Kimberly Ann T.
Nov 01, 2025
The location and ocean view were lovely, and the sunsets were truly beautiful. Unfortunately, the unit itself did not live up to the description or the photos. While the ad described it as “beautifully upgraded,” I did not see anything that appeared new or updated. The space felt very tired, musty, and in need of a VERY deep clean.Although the listing noted air conditioning, the windows were so old and dirty that they could not be properly closed, making the A/C ineffective. The bed was comfortable, but the sheets had not been washed and had to be cleaned before use. Most of the light bulbs in the unit were burnt out, and there were no replacements available.The building overall is quite rundown, and the unit needs maintenance and care to match what is being advertised. The view was the highlight, but we would not stay here again.
Everything about the stay was great except the unit was not clean. The listing says ‘recently renovated’, if anything the condo could use an update.
Our trip to celebrate our anniversary was awesome. We like Kona Reef because it’s close to town & shopping. Grilling area is always clean. Overall our stay at the condo was pretty nice.
We really enjoyed our stay in this condo- I will highlight this is an end unit- so there are windows in every room. This was a huge plus for our family (kids 5, 10 and 2 adults). We traveled with another group who rented in the same complex and they had a middle unit- the windows were fantastic for letting in natural light! Also, the double ac was very nice- one ac unit in the living room and one in the bedroom.Everything was clean and well-stocked. We enjoyed being able to walk to down-town in less than 10 min and we spent a lot of mornings at Honl's beach next door playing in the waves and watching the fish and sea turtles. We extended our stay for one extra night because we flew out so late- and Kenneth was quick to respond to that request! We enjoyed having our last day in Kona to relax and grill by the pool. The view from the deck is excellent- we could see surfers, cruise ship docking, as well as watch the pool. We would love to go back again.
When we are on the Big Island we always like to stay at the Kona Reef Resort and this is a great condo to stay in. The condo itself was clean and tidy and a good size and the view from the lanai was even better than in the listing photos! We watched whales and dolphins from the lanai and some amazing sunsets. There is a swimming pool and hot tub to enjoy, as well as ample parking, plus being close to town it is easy to walk into town for cafes, shopping etc. Would recommend this condo to enjoy a relaxing Hawaii vacation.
Wasn’t as clean as past stays.
April was very thoughtful in helping us make the most of our stay with in-season fruit, fresh eggs from their chickens, and insights for local exploration.
What a fantastic unit! Sunsets from the lanai were perfect! And a 10 minute walk into town makes this a great stay! The host took care of a couple of issues so it will be just what we look forward to next time! It could use a deep clean (baseboards, patio, etc) but wasn't that bad! A/C worked (once we figured it out!) Pool and spa were in great shape as was the entire complex. Can't go wrong with this condo!!
Always enjoy the Kona Reef and its walking distance to restaurants and shopping. Condo was well equipped. Wish the check out time would be a little later as 10:00 am early to get laundry done as requested. Overall great place to stay.
Belinda Aviva N.
Nov 09, 2024
The condo had everthing we needed. The kitchen was very well stocked with utensils.
The ocean view is great. The condo is located about a 20 minute walk from the Kona pier. We enjoyed our stay and would
book again.
book agaim.
Great location, loved the outdoor BBQ and pool area. Would stay again.
All went well, 2nd time we have stayed there highly recommend
We enjoyed our time there. The location was in walking distance to historic Kailua-Kona, the view from the balcony was beautiful. The remodel/rennovation was limited to a very nice shower. The condo could have been cleaner.
This unit has everything you might want. It’s perfectly situated in walking distance of downtown and to the beach. But I think most people use the wonderful pool on the property. Lots of parking and quiet most of the time, especially at night.
We liked the location in Kona-Reef on Ali'i drive: walking distance to restaurants and shops. The unit is on the second from the top level overlooking the pool and the ocean. It is nice and clean with quiet split AC system. We would happily stay there again.
Our stay was great. The location of the unit on the property had a nice view and was a very functional location.
The balcony is a nice size, has a storage cupboard with a couple of boogie boards and has a nice size table as well.
The A/C in the bedroom is a big plus along with having a washer and dryer in the unit as well.
The unit is very user friendly and everything was in good working order and a comfortable king bed.
The property is great being that it is ocean front with the pool and hot tub ocean front as well. The pool and tub temperature were perfect and in good working order.
okay except doent have mgood house cleaning on arrival. alittle moore outdated than says. Needs new tile badle and update to kitchen. Location is great
The condo was dirty, floors, kitchen cabinets and dishes were dirty. The floor under the bed was grimy. Screen and windows were filty, as the railing and the furnitures on the balcony. It took us 2 days to make it somewhat acceptable. And the wifi was not working for 3 days. The shower had to be cleaned with soap and Javex. This place had NOT BEEN RENOVATED. It needs revamping.
.overall a good property. However, the bed was uncomfortable and creaked on one side Could do with some new fitting bed sheets Wooden window blinds did not run smoothly and close proximity to outside footpath could be noisy at times. Trash collection on Mondays resulted in noisy wake-up call at 4 30 - 5 am.. The main problem was the controls on the cooker required one to stoop and peer under the microwave which was fitted too close to the stove top. Likewise, controls for the washing machine required use of a flashlight to see correct settings.
Ancient beach chairs probably ready for retirement.
Location of unit, reasonable sea views but limited by wall of adjoining unit,but good enough to enjoy whales. The communal grilling area was spotless but the fumes from various meals being grilled each evening lasted anything up to a couple of hours.
Did your cleaning crew find some glasses?
Another enjoyable stay for us at Kona Reef. We enjoy the short walk to restaurants and stores and to be oceanside with a nice pool area. You can walk a quiet backstreet near the ocean to Kona bay and stores. Parking garage is easy.
Wanted a property walkable to restaurants and shops. Kona Reef did not disappoint in regards to location. I liked that I never had an issue finding a parking spot near the unit. Condo had an amazing ocean view from the lanai. Was a bonus that air conditioning unit was in living area and bedroom.
Only negative was that it was required to start a load of laundry and take out all trash. I understand the need, but I also paid for housekeeping. This was the first time in all of my stays on the Islands that it was required.
Location was very good. Amenities were good and sufficient.
right next to beach, enjoy ocean view from pool and Jacuzzi
Nice location and great view. The decking was being replaced so not being able to use the pool was a bit of a bummer. The only thing I would recommend is a new mattress for the bed. The existing is spring type mattress and it is a bit noisy.
We loved swimming pool and lawn area in front of the ocean. people are very friendly. Room is good size for 2 adult and 1 kid. Everything you need was prepared. Parking is very easy. The property had old smell, so we kept lanai sliding door open when we are at home.
Nice ocean view from porch. TV and cable remotes were not user friendly.
Minor maintenance needed, porch screen off track.
Unit layout not the best. Smooth check in and check out with Raintree.