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| Details | |
|---|---|
| Bedrooms | 3 |
| Bathrooms | 2 |
| Sleeps | 6 |
| House | |
| Suitability |
|---|
| No Pets |
| Not Suitable for Children |
| Not Suitable for Elderly |
| FlipKey traveler rating |
| 23 reviews |
| Stayed here? Write a review. |
Get the real scoop!
All reviews are written by verified travelers
Details
| Rental type | House |
| Minimum Stay | 4 nights |
| Living space | 2500 square feet |
| Bedrooms | 3 Total |
| Bathrooms | 2 Total |
| Sleeps | 6 |
| Suitability |
Pet friendlyNo Smoking allowedAsk Suitable for childrenNo Suitable for the elderlyNo Wheelchair accessibleNo |
Description from the owner
The Hawaii home of the McCormick Spice family, 'The Onion House' is a unique historic architectural treasure, with stunning visual aesthetics.
With walls of screen and stained glass, light dances throughout the interior. At night, the translucent roof panels glow like twin Japanese lanterns. Two arched structures lie surrounded by pool, fishponds, and gardens, perched on a lava rock terrace overlooking the Kona Coast. This unique home was hand-built by the famed architect Kendrick Bangs Kellogg, an innovator of Organic Architecture. James Hubbell created the stained glass and mosaic dining table. This is the home of artist Beth McC...Read more
Amenities
Location
The Onion House
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
(Property location is approximate) ?
What's Nearby:
Additional Location Information
On the Big Island:
* Night dive with manta rays
* Swim respectfully with wild dolphins
* Fly above the erupting volcano
* Zipline through the treetops
* Explore Native Hawaiian sacred sites
* Learn about Tropical Permaculture
* View telescopes at Mauna Kea observatory
* Photograph the varied landscapes and underwater vistas of the Big Island.
Hawaii Island is a mini-continent with almost every climate on the planet, featuring beaches, plunging waterfalls, tropical forests, snow-capped mountains, and some of the most unique species in the world.
Rates
Rates shown in $ USD (change)
| Date | Weeknight | Weekend Night | Weekly | Monthly | Minimum Stay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rate Summary | $295 - $360 | $295 | $1,995 - $2,450 | $0 | 4 nights |
| Dec. 15 2011 - Mar. 31 2012 | $360 | - | $2,450 | - | 5 nights |
| Apr. 1 2012 - May. 31 2012 | $330 | - | $2,250 | - | 5 nights |
| Jun. 1 2012 - Aug. 31 2012 | $295 | - | $1,995 | - | 5 nights |
| Sep. 1 2012 - Dec. 14 2012 | $330 | - | $2,250 | - | 5 nights |
| Dec. 15 2012 - Mar. 31 2013 | $360 | - | $2,450 | - | 5 nights |
| All Other Dates | $295 | $295 | - | - | 4 nights |
| Can't find rates for your travel dates? Contact the owner | |||||
Rental fees
- Deposit - $500 / stay - Security Deposit - refundable
- Cleaning - $350 / stay - Fee
Additional notes from owner
Additional charges include the tax of 13.42%
The cleaning fee covers cleaning after you check-out. Additional maid service may be arranged during your stay.
Smoking outside only, please.
Sensuous tropical living in harmony with the natural environment.
Privacy in which to swim and enjoy pool, lilyponds and gardens.
Expansive view of the coastline facing Kona's famed "green flash" sunsets.
Perfect "sarong" weather at 500' elevation.
Terrace overlooking the Pacific provides the ultimate setting for candlelit dinners.
Five minutes from town or beach, yet worlds away.
A treasure of "Organic Architecture," with unique visual aesthetics.
Availability
AvailableUnavailable Last updated: May 20, 2013 ◀▶
What Past Guests Are Saying
Overall Rating
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CAAdventuress
San Jose, CAUnusual and Wonderful Indoor/Outdoor Living in Kona
Left on 04/08/2013 for a stay in April 2013
Our family of 6 (teens and grandmother included) stayed at the Onion House last week. It was such a relaxing and unusual place to enjoy the beauty the Kona coast has to offer. It is definitely not for everyone - but it was perfect for us. Just minutes from the hubub, it was an oasis of calm and communing with nature. Indoors and outdoors are blended - geckos in the kitchen, licking your papaya, a quick swim to the back of the house to the master suite. Is the shower inside or outdoor? - hard to say. We never turned on the TV. It would have felt sacrilegious here. There isn't a lot of privacy, but there is a lot of calm. I would highly recommend a stay at the Onion House for anyone who wants an unusual way to experience Kona.
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Laura
Goshen, IndianaMemories of a Lifetime made here...
Left on 02/03/2013 for a stay in January 2013
From the minute I opened the gate to the Onion House, I was left speechless. My husband immediately began shooting a video while I, on the otherhand, was walking around taking in every walkway, room, lanai, body of water, etc. and when he would put the camera on me, I couldn't find words to explain the amazement I was feeling. The architecture of the home is better described as a piece of art. The way the outside is brought into the inside and vice versa is magnificent. The beauty just envelopes you. It made me feel like a small child again on Christmas morning.
There is much literature provided on the table for you at the Onion House and we enjoyed that extra surprise very much. My husband read aloud to me during our sunning sessions about the history, the family and people behind the building as well as all sorts of good nuggets of info. regarding the area. It was a real treat hearing about it all.
The location of the home is convenient as it was in walking distance to the fabulous "La Bourgogne" french restaurant, as well as a small convenience mart that had last minute items we needed.
Beth was so easy to work with. Her attention to detail and directions , and her quick responses to emails was superb and professional during our first inquiry, our booking, and then as follow-up emails to ask us about our stay.
Mahalo and Much aloha, Laura from Indiana
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Erin
Costa Mesa CaliforniaOur time at the Onion House was perfection.
Left on 01/10/2013 for a stay in January 2013
This is what a vacation is supposed to be like. We stayed on Waikiki for three nights before coming to the Big Island, and I can tell you there is no comparison. The Onion House was the key to the whole experience. The crew makes your stay so easy. The first thing I noticed was that I did not have to stand in line for 45 minutes to register like at the Sheraton Waikiki. We walked in, unpacked, and were sitting next to one of the most beautiful swimming pools, with one of the most beautiful views, sipping a wonderful red wine, which was a welcome gift from the crew, within 15 minutes of arrival. We didn't have to worry about unruly kids splashing us from the pool, or hotel employees bugging us every five minutes to see if we wanted another watered down Mai Tai. If you like the tourist aspect of Hawaii, you are less than 10 minutes from Kailua-Kona. If you like the small town aspect of Hawaii, you are less than 10 minutes from Kainiliu, Kealekekua, and Captain Cook, with their coffee plantations and local restaurants. Annie is very responsive to any needs that may arise. One of the sinks was draining a little slowly, and with one call to annie, she had ari there and the problem was fixed wiki wiki. In addition ari, while there, pointed out some great snorkeling spots, and gave perfect directions to those places. You have to see this place to believe it. The architecture is impressive. The location is perfect. It is private and secluded. I felt like I was at home within moments of arrival and was able to relax and enjoy my vacation immediately. This place is awesome.
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Bill & Day
Costa Mesa, CAA serene utopia to escape the "Rat Race" .
Left on 01/09/2013 for a stay in January 2013
The architecture of the "Onion House" captures the minds idea of what a south seas island home should be . All of the modern convieniences of home have been added in a subtle manner. Frank Loyd Write would envy how the architect blended the structure to the site.
The setting while among other homes is completely encased by tropical folage leaving only the ocean view to enjoy.
The manager annie met us on site with fruit, a bottle of wine and a aloha. (a nice touch)
We also had the pleasure of spending some time with Beth the owner who is also a multi faceted artist and extremely nice person.
I am amazed at value for what the rent is. After staying here I think it was a steal !
If we ever come back this way we will for sure stay here again. -
George Tibbetts
Brevard, NCPeace and tranquility abounding
Left on 11/20/2012 for a stay in November 2012
For nature lovers the Onion House is a natural. We felt like we were in a rainforest. The lushness of the surrounding create a sense of peace and tranquility. The house is an architectural wonder. You feel like you are living in the outdoors. Accomadations were spotless and comfortable. Even though we were on the big island with all its attractions it was wonderful to spend much time enjoying the house, its wonderful surroundings, and the great pool.
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DaTrue
San MateoUnique Historic accomodation with all the Modern amenities You C
Left on 11/03/2012 for a stay in October 2012
We stayed at the Onion House with 4 friends for 2 weeks. Not only enjoyed we the serene athmosphere with all the surrounding nature and a beautiful view we also appreciated the proximity to alii Drive (Kona Downtown so to say) and to grocery shopping (Safeway).
Be prepared to wake up by the sounds of nature (toads, birds, geckos) and the rising sun. We found that our night-day rythm shifted to an earlier time (=wake up by 6.30 - 7 am and go to bed between 9 and 10 pm) to make best use of the daylight.
The only (neglectable) downside was that the house is relatively close to the main street on that side of the island and we heard ambulances and police quite frequently.
But other than that there is nothing to complain about. All amenities were working and annie (the care taker) is just precious. Always available and always helpful.
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Norm, Debby, Mike and Karen
Knoxville, TennesseeWhat a Stay
Left on 06/02/2012 for a stay in May 2012
my wife and I and our friends just returned from two weeks at the Onion House and we all think this was one of the best vacations we have ever taken. The house is better than the pictures and the area around the house makes it feel as if you are alone. We look forward to returning again in the future.
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Orcas Parrothead
Eastsound, WAHeaven in Paradise
Left on 04/24/2012 for a stay in April 2012
We waited more than 20 years to stay at the Onion House and all I can say is "wow." Although located in a residential area, the moment you enter the archway of trees in the driveway, it's as if you entered your own private world. The architecture is stunning, the vegetation lush and the sounds of the birds and frogs a serenade to the senses. With no conventional walls, but rather simply stained glass doors and screening, you feel as if you are living with nature. My wife, who studied architecture in college, couldn't stop taking pictures, while marveling at the incredible and unique design.
Everything you need is provided and you, like us, might be tempted to never even leave to explore the wonders of the Big Island. And, at the end of the day, I highly recommend opening a bottle of wine and sitting by the pool to watch the sun as it sets right in front of you, accompanied by the sound of birds singing all around you. If you like cookie cutter resorts, than the Onion House is not for you. However, if you want, even for a short time, your own piece of heaven in paradise, than this is the place for you. We waited 20 years to see it, but we won't wait that long again.Response from Beth Mccormick - 04/25/2012
Owner
It's a joy to share my experience of Hawaii with guests like yourself, who appreciate the unique heritage and architectural inspiration of the Onion House. The place seems to call just the right people to it. Your family was a delight. We'd love to have you come back any time.
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laxmigoddess12
New YorkPrivate paradise
Left on 03/01/2012 for a stay in November 2011
I stayed at the Onion House in early November for a "Sister's Reunion" and it proved a perfect setting for relaxation and offered all of the comforts that we could have wanted. The location is convenient and the pool area beckons throughout the day. It felt like we had our own personal oasis. Although it is located in a neighborhood, once you are inside the property you feel like you are a million miles away. We numbered six guests and the sixth had to sleep on a pull-out in the main room, but I heard no complaints. The caretakers are wonderful and took excellent care of all of our needs and requirements. I will come back to the Onion House without hesitation and highly recommend this property if you are looking for a non-hotel experience.
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Thom, Mitchell, Jim and Serge
Provincetown, MAThe best rental home ever !
Left on 02/17/2012 for a stay in January 2012
It has all been said before -- how wonderful the Onion House is. Well its all true! We spent most of the time at the house -- why leave? The pool is perfect. The house is unique but comfortable. A very special place.
A place that stays with you after you leave. We can't wait to return. Be warned that upon your return home you will find your shower to be quite boring compared to the one you used at the Onion House; your bedroom will also suffer by comparison, however, slight dissatisfaction with your mainland home is worth the memories of the wonderful Onion House!! Thank you, Beth, and also many many thanks to auntie Dofeen and Kendrick!!
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Suzi
EvergreenThe best time we have had in Hawaii ever!
Left on 11/19/2011 for a stay in May 2009
The Onion House is our favorite. We waited 6 years to get in and were not disappointed. We are returning for 2012 and cannot wait.
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D & K
San FranciscoMagical experience at the Onion House
Left on 11/15/2011 for a stay in October 2011
This place is definitely one of the most unique places we have been fortunate to stay. As a student of organic (or ecological) architecture, this was a dream come true. The house has no corners or sharp edges, and is one sensual curve after another. It was difficult to leave our wonderful sanctuary at the Onion House, but we did manage to get out and explore the island a bit. We also did quite a bit of swimming in the pool (which was excellent for doing laps every morning). There is more to see and do, however, which is an excellent excuse to visit again. Mahalo nui loa, Onion House... until we meet again!
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The Cooke's
Alamo TennesseeOne of the most blessed and beautiful vacation stays.
Left on 11/07/2011 for a stay in June 2010
Our vacation was one of the most blessed and beautiful vacation stays my family has ever had. The location was close to the airport, beaches, shops, and food...yet secluded.
Staying at the Onion House was one of the best experiences the family and I have ever had. There is nothing to compare it to. The hospitality of the care takers as well as the welcome via email we received from Beth McCormick. Nothing to say about it but wonderful things all the way around. I would recommend the Onion House to anyone going to the Big Island for a relaxing and peaceful, as well as fun time. -
Amazing
Tacoma, WAStaying in a piece of art
Left on 10/26/2011 for a stay in October 2011
What a treat to stay at the Onion House. A beautiful house that seems to be alive. The location is fantastic. And having our own pool was great. Sunsets were enjoyed each night from the comfort of home. I cannot wait to return for another visit. A truly amazing experience.
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B91876
Charleston, SCRelaxing and awesome visit!
Left on 10/25/2011 for a stay in February 2006
What a cool place! It has been over 5 years since I visited the Onion House and still think of it often. I highly recommend this place and it is truly unique experience. Only thing is I wish the locals were as nice and accomadating as the Onion House - word to the wise go grocery shop and cook your meals.
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mark_from_NE
Lincoln, NEBest vacation home in Kona
Left on 10/19/2011 for a stay in January 2003
The Onion House is by far the best vacation home in Kona. The home is beautiful, unconventional and artistic. If you enjoy privacy, a stunning view and a great location, this is the place for you.
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Tess M.
El Monte, CAThe Great Getaway
Left on 10/06/2011 for a stay in September 2011
I've been planning to come to the Onion House for at least 3 years and I finally got the right mix of friends to join me. I was the common denominator of the 6 of us and 3 of my five friends have only met once before, otherwise, this was the first time they all met. It was amazing how 5 of them started as strangers and a week later, we were all close friends who are looking forward to our next vacation together!
We couldn't have picked a better vacation home to embark on the most amazing vacation ever! There is only one word to describe the Onion House... Perfection!!! Great house, great staff, great view... just great! The only minor comment is that the full size beds in the smaller bedrooms are a bit too small for 2 adults. But we rotated and everyone got to sleep in the master suite for at least a couple of nights.
We look forward to our next visit to this heavenly garden in paradise. Next time I'm bringing my family so they too can experience the magic of the Onion House.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful home with the world! -
Marjorie Baker & Roger Zirkle
Portsmouth, VirginiaAwesome, Perfection, better than we imagined
Left on 10/01/2011 for a stay in August 2011
Loved every minute of our stay. We did not do as many activities outside of the home (and were talking Hawaii here) because the house was just so great. We didn't want to leave. We found ourselves rushing to get back everyday. The view, the pool, the location, the ease of everything, I could go on and on. There is just something about it. Its essence is just magical. You have to stay here to understand.
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S. Dixon
Newburyport, MAA private paradise that quickly becomes home
Left on 09/29/2011 for a stay in August 2011
My husband and I honeymooned at the Onion House and had a most extraordinary time! It was almost like a fairy tale with all the friendly beautiful wildlife. We would love to stay there again for our second trip to Hawaii. The Onion House was the second part of our trip, we spent our first week in a condo near Hapuna Beach and then off to The Onion, our most memorable part of the trip.
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lindajean
Valparaiso, IndianaA Simply Relaxing time!
Left on 09/29/2011 for a stay in July 2011
We throughly enjoyed our stay at the Onion House. Not only did we enjoy learning about the history of this unique structure; we felt one with nature and our surroundings. My husband and I traveled with our two adult children. If you are looking for a true native experience and do not want to stay in a resort, this is the place for you. The concept is open and very airy! I would not bring young children or older adults as there are many stairs and angles to the architecture. This was emphasized by the owner. This is a true Hawaiian treasure.
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Tammy
MississippiThe best place we stayed on the Big Island.
Left on 09/29/2011 for a stay in April 2011
I first saw the onion house on the travel channel, and I always wanted to stay there. It took me over 10 years to get there, but I made it. I am so glad we made sure to include it on our family vacation, even my hard to pleese teenagers were impressed by the details of the house.
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Sheila
Pasadena, California and Sedona ArizonaLike staying in a work of art
Left on 09/29/2011 for a stay in July 2011
We loved The Onion House. The house is unique and beautiful. We love The Big Island, but honestly the house was the best part of the trip.
The staff is exceptional. They are friendly and anxious to make sure you are comfortable.
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Rich & Marilyn Watson
Oakland, CaliforniaQuiet, Privacy and Lilikois
Left on 09/29/2011 for a stay in July 2011
The quiet of the garden, the pool of our own were highlights for us on this Island Vacation spent with two brothers and us wives. Though we missed the roar of the ocean waves, we appreciated being away from the madding tourist scene, picking fruit and searing our own ahi. The eccentric beauty of this home greatly overides the inconvenience of the small bedrooms. We delighted in the open privacy of the garden, the pool and the patio, which is where we spent our time !!
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