10/10 Excellent
Steve L.
27 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing Unique Stay
Steve L.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
Entire home
The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe"
Photo gallery for The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe"
Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6151.6 sq m
Popular amenities
Explore the area
Kailua-Kona, HI
- Magic Sands Beach5 min drive
- Kahalu'u Beach Park6 min drive
- Kailua Pier7 min drive
- Kailua-Kona, HI (KOA-Kona Intl.)20 min drive
Rooms & beds
3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)
Guest Bedroom 1
1 King Bed
Guest Bedroom 2
1 Queen Bed
Guest Bedroom 3
1 Double Bed
2 bathrooms
Master Bathroom
Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Hair dryer
Shared Guest Bath
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe"
Created for the McCormick Spice family, the Onion House is a unique architectural treasure with stunning visual aesthetics. It has been featured on MTV, Travel Channel, Learning Channel, Fine Living Channel, HGTV, Global Architecture Magazine, and Architectural Digest.
You will have the entire house to yourselves. Swim and sunbathe in privacy on the huge lot that is well screened via foliage. You'll feel alone in your world, enjoying the 70' pool (unheated), gardens and lily ponds. The terrace faces sunsets and Kailua Bay, providing the ideal setting for candlelight dinners. The translucent roof and walls of stained glass allow filtered sunlight throughout. The detached master suite features a private walled garden. A covered outdoor walkway leading to the master bedroom structure is flanked by lily ponds and the turquoise pool overlooking the sea.
With grounds of nearly an acre, five minutes from town or beach, this is the perfect base camp for exploring the Big Island. If you google this property name, you can learn a great deal more about it from our personal website. Read the page "Vacation at the Onion House" for more information on your stay.
The Onion House does have limitations that make it unsuitable for younger children (under 12) or individuals who have difficulties with stairs and/or mobility. The owners do no allow guests under 12 years of age. Please contact us for further information. In addition, the Onion House is most ideal for smaller groups of 2-4. Groups of 6, while they can be accommodated, will find privacy is limited.
The rates quoted are for two guests. Additional guests have an additional fee of $25/person/day added to the quote identified in a separate line as "additional guest fee."
Please note that the County of Hawai'i has implemented strict vacation rental regulations which must be clearly published on this site. The Onion House has been officially licensed by the County and these country rules apply to guests:
(A) Quiet hours shall be from 9:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m., during which time the noise from the STVR shall not unreasonably disturb adjacent neighbors.
(B) Sound that is audible beyond the property boundaries during non-quiet hours shall not be more excessive than would be otherwise associated with a residential area.
(C) Rental guest vehicles shall be parked in the designated onsite parking area.
(D) The STVR shall not be used for commercial purposes.
(E) Guests beyond those named on the rental agreement are fairly strictly limited. Hosting gatherings with visitors outside of the rental party is quite limited - Please inquire.
The STVR Registration Number is: STVR-19-361289
The Nonconforming Use Certificate Number is: NUC-19-1205
("Nonconforming" basically means that our vacation rental is not located in a resort zone.)
Hawaii State Tax ID # GE-157-258-9568-01, TAT: T-157-258-9568
You will have the entire house to yourselves. Swim and sunbathe in privacy on the huge lot that is well screened via foliage. You'll feel alone in your world, enjoying the 70' pool (unheated), gardens and lily ponds. The terrace faces sunsets and Kailua Bay, providing the ideal setting for candlelight dinners. The translucent roof and walls of stained glass allow filtered sunlight throughout. The detached master suite features a private walled garden. A covered outdoor walkway leading to the master bedroom structure is flanked by lily ponds and the turquoise pool overlooking the sea.
With grounds of nearly an acre, five minutes from town or beach, this is the perfect base camp for exploring the Big Island. If you google this property name, you can learn a great deal more about it from our personal website. Read the page "Vacation at the Onion House" for more information on your stay.
The Onion House does have limitations that make it unsuitable for younger children (under 12) or individuals who have difficulties with stairs and/or mobility. The owners do no allow guests under 12 years of age. Please contact us for further information. In addition, the Onion House is most ideal for smaller groups of 2-4. Groups of 6, while they can be accommodated, will find privacy is limited.
The rates quoted are for two guests. Additional guests have an additional fee of $25/person/day added to the quote identified in a separate line as "additional guest fee."
Please note that the County of Hawai'i has implemented strict vacation rental regulations which must be clearly published on this site. The Onion House has been officially licensed by the County and these country rules apply to guests:
(A) Quiet hours shall be from 9:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m., during which time the noise from the STVR shall not unreasonably disturb adjacent neighbors.
(B) Sound that is audible beyond the property boundaries during non-quiet hours shall not be more excessive than would be otherwise associated with a residential area.
(C) Rental guest vehicles shall be parked in the designated onsite parking area.
(D) The STVR shall not be used for commercial purposes.
(E) Guests beyond those named on the rental agreement are fairly strictly limited. Hosting gatherings with visitors outside of the rental party is quite limited - Please inquire.
The STVR Registration Number is: STVR-19-361289
The Nonconforming Use Certificate Number is: NUC-19-1205
("Nonconforming" basically means that our vacation rental is not located in a resort zone.)
Hawaii State Tax ID # GE-157-258-9568-01, TAT: T-157-258-9568
Property manager
Terri Watson
Premier Host
Languages
English
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Pool
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
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10.0 out of 10, (84 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 12
Check out before 10:00 AM
Children
Adults only
No children under 12 due to safety concerns.
Events
No events allowed
Pets
No pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Smoking outdoors on deck only.
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
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Property Registration Number 3770090520000, TA-157-258-9568-01, GE-157-258-9568-01
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
About the area
Kailua-Kona
Located near the beach, this holiday home is in Holualoa Village, a neighbourhood in Kailua-Kona. Holualoa Gallery and Hulihee Palace are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Kona Le'a Plantation and KBXtreme. UCC Hawaii Kona Coffee Estate and Kona Community Aquatic Center are also worth visiting.
Kailua-Kona, HI
What's nearby
- Magic Sands Beach - 5 min drive - 3.1 km
- Keauhou Shopping Center - 6 min drive - 4.6 km
- Kahalu'u Beach Park - 6 min drive - 4.3 km
- Kailua Pier - 7 min drive - 6.8 km
- Kailua-Kona Wharf - 7 min drive - 6.8 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- On The Rocks - 6 min drive
- Laverne's Sports Bar - 6 min drive
- Gecko Girlz Shave Ice - 6 min drive
- L&L Hawaiian Barbecue - 5 min drive
- Humpy's Big Island Alehouse - 6 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
9.8/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Darla B.
8 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Best place ever!
Darla B.
Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
John I.
9 Feb 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Habitual guest
John I.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Adam B.
13 Jan 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
One of a kind place to stay
Adam B.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Julie K.
9 Jan 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Unforgettable!
Julie K.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
Erik A.
21 Jan 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Splendor in an Onion
Erik A.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
Christopher L.
5 Dec 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Property
Christopher L.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Paul D.
27 Nov 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Magical in Nature
Paul D.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Randee R.
16 June 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Birthday at the Onion House
Randee R.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Theresa E.
22 July 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quick Fun Trip
Theresa E.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Karen L.
29 Sept 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing!
Karen L.
Stayed 10 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Don M.
3 Aug 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Onion House
Don M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Kevin V.
8 Jan 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place!
Kevin V.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Dave U.
19 Mar 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Like being in another world!
Dave U.
Stayed 37 nights in Feb 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jill C.
3 Nov 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Staying in a beautifully unique piece of art.
Jill C.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Kevin G.
20 Aug 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Work of Art
Kevin G.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jerry B., Denver, Colorado
8 Feb 2019
Hands down,, EXCELENT!!!!!! It was an honor to stay in this historic home. One of a kind jewel!!
Jerry B.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2019
10/10 Excellent
William B., Lincoln
22 Jan 2019
Excellent
William B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2019
10/10 Excellent
James M., Santa Clarita
8 July 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Future repeat customer
James M.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Karen W.
15 May 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely Holiday
Karen W.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023
10/10 Excellent
Angela A., Aptos
13 Feb 2019
Beautiful views!!!
Angela A.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2019
10/10 Excellent
AIRBNB: Tami S.
22 Feb 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful location
AIRBNB: Tami S.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2020
10/10 Excellent
James D.
5 July 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wow!
James D.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Patti T.
27 Feb 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Artistic Paradise
Patti T.
Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2023
10/10 Excellent
Peter D., San Francisco, California, USA
5 Jan 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Very Rare Gem!
Peter D.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2019
About the host
Hosted by Terri Watson
The Onion House was purchased by Harry and Barbara Last from the McCormick family a few years ago. Barbara had wanted to visit this architectural wonder some time ago and when she learned that the property was for sale, she insisted that they book their stay immediately. Upon awakening in the Onion House the very first morning, Harry fell in love with the unique architecture and as well the engineering structural aspects of the overall property. They both decided that they wanted to be the purchasers, not only to enjoy for their family, but also to continue to preserve and maintain this wonderful property for guests as well. Poring over the construction details of the Onion House also brought back memories. Many years ago in the late 1970’s, Barbara and Harry, a mechanical engineer and inventor, designed, and built by hand a hillside home in the Vancouver, B.C. area, complete with an indoor swimming pool for their three children, all in competitive swimming. In order to combat humidity in the pool area, Harry soon became interested in automatic pool covers, which eventually led to him founding a business in that industry, which still exist as a closely held family business today.
Barbara and Harry will continue to connect with Beth McCormick (the former owner) as an advisor on the maintenance and preservation of the property. Guest contact will be facilitated by Terri Watson, who has also managed guest relations on another Hawaii property for the Lasts. Property Manager Jeanne Awai, along with her staff, who have managed the gardening and maintenance and welcomed the guests to the property for many years, will be staying on as well.
Barbara and Harry will continue to connect with Beth McCormick (the former owner) as an advisor on the maintenance and preservation of the property. Guest contact will be facilitated by Terri Watson, who has also managed guest relations on another Hawaii property for the Lasts. Property Manager Jeanne Awai, along with her staff, who have managed the gardening and maintenance and welcomed the guests to the property for many years, will be staying on as well.
Why they chose this property
There's no place on earth like this. It's a wildly original form of architecture, distinct from any other structure, hand-built by architect Kendrick Bangs Kellogg. It combines the indoor-outdoor living that defines Hawaii with visionary, organic architecture. You've never seen anything like this.
What makes this property unique
A unique part of Hawaiian history, the Onion House is a pivotal piece of the McCormick family history, commissioned by prior owner Beth McCormick's favorite aunt, 'Auntie Dofeen.' and build by well known architect Kendrick Kellogg Bangs of organic architecture renown.
This home is Kellogg's first piece as both architect and builder, and launched the Organic Architecture movement of the Mid-Century Modern craze that dominated Southern California. Kellogg went on to build well-known works such as The High Desert House in Joshua Tree, CA, Lotus House, Wingsweep, the Hoshino Wedding Chapel in Japan and Charthouse restaurant in Rancho Mirage, CA.
We have the opportunity to share this home with guests from around the world, who bring friends and family to celebrate special moments in their lives. Many of our guests are repeat visitors, and the "Onion House Family" spans the globe.
Of note: The Onion House isn't for everyone......
The Onion House is not suitable for families with young children (less than 12), or for those who have difficulty with steps, due to safety considerations inherent in its design. We make no representation of the house as accessible.
Smoking outside only, please.
The Onion House is true Organic Architecture - it is not a climate controlled, sterile resort- like location. There is no air-conditioning (we use many fans!). It is truly indoor/outdoor living in a shelter of roof, screen, glass and rock cooled by nature passive design.
This home is Kellogg's first piece as both architect and builder, and launched the Organic Architecture movement of the Mid-Century Modern craze that dominated Southern California. Kellogg went on to build well-known works such as The High Desert House in Joshua Tree, CA, Lotus House, Wingsweep, the Hoshino Wedding Chapel in Japan and Charthouse restaurant in Rancho Mirage, CA.
We have the opportunity to share this home with guests from around the world, who bring friends and family to celebrate special moments in their lives. Many of our guests are repeat visitors, and the "Onion House Family" spans the globe.
Of note: The Onion House isn't for everyone......
The Onion House is not suitable for families with young children (less than 12), or for those who have difficulty with steps, due to safety considerations inherent in its design. We make no representation of the house as accessible.
Smoking outside only, please.
The Onion House is true Organic Architecture - it is not a climate controlled, sterile resort- like location. There is no air-conditioning (we use many fans!). It is truly indoor/outdoor living in a shelter of roof, screen, glass and rock cooled by nature passive design.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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