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

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The vibe is awesome. Relax and rejuvenate your soul. Yes the swans are real...
The Guest House at River Estate offers a private sanctuary to rejuvenate you.
The master bedroom overlooks the stream. Sleep to the relaxing sounds of water.
Bedroom 2 also faces the stream offering the sound of water for a deep sleep.
The kitchen is fully stocked for any cooking need.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4127.7 sq m

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

Map
Hanalei, HI
  • Hanalei Bay
  • Makua Beach
    ā€Ŗ18 min driveā€¬
  • Princeville Golf Club Prince Course
    ā€Ŗ21 min driveā€¬
  • Princeville, HI (HPV)
    ā€Ŗ34 min driveā€¬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower Ā· Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet Ā· Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

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 Keā€™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 Kauaiā€™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.

Property manager

MARK BARBANELL
Premier Host

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:30 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0ā€“17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking zone here...
The home is rented to the people who are listed on the booking. Entertaining non guests is prohibited. No overnight guests other than those listed.

Important information

You need to know

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
Property Registration Number W30347586-02, 580060580000

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Hanalei

Located in Hanalei, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Hanalei Bay and Na Pali Coast State Park. Travelling with kids? Consider Limahuli Garden and Reserve and Island Sails. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Holiday homes in HanaleiOpens in a new window
Map
Hanalei, HI

What's nearby

  • Makua Beach - 18 min drive - 3.0 km
  • Princeville Makai Golf Club - 18 min drive - 11.6 km
  • Princeville Golf Club Prince Course - 21 min drive - 13.1 km
  • Ke'e Beach - 28 min drive - 5.6 km
  • Hideaways Beach - 38 min drive - 13.6 km

Getting around

  • Lihue, HI (LIH) - 80 min drive

Restaurants

  • ā€ŖWishing Well Shave Ice - ā€¬12 min drive
  • ā€ŖHappy Talk Bar & Restaurant - ā€¬21 min drive
  • ā€ŖTahiti Nui - ā€¬12 min drive
  • ā€ŖKalypso Island Bar & Grill - ā€¬12 min drive
  • ā€ŖJoJo's Shave Ice - ā€¬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Discover the Natural Charm of Old Hawaii. Completely Relax & Recharge Your Soul pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Discover the Natural Charm of Old Hawaii. Completely Relax & Recharge Your Soul?

Check-in begins at 4:30 PM.

What time is check-out at Discover the Natural Charm of Old Hawaii. Completely Relax & Recharge Your Soul?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Discover the Natural Charm of Old Hawaii. Completely Relax & Recharge Your Soul located?

This family-friendly Hanalei holiday home is located on the waterfront, within 1 mi (2 km) of Wainiha Beach Park, Lumahai Beach and Kepuhi Point Beach. Limahuli Garden and Reserve and Makua Beach are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 112 out of 118 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 118 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 118 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 118 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 118 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jake V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

First time to Hawaii

Great place to stay - will definitely try to visit again
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Felt like I lived on Kauai and not a tourist

Easy drive access to beaches and Hanalei but tucked away in garden river oasis. A great value and perfect for two, though another bedroom is available but house might not have been as comfortable asInterior seating better for two. We cooked many dinners at the house and once I got used to older stove, there was everything I needed. Nice to have a laundry too and Mark the host was attentive and very helpful.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Juliana K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Huette M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rest and Relax

Perfect stay. Stunning garden views and quiet.
Stayed 14 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tova L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Michael G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Matthew R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible Experience

This was, without a doubt, one of the most amazing vacations weā€™ve ever had. From the very beginning, our host Mark went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. He was incredibly kind, thoughtful, and always available to answer questions or offer helpful tipsā€”while still giving us the space to fully relax and enjoy the experience. It was clear he truly cares about creating a peaceful and memorable stay for his guests.Every morning, we woke up to the soft sounds of birds singing and the rustle of the breeze through the trees. The house felt like a private sanctuaryā€”surrounded by lush greenery, filled with natural light, and radiating calm. Although we were only minutes from the beach, it felt like we were in our own little world. That beautiful contrastā€”secluded yet close to everythingā€”made the location absolutely perfect.We spent our days soaking up the sun, wandering the shoreline, and savoring slow mornings with coffee on the patio. Every moment here invited us to slow down, breathe a little deeper, and appreciate the simple joys of being present. It was exactly what we needed.We left feeling completely recharged and already planning our return. Mark, thank you for sharing this incredible place with us. Youā€™ve created something truly special, and weā€™re so grateful to have experienced it.
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joy J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Brian P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location, beautiful home, great host!

Markā€™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

Ismael O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

This is a beautiful and private piece of property.

I would stay here again.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

You need more stars for this placeā€¦

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 canā€™t recommend it enough. Mark was great and so easy to work with. You wonā€™t regret coming here!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Colleen A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Rolf M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great vacation

Perfect place to relax
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Dorinda S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

8/10 Good

Jahanara P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication
Disliked: Listing accuracy

Enjoyed stay but listing price was not accurate

Enjoyed the stay
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

10/10 Excellent

Cathy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Jared N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful and Private!

We really enjoyed our stay at this property! Mark was an excellent host arranging kayaks and setting up a reservation for us for dinner. Highly recommend!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lori B., Alameda, ca

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great to place

A very special place in a very special location.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Graham P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Being next to the river provided great sound and view. Enjoyed the fruit from trees that Mark gave u

Great experience
Stayed 10 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Complete magic

The River Estate couldnā€™t have been a more wonderful Experience. It was a beautiful comfortable gracious place to stay while in Hanalei.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Ellen A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Blissful

We had a blissful stay here - a lovely house in a beautiful setting, sparkling clean and well-appointed. Very quiet - we loved listening to the river and the birds. Comfortable beds, great bathrooms. Short drive to great beaches and wonderful food and shopping. We'd love to return!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Julie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An extraordinary stay in the most beautiful place

Our family had an all-time great experience staying in Markā€™s house. The property is gorgeous, the house is perfect, and you couldnā€™t ask for a better location. Mark is the consummate host, making wonderful suggestions and arranging bike rentals and boat tours. We had an amazing time.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022

About the host

Hosted by MARK BARBANELL

Host profile image
Gratitude changes everything. From taking life's circumstance for granted to appreciating every precious heart beat is a blessing. Every day becomes a time to savor and embrace. These are the thoughts I have immediately when I see an image of my home turf. I arrived on Kauai shortly after my April 2nd birthday in 1970 on a surf trip and basically never left. Serendipity has followed me my entire life. Without it who knows where I'd be or what I'd be doing now. Living here has taught me many things that can only be learned here in a small community populated by many Hawaiians. Work hard, be humble and helping others are some of them. Respect for the land is paramount here. We are stewards of these lands when you understand the meaning the land has to the Hawaiians. The state motto is "The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness" A very apt motto which speaks to the value the Hawaiians place on the "aina". That has always come naturally to me and was very helpful in fitting into my community here. I believe it is why I'm still here. Hawaii and Kauai in particular is a very sacred and spiritual place in the world. I have heard many of my guests tell me that they felt the spiritual energy strongly here. A rejuvenating feeling is palpable as well. My job is to share my Kuleana ( A uniquely Hawaiian value and practice which is loosely translated to mean "responsibility." The word kuleana refers to a reciprocal relationship between the person who is responsible, and the thing which they are responsible for.) with my guests and allow them to experience the true natural Hawaiian environment which is still the same in my neighborhood as it was 52 years ago. My life has been filled with many serendipitous moments. The trick is to recognize them in the moment and make the correct decision. I'm one luck buggah who knows that and values every heartbeat I'm blessed with now and am grateful for my world and the friends I make along the way doing the jobs I love. Aloha...

Why they chose this property

I think you might say that the River Estate property chose me. I did not choose it. When I first came to Kauai in 1970 with two of my friends on the surf trip, the island in general was much different. We had shipped a car over and spent the first two or three months camping around the island. There were no laws about camping and there were hardly any tourists here. When I first saw the valley where River Estate is located I immediately was drawn to it. A friend of mine told me about a piece of property he was not going to purchase that was in the area, I liked so much. He was going to buy it for $2000 but he told me that the person that was gonna sell it to him was told by the man who had sold the other part of the property that was divided by the stream to that that property for $2000 was the same piece of property just divided by the stream. My friend told me that the person that was selling it was Larry Ching a notorious mafioso type who was basically renting the town of Hanalei and had the only market and gas station in town. He had a bad reputation.So I went to Larry Ching had told him I was interested in buying that piece of property that incidentally had no legal easement to and yes, I had heard bad things about him, but I was not going to base my opinion of him by what other people said. I also had lived in a house on the east side of the island and my landlord there was the most influential attorney on the whole island and Larry Ching's business partner. I had come into contact with two of the most powerful men on the island. Larry Ching told me he'd sell me the property for $7500, $2500 down and $1000 per year for five years no interest. I took a chance and bought it. I went to the tax office and got the names of the people who owned the lots that I could get through to my lot and wrote letters. One woman who was living in Tahiti offered me easement through her property for free. This serendipitous moment changed my life forever with many more to come.

What makes this property unique

River Estate offers a rare combination of luxury, privacy, and an immersive natural setting that creates an unforgettable experience. Tucked away along a tranquil river, this secluded retreat is surrounded by lush tropical gardens, allowing guests to fully embrace the beauty of Kauaiā€™s North Shore. Unlike large resorts, River Estate provides an intimate, home-like atmosphere with elegant, well-appointed accommodations that blend seamlessly with nature. Guests can float from the property to the beach and back, listen to the soothing sounds of the river, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the riverfront gardens that surround you . The personalized hospitality, serene ambiance, and central prime location on Kauai's North Shore make River Estate a one-of-a-kind sanctuary for relaxation and adventure.

The primary benefits of River Estate are the seclusion and privacy of the expansive botanical gardens and its special location in the scheme of things here on the north shore of Kauai. It's very close to all the world famous beaches north Kauai is noted for and central between Hanalei and the end of the road at Ke'e Beach yet its very private and secluded. You'll relax and rejuvenate your spirit here. The fact you can use the river to access the beach from the house and ocean is not offered by any other vacation rental on Kauai. The privacy and natural setting allow our guests to experience a truly relaxing and rewarding time away from their normal lives and leaves a lasting impression of what some consider to be true paradise. Not many rental homes are kept in the condition that the Guest House is kept in and our guests reflect that in their reviews. We're proud of that. It's our stock in trade so to speak. The property proximity to the spectacular natural attractions of North Kauai and its quiet natural setting help it to stand out among the other rental properties in the area. Come see for yourself. You will not be disappointed.

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests