• Sonia from United States (5/10)

  The view was so beautiful 😍 people are friendly. It’s close to the beach that’s a plus.

• Terri from United States (9/10)

  Excellent location, good amenities great value excellent guest relations.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities