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Discover the Natural Charm of Old Hawaii. Completely Relax & Recharge Your Soul

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Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Property grounds
Smart TV, DVD player, books, music library
Aerial view
2 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, travel cot

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4128 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Outdoor space
  • Air conditioning
  • Kitchen
  • Dryer

Explore the area

Map
Hanalei, HI
  • Hanalei Bay
  • Makua Beach
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Princeville Golf Club Prince Course
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Lihue, HI (LIH)
    ‪80 min drive‬

Room options

Similar properties

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Discover the Natural Charm of Old Hawaii. Completely Relax & Recharge Your Soul


*TVR Registration #TVNC 5132 *
*State Tax ID 052-031-4880-01*

The video above is a complete tour of the entire River Estate property showing both the Riverhouse 3 Bedroom (VRBO 957015) and the Guest House 2 bedroom (This Listing) homes and their proximity to each other on the property as well as the proximity of the property to the beach and valley. This video very aptly shows the magic of the property and where it is located from ground level as well as above with a drone at 100 feet up. I highly recommend you enjoy the music and visual experience...

The Guest House at River Estate is a beautifully designed retreat that offers a perfect blend of comfort and functionality. The living space is spacious and airy, featuring an open-concept layout that encourages relaxation and connection. Large windows bathe the interior in natural light and provide stunning views of the lush surroundings, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Living Space
The living area is thoughtfully arranged with comfortable seating, making it an ideal spot for unwinding after a day of exploration. The decor reflects a harmonious blend of island-inspired elements and modern comforts, with soft colors and natural materials that evoke a sense of tranquility.

Amenities
The Guest House is equipped with modern amenities to enhance your stay. A well-stocked full kitchen includes new appliances for preparing meals and snacks with many cooking items not found in other vacation rentals. There is a cold filtered water dispenser in the refrigerator. The dining areas inside and on the lanai provide comfortable spaces for enjoying meals together. Additional features include Wi-Fi, air conditioning, media center and full laundry facilities for added convenience. Also included are beach chairs, beach towels, boogie boards, beach umbrella and cooler for cold drinks. You'll be supplied liquid body wash, shampoo, rinse and a small bag of Kona coffee. Free local concierge services, activity consultation and booking are also provided. Last minute reservations at Bar Acuda, the best restaurant in town can be arranged as well. After 55 years living here and 30 years accommodating guests I'm positive I can help you plan a fabulous vacation with minimal wasted time and maximum cost savings.

Decor and Comfort
The interior is designed to create a soothing ambiance, incorporating Balinese and Local artwork, comfortable furnishings, soft linens, and plush bedding making it feel like a home away from home.

Access to the Beach Via the River
Situated just steps from the river, the Guest House offers easy access to this tranquil waterway. What truly sets River Estate apart is its unique access to the nearby beach via the river. Guests can enjoy a leisurely kayak or paddleboard journey down the gentle waters, leading directly to the pristine shoreline. This picturesque route not only offers a fun and memorable way to reach the beach but also allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Kauai along the way.

Our Convenient Location is also Extremely Private
The property is ideally located on the North Shore of Kauai, offering unparalleled convenience for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Only a 10 minute drive East is the charming town of Hanalei which which provides easy access to local shops and dining while a 10 minute drive west is world famous Ke’e beach and the Kalalau trail. The entire area is rich in natural beauty and cultural experiences, ensuring that there is always something for you to discover. From this prime location you'll have the perfect base from which to explore all of Kauai’s enchanting North Shore easily. You'll be able to explore all the world famous beaches, experience exotic hiking trails, browse in charming shops, experience a wonderland of water activities, visit farmers markets for exotic fruit and organic vegetables, find local craft fairs and art galleries, savor gourmet local cuisine and experience local culture from an insiders perspective.

Privacy of the Grounds
The grounds surrounding the Guest House offer real privacy and seclusion in a wonderful tranquil setting. Inside the home you'll relax in luxurious comfort and and outside you'll enjoy a pristine oasis of tropical flowers, fruit and vegetation where you can unwind and connect with nature to the sound of the river gently soothing your soul.

Summary
In summary, the Guest House at River Estate combines a private and serene setting, comfortable living spaces, modern amenities, and thoughtful decor to create a welcoming retreat. With its proximity to the river, easy access to local beaches and a wealth of nearby activities, all within a short distance, it provides the perfect base for your Kauai adventure while offering a peaceful escape to relax and rejuvenate when you return from your adventures.


*This property is located in a Tsunami Evacuation Area.
*Evacuation procedures provided in the house with a map.
During your stay at this holiday home, you're just a quick walk from Wainiha Beach Park. You'll find features such as concierge services. The holiday home offers free WiFi and a kitchen.
  • Air-conditioned home with kitchen, washing machine and 2 bathrooms
  • Free WiFi
  • Amenities include a car charging station and a water dispenser
  • On-site recreation includes a playground
  • 7 minutes on foot from Wainiha Beach Park and a 5-minute drive from Maniniholo Dry Cave
As a guest of Discover the Natural Charm of Old Hawaii. Completely Relax & Recharge Your Soul, you'll find barbecue grills, a garden, and concierge services. The front desk is open around the clock.

Property manager

MARK BARBANELL

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Pool/Spa

  • Massage

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • Car available
  • Car required
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster
  • Water dispenser

Dining

  • Chef service
  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Fenced yard
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 12 steps to reach entrance
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: no smoking zone here...

Services and conveniences

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near the bay
  • Near the sea
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Bicycle parking
  • Bicycles
  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Optional golf privileges
  • Water sports equipment
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Bed sheets changed on request
  • Bicycle parking
  • Bicycles
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Electric car charging station
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Garden
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • Local artist showcase
  • Locally-owned and organised tours and activities
  • Recycling
  • Solar energy
  • Towels (changed on request)
  • Unit size: 1,375 square feet
  • Water dispenser
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:30 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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
This property uses solar energy, plus eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
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
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, which will enable you to manage your booking.
Property Registration Number W30347586-02, 580060580000

Discover the Natural Charm of Old Hawaii. Completely Relax & Recharge Your Soul Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 110 out of 116 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 116 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 116 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 116 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 116 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Juliana K.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Jungle Treehouse
Great stay in a jungle treehouse. A well-kept house that was very well stocked. Dog barking was the only challenge. Earplugs and sound machines did help some.
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Tropical Paradise near Hanalei
We had the pleasure of spending one week at the River House. The property is a beautiful little tucked away slice of heaven. The property was very clean, the kitchen well equipped for cooking, nice pots and pans and everything was super clean. The Lanai over looks the River and you could see a wide variety of birds. It was very peaceful and beautiful and we enjoyed our breakfasts there every day. The beds were comfortable and good towels and even some beach towels and beach chairs and a cooler for us to use. The owner was a super great host and very helpful with everything from helping to arrange a kayak to be dropped off at the property and helping to make dinner reservations our first night for a special occasion that we were celebrating. This place is very unique and we would definitely recommend it and would love to stay again when we come back 11/10 !Mahalo
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Graham P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful jungle tree house
                                                                                                        We loved our stay here, and would definitely return! The home feels like a large comfortable treehouse in the jungle, beside a pretty babbling brook. We loved sitting on the veranda, listening to the birds and flowing water. The Tangerine tree beside the house provided delicious fruits too. The house is well appointed and the owner Mark, is both thoughtful and proactive. Eg. during the late January storm power outage we had he reached out to us to see how the Tesla Powerwall was helping - yes, there’s a Powerwall!  Very handy and welcome.Something to note: Someone in the vicinity has some dogs that bark off and on at times. At first we thought that could be an issue for sleeping, but fortunately it turned out not to be. The dogs are evidently a recent development and Mark is still adapting to them. He thoughtfully dropped off a white noise machine (thanks Mark!) but it turned out we didn’t need it.The first night we closed the glass louvered windows - these are in place throughout the house and we really liked them - and turned on the quiet mini split AC in the bedroom, and that worked like a charm. With the AC in mind as a fallback, we opened the shutter windows the next night, and our babbling brook provided all the white noise cover we needed: idyllic!  Such wonderful fresh air too.  As
Stayed 16 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jake V., San Diego County

Liked: Cleanliness
First time to Hawaii
Great place to stay - will definitely try to visit again
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tova L., Los Angeles, CA

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing getaway!
This is a very special property! The house was extremely comfortable for all of us. We loved listening to the bird noises and watching the activity in the river every morning. We also enjoyed walking to the coffee shop just down the road, and the beach just over the bridge. It was a very peaceful.and restful retreat. And Mark was the consummate host! Definitely booking again!!!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Viktoria A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Nature's retreat
The property is located right by the small river and is surrounded by lush plants and flowers. In the evenings, the smell of flowers wafts through the windows. The house is charming and well-made, beautifully appointed and maintained. I will miss the quiet life during our vacation in Kauai and wish we did not have to leave.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott B.

Liked: Cleanliness
You need more stars for this place…
If I could give this place 100 stars I would. Our stay was absolutely perfect. We travel to Kauai often and the only downside to this place is that now I will never be able to return and stay anywhere else :) Our trip to the island usually consists of many excursions and being out and about. But for the first time I was most excited to come home and spend time at the river house. So peaceful! The river, the birds, the lush landscape, and the tucked away, cozy and plush abode were next level. This was definitely a trip of a lifetime and I can’t recommend it enough. Mark was great and so easy to work with. You won’t regret coming here!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Huette M., Austin,TX

Liked: Cleanliness
Rest and Relax
Perfect stay. Stunning garden views and quiet.
Stayed 14 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dorinda S.

Liked: Cleanliness
40th Anniversary Getaway
The River Estate Guest House was nothing short of fabulous! The lush surroundings, the clean and comfy interior, and the sounds of the stream made for a peaceful and romantic getaway. Although we had no needs, as the house has everything one needs, Mark was responsive and pleasant throughout our stay. Having kayaks rented and delivered to the house for a trip down the stream to a secluded beach was a bonus, and I highly recommend doing this. Also, the estate, the area, and the island are a birders paradise! Thank you, Mark, for everything! I would love to return someday.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Colleen A., San Diego, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Great escape
The Guest House was perfect for our family. My boys loved playing around the river and bridge jumping. So close to Hanalei and Haena State Park. House was clean, comfortable and well equipped. Neighboring dogs were noisy but a/c and fans helped. Will stay again. Mahalo!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joy J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect relaxing get away
The house was in a beautiful location. It had every amenity we needed and was quite comfortable. We will definitely want to come back to this one!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing location and home!
The setting for this property is truly spectacular -- it's back in the rainforest next to a small river/stream. We rented kayaks and took them down to the ocean and back. Unforgettable experience with the family. The house itself is also in great shape, well stocked, and Mark was always responsive to any questions. We would definitely stay at this home again.
Stayed 10 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sheila O.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Guest House at River Estate May 18-23
The Guest House at the River Estate was the ideal spot for our family time on the North Shore. We happened to visit during an historic Kona low and there was a threat of flooding preventing access to the property, but Mark stayed in communication and all worked out perfectly. We enjoyed breakfasts on the lanai overlooking the raging river. The location between Hanalei and Haena is such an advantage. We were able to secure parking two mornings at Tunnels Beach, and it was only a 10-15" drive to Ke'e Beach. (We did have 2 reservations thanks to the quick finger of our daughter and her husband on the booking website) The property itself was gorgeous. The kitchen was well equipped. In fact I don't think I've ever stayed at a VRBO with a Cuisinart food processor which I used to make a macadamia nut encrusted mahi mahi with mango papaya salsa-yum. Other highlights included Hideaways Beach, Secret Beach and Na 'Aina Kai Sculpture garden. Everything was just magical. Can't wait to return. Sheila
Stayed 6 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cathy M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful home next to river
We really enjoyed the peaceful and private surroundings of this home. The home is beautiful and well appointed. Very clean and comfortable. Sleeping with the windows open and hearing the sounds of the water rambling down the river was a bonus.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Clean, peaceful and beautiful!
This was such a unique property in a cool location. Just minutes from Hanalei, this secluded property was super clean, stocked with everything we needed, and Mark was very helpful! I wish we could have stayed longer! We will definitely return.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2024

8/10 Good

Robin M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely home by the river
Very beautiful setting, all the amenities you need! The Guest House is very comfortable and pretty. We had a little trouble getting in, as the key lockbox code had been changed, but Mark answered the phone right away and we got it sorted out. The only real problem was that some unknown (to us) person in the neighborhood has a number of dogs who bark, all together, at any time of the day or night, for long stretches of time. We took a video that Mark sent to the mayor, but nothing was done. It seems enforcement of noise abatement is lax. When the dogs weren't barking, it was as described online, a peaceful setting, with birds and river sounds. Mark was an excellent host and tried to help. But it seems a lot of people around there hunt wild boar and keep hunting dogs, who like to express themselves! So bring your earplugs.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Kauai warm week
The whole day was very nice. Our only complaint really was that some neighbors down the way had what seemed like 1000 dogs that would periodically bark in the wee hours of the night. But otherwise it was perfect for our small family.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

cathleen b.

Liked: Cleanliness
Title
Great
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

TIMOTHY M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Tropical Paradise at the Guest House!
Wowed by Mark's River Estate Guest House!! The home is well-appointed with a great kitchen, very comfortable beds, and cold a/c when one needs that after a day on the Kalalau trail or big day at Lumahai Beach. Our favorite part of the estate is the stream that runs alongside the house! We rented kayaks and spent many mornings and evenings paddling downstream to Wainiha Bay to watch sunsets. We also enjoyed walking to the Wainiha General Store for smoothies, ice cream and a great selection of beverages! Mark was very responsive to all the questions we had before and during our stay. I can definitely say we're planning to stay at the River Estate Guest House the next time we vacation on the North Shore of Kauai!
Stayed 10 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brian P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing location, beautiful home, great host!
Mark’s guest house is a beautiful, well cared for home in an amazing location off the beaten path. We had a wonderful stay and would highly recommend it!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christina H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Live like a local
Wonderful experience. Mark’s guest house is so unique and private. It is the quintessential north shore abode. Clean, nicely appointed, comfortable beds and EVERYTHING works! Which is huge considering we have paid twice as much to stay in “luxury” homes where there is always something broken. Mark is a great host, always available and helpful. He arranged to have paddle boards dropped off at the house for us so that when we arrived we were ready to go. There are also beach chairs, an umbrella, boogie boards and a cooler. We will be back! Thanks again for everything Mark!
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christopher B.

Liked: Cleanliness
great stay
My wife, 10 year old son, and I had a wonderful week-long stay at the Guest House. The stream it sits on is great and we enjoyed paddle boarding down the stream to Wainiha beach. One thing I very much appreciated is that unlike many rentals, the house includes some basic food items, such as salt and pepper, coffee, rice, condiments in the fridge, etc. We made several meals, including grilling, and had all the utensils or appliances we needed. There were also several beach chairs, umbrella, cooler, and a couple boogie boards. We enjoyed sitting on the deck and reading. We tried to unplug as much as we could, and there was no cell service (a lot of hand made signs in the area in opposition to putting in a cell tower), but solid wifi that was easily good enough to stream movies at night. It isn't really within walking distance of any swimmable beaches, but is a short drive (less than 10-5 minutes) to several swimmable beaches and Hanalei. If you have a small group and want somewhere that isn't a resort and is fairly quiet, I highly recommend it.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Wendy M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Honeymoon heaven
Our stay here on the north shore was amazing!! Mark is a wonderful host and was super helpful and even had kayaks delivered before we arrived. The place was super clean and the views make you feel like you are in a remote jungle. The sound of the river flowing is so tranquil. Kayaking to the private island is super easy and we enjoyed watching kids jump from the one lane bridge. Marks place is secluded and remote yet is so close to town - quick drive to restaurants and stores. Kitchen is well equipped for cooking and had plenty of essential items. The bed was comfortable and the water is super hot so be careful and rest before jumping in. It was easy to leave too off our Jeep as parking is under the house. We loved sitting on the porch listening to the sounds and watching the day start with misty rain. We will definitely stay with Mark again! Thanks for sharing your beautiful place with us.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Paul F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing river house
The house had everything we needed for our vacation. The area is quite and so peaceful. All you can hear is nature on the porch. The area around the house is beautiful and not crowded.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joseph W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great north shore hideaway
This is a gem property located on small river near Waihina. Checkin was a little difficult due to miscommunication with the manager. However- once sorted fell into the comfort and beautiful setting of the house. Very much a treehouse in the canopy with mountain views. Thanks to Mark for making this a great stay,
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023