How close are you to the beach? (aka: "Are you on the beach" or "is there an ocean view?")
The beach is about 150m away, a leisurely one-minute stroll for most. The ocean is just visible from the ZEN Treehouse.
How do we get to onto the property?
Once you've made your online reservation you will receive an email confirmation consisting of three pages: the reservation confirmation, driving directions, and entry instructions/property map. Very important: print and bring all these pages with you, you'll need them to get here and to get in.
What time is check-in/check-out?
In: 3:00-7:00 p.m.; Out: 10:00 a.m. Kindly inquire in advance if you wish to arrive or depart outside of these times. (Arrivals after 7:00 p.m. require special instructions, please ask.)
Is your property "child-friendly"?
Baby boomers (aka "mature adults") are our market, however, guests booking the ZEN Treehouse or both Garden Suites may include one well-behaved child (12 and older) into their reservation; additional fees apply.
Do we need to sign a "Rental Agreement"?
Yes. Please review the Terms and Conditions when booking online; (acceptance is required to complete a reservation).
May we have friends over?
For the comfort of all of our guests, only Registered Guests are allowed to access this private property. Requests for exceptions are considered, however, kindly ask before booking.
How private is it?
The ZEN Treehouse occupies the entire 2nd floor and is the most private of all our suites. Our two Garden Suites are both corner suites which share one wall and face out into the gardens (each has its own outdoor table and seating in the garden area). For the most privacy, we recommend reserving the ZEN Treehouse (refer Property Map).
Is the neighborhood quiet?
We are located in a quiet neighborhood, however, bear in mind that it is residential and people live and work here. Expect you will hear normal sounds like a neighbor laughing or the ice cream truck going by. (For the most part, however, we hear birdsong and the gentle sound of the ocean.)
Are there restaurants and shops nearby?
Yes. We are close to several excellent local eateries, plus a 7-11 and a McDonald's. There are heaps of dining and shopping options in bustling Kailua and Hawaii Kai (10 minutes by car).
Is the beach "safe"?
Waimanalo beach has a fine sandy bottom with waves averaging 2-3 feet with no undertow or riptide. But safe is subjective, so always use care in the ocean, respecting your personal limits.
Do you offer monthly (long-term) rentals?
Monthly or long-term rates are available in spring and fall (April/May, Oct/Nov) and reflect a 30% rate reduction. Please inquire 6 or more months in advance.
Is smoking permitted anywhere on the property?
No.
Do you offer a/c (air conditioning)?
Because 90% of Hawaii's electricity comes from the burning of fossil fuels, we've elected to go with greener options: ceiling and floor fans, a shady garden, and cross ventilation. (Two tips: the coolest months here are Oct-May. ZEN is elevated and so the coolest of all our suites.)
Are there exceptions made to the minimum stay requirement?
Yes! We welcome "short stays" that abut an existing reservation or fills a gap between existing reservations. (Please email your dates/request.)
May we cook?
Yes! All our suites have spotless and well-equipped kitchenettes with granite countertops, microwave, mini-fridge, toaster, coffee maker, bean grinder, induction cooktop, cookware, tableware & cutlery, and everyone has access to a propane barbeque.
What are the "taxes and fees"?
State sales and hotel taxes (14%) and a one-time cleaning fee is added to the rate for lodging. (Note: it necessary for us to manually add the difference in cleaning fee for the ZEN Treehouse. We apologize for any inconvenience.) Note: Guests departing on Christmas, Thanksgiving or New Years day may incur a holiday housekeeping surcharge.
How and when do we pay?
A 50% deposit is charged when you book, we then auto-charge the balance at 8 weeks prior to arrival. (Reservations made inside of 8 weeks require full payment at booking.)
What is your cancellation policy?
With 8+ weeks notice you'll receive a full refund (less cancellation fee of $50). With less notice, we refund re-booked nights (less cancellation fee of $50). We recommend getting travel insurance.
Are there pets at Hale 'Nalo?
Yes. We have a dog, Sophie, and a senior gray tabby named Ness, however, neither are allowed in our rentals. Please note: because Sophie is a rescue she can sometimes be tentative with people new to her, so please use the same caution that you would with any dog who does not know you.
If I still have questions, what is the best way to reach you?
Please send us an email using the "Contact Us" page.
Time in Hawaii:
Hawaii is blessed with a drinking water supply that is among the best in the world (Water Quality Report), so please, bring and use a refillable water bottle to use on your visit to Hawaii. By doing so, you'll help ease the burden on our limited landfills. Thank you.