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Kapehu Retreat House
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Kapehu Retreat House
Kapehu Retreat House, west view
Grand living room. Can seat up to 14.
spacious kitchen with ocean views
Wailele bedroom
Pua bedroom
hot tub is just outside the master bedroom sliding glass doors
Kapehu Retreat House, north view
view from lanai
Outdoor dining at Kapehu Retreat House
Kapehu Retreat House, east view
Separate 1 bedroom cottage adds a 5th bedroom and 1 1/2 bathrooms
lower waterfall
king bed in master bedroom
- Bedrooms4
- Sleeps14
- 4 Bathrooms,
- 2 Separate WC's
Minimum Stay
4 nights
15 Reviews of Property 917731 in Pepeekeo, USA
Luxury estate, ocean views, waterfall, utter privacy on 20 acres
business
Luxury estate, ocean views, waterfall, utter privacy on 20 acres
http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p917731
Pepeekeo
Hilo District
Absolute Magic
My husband and I stayed here in November 2011 for a week, and I have to say that it was the best place I have ever stayed (and I have stayed in some pretty nice places around the world). Yet here I am almost 14 months after we stayed, and if I close my eyes I can still feel the breezes, see the lush landscape, hear the sound of the waterfalls and the nightly frog chorus - just utter perfection. Each day I had to be dragged away to explore the island because I just wanted to stay in my own personal paradise. Picking fresh fruit every day and wandering down the lawn to lie in the hammock with the ocean in the distance was just spectacular. Mere words cannot do this place justice -- Kapehu House is truly a piece of heaven on earth.The sunken hot tub on the wrap-around lanai was the perfect remedy for muscles tired from day-tripping. The kitchen (with its spectacular view down the slope to the Pacific) made it difficult to decide whether to go out or dine in! Marcy was lovely to deal with -- she answered all questions promptly and accommodated each request.
I wish I was there right now! I truly cannot express just how in love we fell with this property! Thank you!
I wish I was there right now! I truly cannot express just how in love we fell with this property! Thank you!
Owner's Response: Aloha Lish - You are someone who really "gets it" - you understand why we ourselves are so enchanted with this special place, because you were open to experiencing the quiet and subtle magic. Mahalo for sharing your perceptions. I do hope you'll return. - Marcy
Helpful votes: 2/2
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Luxury estate, ocean views, waterfall, utter privacy on 20 acres
http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p917731
Pepeekeo
Hilo District
More lovely than advertised
We first fell in love with this beautiful home from the pictures. When we finally arrived, we were happy to discover it's far lovelier than the pictures expressed. It really has to be experienced to be appreciated -- the elegance of the home, the lush beauty of the surroundings, the quiet serenity like a temple, the immaculate cleanliness.
We're city kids, so we were shocked to find there were no curtains in the master bedroom or master bath! It took us two days to understand why the owners didn't put up curtains -- there is no one around. No one. No roads, no houses, no neighbors, no lights. From the master bath you have views in two directions of green rolling hills and pastures. From the master bedroom you have green hills in one direction and the stunning ocean view in the other. Btw, if you like to sleep late, choose one of the west-facing bedrooms, because in the master bedroom when the sun rises over the ocean it hits you right in the face. But we loved that.
The location couldn't be better - it's central to all the sights in East Hawaii. We had a great time at the zipline a couple of miles away in Honomu, and the Onomea botanical gardens, and snorkeling at the tide pools in Kapoho, and spent two full days exploring Hawaii Volcanoes Park. Our sons went surfing at a nearby beach I think was called Honolii and said the surfing was as good as any in CA. We did make one day-trip over to the Kona side, and decided we like the Hilo side much better.
The owner pleasantly answered all our many questions before we booked. The manager Chris met us at the house when we arrived and showed around and answered more questions.
We'd definitely recommend the kapehu house, and we hope to return.
We're city kids, so we were shocked to find there were no curtains in the master bedroom or master bath! It took us two days to understand why the owners didn't put up curtains -- there is no one around. No one. No roads, no houses, no neighbors, no lights. From the master bath you have views in two directions of green rolling hills and pastures. From the master bedroom you have green hills in one direction and the stunning ocean view in the other. Btw, if you like to sleep late, choose one of the west-facing bedrooms, because in the master bedroom when the sun rises over the ocean it hits you right in the face. But we loved that.
The location couldn't be better - it's central to all the sights in East Hawaii. We had a great time at the zipline a couple of miles away in Honomu, and the Onomea botanical gardens, and snorkeling at the tide pools in Kapoho, and spent two full days exploring Hawaii Volcanoes Park. Our sons went surfing at a nearby beach I think was called Honolii and said the surfing was as good as any in CA. We did make one day-trip over to the Kona side, and decided we like the Hilo side much better.
The owner pleasantly answered all our many questions before we booked. The manager Chris met us at the house when we arrived and showed around and answered more questions.
We'd definitely recommend the kapehu house, and we hope to return.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Romantic Getaway
Owner's Response: I'm glad you had such a good time and enjoyed our home so much. -Marcy
Helpful votes: 2/2
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business
Luxury estate, ocean views, waterfall, utter privacy on 20 acres
http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p917731
Pepeekeo
Hilo District
Moe'uhane
Moe'uhane
Moe'uhane.....that's "dream" in Hawaiian. Just what Kapehu Wailele is............truly a dream come true. You plan a vacation in Hawaii and you think you're going to eat at wonderful restaurants and mingle with the locals every night. Think again. This property is so wonderful you'll never want to leave. Marcy was so lovely and helpful; she gave many suggestions of great things to do. We drove to Volcanoes National Park and spent a day there (plan to stay for hours hiking and ending after dark so you can see the glow). Local snorkeling is great; I'd recommend purchasing a pair of tabis from S. Tokunaga Store, wonderful felt bottom shoes that give great traction on the shoreline's volcanic rocks. When you leave the tidepools stop at Suisan in Hilo and purchase some fresh ahi to sear on the stove when you get home.....and be back early enough to sit in the hot tub to watch the cruise ship leaving the island (about 5-6 pm). Be sure to rent a 4-wheel drive jeep so you can go everywhere, such as Waipeo Valley. After leaving there, drive to JJ Market (best price in the area for beef) in Honokaa and pick up a delicious locally raised grass-fed beef steak to cook when you get back to the house. Add some wonderful fresh organic arugula from one of the local farmer's markets and you'll have a special meal as you sit on the beautiful lanai at Kapehu Wailele. Don't miss the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Stop by What's Shakin for a Peanut Bruddah or Lava Java smoothie after you leave the garden and are making your way to Akaka Falls. Plan to spend a day just lounging and walking the retreat property, as it is incredibly beautiful, quiet and peaceful. You'll have the best sleep of your life with the windows cracked open and the gentle sounds of the coqui to lull you to sleep. Mornings are especially wonderful. We awoke to gentle showers and an incredibly perfect rainbow one morning. We enjoyed fresh papayas from the trees on the property for breakfast along with delicious Kona coffee. Many colorful birds will be fluttering around the lanai and the air is so fresh you won't want to leave. Inside, the home is beautiful--with granite counters, gorgeous wood floors, luxurious bathrooms, spacious living areas, and a fireplace in case you get chilly. Thanks Marcy and Tom.....it was the best!!!
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Helpful votes: 2/2
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business
Luxury estate, ocean views, waterfall, utter privacy on 20 acres
http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p917731
Pepeekeo
Hilo District
Relaxation in luxury
We just returned from a two and a half week stay on the Big Island and were blessed to spend a week at Marcy's fabulous home. From the moment we met Kelly who met us at the property to the last day, everything was perfect. The temps at this location were comfortable even through the evening (compared to a stay prior to this week that was at a 1500 ft elevation). The only complaint would be that we didn't spend enough time relaxing and enjoying the peace and quiet. It was great to sit in the hot tub and enjoy the rain and tropical breezes. We were there during a rainy time so we were able to see the waterfall and listen to the calming cascade. If you plan on staying here, you can't go wrong.
Recommended for:
Girls Getaway,
Sightseeing,
Romantic Getaway
Helpful votes: 1/1
Did you find this review helpful?
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business
Luxury estate, ocean views, waterfall, utter privacy on 20 acres
http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p917731
Pepeekeo
Hilo District
So much beauty!
We visited from Japan, my father and mother, my husband baby and I. We all have beautiful memories at Kapehu Retreat House. My father and mother said it was like a dream, so much beauty and luxury, so big. And for me, I could spend amazing days with the sound of winds in trees, streams, and the beautiful nature scenery! The property manager were very kind very sweet.
My baby was sick with fever, so we stayed at the house and not see many sights. We picked fruit and sit in the spa tub, and I cooked meals for my family in the big kitchen. We were very happy we stayed at such a beautiful place.
I hope I will come back again this house.
My baby was sick with fever, so we stayed at the house and not see many sights. We picked fruit and sit in the spa tub, and I cooked meals for my family in the big kitchen. We were very happy we stayed at such a beautiful place.
I hope I will come back again this house.
Helpful votes: 4/4
Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
No
business
Luxury estate, ocean views, waterfall, utter privacy on 20 acres
http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p917731
Pepeekeo
Hilo District
So much beauty!
We visited from Japan, my father and mother, my husband baby and I. We all have beautiful memories at Kapehu Retreat House. My father and mother said it was like a dream, so much beauty and luxury, so big. And for me, I could spend amazing days with the sound of winds in trees, streams, and the beautiful nature scenery! The property manager were very kind very sweet.
My baby was sick with fever, so we stayed at the house and not see many sights. We picked fruit and sit in the spa tub, and I cooked meals for my family in the big kitchen. We were very happy we were at such a beautiful place.
I hope I will come back again this house.
My baby was sick with fever, so we stayed at the house and not see many sights. We picked fruit and sit in the spa tub, and I cooked meals for my family in the big kitchen. We were very happy we were at such a beautiful place.
I hope I will come back again this house.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
No
business
Luxury estate, ocean views, waterfall, utter privacy on 20 acres
http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p917731
Pepeekeo
Hilo District
A Magical Place
This was our first time in Hawaii and we were told the Big Island had everything the other islands had and more and they were so right. The Hilo side of the island is lush and quiet and real - you feel like you are in paradise and not a theme park. This house and property are only 10 minutes away from town and quite convenient to Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls, and adventurous activities like ziplining. But it's also nice to enjoy the peacefulness of the house with with its expansive views of the ocean from the lanai, the sound of a waterfall to lull you to sleep, and a wonderful gourmet kitchen. We shopped at the Hilo Farmer's Market and would cook fresh meals which we'd eat on the lanai watching the sunset. It was all just magical.
Recommended for:
Adventure Seekers,
Sightseeing,
Romantic Getaway
Owner's Response: I'm so glad you enjoyed your stay!
Helpful votes: 2/2
Did you find this review helpful?
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business
Luxury estate, ocean views, waterfall, utter privacy on 20 acres
http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p917731
Pepeekeo
Hilo District
Warmth and charm
Amazing. We stayed here last July and didn’t write a review, but I just now looked at the site for our 2012 travel plans, and I was Shocked by the 3-star review from the person who couldn’t figure out the light switches & sliding doors. Hard to believe anyone could miss the awe-inspiring beauty of this place by getting so focused on “onopihipihi” (Hawaiian for trifling unimportant stuff). So I just have to write a more relevant review.
We totally loved it! Kapehu is an utterly charming plantation-era home, filled with beautiful touches like old-fashioned wainscoting, or boxcar siding or whatever you call the style of paneling. No ordinary dry-wall anywhere in the house. Even the ceilings are paneled. It feels like your great-grandmother’s house, if your great-grandmother were a duchess. And so sweet and homey and welcoming and warm. The style of the place seems to foster congeniality and family closeness.
If you live in the city, you just can’t imagine how wonderful it is to lay your head on your pillow and be immersed in the sounds of nature and teeming life. It’s like sleeping outdoors deep in the wilderness - except you’re under a roof and between soft sheets instead of on the hard ground. Right outside your open window is the rumbling rushing stream, the singing coqui frogs, and the steady cheep-cheep of crickets keeping the rhythm. Magical.
That reviewer never mentioned the fresh fruits from the trees on the property. The grand sweeping views. The silver shimmering ocean in the moonlight. The CD player that pipes Hawaiian music out to the lanai. The total privacy: no cars in view, no traffic sounds. And there are No Lights to light the sky and dim the stars and moon!
Too bad the spa didn’t work for that guest - we found it very soothing after a hard day of sightseeing. But, there’s a huge sunken bathtub they could have used - big enough for 2 or 3 people at once.
Yes, it’s the rainy side of the island, and chances are you’ll get your feet wet. Yes, the east side of the island isn’t hot like the Kona side. But we found the Kona side too touristy for us and completely lacking in the small town charm you find on the Hilo side.
Kapehu is such a special place. It should probably be priced a lot higher, but we hope the owners keep the rates low enough for us to afford, because we plan to go back. And we’ll never settle for an ordinary vacation home after staying at Kapehu. If you can find an available time slot, don’t pass this one up!
We totally loved it! Kapehu is an utterly charming plantation-era home, filled with beautiful touches like old-fashioned wainscoting, or boxcar siding or whatever you call the style of paneling. No ordinary dry-wall anywhere in the house. Even the ceilings are paneled. It feels like your great-grandmother’s house, if your great-grandmother were a duchess. And so sweet and homey and welcoming and warm. The style of the place seems to foster congeniality and family closeness.
If you live in the city, you just can’t imagine how wonderful it is to lay your head on your pillow and be immersed in the sounds of nature and teeming life. It’s like sleeping outdoors deep in the wilderness - except you’re under a roof and between soft sheets instead of on the hard ground. Right outside your open window is the rumbling rushing stream, the singing coqui frogs, and the steady cheep-cheep of crickets keeping the rhythm. Magical.
That reviewer never mentioned the fresh fruits from the trees on the property. The grand sweeping views. The silver shimmering ocean in the moonlight. The CD player that pipes Hawaiian music out to the lanai. The total privacy: no cars in view, no traffic sounds. And there are No Lights to light the sky and dim the stars and moon!
Too bad the spa didn’t work for that guest - we found it very soothing after a hard day of sightseeing. But, there’s a huge sunken bathtub they could have used - big enough for 2 or 3 people at once.
Yes, it’s the rainy side of the island, and chances are you’ll get your feet wet. Yes, the east side of the island isn’t hot like the Kona side. But we found the Kona side too touristy for us and completely lacking in the small town charm you find on the Hilo side.
Kapehu is such a special place. It should probably be priced a lot higher, but we hope the owners keep the rates low enough for us to afford, because we plan to go back. And we’ll never settle for an ordinary vacation home after staying at Kapehu. If you can find an available time slot, don’t pass this one up!
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Owner's Response: Thank you for capturing the feel of our Kapehu Retreat House. We, the owners, just spent 2 weeks at the place ourselves, with extended family. We certainly agree it's a warm and homey environment that encourages closeness and congeniality.
Helpful votes: 3/3
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business
Luxury estate, ocean views, waterfall, utter privacy on 20 acres
http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p917731
Pepeekeo
Hilo District
Fall 2011 1 week stay
House was cold no source of heat. No wireless internet connection
Spa did not work. unlocking gate in the rain was difficult. Beautiful location
And nice view of the sea. Light switches were confusing
and not labeled. house was spacious and clean.
Carport didn't drain well so feet got wet entering/exiting car.
Patio doors hard to open. Kitchen well equipped and spacious.
Spa did not work. unlocking gate in the rain was difficult. Beautiful location
And nice view of the sea. Light switches were confusing
and not labeled. house was spacious and clean.
Carport didn't drain well so feet got wet entering/exiting car.
Patio doors hard to open. Kitchen well equipped and spacious.
Recommended for:
Adventure Seekers,
Pet-friendly,
Romantic Getaway
Owner's Response: 1. We have a large beautiful fireplace that guests are welcome to use if the weather is chilly, and we provide firewood. It's true we don't have central heat, but no one on the island does. Central heating systems are unheard of in Hawaii. Even at high elevations in chilly towns like Volcano and Waimea, no one has central heating, though fireplaces are common. At our elevation near Hilo, it rarely gets chilly enough to use the fireplace, and no guests have used the fireplace yet this winter. 2. Our hot tub works perfectly. We did get a complaint from one guest who said the hot tub wouldn't heat properly, but when we sent a repairman, he could find nothing wrong and the water in the hot tub was 103 degrees. We do have instructions posted next to the hot tub, clearly stating that if you turn the jets on high the heating element turns off, so possibly that guest turned the jets on high and caused it to stop heating temporarily. 3. It's true we had no internet connection until December 2011, but we specified that clearly in all our ads, so if internet were a requirement, guests knew in advance to choose a different rental. It's no longer an issue, though, since we now have high speed internet via both modem and WiFi. 4. Guests are never inconvenineced by our gate lock system, because we have two options for unlocking the gate: guests have the combination to the combination lock as well as a key to the key-lock, so if one of the locks gets sticky from wet weather, they can use the other lock until the property manager can give the sticky one a squirt of WD-40.
Could this reviewer be confusing the Kapehu Retreat House with a different rental? He/she also said it's pet-friendly, but we clearly state in all our ads and on our own site that no pets are allowed.
Could this reviewer be confusing the Kapehu Retreat House with a different rental? He/she also said it's pet-friendly, but we clearly state in all our ads and on our own site that no pets are allowed.
Helpful votes: 1/1
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business
Luxury estate, ocean views, waterfall, utter privacy on 20 acres
http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p917731
Pepeekeo
Hilo District
Kapehu Wailele
Kapehu Wailele is a very charming home styled as an old plantation home. It is very comfortable and the surroundings are idyllic! Enjoyed a good night sleep every night to the sounds of the rain, stream and coquis. We had a lovely time at Kapehu!
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Romantic Getaway
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