‘Āina means land.

There is an intersection of elements and histories here in Kohala, like no other place I have lived. A wind with a mind of its own. A languid owl leaving the woods after an earthquake. Flocks of egrets catching the morning sun on their wings. An underworld of feral pigs. The arrival of the humpback whales each winter. Mountains so beautiful I have to stop the car. Switchbacks littered with red hibiscus on the way to the valley. I hope I can provide visitors with a chance to experience for a brief time the perspective of those who live here, and that they will come away renewed and perhaps uplifted by the beauty of ordinary life here in Kohala.

Please learn more about my rental properties and book your stay below:

Lāmua - Nani O Kohala

Lāmua means this is where the sun reaches first each morning. Nestled against a backdrop of ironwood, arica palm, cook pine, Formosan koa, and Timor black bamboo, close up it is surrounded by native plants such as tī, palapalai and kipukupuku fern—giving a tranquil vibe hearkening back to earlier times. Inside, most windows face east, into prevailing Trade Winds, making it light and airy. A deck off the front door faces west, and opens onto a hula pa (stage) set among trees, shrubs and grass.

Luna - Nani O Kohala

Luna means 'above' in Hawaiian. It's the upstairs studio apartment in a converted barn on a 5 acre farm set back from the road amidst greenery and privacy. There's citrus, macadamia, starfruit, papaya. The laundry room next to Luna's entrance is shared by the downstairs studio guests. Access to the pool, which is covered when not in use, is available through the owner.

Lalo - Nani O Kohala

Meaning "below" in Hawaiian, Lalo is the downstairs studio apartment in a converted barn on a small farm set on 5 acres tucked away in trees and shrubs about a mile from the town of Hawi (pronounced Ha-vee). With two entrances, Lalo is "ADA friendly." One access leads to the pool, available on request. It's quiet and secluded. Citrus, macadamia and starfruit in season, papaya, and chickens. No roosters on property! We like our quiet.

  • “My stay at Lamua was wonderful! The cottage was even nicer than I imagined from the photos. It is a lovely sanctuary in the trees, away from the crowds - exactly what I was looking for. You can see the ocean from the window, and you’re only a couple miles to town. Michael was welcoming and quick to respond and even left eggs, bread, fruit, and coffee for my arrival. The bed was very plush and comfy. The kitchen had what I needed to cook simple meals. It felt like a home away from home and I definitely recommend staying here if you’re looking for somewhere quiet and peaceful.”

    - Alison

  • “It was a wonderful stay and a magical experience. Michael was very helpful. The place was clean and organized and had more than we expected. I would recommend it to anyone. Best airbnb we have ever stayed at.”

    - Derek

  • “If you’re looking for a vacation getaway that encompasses “Old Hawaii” atmosphere with all the comforts of home, this is your place. The air is laden with the smell of flowers combined with a lush tropical forest, and the stars at night viewed from the window seat are incomparable… instant relaxation and serenity… Enjoy!”

    -Luana

  • “Wonderful host, so much attention to detail. Comfy beds, lots of towels and blankets, nice breeze thru the window, smelled SO good when we arrived in the home. Felt like a home away from home.”

    - Tammy

  • “Simply the best! Michael was a superb host. The studio was so clean and extremely well equipped. The patio very private. The property itself very well kept. We felt at home as soon as we stepped inside the studio. We loved the location. We would book again in a heartbeat.”

    - Beth

  • “This is our second stay at Michael’s and we love his beautiful spot. It’s close to town, yet very private and a great home base for exploring the island. We loved the open space of the studio and the kitchen had everything we needed to cook lots of meals at home. The property itself is gorgeous and we loved waking up to the birds singing each morning and the beautiful grounds. Michael is a wonderful, thoughtful host and a great communicator. He left us a loaf of our favorite local bread, yummy Kona coffee, fresh eggs and butter and island honey. And he was quick to respond when we needed anything. We highly recommend this clean, lovely and cozy spot!”

    - Mindy

  • “We had an absolutely wonderful stay here. The apartment was meticulously clean and the kitchen was very nicely equipped. The bathroom is beautiful and the bed is very comfortable. The location of the apartment was great and Michael was a fabulous host who went above and beyond to make our stay nice.”

    - Rabea

  • “This is a lovely spot just up the street from Hawi. Clean, spacious, sun-filled, and thoughtfully laid out. You wake up to a lovely green setting, bird calls and a view of the ocean in the distance. Eggs, fresh fruit and tasty whole grain bread are provided for you to prepare breakfast. The pool is a relaxing hang-out spot. Michael is a gracious host. He also happens to be an exceptional poet and writer. Of the many books available in the studio, his is one of the most worthy of your attention. All in all, highly recommended!!! (and the town of Hawi is a gem!)”

    - Marjorie

  • “This is quite a special spot. Like you're tucked away in your own small world. Host Michael was not only generous and kind, but quick to respond to any and all questions or concerns and eager to help. It was everything you could hope for when getting away to a tropical island. Airy, pleasant warm atmosphere, surrounded by lush forest, with all the comforts of home. Transforms from a delightful place to slowly start your day in the morning, to an inviting and relaxing home to settle into at night after long hours spent soaking up the sun.”

    - Nathaniel

  • “Hawi is a quaint little plantation town with much beauty that can't be matched, the owner Michael has pride in his town and his place...the effort and details that he offers will leave a lasting memory for all your travels...his place is quiet, large and roomy ...very clean and very well stocked with everything you'll need for a special vacation.”

    - Alan

Rental and property views