We just returned from a great vacation on the Big Island. When I found this rental on vrbo some months back I thought it looked too good to be true. I'm happy to report that it is as wonderful as the photos - possibly even better.

http://www.vrbo.com/193631

DH and I woke up each morning, looked around, and said "this is unbelievable!" We said the same thing every day when we returned from snorkeling - or when we swam in the amazing pool - or sat on the comfortable patio enjoying the wonderful view. We loved the house so much that we only left to go snorkeling and an occasional dinner out. Even cooking was a treat in this house.

The island's best snorkeling (Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay/Two Step) is a short drive away. The visibility was great while we were there and we even found ourselves snorkeling (briefly) with a pod of dolphins - a real highlight.

I'm not going to write a full blown trip report because, as I said, we couldn't pull ourselves away from the fabulous plantation house. Fortunately we've been to the Big Island before so we didn't feel compelled to tour the island.

I just wanted to share this great find the my fellow travelers here. What a great place for a honeymoon, or to celebrate a special birthday or anniversary. Or, like us, just treat yourself to a great vacation.

I took lots of photos so at some point I'll put together a slide show and post them.

It looks beautiful, heaven on earth. Thanks for sharing!

WOW! What a place for what a price! I immediately sent it to two other people to see if/when they want to go!

There are no photos of the bedrooms. What is a "Zbed" (2nd bedroom)?
We would need 2 real beds (not futons). Don't care what size.

Barbara - We stayed in the master bedroom which has a very comfortable queen size bed - it also has a water view and an amazing bathroom/dressing room with huge jacuzzi tub, dual sinks, and an outdoor shower.

The second bedroom is approx. the same size and has a private bathroom but certainly more modest. We didn't sleep in this room but stored our suitcases in there on what appeared to be a queen size bed - but I can't speak to the quality of the mattress. This bedroom is located in the front of the property (no water view) but faces nicely landscaped areas.

If sharing the house with friends you should know that the bedrooms are not equal in terms of appeal -- but even the second bedroom is nice.

This isn't a house where you'd spend a lot of time in the bedrooms anyway. The main attraction is the central living area - and outside patio (we also loved the home office since we're addicted to the internet).

The owners are living in Calf. where the coffee beans are processed. They seem very nice and you shouldn't hesitate to contact them with questions about the beds.

The price is amazing and I suspect this deal won't last forever. The quality of the furnishings and designer details are way above anything I've ever experienced in a rental. With so many beautiful things it is hard to believe they don't even ask for a security deposit.

sssshhhhhh

cm: Unable to get this fabulous place out of my mind, I decided I could swing a trip next May. When I wrote for reservations the owners replied that they intend to sell the property after the first of the year and are not accepting any more reservations. I even asked if I could rent for a 3 day opening they have in February, but they responded that their minimum rental was 5 nights. Now THAT I don't understand! I would pay the full cleaning fee. Oh well, at least I got to enjoy it through your post.

It looks lovely and Kona is a place I have wanted to go. We also checked the guesthouse out on line. It's not the palace but certainly a great deal.

whoops guess was too good to be true.