Selected 1of12 Romantic Properties: Lonely Planet
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| Details | |
|---|---|
| Bedrooms | 2 |
| Bathrooms | 2 |
| Sleeps | 4 |
| Estate | |
| Suitability |
|---|
| No Pets |
| No Smoking |
| Suitable for Children |
| Suitable for Elderly |
| FlipKey traveler rating |
| 11 reviews |
| Stayed here? Write a review. |
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Details
| Rental type | Estate |
| Minimum Stay | 5 nights |
| Living space | 1200 square feet |
| Bedrooms |
2 Total
Show Details ►
|
| Bathrooms |
2 Total
Show Details ►
|
| Sleeps | 4 |
| Suitability |
Pet friendlyNo Smoking allowedNo Suitable for childrenYes Suitable for the elderlyYes Wheelchair accessibleNo |
| Theme | Adventure, Luxury, Romantic, Beach, River, Tropical |
Description from the owner
There are two homes at River Estate (One 2 bedroom 2 bath called the Guest House and one 3 bedroom 2 bath called the Riverhouse) Both homes are on the estate grounds next to the river in the same proximity to the water yet far apart.
On February, 10th, 2011 River Estate was named as one of 12 Romantic Getaways across the US in a LonleyPlanet website article published for Valentine's Day by one of their staff writers. River Estate was also named as one of the 10 most romantic properties in Hawaii by the well known and prestigious Gayot Travel Guide in 2009 ("The Guide to the Good Life") which was established in 1981 by Andre Gayot who...Read more
Amenities
Location
Selected 1of12 Romantic Properties: Lonely Planet
Hanalei, Hawaii
What's Nearby:
Additional Location Information
River Estate offers quality accommodations that are meticulously maintained and very user friendly. The homes are eclectic, comfortable and above all extremely peaceful and private. Our prime location is central to all the great North Kauai attractions. The whole area from Hanalei town, with it's restaurants and shopping, to Ke'e beach and the Napali Coast trail at the end of the road, and all the beaches and activities between them, is within a 10 minute drive in either direction of the property.
Location Type Beach, River, Tropical
Rates
Rates shown in $ USD (change)
| Date | Weeknight | Weekend Night | Weekly | Monthly | Minimum Stay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rate Summary | $275 - $300 | $275 - $300 | $1,975 - $2,000 | $0 | 5 nights |
| Nov. 20 2013 - Dec. 1 2013 Thanksgiving |
$300 | $300 | $2,000 | - | 5 nights |
| Dec. 20 2013 - Jan. 5 2014 Christmas |
$300 | $300 | $2,000 | - | 5 nights |
| All Other Dates | $275 | $275 | $1,975 | - | 5 nights |
| Can't find rates for your travel dates? Contact the owner | |||||
Rental fees
- Cleaning fee - $250 / stay - Fee - Amount shown reflects fee for 2 guests.
- Excise and Transient taxes - 13.42% of rental - Tax - Taxes
Additional notes from owner
There are two homes at River Estate. Please visit our website for complete details and discounted dates. www.riverestate.com
Rates are based on 2 people. in the Guest House Each additional person is $15 per night. Riverhouse rates are different. See the website for further information.
Discounts given for bookings longer than 10 days, specific dates and dates booked within 30 days of your arrival date.
Availability calendars for both homes are on the River Estate website. www.riverestate.com
Availability
AvailableUnavailable Last updated: May 12, 2013 ◀▶
What Past Guests Are Saying
Overall Rating
ExcellentVery Good
Average
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mkuzy
Carrollton, Georgia25th anniversary trip of a lifetime
Left on 09/03/2012 for a stay in June 2012
My wife and I stayed at the Riverhouse for our 25th wedding anniversary vacation to Kauai. After a bad layover/delay (7 hours) in la, it was very nice to come into a home that was warm and welcoming. Everything was ready for our arrival and the bed was comfortable and such a relief. We arrived well after 10:00 PM so we could not see the grounds or property but were pleasantly surpised that how beautiful the house and grounds were in the morning.
It is very peaceful and very relaxing there. We were looking for something that was away from the busy resort towns like Kapa'a or Poipu, and we found it up on the northside. The beaches there are wonderful and there were very few people . We felt very relaxed from the first day. The house was plenty big enough for just the two of us, but we feel like there is plenty of room for our entire family (6 kids!) if we wanted to bring them out to Kauai.
There are so many pros about the Riverhouse I can't mention them all, and I can only list one con. That would be the time it takes to drive from the home to the east and south side of the island. But that being said, the drive is wonderful with so many breath-taking views of the ocean and mountains. We rented a jeep, took the top off and enjoyed the drive! So how can that really be listed as a "con"?
All-in-all it was by far the best vacation my wife and I have ever been on. Kauai is beautiful. Knowing that we had such a nice place to come back to each night made the trip that much more special and enjoyable. Mark did a fantastic job of helping me with the arrangements and bent-over backwards to make everything very easy. There were no surpises, no attempts to pressure me into anything and Mark was very helpful at every stage of the process, start to finish.
Thanks so much for being such a help in make our anniversary so special!
Mahalo,
Mike -
Angela K
Covington, WABeautiful, peaceful, tranquil, and waterfront!
Left on 07/09/2012 for a stay in March 2012
When searching for where we would stay, my primary hope in renting a house was to be in the 'real' environment. I wanted to really see and hear Hawaii. This did exactly that.
The drive to the Guest House is down a long driveway lined with spectaluarly huge foliage, that I can only describe as prehistoric as I would imagine it. The sound of the rushing river just feet away from the house is soothing beyond belief. The sound of the frogs just after sunset lets you know you really are something tropical and amazing.
The house worked really well for us. We went with another couple and we each had 18 month olds. I worried about being some place that wasn't 'childproof' and my concerns vanished quickly. Though the house is raised up (I don't now what that is called there) and there are stairs to the front door, it was simple to block access for the kids to get outside. If we had wanted to leave the doors open, we knew a quick stop at Walmart for a baby gate for the stairs would have done the trick. Inside, there really wasn't anything they could get into. The only issue was the coffee table, but what child doesn't find a way to get hurt with a coffee table around?!
If you want secluded, tranquil, beautiful, peaceful, wonderful and waterfront, this is the place for you! -
HonoluluLoisn
honoluluGreat place to stay
Left on 06/28/2012 for a stay in June 2012
My grand kids and I thoroguhl;y enjoyed our stay at the Guest House. It was exactly as pictured.
Response from mark barbanell - 07/04/2012
Owner
July, 4 2012
Aloha Lois,
Thank you for visiting River Estate (Guest House) with your grandchildren and taking the time to write this review. It was a great decision you made to bring your family here and show them a more natural environment than in Las Vegas (where they live) and to know they enjoyed it so much. You're always welcome here. I hope to see you all again in the future.
Mahalo Nui Loa,
Mark Barbanell -
Chodo
Phoenix, ArizonaIdyllic house set by river but we wished the beach were closer
Left on 06/28/2012 for a stay in June 2012
The Guest House -- A truly lovely 2-bedroom house that was perfect for our family of three. It gave us enough room to spread out but still be together. We loved having a kitchen, w/d, and the lanai with it's dining table. The photos on the owner's web site are accurate and quite good. The kitchen is well equipped, especially for a rental. The furniture is comfortable, as are the beds, but not so fancy that we were ill at-ease. The owner has great beach chairs, boogies boards, towels and snorkel gear. We brought our own snorkel stuff .
The best part was the garden view with the perfect acoustical background provided by the nearby stream. One can sit at the table on the lanai or lie in bed and hear the river gently running to the sea. Magical.
It would have been nice to be able to walk to a beach or a town, rather than always having to get in the car. Lots of beaches are close by and it was fun to visit several of them.
We would have appreciated more information about what was in the vicinity. We missed the kind of information that a hotel desk clerk or concierge can provide about the merits of the different Na'appali coast trips, where the nearest grocery store is, and which Farmer's Market is worthwhile. For the record:
--Foodland in Princeville is a way better store for a Big Shop than the small store in Hanalei.
--If headed south, the Costco by the airport in Lihue is great. We bought the best poke and fresh fish there and the prices are terrific.
--The Farmer's Market by Kauai Mini Golf on the way to Kilauea on Sat morning had 15- 20 farmers and great produce, honey, baked goods, and such.
--Kilauea Point Lighthouse and National Wildlife Refuge is really interesting and a great view. For the nature enthusiast, this was the favorite stop.
--Sunset on any of the beaches nearby is great. Bring a bottle of your favorite beverage, snacks/ picnic and head out with the beach chairs that are at the house.
--Our favorite place to eat was actually Tiki Tacos. Amazing! See the review for info.
--Best sand on the beach, especially for digging/ playing, was Hanalei Bay.Response from mark barbanell - 07/04/2012
Owner
July 4, 2012
Mahalo for taking the time to post a review Rebel. I appreciate it very much. I've been thinking of putting in a binder with a lot of my standard recommendations and you just might have convinced me to do it. I'm sorry that we didn't connect on the concierge questions. This is the first time anyone mentioned a shortfall in that department on my end and I'm surprised that I fell short in that department. It is actually what I specialize in. Your comment makes me realize that a binder of information is necessary for times when I somehow don't connect personally with my guests. I had always figured I had that area covered fully because of my personal approach to that service. I'll now put a note in the house suggesting people call m as well to start the conversation so to speak.. My past approach has been "If they don't ask when I call to welcome them, let them have their privacy" I appreciate your feedback because I'm always ready to make changes to improve the service here. Thats a big part of what I offer. I'm sorry you missed out on that. Perhaps I'll get the chance to make up for it on your next visit? ;-)
Mahalo Nui Loa,
Mark Barbanell -
Lapulice
Boise,IDI Wanna Go Back!
Left on 05/01/2012 for a stay in April 2012
My husband and I went back to Hanalei to celebrate out 10th anniversary and searched high and low for the perfect place. The St Regis was out since we stayed the first time at the then-called Princeville Hotel. The big hotel experience was not what we wanted again. I'd never rented a house before, so I was apprehensive, but for no reason whatsoever it turned out. And I am a fussy, well-travelled person.
The location was incredible. The guest house sat alone at the end of a small private road facing a river with beautiful swaying bamboo trees, gorgeous pandanus trees, among other jungle-like foliage. All day and night long, the sounds were soothing. The cross ventilation made air conditioners and fans unnecessary.
The house itself had everything. Good linens and towels, gorgeous hardwood floors, a fully equipped kitchen, barbecue, and all that you can find on the web site.
But there was so much more. I am almost at a loss for words when describing this experience, as it was a feeling-physically and emotionally that made it so special.
Unbeknownst to me, my husband had been in touch with Mark arranging some special things to surprise me. Mark was a really great help. Without him, things would not have worked out so well or would have been much more difficult. And before we left home, I asked Mark if there were soft, down pillows. I really need one. So he went out and bought one for me. Now I call that good and personal service.
We didn't do a lot of activities-the weather was unpredictable that week. But nothing mattered. The rain was beautiful, the wind, whatever. The sun was warm and we had time for the beaches, too. But Mark did get us a car for much less than we would have paid and would have made other arrangements for us, but we didn't ask him to. We were happy doing less than more.
In Hanalei, we loved Bar acuda. Our favorite for food and atmosphere. We usually went in the town for a late coffee and fresh bakery goods or breakfast at the Hanalei Coffee Roasters. Check out Yellowfish Traders for mid-century art and chotchkas.
Go, Go, Go! You won't regret it or forget it. -
musclegrandma
Walford, IAFantastic Kauai Property
Left on 03/01/2012 for a stay in January 2012
The River House is a wonderful place to stay on Kauai! We can't wait to return there. The listing description and pictures are very accurate. What you see at the website is what you get. On second thought--no it is not--it is even nicer than portrayed. The house is spotlessly clean and well maintained. The wood floors gleam. It is nicely and comfortably decorated. The kitchen is well equipped. We prepared most of our meals there and walked past the beautiful dining table to eat on the table on the lanai with the fantastic view of the river and all the beautiful trees and flowers. We picked our own grapefruit, tangelos, lime, and avocado. What a treat for us coming from a snowy climate. The spa on the lanai feels wonderful after a day of touring. The grill is nice and large enough for four. We all slept very well as the beds were quite comfortable.
The owner, Mark, was very helpful and I now call him a friend. He answered our questions about the area--especially where to snorkel and hike. He watched the weather and figured out the best times for us to do the activities we wanted. He made our bookings for a catamaran tour, helicopter tour, and luau. We were very well taken care of and everything went very seamlessly.
There is lots to do close by, but Kauai is small enough you can see all of it from your stay here. Or do nothing and enjoy the island ambience right there at the River House. It is located in a beautiful and quiet setting and it is nice to just sit back and enjoy the property.
Yes, we would definately recommend the River House to our friends and relatives. In fact, we already have. We can not wait to go back! -
Pam D
52024Beautiful!
Left on 02/05/2012 for a stay in January 2012
My husband and I stayed at the Guest house on the River Estate the first 2 weeks of January. This is one instance where the photos look exactly like the real thing! The house was very comfortable and had all the amenities we needed including a well stocked kitchen. Since the Guest house is at the end of the driveway, it is very secluded and private. We had a rental car (convertible) and were able to drive all over the island to sightsee. The Hanalei farmer's market is a must!!
-
Island Girl
Santa Fe, New MexicoExperience Real Hawaii!
Left on 01/22/2012 for a stay in April 2010
This visit marked my 8th year returning to River Estate (sometimes multiple times a year), and it just keeps getting better! Mark is a wonderful host and he thinks of everything you could need - if you don't see it, give him a call and he'll make it happen! Guest House was recently remodeled and it is worthy of a magazine spread - this is not a funky beach hut, but a sophisticated bungalow up in the trees that invites you to take off your slippahs Hawaiian style and make yourself at home. The setting is a secluded botanical garden alongside a bubbling stream with whispering bamboo a stones throw from some of the islands most beautiful beaches. This is truly island style living! Take advantage of the lovely kitchen and barbeque on the lanai to prepare a meal or two! Super private without feeling isolated, minutes from fabulous snorkeling beaches K'ee and Tunnels in one direction and the lovely Hanalei Town in the other direction. I have done a bit of traveling in my time and I have not stayed in a five star resort that can hold a candle to River Estate - this is experiencing Kauai the way it was meant to be experienced. If you have only stayed in hotels up to this point, you have a treat in store! River Estate is a gem and the value for the price can't be beat.
Response from mark barbanell - 02/19/2012
Owner
Marla has become a good friend and as a long time customer she was the first person who kept coming back year after year. As someone who has lived here for over 40 years there are things that are hard to see from the myopic perspective that I have in the sheltered environment of Kauai. Marla was one of the first to wake me up to how special my property really is from the outside looking in. Connecting with my guests has become part of my job and that job has become very very rewarding. Mahalo Marla for your longtime support!
Aloha and Mahalo,
Mark Barbanell
River Estate -
Mary Jo O
San Diego, CaliforniaVacation Hideaway off the Beaten Path
Left on 01/05/2012 for a stay in November 2011
My family of 13 rented both of Mark's River View Estates and had a great time. The houses are very well taken care of and the location is remote and beautiful. The furnishings and the flooring in the house are really nice. The bathtubs could use a little updating but that's no big deal. Of course the remoteness is not for everyone. It takes a long time to get to the other side of the island. If you are the sort of traveler who likes traditional hotels, this is not for you. If you like privacy and a more unique experience-you will love it here. We did have a few bugs, so keep the drains plugged at night. There was also a fruit fly problem in the 3 bedroom unit-but I think this must be pretty normal in this area. The flies are so small that they can get through screens. The property is really pretty with lots of fruit trees and other vegetation and the sound of the river running by. The kitchens are well stocked with cooking stuff and dinnerware. We cooked quite a bit and took sandwiches with us on our excursions to save money. Mark is a very friendly guy and will gladly help out with anything you need.
-
Henry W
60713River Estate is paradise and it is as good as it gets!
Left on 12/02/2011 for a stay in September 2011
River Estate is an awesome tropical retreat, think paradise with excellent accommodations.
It is private and located on a soothing river and is walking distance to the beach. The property is beautifully maintained with pristine landscaping. We have been visiting River Estate for nearly twenty years and each trip is just as exciting and fulfilling as the first stay, actually it gets better each year! Read the volumes of compliments from all the happy quests and you'll see why its a must place to stay.
The owner is a great guy, very friendly and knowledgeable about the surrounding area.
You 'll love it! -
mez178
Nazareth, PennsylvaniaBeautiful hidden hideaway near small river
Left on 08/25/2011 for a stay in June 2011
Very nicely furnished two bedroom house near Hanalei. Stayed with our (2) adult children. Beautifully maintained with small river nearby. Remote location will be loved by some but must drive to get anywhere. Lovely grounds with owner nearby. Only negatives would be the dogs next door sometime barked and the owner hoping we could come in a little later and leave a little earlier. It was also difficult pulling out of the driveway, though this was just a minor issue.
The house was very well stocked and had up to date appliances. Very highly recommended if you like something different and very romantic and willing to drive a few mile for beaches and entertainment.
Good place for getting an early start to Tunnels Beach or the Kalalua Trail, which has very limited parking.
Here 3 more rentals located nearby.
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