Big Island Keauhou Surf & Racquet 181 2 Bedroom Townhouse

Jason was a gracious host and kept in touch throughout our stay. We felt secure in the gated community, and the pool was lovely, with a bathroom that uses a code to enter. A trail leads to a small sandy beach, and paths between the buildings are nice for walking, watching the sunset, and listening to the waves. Ali’i Drive's shops and restaurants are only about five miles away. Our one-bedroom had A/C and a peaceful back patio, with lots of room for all the shoes we overpacked. A lovely place to stay in Kona, and I'd recommend it for a future trip.

The views were breathtaking, and the sunsets were so beautiful that I took some photos I'll always remember. We spent most of our time outside, including the evenings, just taking in the scenery. It was a peaceful setting and made our four-night stay memorable.

We paid $5,000 per week for a five-week stay in oceanfront unit #5103, listed as sleeping six, and came away disappointed. There were only four dining seats and four places to sit in the living room. When we raised the lack of accommodation for six, Kneutson, the property manager, was rude. The unit wasn't clean, so I had to scrub the grout on both bathroom floors and clean moldy refrigerator seals. The furniture was very cheap, though the beds were comfortable and there were plenty of towels. A broom and dustpan were provided, but no stick vacuum or mop and bucket for a five-week stay, so I bought my own. Owners who don't rent their units in the complex were unfriendly toward guests who do. Our experience fell well short of what we expected, and I wouldn't recommend staying here to friends.

We stayed in an Airbnb here, and the place is gorgeous and genuinely peaceful, with the ocean so close. The grounds and landscaping are clearly well cared for by the workers. I love it here. If I could retire here, I'd be the happiest person alive.