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Reviews of KeALOHA - INCREDIBLE views, Spectacular Beach Park, the Best snorkeling, Turtles

KeALOHA - INCREDIBLE views, Spectacular Beach Park, the Best snorkeling, Turtles
Hilo, HI

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 95 out of 110 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 14 out of 110 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 110 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 110 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 110 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Joanna M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful View & Location
This is a great place to stay! Walking distance to the beach! Beautiful View from the bedroom and lanai! Comfortable bed! Everything that you could need for cooking, snorkeling, and just enjoying your stay without having to drive anywhere if you don't want to! I would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Donald N.

Liked: Cleanliness
A perfect and ideal location
this was an excellent and perfect place to stay. Everything was perfect and a beautiful location.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrea D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect location
Great place Everything you need is here The beach next store is a true delight Be sure to read guest book for good places to check out in the area
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Daniela and Ed K., Halfmoon Bay, Sunshine Coast

Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay!
This is the perfect home base for a few days of exploring the Hilo area. The apartment is comfortable, clean, nicely appointed. All the basics and more are provided. Terry gave good information, replied promptly to my queries. We would definitely stay here again next time we’re in Hilo.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cathy I.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect condo for a couple!
This was a great stay in Hilo. We were close to fun things and the cove was beautiful. The condo had everything we needed plus more. We will be back again.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

John D.

Liked: Cleanliness
KeALOHA
Wow the pictures don’t lie. Right in the cove, fishes turtles and swimming out the back door. Trails to another cove as well. Perfect location, the condo was clean, organized and had everything we could want to adventure around. Coming back!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shawn W.

Liked: Cleanliness
The view!
This vacation rental is a gem. It was clean, well stocked and possibly the best view on the island. Our favorite thing to do was walk next door to Carlsmith Beach Park and hang out in the water. We saw sea turtles there several times. If I ever go back to the big island I would want to stay here again.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect location for a quiet stay at Hilo
I am going to start with the positives first. The location is perfect for quiet evenings after a day of sightseeing around the island. The neighborhood is not touristy and busy like Kona. The condo is about 40 minutes from Volcanoes National Park. The condo has a beautiful view of Carlsmith Beach Park from the balcony and a very short walk to the water. There are ladders to the water and the water was shallow. We were able to see schools of fish and several turtles in the water at dusk. The unit itself was very comfortable and inviting. The unit had everything we needed for a family stay with all kitchen gadgets, sundry items (sunblock, beach towels, sewing kit, umbrellas), and sports equipment (pool noodles, snorkels, fins, bodyboards, etc.). We saved some money by not having to rent snorkeling equipment, buying umbrellas, and by making some meals at home. The building also has a pool for swimming laps. The Seaside Restaurant across the street served some pretty good seafood. Terry (the property manager) responded quickly to inquiries and had a binder at the entry way with all sorts of useful information and recommendations. I only had two items that were minor issues. One needs to sign a rental agreement for a stay in the unit and the elevator keys were a bit sticky and took a few minutes of trying to make them work. However, if one doesn’t mind either of those things, the stay is well worth it. I would stay here again if I come back to Hilo.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deborah H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Vacation
Had an amazing time! The property is clean, beautiful and offers access to the beach park next door (but there are several right down the road if you like to snorkel) Loved being able to go without having to pack up and find parking! Quiet building with the most friendly residents. The property manager was responsive and very helpful. The property is close to shopping and dining. The local farmers market was wonderful! Loved our visit and would stay again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jill H.

Liked: Cleanliness
More then comfortable
Well appointed (well stocked), great location. Near enough to Hilo but basically at Carls Smith Park. Swimming, snorkeling, turtle watching. I also really enjoyed the pool. Very clean and under used so it was quiet and peaceful.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous condo
We absolutely loved the condo and the location! The condo is beautiful, clean, comfortable and very well equipped. The views are fantastic towards the lagoon and the ocean beyond as well as the lush vegetation that surrounds Carlsmith Beach Park. The complex is well maintained and quiet. The lagoon is right in front of the building and was wonderful for swimming and snorkelling. Regularly met a couple of turtles that came in to feast around the lava rocks. We took walks down to Richardson Beach Park and along Nene Road nearby. Hilo and area is full of sights and attractions, historical and cultural relevance, opportunities to see endemic birds and other wild life. We`ve spent time in Kona several times but this place is definitely more authentic, more multicultural, less touristy, less crowded and has so much to offer. The only regret is we had only two weeks - planning to stay longer the next time!
Stayed 15 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sue Sicurella M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful condo with a great view
This condo was well equipped with all of the basics and lots of extras. It was was very organized and Terry provided great recommendations for places to go and things to do.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amanda N., Waco, TX

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect view to wake up to!
We arrived really late after delays with flights but detailed instructions made it easy to find the keys and get in. It was too dark to see much then, but waking up at sunrise to that gorgeous view was worth the wait! It was a little warm in the afternoons after being out exploring, but cooled down quickly with the doors/windows open. We were there during spring break so there were young people at the park after dark a couple nights after closing time - with the open windows the noise really carries making it hard to get to sleep but the bed was really comfortable and we slept well once the noise died down. Our first morning we discovered the coffee carafe was broken so we ventured out and ended up finding our favorite coffee shop on the island (the SS) which we returned to many times during our stay! We found another coffee maker in the cabinets, but nothing we made compared to their delicious coffee! We loved the detailed instructions and helpful hints for things to do/see in the area!! We absolutely loved our stay and would love to return one day!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim G.

Liked: Cleanliness
lovely property and view
This is an attractive, up-to-date condo with an open floor plan, comfortable bed and lovely water view from the main room, bedroom and lanai.. Terry, the property manager is very accessible and responsive. The kitchen and linen closet are well stocked. We snorkeled every day and had a fun, relaxing time.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

A K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place - beautiful view - right on the ocean
Everything is just like the pictures. The kitchen is very well equipped, everything you might need. There is a great farmers market near by for fresh produce. It isn't far to stores or restaurants. The water out front is very clear and every time we went in we saw sea turtles. I would recommend good sturdy water shoes for the entire island beaches -it makes it easier to walk across the lava. This location has easy access to everything on the Hilo side. I would recommend a car. The owner not only had great communication they also had lots of great tips on things to do and places to eat. The only negative I have is the pool isn't great. However, with the beautiful ocean right there I don't know why you would care about the pool. I would strongly recommend this as a great place to stay.
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karl F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect as always
This was our 3rd time at the MKS and hopefully not the last one.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Glenn W.

Liked: Cleanliness
10 Day R&R
The condo was great and the view fantastic - direct access to Carlsmith Beach park with protected swimming and snorkeling in the lagoon. This condo is supplied with everything you need for the beach also. We would definitely recommend.
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mark R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Location. Location. Location.
If staying on Hilo side of Big Island, this is a great location. Great snorkeling with turtles in the “back yard” (beach next door). Many “extras” included: beach chairs, snorkel gear, well stocked kitchen supplies, Even umbrellas!! With all the above, still a stand out to mention is the property management company running this VRBO. Terry and Amber were GREAT. Numerous emails explaining the condo, check in process, and things to do/sites to see. Especially with the every changing volcano eruption. They are both well versed regarding Hawaii and had great suggestions. I would stay here again! That is best review statement I can say.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jana M., Bend, OR

Liked: Cleanliness
Great time!
This is such a sweet place. It has everything you need and is a great location. We explored all over Hilo, Volcanos and the east and south sides of the island and this was a great location for us. Having the park right there is amazing. Saw lots of turtles. ❤️❤️❤️
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Janet J., Alpharetta, GA USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful view and location
This rental was perfect; cute inside, loved listening to the ocean waves, perfect location.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Chris M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent Location
Great property with all kinds of "extras" for our stay. We used the beach chairs and beach towels many times. We saw turtles every single day. The unit was very clean and organized when we arrived. Nice place. We will stay again for sure
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Roxanne D., Sierra Springs

Liked: Cleanliness
Paradise
This is a beautiful place, great snorkeling right out your door. So many things to do and we did them all. First place I have stayed that gave you everything to enjoy your stay . Aloha 🤙🤙
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ina D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect location!
This is a perfect spot to enjoy all that Hilo has to offer. The apartment was very clean and comfortable and had everything we needed. The view from the lanai and bedroom is beautiful. We saw turtles at the beach park next door almost every day. The Hilo Farmer’s Market is a must see. No need for AC with the big windows and ceiling fans. It cooled down each night and we enjoyed listening to the ocean surf. We can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 10 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tim K., Cincinnati

Liked: Cleanliness
Great location! Well appointed unit!
Over the past 11 years we have now stayed at this property 5 times in 4 different units. This unit is the nicest of them all. There is pretty much everything you could ask for already in the unit. All of the kitchen tools and appliances (Can you say dishwasher?), beach toys, ironing board and iron, even robes hanging on the door in the bathroom. Added to that the owner is a great communicator. I can't speak to how responsive he is to issues, well, because we didn't have any. Then there is the location, which is why we keep coming back. Great snorkeling at Carlsmith and there are always turtles there.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Carol G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very nice!
The condo was very well stocked. Hosts even provided bath robes, umbrellas, snorkeling equipment and more. We had to drive through a depressing industrial area to get to the condo, though. It’s right next doors to Carlsmith Beach which is a lovely lagoon for swimming.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Sept 2022
the road there is just a detour, main road will be finished shortly. IT just goes past the harbor where we get our essentials to live on this beautiful island. Again, JUST a detour. MAIN road will be ready in next couple of months and where the condo is BEAUTIFUL

10/10 Excellent

Carol M., New York, NY

Liked: Cleanliness
A perfect location
We really enjoyed our stay at Mauna Loa Shores. We loved being able to walk outside and swim and snorkel. Hilo restaurants, shops, and the farmers market are minutes away. The condo isn’t huge, but it fit three people just fine. Very clean and well stocked.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

denise h.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect location
This was such an amazing place to stay. All comforts provided with an incredible view of both the water and nature area. A short walk to the water with amazing snorkeling.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl (Sherry) H., Denver CO

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful location lovely condo
The location and condo were lovely. The kitchen was well equipped… right down to the frosted beer mugs! Clean and inviting, a great experience.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Jane L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Simple but nice
Good communication with renter. Nice size for a small family (2 adults and one ten year old). Nice kitchen and definitely saved money by eating in 2-3 meals per day. Not as many turtle sightings as expected but did see a few. The view from the balcony was great and I was surprised how cool it stayed with just fans (No AC). Beach is rocky (No sand) but still cool to explore. The water is also quite cold but was tolerable in the afternoon. Very popular beach so it got crowded and noisy at times. Overall we had a great time but missed having a sandy beach.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Swimming Happily in Hilo
This is our favorite place on The Big Island. With a view of our Favorite Swimming Hole in Hilo. and a little rubber ducky in our individual bathing unit. See you again !!!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

JOHN F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Condo!
Great stay at Condo. It had everything that one would need for home and beach. Lagoon within fifty feet with turtles to boot! Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Anne S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful View
Great location with beautiful view of ocean from our balcony.. Love listening to the ocean. Our condo had everything we needed and more. Snorkeling and swimming right out our back door.
Stayed 10 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Robin B., Grants Pass

Liked: Cleanliness
The best vacation condo I've ever stayed in
Slippers robe, lots of supplies, everything you WANTED and all the things you didn't know you needed. Location location
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Diane S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful and lush foilage, and a nice lagoon!
Very easy access to the water! The condo was well appointed with all you need. Owner was very accessible if you need him. We hope to be back again!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Janice B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing view
Beautiful , sweet, amazing view apartment. All the comforts of home in a wonderful package. Loved this place, and area. Would stay longer next time.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

DENES E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful stay
We really enjoyed our stay. The pictures and property description are accurate. I was surprised at how well stocked everything was.
Stayed 14 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Margaret S., Oakland, California, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Hilo Condo
My husband and I loved staying here for 4 nights. The view from the lanai is spectacular, the bed is very comfortable, the condo was clean and had just about everything we needed during our stay. Snorkeling gear, folding chairs, boogey boards are available for guests. In addition to basics like cooking oil, salt and pepper, this kitchen had other condiments and every piece of equipment needed to prepare meals. The pool area needs some improvement, but with the beach just steps away, we never used the pool.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

greg b.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very Nice Place
We enjoyed the park next door and snorkeled with the turtles. Really enjoyed the place
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great
Very lovely place.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

8/10 Good

Pat S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Hilo trip
Amazing view beautiful location. Kitchen well stocked. Bedroom comfortable. Nice lanai and beautiful view and beach access. The pool does not appear inviting though.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Sept 2021
the pool is not the main attraction here. YOU are right next door to one of the finest experiences on the island. swim with the sea turtles, protected reef, steps into the ocean, Carlsmith Beach Park is amazing :).

8/10 Good

Jeremy B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great View and a Clean Property
This building is older but extremely well maintained. The actual room was very clean and minimalistic. The views of Carlsmith beach were fantastic.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Wednesday C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful stay!
We loved everything about our stay!! We really appreciated Terry working with us to reschedule our intended trip from April to Aug. It was a bright, beautiful, well thought out place to relax, snorkel, hike... Thoroughly enjoyed our time and would definitely stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

kristen e.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful location and view!
We loved this condo! It's right on the strip of all of Hilo's swimming holes. It really can't be beat! Behind the property are also some beautiful trails. Condo had everything we possibly needed and the lanai was great to watch the sun as it set. We found the property very charming and loved having an assigned parking space as well. Maintenance/management was frequently on the property doing upkeep which was great! The binder of info in the rental was above and beyond anything else we have had at any other rentals. Recipes, tips, etc. It was great! This place was amazing and we will definitely return! Thanks for an amazing weeks stay!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Laura G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stunning views
We loved staying in Hilo! You can’t beat looking at the ocean from your balcony and then walking to the beach each morning to snorkel. The condo had everything we needed and Terry was great about helping us find amazing things to do in Hilo.

10/10 Excellent

Jane C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Location!
Could not ask for a better location-. You can walk out the back and go swimming with sea turtles! The building is a little tired, but the unit has been redone and is lovely- almost every amenity is provided- just make sure you bring soap and shampoo for the shower. The lanai looks out over the water and the scenery is beautiful. There is a kitchen light out that made meal preparation tricky in the evening but hopefully that’ll be fixed soon. Great place to stay!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 1 May 2021
There should always be soap and such. Need to inform the cleaning crew... And light is being fixed. We immediately take care of any issues so that your experience will be one to remember as the "best" in every way

10/10 Excellent

Elaine D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Incredible views, best hosts
Our month stay could not have been better! After 30 days we agreed that there is not one thing that would have improved our stay. We have been snowbirds for 10 years now, and have stayed at many condos throughout the world. We can say we have never stayed in a condo that was as clean and well-supplied as this one. Another plus, is the location- the pictures do not lie. Amazing! We debated between staying in Hilo or Kona. After visiting Kona a couple times during our month, we were always pleased to return to Hilo. We prefer staying among locals, in their neighborhoods; away from all the groups of tourists and big resorts. Hilo is blessed with large coastal parks that are well maintained. It’s very tropical. Sure, it rains. But our daily plans were changed only 2 times, in the entire month, because of rainfall. Good days for museum visits. Some have commented on the exterior appearance of the condos. For an almost 50-year old building and pool, we felt it was in excellent shape.
Stayed 30 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Candido C.

Liked: Cleanliness
location is great. Nice view
Very Good
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2020

8/10 Good

Melissa M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Hilo Condo
Overall we were very happy with our stay at the condo. The unit itself is very clean, nicely updated and has a great view of the bay/ocean. The only downside is the age of the actual condo building, looks quite outdated, although it was generally clean and seemed to be decently maintained (I saw a maintenance worker cleaning the walk ways every day with a hose to remove leaves and debris etc). The worst part of the building unfortunately is the pool. It really needs a facelift. In the three nights we were there I only saw one person use the pool for a very brief period of time. This isn’t too much of an issue though because the bay that is right outside of the condo is perfect for swimming!! The only reason we were really looking forward to the pool is that we have a six month old baby that I felt more comfortable taking in a pool rather than the ocean. The bay is very cool, within steps of my first time in the bay I encountered a sea turtle. They frequent that spot all the time. Saw multiple turtles every day there! The bay is fed by natural springs so it has spots where the water is very cold, but if you just swim another one to two feet it’s usually back to being the amazingly warm Hawaiian ocean that we are use to. This isn’t the best snorkeling spot (there are definitely better spots on the island), but it’s really good for beginners or someone looking for an easy-going spot to see some ocean fish. The condo itself is located about a 7 minute drive from most of the places to find food. I thought that was nice and close, enough so that you aren’t right in the town, but you will require a car if you would like to eat out at the restaurants. Overall I would recommend staying here!! Once you get past the outdated building the unit itself is much nicer than the first impression of the building.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar 2020
Mahalo for your visit. We are happy to have had you as our guest. As you experienced, Mauna Loa Shores is unique on the Island’s NE coastline with its near-direct access to the ocean and the sea turtle sanctuary. The building has a tropical patina reflecting the 1970s when it was built. The on-site pool is an amenity, enjoyed by both guests and residents. As you noted, swimming with the sea turtles in the reef-protected lagoon is a remarkable experience. We hope you return to enjoy more of what Hilo offers. -

10/10 Excellent

Sara J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great location
We went to Carlsmith Park everyday! Great snorkeling and we enjoyed seeing the turtles. The condo is updated and the view is awesome!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Brandon F.

Liked: Cleanliness
The perfect Big Island stay
The property was everything we hoped - a beautiful view of the bay from the balcony, just steps away from the water, with everything you need for a Big Island vacation. Do yourself a favor and enjoy some time in the room between excursions, go to the farmer's and fish markets and cook your own meals. The place has plenty of cookbooks and a lot of spices and condiments to make many wonderful meals. If you are lucky you may even find a green sea turtle or two swimming circles around you in the bay.