Perched above historical Kealakekua Bay, White Kona Whale House offers an oceanfront retreat. Unwind in the 6-person hot tub on the covered lanai while taking in a 180-degree view of the mountain and ocean. With a fully equipped kitchen, Weber outdoor grill, spacious living room with 65-inch TV and comfortable bedrooms with attached bathrooms.
Reviews
9.89.8 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 5214 sq m
Popular amenities
Ocean view
Kitchen
Washing machine
Add dates for prices
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Luxury Magic Oceanview Home – Huge Terrace under roof & Hot Tub
Welcome to the White Kona Whale House – a newly built LUXURY designer home with a spacious 6-person HOT TUB and breathtaking 180-degree coastline views overlooking Kealakekua and Honaunau Bays.
This 2,300 sq ft top-floor residence offers a perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and tropical elegance. The two bedrooms are separated by 30 feet, each with its own private bathroom, providing excellent privacy for couples, families, or friends traveling together. This listing is for the entire top floor. The ground floor is rented long-term and is completely separate with its own private entrance – ensuring your full privacy. The price listed is for the top floor only.
Take a look at our video! Go to YouTube and search: "White Kona Whale House – Top Floor" to see what awaits you.
This perfectly located getaway sits just above historic Kealakekua Bay – ranked #11 in the world and #1 in Hawaii by CNN as one of the best snorkeling destinations. The home is nestled in a beautiful and peaceful neighborhood that radiates the charm of old Hawaii, yet is only a short drive from Kona and minutes away from beaches, restaurants, a supermarket, cafés, banks, a hospital, and more.
The airport is located 6 miles north of Kailua-Kona. Our home is 14 miles south of Kailua-Kona – perfectly situated for both relaxation and exploration. For reference, Kona Paradise (which may offer slightly lower rates) lies another 12 miles, or a 25-minute drive, further south.
Our LUXURY home offers 2,300 sq ft (215 sq m) of living space, including a magnificent 1,150 sq ft covered lanai – the true soul of the home. Step out each morning to enjoy your espresso while watching the sun rise over the mountains, or sip wine in the evening as the sun melts into the ocean. At night, soak in the spacious hot tub under the stars with the soothing sounds of nature all around you. With the sweeping 180-degree views of the coastline, ocean, and lush mountains, from Kealakekua Bay to Honaunau Bay, you’ll find yourself completely enchanted – guests often tell us they can’t tear themselves away from the lanai.
The fully equipped kitchen and living area form an open, welcoming space perfect for cooking, relaxing, and entertaining. Enjoy a premium espresso machine, microwave, conventional oven, dishwasher, large Weber grill, and gorgeous quartz countertops. Whether you're preparing meals, sharing drinks at the island (seating for 4), or watching a movie on the 75" 4K Smart TV, everything flows seamlessly.
Dine al fresco at the large lanai dining table that seats up to eight while the sun sets across the ocean. The living room features a luxury sofa and entertainment setup with cable TV, Netflix, and more.
The top floor sleeps up to four guests in one king bed and two twin beds (which can be joined into a king). There is also the option to add a folding bed with a memory foam mattress – ideal for a child or smaller adult.
Wake up to unforgettable views right from your bed. At 1,100 ft elevation, the temperatures are ideal – around 80°F (27°C) during the day and 70°F (21°C) at night – providing natural comfort without the need for air conditioning.
Our home is located in a quiet and friendly neighborhood with an easy driveway and ample parking. You’re just minutes from The Coffee Shack, one of the best breakfast spots on the island, and close to a wide range of beaches and activities.
Here’s a taste of your first days:
Day 1: Head down to Kealakekua Bay (12 min) for snorkeling, kayaking, or spotting wild spinner dolphins in the morning.
Day 2: Drive 20 minutes south to Hookena Beach, one of the island’s most secluded and magical sandy beaches, perfect for swimming – and often visited by dolphins.
Day 3: Explore Honaunau National Historical Park (10 min) for a cultural experience and another stunning stretch of coastline.
Day 4: A visit to Hilton Waikoloa is well worth the trip—if only to appreciate just how peaceful and special it feels to return to the house afterward! The drive takes about 45 minutes north, and along the way you’ll find several of the island’s most beautiful beaches, perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.
Day 5: Take a day trip to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park – about a 1 hour and 30 minute drive. Here you'll witness one of the world’s few active volcanoes, a truly awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience. Walk across ancient lava fields, feel the heat rising from steam vents, and if you're lucky, see the glow of molten lava in the distance. It’s a powerful reminder of the raw, living energy of the island.
Evenings offer great dining nearby, from the celebrated Keei Café (10 min north), or continue 10–20 minutes further to Kailua-Kona for a full range of restaurants, bars, shops, and services.
This home is also the perfect base for exploring the Big Island. You can circle the island in a day – starting at sunrise and returning by night – or take two days for a more relaxed journey. We recommend:
Visiting Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park,
Strolling through the rainforest on the 4-Mile Scenic Drive north of Hilo,
Stopping at Akaka Falls near sunset,
Exploring Waimea on the way back,
Or spending a night in Hilo for even deeper discovery.
Families love Hilo Zoo, and on the right night, you might even glimpse lava flowing in the distance.
After every adventure, guests tell us the same thing: “It feels so good to come home.” The peace, the air, the view – nothing compares. For those curious about the resort areas north of Kona, they're only 45 minutes away – but you may find that visiting them only makes you appreciate the calm and authenticity of your home even more.
Hapuna Beach, the island’s largest white sand beach, is also up north (about 50 minutes away) and well worth a day trip.
Property amenities
Beach
Beach loungers
Beach towels
Pool/Spa
Hot tub
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Car required
Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available
Onsite parking options include a garage
Kitchen
Blender
Coffee grinder
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Hob
Ice maker
Kitchen island
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Toaster
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
2 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
2 bathrooms
Bidet
Hair dryer
Shampoo
Shower
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Living room
Entertainment
DVD player
Games
Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
Outdoor areas
Barbecue grill
Garden
Outdoor furniture
Patio
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Work spaces
Desk
Pets
No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Accessible parking space
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Wheelchair-accessible parking
Wheelchair-accessible van parking
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Phone
Location highlights
In the mountains
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near the marina
Near the sea
Things to do
Water sports equipment
Birdwatching nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Parasailing nearby
Scuba diving nearby
Snorkelling nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Swimming nearby
Water skiing nearby
Whale watching nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
The lanai on the top floor is 24 ft above the ground. We have a railing which is up to building code, but children need to be supervised at all times.
This is a quiet neighborhood so you need to pay respect to our neighbors. No loud noise on the lanai after 8 PM.
More house rules to be found in the rental contract who the guest booking needs to sign 2 weeks before arrival. We need a copy of your photo ID too.
Pets
Pets not allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Note from host: We have one folding bed on each floor.
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses solar energy
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Property Registration Number 820090790000, GE-028-497-9200-01, TA-028-497-9200-01
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
A car is required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Located in Captain Cook, this holiday home is in the mountains and by the sea. Kona Country Club and Holua Tennis Center are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden and Greenwell Farms. Travelling with kids? Consider Aloha Performing Arts Center, or check out an event or a game at Holua Racquet and Paddle. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and ecotours nearby. Visit our Captain Cook travel guide
Is Luxury Magic Oceanview Home – Huge Terrace under roof & Hot Tub pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Luxury Magic Oceanview Home – Huge Terrace under roof & Hot Tub?
On-site parking is available at the property.
Where is Luxury Magic Oceanview Home – Huge Terrace under roof & Hot Tub located?
This family-friendly Captain Cook holiday home is located by the sea, within 2 mi (3 km) of Kona Coffee Living History Farm and Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden. Big Island Bees and H.N. Greenwell Store Museum are also within 3 miles (5 km).
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Luxury Magic Oceanview Home – Huge Terrace under roof & Hot Tub Reviews
Reviews
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
We loved our stay at the Whale House. The lanai space was spectacular. While we we didn't spend much time inside other than for sleeping, the rental had everything we needed for a lovely vacation.
My husband and I stayed in this beautiful home for our 38th anniversary. The home was peaceful and away from the tourists. We especially enjoyed the lanai with the hot tub, views, grill and dining table. Other amenities that made our stay better were the washer/dryer, beach gear, and the espresso machine (beans from Kona Joes). We would recommend this lovely home to anyone wanting a peaceful experience with top notch amenities.
Beautiful home overlooking the ocean in a quiet neighborhood. Good communication with the owners. The kitchen was well- equipped for home cooked meals during our trip. There were neighbors downstairs; but you hardly knew they were there. Check in/ out was a breeze. Thank you for having us!
Absolutely beautiful home with amazing view of ocean. Excellent communication from hosts, quick response with any questions we had. Jacuzzi was the cherry on top after a long day of exploring the island. The only suggestion I have is to invest in AC in home as it was extremely hot and humid inside home when we arrived, which was pretty unpleasant. Otherwise, exceptional stay! Would definitely stay again!
We had an amazing time staying in this beautiful home. The Lanai had the most stunning view and waking up every morning was just incredible. The house was comfortable and well equipped with everything you need for an enjoyable stay.
We were in a good location to many beaches, local restaurants and cafes. It is about an hours drive to big, long white sandy beaches but definitely worth it.
I would highly recommend this lovely home!
(Make sure you read all the house rules as no noise allowed after 8pm on the Lanai)
I don’t think we could have found a better location. Magnificent unobstructed view from the huge lanai all the way down to the ocean.
Makes you want to stay year round. Owners give a thoroughly detailed set of instructions on how to use the spa/hot tub, espresso maker and other amenities.
My wife and kids celebrated our 35th anniversary in a perfect location. We will remember this trip always.
See you next year!!
Amazing outdoor living space with spacious open lanai, very comfortable furniture, kitchen was well stocked with quality supplies. The house was extremely well appointed. The notes around the house were very helpful. The young lady living below was very helpful (especially during the brief power outage). We hardly knew that anyone was living in the lower level.
My wife and I had a magical stay here. Mikael's home was absolutely beautiful and its rare to find a place that is better in person than in the photos.Absolutely marvelous in every way!
We really loved our 5 night stay in Captain cook. This very spacious, clean and very well equipped top floor appartement has a beautiful view from the Lanai. Communication with the owner was very efficient trough the app. He provided a list with nice things to do and nice places to eat. He let us know that we could check in earlier the same day.
Niels F.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
Verified
10/10 Excellent
abdul a.
25 July 2018
excellent
spacious floor with a big expansive lanai with a hot top and barbecue. the kitchen is well organized and has all that one needs. all the rooms have the view of the bay. the view is of kealakekua and the whole coastline, very beautiful when it is not cloudy.
We enjoyed our stay and we had not trouble of any kind.
WOW. Words can’t begin to describe the magnificent view from this comfortably furnished apartment. We liked the quiet neighborhood and proximity to 2 Step snorkeling and the Place of Refuge, close enough to pop into Kailua and Kona anytime.
A nice place with a KILLER view.
Outstanding location, with spectacular views to be enjoyed from a huge lanai for the complete Hawaiian experience. Property was exactly as described and extremely well-equipped. A perfect base from which to enjoy the Big Island. Hosts offered some excellent suggestions for beaches, restaurants and activities that truly enhanced our stay. They were also extremely responsive when we had one very minor appliance issue that was fixed within hours of reporting. I cannot recommend this place strongly enough!
We really enjoyed our stay at this house, especially the peaceful view across the Kona coffee fields down to the ocean. The photos and descriptions in the listing are exactly on-point for this gorgeous place. Communication with the hosts was especially quick and easy. The thing I enjoyed most was that this house has personality -- it's not a generic rental, but a place created by the owners and filled with things they love. 10/10, I wouldn't change a thing.
The house floor plan is amazing, the view wonderful and the amenities in the house exceeded expectations. We loved the simplicity and functionality of it’s design.
I did enjoy the BBQ and will investigate buying the same make and model at home. The amenities and appliances supplied with the house exceeded expectations
The owners were very accommodating our travel arrangements as things changed and we had a great holiday
jim j.
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2023
Archival
8/10 Good
David B.
7 Dec 2016
Beautiful ocean view one of the best lani's I've spent time on!!
From the floor up this place is very well maintained lots of extras. Storage space and nice wardrobe. Could not find an iron or ironing board was my only complaint to myself. But Netflix and WiFi and a few sprays of water on my khakis and I forgot all about that
Enjoyed our 3 night stay in Captain Cook with the family. Place was as advertised and owners were extremely to communicate with for checkin, places to eat, and care for the unit.
The place itself was lovely, a cute bungalow with a spectacular 2nd floor lanai with sensational views. Unit itself had a weird layout quirk (pass thru bathrooms to access bedrooms), but was very clean and comfortable with a terrific main great room.
Location was dynamite to go to Volcanoes NP for a day trip as well as kayaking in Kealakekua Bay and snorkeling with manta rays in Kailua. Feels like an oasis / jungle retreat with the birds and frogs at night which we loved.
Would recommend for sure.
Very nice property. The views are outstanding. The lanai was wonderful. Great location for 2 couples as the bedrooms have a nice separation and each has their own bath as well as direct access to the lanai. The only negatives are: The washing machine is 2 floors down and therefore not real convenient. There isn't a dining table inside, just bar stools. Also the kitchen living area had a very confusing lighting system. It took us quite a while just to figure how to turn the lights off. But overall, these are minor in and otherwise great house.
We stayed on the second floor of this lovely property. When entering the front door, one is awed by the incredible view awaiting them-a view that greets them from the kitchen, living room, and both bedrooms throughout the day.
The place is tastefully decorated so as not to detract from, but rather to enhance the view. We loved dining and relaxing on the lanai that has plentiful and comfortable furniture along with the hot tub.
The kitchen was very well stocked, enabling us to prepare many delicious meals, and we enjoyed using the expresso machine.
The location of the property is great! Even with another party staying on the first floor it was private and quiet (except for the neighbors’ roosters) yet it’s close to recreational activities and the owners were great about sharing ideas for fun adventures. I recommend this property!
Robin C.
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2022
Verified
10/10 Excellent
mark b.
18 Apr 2018
Awesome Lanai and View!
We definitely enjoyed this beautiful home and spent countless hours on the lanai from the top unit. The view of the ocean and tropical hills is incredible. The well stocked kitchen with grill made dinners and breakfast relaxing and convenient. The home was perfect for our visit. The layout provided open views from each room but also privacy for each couple with the bedrooms and bathrooms on each end. The hot tub was a nice perk as well.
Good location, close to Kailua-Kona for shopping and night time entertainment. We also spent a couple afternoons snorkeling at Honaunau Bay (2-steps) only 10-15 minute drive. Great snorkeling spot with spectacular coral seabeds and hundreds of multi-colored fish.
I would definitely recommend this rental home to others and I would strongly consider staying again when visiting the big isle. I'm missing the lanai and view already.
Residence was well-designed for two couples, with separate bedrooms and attached bathrooms located on opposite ends of the top floor. Kitchen was well-stocked with dishes, glassware, and utensils as well as some supplies. View from the lanai was really impressive although weather in January is often cloudy with some rain in the evening hours. Used the hot tub a couple of times and the Weber grill once - both were in good shape. Ample supple of towels and stuff for the beach. Used the washer and dryer without any issues. Did not use the TV, but Internet access was very fast and reliable. Keep in mind that Hawai'i is known for free-range chickens and the roosters definitely remided us of that every morning! This home is really ideal for two couples on vacation to the Big Island.
The top floor of the white whale is beautiful. Caretaker/Renter lives downstairs (separate entrance). The place is just like it is shown in the photos. The owner does require a separate contract from the VRBO contract and a copy of your DL. Both were requested while we were already traveling and created quite a bit of communication taking away from our enjoyment of our vacation (Not much being in the moment when you are worried about the next rental.).
The house rules are so strict with detailed penalties for all possible infraction that after we got to the house I was worried about being charged for damages that we did not cause for example: inventory stickers are everywhere but the inventory does not match the stickers, hot tub had some sand, wood floor has existing water damage and there was fresh water on the floor by the dishwasher. I ended up sending pictures and advised about issues for the first part of our stay so we would not get charged. It all turned out ok in the end but I felt uncomfortable in the house because the owner does not trust his guests. We have stayed in many vacation rental properties, have always followed the house rules and always try to leave the place better than when we arrived but here I was walking on eggshells.
Flow through ventilation is excellent but bring ear plugs. Roosters will have you up at dark thirty.