This was our 15 year annual visit and already look forward to next year.

This is prime property for enjoying the best of Sunset Beach. Located on 40th Street, the back deck overlooks Madd Inlet, making watching sunsets and birds very easy. It is a short, short walk to the beach.

The house is older, but has a well-worn charm that is taking well to the yearly updates from the owner. (new appliances and shower/tub remodeling). The kitchen is well-equipped for cooking and has plenty of silverware and dishes.

Sleeps eight with ease; the living room area is spacious, has a bookcase full of bird books and fiction best sellers. Hall closet has games. You might want to bring your own cards.

If you are looking for a little peace and quiet (with plenty of action a beach or two away) you can't miss with Sunset Beach and Mauna Kea.

Already made reservations for next year! More...

I know this is one of the older properties and it hasn't been updated like so many of the homes on the island, but we really enjoy staying here. The location is the best, and the house is very comfortable: nice big kitchen, comfortable living area, terrific deck. We've been coming to Sunset Beach for more than 30 years and always try to stay on 40th St. We've been in quite a few homes on this street, and while some of them are much fancier, Mauna Kea suits us fine. However, some in our group (we rent 4 houses for the same week in July for a family reunion)have said they won't stay there - they prefer an updated home. But some of us really like Mauna Kea, and for my husband and me, it was terrific for our quiet getaway in April this spring. We love it.

Mauna Kea has renters who have been coming since it was built in the early 1970's, before we bought it in 1981. Generations of memories have been formed on the deck, looking out over the marsh towards Bird Island as the sun sets.

Over the years our upgrades keep it comfortable, but it is a beach house, not a house at the beach. We give the beach and the marsh and the fellowship top billing.

Our renters give us updates on wildlife, reflections on good times, suggestions, and even occasional tangible gifts. We are grateful to the many who have contributed to Mauna Kea's sense of place through the years.