How close are you to the beach? (Variations: Are you on the beach? Is there an ocean view?)
The beach is 150m away, or a one-minute stroll for most folks. While we do not have an ocean view, our Garden Suites have quite lovely views of the tropical gardens, and the ZEN Treehouse offers stunning views of the majestic Koolau Mountains.
Is the beach swimmable?
Waves vary, but average 2-3 feet (perfect for boogie boarding and general swimming). The bay is protected by a reef so there is no undertow or riptide. The bottom is all sand, with no coral rubble or rocks to speak of. That being said, every person must judge for themselves whether or not it is safe for them to get in, determined by their skills and confidence in the ocean. We recommend: when in doubt, stay out.
How do we get to Hale 'Nalo and how do we access the property?
When you book online you will get a confirmation email. It is very important that you print a hard copy of these 3 pages and bring them with you: reservation confirmation, driving directions, and entry instructions. (If you do not have access to a printer, let us know. We're happy to mail you a copy.)
Are there restaurants and shops nearby?
Yes, we are walking distance from several good local eateries, an espresso café, a 7-11 and McDonald's. Also nearby: Subway, a local supermarket and several nice gift shops. Many more dining and shopping options are available in bustling Kailua and Hawaii Kai (10 minutes by car).
Can we bring our children?
Hale 'Nalo is for adults only, however, we also book a lovely nearby studio which is detached from the main house; it accommodates two adults and a child (under 8). Please inquire.
Do you offer free wifi or any other business services?
Yes! Our guests enjoy complimentary high-speed wifi inside all our suites and everywhere on property. (We are happy to print boarding passes, simply email them to us.)
Do you offer monthly, or long-term rentals?
Yes! Our three suites and the Caretaker's Cottage are available by the month or longer in the spring and fall; we recommend you inquire/book 4-6 months in advance.
Do we need to sign a rental lease?
Yes, please preview our Terms and Conditions as you will be required to agree to them in order to make a reservation.
Can we invite additional visitors back to Hale 'Nalo?
Unfortunately, our property is not well-suited for guests of our registered guests, however, please let us know if you have special circumstances as we will do our best to accommodate you. Alternatively, we book a neighboring studio that may be a better fit if you plan to entertain visitors.
Is smoking permitted on property?
We are smoke-free, indoors and out. We ask smokers to kindly exit to the street, thank you.
Air conditioning, yes!
For guests who want nothing to come between them and the sounds and fragrances of this tropical paradise, we provide natural a/c, however, we recognize that some folks prefer "real" a/c, so we offer both. The architect who designed Hale 'Nalo has done so to optimize natural a/c (high ceilings, cross ventilation, floor and ceiling fans, and a shady garden), however, if you prefer real a/c, please mention this in an inquiry and we will gladly book you into a neighboring property that offers a studio with a/c. (Kindly note: the coolest months in Hawaii are October through June, and the ZEN Treehouse is cooler than the Garden Suites.)
Do you take reservations that are less than minimum nights?
Yes, we consider 2 and 3 night "short stays" if the reservation completely fills a space between existing reservations, abuts an existing reservation (adjoins without a gap), or is "last minute" (within 10 days of arrival). Feel free to email your request with your dates.
Can we cook?
Yes, our suites have well-equipped kitchenettes, complete with granite countertops, microwave, mini-fridge, smoothie blender, toaster, coffee maker, bean grinder, a quality induction cooktop, cookware, tableware & cutlery. There is also a propane grille in the garden guests are welcome to use.
Are you eco-friendly?
We are conscientious and do our best to love Mother Earth! We: have solar panels, recycle and encourage guests to recycle, use LED and CFL bulbs only; sun dry laundry whenever the sun is out; buy/use recycled paper products when available; ask our guests to bring/use reusable water bottles; grow organic fruit; vermicompost; support local farmers!
Do you offer reduced rates?
We keep our rates competitive, leaving little "wiggle" room, however, we sometimes offer special rates for "last minute" bookings and extended stays (10+ nights). If you're on a budget, make us an offer.
What charges are there in addition to the room rate?
We add a one-time cleaning fee ($75/400sf Garden Suite, $150/900sf ZEN Treehouse) and state GET/TAT taxes @ 13.96%. These are in addition to the room rate. (Note: our online reservation system can only apply one $75 cleaning fee, making it necessary for us to adjust the cleaning fee for ZEN reservations. We apologize for any inconvenience.)
Are there pets at Hale 'Nalo?
Yes, we have sweet girl-pooch and a shy 12 year old cat. Neither has access to our rental suites.
If I still have questions, what is the best way to reach you?
Email us at info@halenalo.com. If the matter is urgent, please call 808-744-8405 during office hours: Monday-Saturday, 8am-4pm Hawaii Standard Time (see clock below).
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. In doing so, you'll help ease the burden on our limited landfills. To learn more, read "Water for Life: The History and Future of Water on Oahu" (pdf). Mahalo!