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"Sea World" at Your Feet + Casual Elegance + Absolute Privacy = Whales Play

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Pool
Let your stress drift away...
Privacy with a front row seat to antics of whales, dolphins, and amazing sunsets
Miles of uninterrupted views. There are 6 lounge chairs on pool patio
sunset at the sun bench

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 6325.2 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Hot tub
  • Washer
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Kamuela, HI
  • Mauna Kea Beach
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Mauna Kea Resort Golf Course
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Waikoloa, HI (WKL-Waikoloa Heliport)
    ‪18 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Garden view

1 Queen Bed

master 2

1 King Bed

Master 1

1 King Bed

3 bathrooms

Garden view Bathroom 3

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Master Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Outdoor shower

Master Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden

About this property

"Sea World" at Your Feet + Casual Elegance + Absolute Privacy = Whales Play

Wonderful experiences await your arrival at Whales Play, a secluded and tranquil retreat. Take in the panoramic views while lounging on the upper lanai, watching whales and dolphins at play. Savor a lingering sunset and then be dazzled by the starriest night sky from the serenity of your private, ocean-dark infinity pool. Allow the subtle sounds of the ocean and warm tropical breezes to lift your spirits and clear your mind.
This is your Hawaiian oasis – a stately 3 bdr 3 ba ocean-front home, providing for your comfort and enjoyment in every detail. Eclectic décor features natural treasures and art from around the Pacific. From beach chairs to pool-side barbeque, we have you covered. The Chef’s kitchen accommodates gourmet endeavors to take out. There are lots of cozy spaces to gather for a good talk or to curl up with your favorite book. When the day is done, Whales Play features two master suites each with vast ocean views, and a third bedroom with a garden/waterfall view. Sleep sweet and awake, renewed and refreshed, to the sounds and sights of the vast Pacific.
Whether you seek island adventures, a chilled-out vacation, or anything in between, make Whales Play your ultimate, most memorable home base.

We take extraordinary measures to keep you and your family safe at our home. We guarantee a thorough stem to stern cleaning and sanitizing prior to your arrival.

STVR #19-351309
NUC#19-588

Property manager

Sue Kruse
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 13–17
W.P. is not appropriate for children under 6 yrs
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Absolutely no smoking anywhere on property
Whales Play is not appropriate for children under the age of 6. Quiet Hours are 9pm-8am. please respect our neighbors!
There is a mandatory $200 mid stay cleaning for reservations in excess of 14 days.

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 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
Property Registration Number GE-072-928-6656-01, TA-072-928-6656-01

About the area

Kamuela

Located in Kamuela, this holiday home is in the mountains and on the waterfront. While the natural beauty of Mauna Kea Beach and Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Mauna Lani Resort Golf Course. Pua Mau Place Botanic & Sculpture Garden and Pua Mau Place Arboretum are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Kamuela, HI

What's nearby

  • Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company Visitor's Center - 3 min drive - 2.6 km
  • Mauna Kea Beach - 13 min drive - 9.9 km
  • Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area - 14 min drive - 10.8 km
  • Mauna Kea Resort Golf Course - 14 min drive - 9.3 km
  • Mauna Lani Resort Golf Course - 21 min drive - 19.7 km

Getting around

  • Kamuela, HI (MUE-Waimea-Kohala) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Ikena Landing - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Naupaka Beach Grill - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Manta & Pavilion Wine Bar - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Kohala Burger & Taco - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Mauna Kea Cafe & Market - ‬14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does "Sea World" at Your Feet + Casual Elegance + Absolute Privacy = Whales Play have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is "Sea World" at Your Feet + Casual Elegance + Absolute Privacy = Whales Play pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at "Sea World" at Your Feet + Casual Elegance + Absolute Privacy = Whales Play?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at "Sea World" at Your Feet + Casual Elegance + Absolute Privacy = Whales Play?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is "Sea World" at Your Feet + Casual Elegance + Absolute Privacy = Whales Play located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is within 2 miles (3 km) of Pua Mau Place Botanic & Sculpture Garden, Pua Mau Place Arboretum and Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company Visitor's Center. Mauna Kea Beach and Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 55 out of 55 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 55 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 55 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 55 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 55 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mary Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Whales Play

Our family had an amazing stay at Whales Play. The house is lovely inside and out. We enjoyed the gardens, pool, decks and view of sunsets. We saw whales, dolphins and amazing stars right from the deck. The home is private and there is great access to the hiking path along the coast. The home is beautifully decorated and the master suites are especially inviting. We were impressed with the kitchen - it had everything we needed and more! The location is also great - close to a nice beach at the state park with lots of waves. Our group, including kids of different ages and grandma, all had an amazing time. Even better than the pictures. We can’t wait to go back! Sue is a fantastic host and quickly resounded to all communications.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

cami c.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dreams come true

This place is better than any photo or story can tell. You need to live it. My father turned 84 while we were there and had never seen whales. We saw our first one within 30 mins of arriving and this continued morning and night for each day of our stay. This is an exceptional place that will not disappoint in any way! Every detail has been thought of and Sue and team made everything easy. Thank you for giving my family a perfectly flawless experience..
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robin H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect!

We’ve stayed at this property twice - both times it’s been amazing. Clean, well stocked, wonderful pool and incredible views. Easy check-in and out and communication with the host was fantastic. 5 stars all the way.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kevin G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible Beyond Words

Everything about this place is incredible beyond words. The location is private and peaceful. The views are breathtakingly beautiful. The house is extremely comfortable and has so much to admire it was hard to leave and go enjoy the island. We will definitely be back!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Chantal M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise

We will go back as soon as we can... Whales Play was far above our expectations, everything was more than perfect! Furnished and decorated with great taste, equipped with every comfort, the marvellous sea view, the constant pleasant fresh breeze, the silent air conditioning, the ultra-modern dream kitchen, the beautiful wooden furniture, the comfortable beds, the indoor and outdoor showers, the great swimming pool and jacuzzi, and much more, everything was just more than perfect! The whole villa is like newly built, so well maintained, organised and 100% clean throughout the property. All 4 of us fell in love with this place straight away and we thank Sue and her husband from the bottom of our hearts for allowing us to spend a week in their wonderful home.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peter C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent VRBO

Beautiful setting perched above the Pacific with breath-taking views of whales playing and amazing sunsets. Quiet neighborhood. Very safe. Owners were quick with inquiries and delightful hosts.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Don B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful home

Fantastic views on in a secluded and private setting. Beautiful home and loved the outdoor dining and lounging spaces the most. Great stay.
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nick D., Fort Worth, TX USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible

This place is amazing and even better than advertised. Sue is a wonderful, responsive host. Would love to stay here again
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nathan F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beyond Expectations

It can take a leap of faith to rent a home based on pictures and fly 12 hours and across 6 time zones but renting this GORGEOUS home was a wonderful experience for our family. This home had everything that we could have wanted and more and being so far from home, it was nice to not have to buy items just to get through the week. We loved watching sunsets from the Lanai in the evenings and I enjoyed the solitude of looking over the ocean while reading and enjoying my morning coffee waiting on the others to wake up for the day. The communication with the owner and property manager was great, both were very responsive to any questions we had. Don't overthink it, rent Whales Play and get ready to relax in paradise!
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful home

Our stay at Whales Play was a delight. The house and property are truly beautiful. The neighborhood is very quiet and the house itself is extremely private. As other reviewers have noted, the house is very well equipped from beach equipment to kitchen spices and everything in between. Both Sue and Leilani were extremely responsive and helpful. The only challenge we had was getting our teenagers out of the pool to go explore the rest of the island! We did successfully wrest them from the house, but we were all happy to return from our adventures to enjoy the gorgeous sunset.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

James B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing stay at Whales Play

Visited the big island for a week with family and a few of our daughter’s friends prior to moving to Oahu for a meeting. I cannot say enough good things about this property. The location in wonderful and the house is immaculate and well maintained. While we have had the fortune to stay at many nice villa/home rentals around the world, this is the first review I have ever written. The property is that good.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mai H., San Francisco, California, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

3rd time stay was still wonderful

Even in the off season for whale watching, you’ll still be able to enjoy the peacefulness of Kohala Coast while seeing dolphins from time to time. The amenities are top-notched. The only hiccup was the grill ran out of gas and there was no back-up.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Matt H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible - In every sense of the word!

The property was as listed - but better. The experience with the owner and management company were in line with the reviews - but better. The location was perfect. We hope that this property is still an active VRBO option when we return to Hawaii. The owner has thought of every amenity - it is the most well appointed home we have experienced. Simply wonderful!
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Raymond H., New York

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Simply Incredible

Unbelievable property with stunning views. The owner and property manager were very communicative and accommodating. The beautiful pictures do not do this place justice. The views and grounds were incredible. Location was great. Everything was clean and secure. Could not rate this place highly enough. Would recommend to anyone looking to spend time on the big island.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chris A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing View

Absolutely wonderful experience from start to finish. The house and location were better than I could’ve imagined-incredibly peaceful and private. The view is breathtaking and unobstructed. Sunsets, as others have described, were stunning. Sue and Leilani were fantastic to work with. It is a magical spot-you will not regret the chance to make lifetime memories here. Thank you Sue and Lani!
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Above and Beyond Expectations

Not only are the property, the view, the bed comfort, the kitchen supplies, the pool, the deck - totally above and beyond expectations, BUT - Sue herself is an incredible host. Thorough, responsive, concierge-like, super thoughtful. AND, we are clean freaks and her house and house manager are impeccably clean, like even the inside of drawers wiped out and shelves spotless! WIN. Giant win, book immediately! Thank you again Sue, it was AMAZING!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful views

The house is beautiful and well equipped. It’s a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Hawaii. The pool is lovely and the views of the ocean are hard to beat. I will forever dream of sitting on that Lanai with my morning coffee while watching the dolphins. All the little details, outdoor showers, whole house sound system, well equipped kitchen (that you can actually cook in!) really make this house extra special. We’ve rented other houses in Hawaii and stayed at the Hualalai in the past but we will definitely book this house again in the future. Thank you for sharing your house with us!
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bill C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Home and Amenities

The prior reviews are all accurate on this home. This was our 4th trip to the Big Island, and our family was looking for place to escape for 10+ days. This home was perfect for our group of 6. We spent more than 50% of our time at the house, using the pool, walking around the neighborhood and trails, and jogging on the road outside the neighborhood. That said, when we went to the beach, stores, fishing, it was not far. We would definitely return.
Stayed 11 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kristy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Place to Stay is Whales Play

Seven Days was just not long enough! Wish we could have stayed much longer! The house was perfect, it has everything you need plus more! The layout is just perfect and the pool was great to enjoy the most gorgeous sunsets! The neighborhood is nice and quiet….it is far enough from town, but not to far. There are 3-4 great restaurants and two convenience stores very close by and great grocery within 12 miles. There os just no way to describe the beauty and peacefulness of the outdoor living areas around the pool and on the garden. From the deck and pool, you have an unimpeded view of historical sites, the Pacific Ocean, and incredible sunsets. The house as well, stocked with dishes, cutlery, and great appliances. The owner is attentive and responsive. We can’t wait to go back!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Adair W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A touch of class

What a spectacular property to spend your time at on the Big Island. This home comes fully furnished, immaculate condition/clean, amazing views from every direction, and a new lovely addition downstairs by the pool that provides you with a bar/seating area, TV and sound system that goes throughout the house, infinity pool and jacuzzi. There is also a fully functioning outdoor shower with private bathroom so you don’t have to go back upstairs. There is no stone left unturned regarding this property an all of its amenities. Let’s not forget the gorgeous sunsets you will experience on a daily basis. You can enjoy them on the upstairs or downstairs lanai. Even from one of the two master suites. At night you can gaze through the large windows at the stars and moon that shines down directly on the ocean. The home is located up in the north Kohala area that provides many white sandy beaches and luxurious properties/hotels to visit. You can travel down the Kohala coast and stop at many other beaches and spend some time in Kona. Overall, this house is hands down one of the best I’ve ever stayed in or seen listed on VRBO. On a side note, I had some special needs arise during my vacation and Sue was quick to provide help/guidance. She even texted when I left to return to the mainland to ensure all was well. THAT, is a touch of class. Don’t hesitate to book this property. Mahalo nui lau Sue!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Keith A., Bend, OR

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Outstanding

We’ve been looking at renting this house for awhile. We typically have a favorite home on Maui we go to but this year it wasn’t available for the time we needed and decided to book Whales Play for the first week in May. No regrets. This home is EVERYTHING you could want and more. And yet, with the planned remodel it’s still going to be more! The pictures are spot on. The views. The privacy. The cleanliness. All as expected & no disappointments. We literally never left the property except for morning walks & a run to the grocery store. Every day was filled with relaxation, soaking up the sun, a dip in the pool, playing games with family & eating. And while it wasn’t whale season, spinner dolphins visited almost every morning & evening. The kitchen—we’ve been doing this VRBO thing a while now—and we have never seen a kitchen so well supplied. It has every conceivable gadget, doo dad and gizmo you might need. While not drawbacks, things to know if you stay here: 1) It’s remote. Safeway & Costco are not just 5 mins away. There is a wonderful little Foodland market at Mauna Lani. About 6 miles away. Or you can go up to Waimea which is 11 miles away. But a run to “town”is over 25 miles out. 2) The pool is small. If you are a lap swimmer, it will probably disappoint. Roughly 10 strokes from one end to the other plus there is a curve so it’s only conducive for one person to really swim at a time. But for lounging & cooling off with a million dollar view? It’s the best! There is a reason this place is a top rated property. From the owner (Sue) to the house manager (Leilani) to the home itself…100% outstanding! We are already looking forward to our next visit in 2024.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gretchen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Trip of a lifetime!

Whales play surpassed our family's expectations in every way... and our expectations were high. Susan, Lei and Billy all were attentive, welcoming and went out of their way to be helpful. The home is impeccably clean with the most comfortable beds, bedding and sitting areas- both indoor and out! The kitchen was organized and had everything one could want for cooking and BBQ. We celebrated New Years and had a special meal with appetizers and drinks on the lanai while we watched humpback whales breach and spinner dolphins swim during the most amazing sunset... only to be matched by the night sky which is virtually as clear as if you're in a planetarium. We were able to see the Milky Way and find rarely visable constellations, planets, shooting stars... this is how we ushered in 2021! We stayed at Whales Play for 15 nights and woke up to Hawaiian birds, ocean waves hitting the coast, and humpback whale spouting. Up before 7 am each day (even the teens...not because we had to...but because the soul wants to be up experiencing every minute at this location!) we swam in the infinity pool, lazed in the hot tub, drank Kona coffee with binoculars and cameras in hand, did yoga as a family on the expansive patios and planned our days. We snorkeled at Cook's monument after sea kayaking across the bay in Kona, visited the volcano lava lake and took after sunset pictures of the beautiful 'glow' and dined in Hilo, hiked the valleys down to black sand beaches in Pololu and Waipi'o, and took surfing lessons in Kona. Our favorite was boogie boarding and relaxing on Hapuna Beach, about a 5 minute drive from the house. This beach and many others on the island are the most beautiful beaches we have found anywhere! The greatest thing about this island is the diversity of climate and environment. All from within a couple hours drive from the house green, black, salt and pepper and white sand beaches can be found as you travel from a dry climate, recent and ancient lava fields, to a jungle area with lush plants, tall trees, green rolling hills and chocolate farms. The food is SO good. We had fresh mahi tacos repeatedly, as well as grass fed Big Island meats...don't get us started on the amazing short-ribs served on this Island, or the incredible fruits, fresh Poke, ice cream and Hawaiian ice! As much as we enjoyed the island, it ABSOLUTELY was this home and the gorgeous neighborhood that made our trip! Say hello to Mutt & Jeff (the resident Koi) for us!
Stayed 15 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Shawn R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Resort World!

Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tod E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday Week

Beautiful relaxing location
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Christopher H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Thanksgiving on Big Island!

We had an absolutely amazing stay over Thanksgiving this year. Everything was perfection. The house was beautifully appointed and clean. Our kids loved the lanai, pool and hot tub. This home is indoor/outdoor living at its best. Nothing can beat the view. The most perfect sunset’s I’ve seen on Hawai’i! We saw spinner dolphins in the morning too. Leilani (the property manager) was the best. We loved her. She was immediately responsive when we had questions and left the most delicious fruit (the pineapple!!!!) for us on arrival. It’s no wonder this home is VRBO of the year. We will definitely be back. Hopefully soon!
Stayed 9 nights in Nov 2022

About the host

Hosted by Sue Kruse

Host profile image
We are long time Alaskans with a penchant for quality, privacy, and a fundamental need to be surrounded by natural beauty.

Why they chose this property

After years of searching on 3 Hawaiian Islands, the first time we entered Whales Play it was game over. This property is beyond anything we could have dreamed to own.

What makes this property unique

There's something about this piece of property and the land around us. It embraces you, welcomes you. There is a warmth and comfort that seems to emanate from everything.
Then there's the vast unobstructed views of the headlands, the ocean and Maui. It’s so rare in Hawaii where you dont have distracting structures, people, vehicles in your view plane. Its just you and the natural world.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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