When you step into the main room at Hale 'Oli 'Oli (House of Joy in Hawaiian), you are immediately struck by the enormous windows that frame a literal postcard of palm trees, a green yard, and the azure blue of Kailua Bay. The name "House of Joy" is apt as it's borderline impossible not to feel joyful sitting in there with family and friends as the cool breezes off the ocean blow through. Mai Tais are optional but suggested.
The beachfront is perfect, with a good strip of sand for those not interested in trying to catch some waves. On the topic of waves, Kailua is not known as a surfing hotspot or even a lukewarm spot, if we're being honest. The determined boogie boarder can catch some fun, short rides. The water temperature is perfect, so just floating is a viable option. The beach in front of the house is not crowded, with only the occasional sunbather, though plenty of people walk up and down the beach. As an added bonus, the house comes with a full complement of beach toys, including umbrellas. Beach chairs, two-person kayaks, boogie boards, a standup paddleboard, and, of course, towels. For backyard activities, the house also comes with a cornhole set and bocce balls, which are a delight to play on the shaded golf-green-like lawn.
The house is modern and comfortable. The main room has an oversized L-shaped couch that is perfect for napping. All bedrooms have dedicated AC units and TV/Apple TVs. The bathrooms include high-quality towels and even have Toto Washlet toilet seats installed. Your buns have never been warmer. The kitchen is spacious and very well appointed. You'll be able to cook just about anything, and we ate in the majority of nights. There is a small 4-burner grill outside the kitchen, but we could grill for 15 on it, so it's more than adequate. Finally, a fantastic array of colorful, vintage surfboards has been mounted on the ceilings, especially in the main bedroom.
