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BEACHES


"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
RESPONSE: Thank you, Kevin & Virginia. We will pass along your thanks to Claire & Rex. Indeed, they are special people.

"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
RESPONSE: Thank you, Jan. We get about 30% less rain in this area of Hilo, but generally Hilo is not as rainy as you might think. It gets more rain than Kona, but it does not rain daily. When it does rain, it usually does so in short spurts, but definitely not the cold rain you're accustomed to in Oregon. Throughout the year, there are far more beautiful days than rainy days!

"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.
RESPONSE: Thank you, Liz and Lee. We added the tool kit at the recommendation of another guest. Glad it worked for you!

"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 tru ly 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 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.
RESPONSE: Thanks Barbara for the suggestion. We added the barbecue!

"I just wanted to write to tell you what a wonderful stay my family and I had at the 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 .
RESPONSE: Thank you, Margie & Wayne. We added Seaside Restaurant to our "Favorite Restaurants" guide for future guests.

"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 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

"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

Lilikoi

Comments coming SOON!

PALMS

"Thank you for your kindness and fine hospitality. We appreciated all the extra things left inside the house. The house was spotlessly clean when we arrived, which we were exceptionally grateful for as this was a major source of concern for my wife. We were all able to relax and start our vacation from the moment we walked through the door. The fresh flowers and note were a welcoming touch. We thoroughly enjoyed our Big Island stay at 8 Palms, and will be returning during whale season next year. With sincere thanks-" -Wayne and Donna H., San Diego, CA

"I've never enjoyed a trip so much! Thank you for making your Palms house available to us. We witnessed a mother whale and her baby playing in the ocean right in front of the house. It was an incredible and captivating show. We watched them frolic and play for nearly 3 hours from the lanai. The dolphins skipped by later in the day, and my son spotted a large sea turtle while walking along the coastline. What a fantastic wildlife experience. The house was so cool and comfortable, day and night. The gentle winds seems to blow in both directions throughout the day. This was our first trip to the Big Island, but certainly not our last. Thank you for the information on the new road to the Volcano Park. We packed dinner in the cooler and spent the evening watching the most magnificent glow. Please enroll us in your returning guest program. We intend to come back this winter. Many mahalos to you and Matt!" -Jan F. & Family, Portland, OR

"Your place is incredible! Thank you for having it available. We tried to tread 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

"Just wanted you to know how much we enjoyed staying at Palms. We were very comfortable there. What a beautiful view of the ocean! Each time I walked through the front door, I was impressed with the magnificent sight of the ocean just beyond the balcony. I think I would have been content to just sit and watch for turtles and dolphins, but with so much to see and do on the island, our family kept on the go most of the time. Hawaii is breathtaking. It was great to be within walking distance to Sea Watch where our other family members were staying. We had a wonderful time visiting one another and exploring the island as a family. We would all like to return to Hawaii one day. I will definitely be recommending 8Palms and a vacation in Hawaii to all my friends. Thank you again." - Dianne A., MA.

"Had a great return stay. Thanks again! We combed the south side of the island on this trip. We enjoyed the new video library. Just a suggestion, you might consider adding some foreign films. We're going to try the 8Mangos house next year for a change of scenery." - Jonathan K., Phoenix, AZ

"A much belated but heartfelt Mahalo a Nui for accommodating us at your 8Hawaii Beaches and 8Palms vacation homes! Arranging our stay through you made our journey all the more special. Yes, our journey was successful and powerful beyond wonder. We hiked to Haena/Shipman Beach and returned so very transformed, healed, restored, and at peace. Yes, we were able to honor the life, memory, and hula of Hopae! The hike to Haena Beach was such an adventure on many levels and the energy in Hilo and Kea'au is significantly thick, dense, present. The trailhead began where Beach Road ends, south of Kaloli Road. It's also become known as King's Trail, Old Puna Trail too. We even walked through a nene sanctuary and were blessed to see several nene birds. My soul found infinite and priceless peace; I will now dance in a spirit I feel is true and good. Mahalo, Karri!" - Colleen and Bobby N., Los Angeles, CA

"Thanks so much! The house was lovely. We enjoyed the slow pace and beauty so much. Will contact you next year about renting the 8Hawaii Beaches house. I would really like to try it next. Aloha and Mahalo" -Joy D., Oveido, FL

"What a beautiful home you have in 8 palms. We had a wonderful time there. We did feel at home. Thank you for caring for us while we were staying in your home. I've rented many vacation homes, but never did I have the homeowner call and see how everything was. I will be back. " -Annette L., Daly City, CA

"The house was wonderful. We had great weather, it rained mostly at night, and was nice during the day. Roy had a great time fishing off the cliff, but didn't catch much until "Uncle Al" showed him the tricks. We fell in love with Hilo and the Paradise Park area...Everyone we met was so nice and friendly. We can't wait to go back." - Bonnie B., Cambria, CA

"Thank you for a lovely home for our recent stay in Paradise Park. We had a wonderful time exploring the island and found many of your books to be very helpful. I trust you found Palms in good shape as we left. Best wishes." -Maggie F., West Hartford, CT

"Thanks again for allowing us to stay in your beautiful home on Hawaii. We had an incredible time on our honeymoon and are already talking about our next trip!" - Tony A., Fremont , CA

"Thank you for a nice house/home - even the lovely flowers! We had a marvelous time. I especially liked Lava Tree State Park - Aren't the bird sounds there just remarkable?" - Bette and Bob H., Highlandsprings, VA

"We can't thank you enough. 8 Palms was wonderful spot for our honeymoon/vacation. I loved everything about the house and the view made us want to stay forever. Please thank John and Arlene for the thoughtful gift of flowers. We look forward to returning again and again." -Roger Q., Mountain View, CA

"I want to let you know that the trip was great and the house was wonderful. It was so nice to site on the deck and listen to the ocean-- my parents really had a great time doing that, as did I...I hope to go back again someday (sooner rather than later)." -Cathy A, Denver, CO

"The 8 Palms house was just as perfect for 2 as it was for 8. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. My wife loved the kitchen and the view from every window is unbelievable. We liked the new video library...much faster than driving to Blockbuster! I caught my first fish right in the backyard. We will be sending you a picture soon. Lastly, please thank Arlene. She was very nice and helpful." -Tony S., Los Angeles, CA

"Thank you so much for the use of 8 Palms. We have never felt so relaxed. I (we) loved every moment of our visit. Will pass your name along to all the good folks we know who would like to use the place. Thanks!" -Susan M., Oakland, CA

"We had a great stay at 8 Palms. The house provided (all 7 of) us with a comfortable accommodation. We saw whales right in front of the house three times (what a lovely disruption to lunch!) and once down the coast about a half mile. We also saw some off the Kona Coast. My wife and one of the children saw turtles. The house is very well equipped. It was good to be able to cook for ourselves most of the time....Again, we enjoyed our stay at 8 Palms and would be glad to recommend it to anyone." -James W., Heathfield, Australia

"Hi...We just got home and I loved being in the house watching whales and turtles relaxing. Becky certainly keeps the house clean. Thank you for allowing us to live in your home. I will be calling on you again." -Nancy A., Central Point, OR

"We saw turtles off the porch on Sunday morning...Thanks again for the use of 8 Palms. We had a terrific time. It's a lovely place." -Jeffrey O., San Francisco, CA

"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 enough for the big island. I will introduce 8 Palms to friends and church members. Again, we really enjoyed staying at the beach house." -William S., Pasadena, CA

"I just got back from my long visit to Hawaii. We enjoyed 8 Palms so much. We were surprised it didn't rain the whole time we were there...I'm so pleased with the way things worked out with 8 Palms. It's a real gem." -Paul S., Palo Alto, CA

"Thanks for a lovely stay at 8 Palms!" -Jan E., San Francisco, CA

"Just wanted you to know we had a good time staying at the 8 Palms House. It was a very peaceful place to be. " - Bill M., Keller, TX

"I just wanted you to know that we had a great time in Hawaii. The weather was really nice in Hilo when we stayed there. We really loved the house, especially my mom. People were very nice over there, especially John, the care taker. He stopped to make sure we were doing fine a couple of times. We also spoke to William next door, but didn't get to say goodbye. Golfing in Hawaii was more difficult than it is in Michigan. More elevation and wind made it hard. I had a good time with my parents and we all enjoyed it very much. Thank you again for everything, and hope to visit the house some day again." -Motoyuki I., Northville, MI

"We enjoyed ourselves so much and hated to leave. My mind keeps drifting back to your home and its beautiful location. Thank you again for a great time. We had dinner at Paola's in Pahoa and it was great!" -Barbara U., Fresno, CA

"We had such a nice relaxing time. The house is so spacious. Next year we will invite another couple. It only rained one time the entire time we were there. Thanks again!" -Candice P., Mill Valley, CA

"Thanks again for letting us stay at the beach house in Hilo. My family and I had a great time. This was in large part due to the great accommodations. It really felt like a home. You really have a great place and we have fond memories of it." -Susan S., Philippines

"We had a wonderful time and your house is delightful- so comfortable. Can't wait for our next visit!" -Ruby D., San Jose, CA

"We enjoyed staying in the 8 Palms while we were in Keaau...Thanks for sharing your vacation home with us." -Jean F., Sun Lakes, AZ

"Thanks for the prompt return of our deposit. We very much enjoyed our stay." -Linda S., Seattle, WA

MANGOS

"Thanks for providing such an immaculate, well-equipped house. You asked us to let you know if there was anything you might add to the house. We looked through all the drawers, cabinets, and closets, and could not think of anything we needed. Just when my husband thought he had discovered something, we found the garlic press in the drawer! I tried my luck using the breadmaker and it was great fun. We bought a bread book at Border's in Hilo, and left it in the house for others to use. Everything was 100%. The weather was wonderful...blue skies everyday. I was particularly happy to escape the intense heat and humidity we experienced last fall on the Kona side of the island. We do plan to return next year. We loved the Mango house, but would like to try the Hilo beach front home next. The cleaning woman showed it to us, and it is unbelievable. Be in touch soon. BIG THANKS." -Elaine and Peter L., Chicago, IL

"We really appreciate all the nice things you filled the house with. We've never stayed at such a nice vacation home. This house does not even compare to the condo we rented in Kauai.. Wish we could have stayed at the Mango house AFTER we stayed in Kauai. We both felt disappointed to arrive in Kauai after staying at your house. The Mango house was so well equipped, so clean, and so comfortable. It was just perfect for 2. I loved lounging on the tile porch, listening to the ocean, and soaking up the sun. Gene was content to fish in the front yard and read. We had a list of 2 dozen activities and sights we planned to do and see, but at the end of the week, we realized we had only left twice (once to the volcano park, and one day divided between the Hilo farmer's market and shopping mall!). Both of us felt extremely rejuvenated, and only regret not staying 2 weeks. We will definitely be back. Mahalo for all the hospitality." Karen and Gene H., Phoenix, AZ

"What can we say except, we'll be back next year!"
- Norine and Harry M., Portland, OR

"We had a good time at 8Mangos. The house was very comfortable, clean, and everything was so well organized. Thank you." -Gail and Bob G., Croton-on-Hudson, NY

"This is a beautiful place and a very nice location. The neighbors are friendly. We enjoyed our stay here. Thank you!" - Mark and Shelly R.,Corning, NY

"We truly enjoyed our stay at the Mango house. When I first booked, I thought the house would be too big for the 3 of us. After we arrived, it felt like "home." The bedrooms were large enough for us all to have our own space to read, write, and spend time alone. We used the barbecue a lot and ate dinner on the patio most nights. The granite kitchen is just beautiful. The covered porch was our favorite place to play Scrabble in the evenings. The sounds of the crashing waves and the ocean breezes were fantastic. We have stayed in a lot of Hawaii condos over the years, but the Mango house is an all time favorite. It was much more relaxing not to have to fight for a parking space in the lot, wait for an elevator, or listen to doors slamming down a central hallway. We never realized how different the experience could be until staying in a private home. We all agreed that our next Hawaii trip will be back to the Big Island...hopefully at one of your homes. We cleaned before leaving. Let me know if anything was not as you expected. Mahalo and aloha." -Amy, Marge and Bart A., Seattle, WA

"Thank you for a wonderful vacation. The view is awesome. We enjoyed sitting out on the lava rocks watching the waves crashing and feeling the sea breeze. We appreciate your help and understanding during our delay due to the tragic events. Hope we can get back in the near future. Thank you again for your kind hospitality." -Angela and Tom P., Marin, CA
RESPONSE: We admire your courage proceeding the September 11th attack on American freedom. Matt and I felt we could not charge any of our guests who were forced to stay on island due to the airline chaos that ensued. We look forward to your return visit.

"I wanted to tell you just how much we LOVED our stay in your houses and on your wonderful island!! We had a blast - the restaurants you suggested were awesome - especially Pescatore - it was my personal favorite....the "Blue Book" you have in the cottage is a tour guide beyond belief....we had only one disappointment really....that we just didn't have enough time to do all that we wanted to do (that just means we need to come back again!)." - Pamela J., Carrollton, TX

"We loved the house and had a wonderful stay. We hope to come back! Thanks again." -Ed R.,San Francisco, CA

"We had a wonderful vacation at the 8Mangos house. The house was perfect for our needs. One burning question remains; What is the deal with the Siamese cat that moved in with us when we arrived? Do we get charged for having another guest, or should we be charging for cat sitting services? I have a family of cat lovers and they really enjoyed the company of the inquisitive, persistent, and always hungry visitor. Thanks again for the terrific lodgings." - Al U., Encinitas, CA
RESPONSE: The visiting cat's name is "Bob." He lives with his owner across the street, but seems to have a 6th sense that tells him when cat lovers occupy 8Mangos. He's just as good at knowing when he is not welcome which explains why some guests miss him entirely. Glad you enjoyed visiting with the aloha kitty.

"Thank you very much for the chance to stay at 8Mangos. It is a delightful vacation spot and we truly enjoyed ourselves..." -David L., Santa Monica, CA

"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 8 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

"Just wanted to let you know we all had a very enjoyable stay at your house and it was nice to have run into you there. All of us arrived as scheduled later that day - and there was a humpback whale breaching about to greet us! How did you plan that? Your Island hosts (John and Arlene) were very helpful with the few questions we had." -Steve J., Sitka, AK

"We had a wonderful time and really enjoyed your lovely home. Thanks so much. We will keep you in mind for future trips." -Jeanne F., Golden, CO

"What an awesome adventure. The house was everything we expected and then some. It is a big house, but it feels like a home. Sunrise from 8Mangos is incredible. We looked forward to it everyday. My mother-in-law found the kitchen to be very complete. She even used the bread maker once! The cottage is more like a big one-bedroom house. It was perfect for our friends. Thank you for suggesting it. We intend to return next year and will call to reschedule. Our only recommendation is you add a barbecue." -Andrew M., San Francisco, CA
RESPONSE: We added a barbecue. Great suggestion! Thanks, Karri & Matt

"We really had a good time in Hawaii, and definitely hope to return some day. We also really appreciated the space that we had in both homes. Thanks again for the book that you had sent to us. It was extremely helpful and very accurate. We carried it with us every where we went and I don't think that we would have seen even half of what we did without it!" -Cheri W., Calgary Alberta, Canada

"What a fantastic home you have. 8 Mangos is such a comfortable home filled with the spirit of aloha...We really did have a great time, loved the home, and would recommend it to anyone planning a trip to the Hilo area. The warm pond was really great. Thanks for the tip." -David B., Los Angeles, CA

"I will definitely refer my friends to your house! All of the amenities and the location were great!...Thanks again" - Jessica H., Los Angeles, CA

"Thank you for letting us rent your lovely home. We will contact you again on our next trip to Hawaii. What a great trip. Thanks!!" -Mary B., Germantown, TN

"The house is beautiful and we enjoyed our stay immensely" -Deb R., Las Vegas, NV

"Great Place! Enjoyed the house very much. Had a relaxing vacation!" -Perri H., Waterloo, IL

"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

"Thanks for squeezing us in at the last-minute. We could not have asked for a better house if we planned in advance! I think we hit most of the major attractions, but would like more time to explore next time visit. Good location. Will be calling with advanced notice. Thanks again." -Maureen K., San Francisco, CA

Orchid

"Thanks so much. We had a wonderful stay, and finally found a lot to buy in HPP. Mike and I really appreciated your allowing us to stay the extra week. It made all the difference. The house was perfect for our needs. Please thank the cleaning crew for the outstanding presentation. We plan to call you (well in advance, next time!) when we're ready to start building." - Alice and Mike J., Chico, CA

"Great house. We had an awesome adventure on the Big Island. It was so nice to return home each night to the Orchid house. We added two videos to your library. We met a lot of friendly people in the neighborhood, and the Mango guests were from our home town! Thanks again." -Mark and Michelle O., Spokane, WA

"In a word... fantastic! Already talking about returning to the Orchid house. We may have to move next door to the Mangos house if we come back with the kids!" -Jason & Pam M., Campbell, CA