Steps From the Sand Charming Beach Front Cottage Located on Makaha Surfing Beach
About this cottage rental
The front yard is steps away from one of the world’s most beautiful sandy beaches. There is great snorkeling, swimming, boogie boarding right in front of the cottage, depending on the swell, of coarse. Surfers can paddle out to the break from the front yard. This is also a perfect place to relax and just enjoy the ocean views. Besides other great views there are SPECTACULAR sunsets just about every evening. There are also early morning “full moon sets”, and occasional rainbows out over the ocean. (Makaha is on the dry side of the island). Watch dolphins, sea turtles and spouting whales from the front yard. This is truly a gorgeous one-of-a kind place! The attached cottage is clean with off-white tile throughout. There are two queen beds; one in the main studio and another in a screened porch sitting/sleeping room. Visitors can hear the ocean lapping on the sand from both rooms. A bathroom with a shower/bath tub connects the rooms from a patio. The street-side patio is very private and screened in. The second patio faces the shared front yard and ocean.There are tables and chairs on both patios as well as in the main studio. There is also a gas barbeque on the ocean side patio. Street side patio is covered. The kitchen is fully equipped with dishes and pans. There is a large refrigerator, a two burner propane gas stove, microwave, toaster, toaster oven, blender, coffee grinder and coffee maker. Everything one needs, but not fancy. If you want hotel-style air conditioning, fresh towels and linens everyday, and your bed turned down the cottage is not the place for you. Located one hours drive from Honolulu/Waikiki/North Shore, Makaha is close enough for day trips, but far enough away to enjoy a more natural, peaceful and casual Hawaii far away from the typical tourist hustle and bustle. Makaha is known as the jewel of the Leeward Coast. A visitor can enjoy an authentic island style vacation away from the crowds and hub bub of Waikiki. Makaha is famous for it’s winter surfing and was home to one of the early big wave surfing contests; the Makaha International Surfing Contest that was started the early 50s. Because of the 'winter' north swell the beach sand shifts dramatically from one end of the beach to the other. During the months of September/October to May /June (this varies depending on the direction of the swell) there is a large sand beach in front of the house. During the summer months visitors have to walk down toward the point several lots for the sand beach. There are also diving caves, turtles, dolphins, whales and spectacular sunsets. There is a golf course minutes away as well as the harbor where a visitor can take dolphin and whale watch excursions, and deep sea fishing charters are also available. Centuries ago Makaha Valley was home to a group of Hawaiians (and their ancestors the menehune) who lived solely from farming and fishing. There is a ceremonial lava rock structure (He'iau) that has been restored by the Bishop Museum and is interesting to visit. Other amenities are the majestic Wai'anae Mountains It is an uncrowded area and usually always has a lovely breeze coming down the valley. Most of the proceeds from this rental go to take care of my cat sanctuary located in Honolulu where I live Keywords: Located on one of the world's most beautiful beaches (Makaha Beach), a visitor is able to relax and enjoy ocean sounds, waves and great ocean views. There are amazing sunsets that can be seen from the front patio and lawn as they are steps away from the pristine sandy beach and clear blue ocean. One of the best buys in Hawaii for ocean front stays TA-106-513-8176-01 GE-106-513-8176-01
Amenities
Kitchen / Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Laundry
Balcony / Patio
TV
Garden
Map of Makaha, HI
Cottage in Makaha, HI
Reasons to book
People love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Includes essentialsGarden, Kitchen / Kitchenette, Internet / Wifi and more
$$$$
Reviews
4.7/5.0
Outstanding(145 Reviews)
8.0
The cottage was was quaint, rustic, and comfortable. Lovely patio, with beach access from back yard. We would definitely consider staying again.
5.0
We stayed for 10 days and 9 nights. We got there Christmas Day and all was well. We did have an issue with our toilet but it was fixed within 10 minutes of it being mentioned to Vicky!
Vicky and Gloria (cottage neighbor/ Vickys sister) are both very welcoming! The cottage was exactly what was listed!
The only issue we had was there is no curtains in the room or kitchen. It was not an issue the first few nights but then, roadwork started and the workers placed their light in a spot where it directly goes into the cottage.
The location of the cottage can be a bit noisy for someone not used to the busy city noise because essentially you are directly off the street. In our experience, the waves canceled the street noise for us.
The only thing I felt was missing was a body mirror to check you OOTD. Otherwise the cottage had everything you might possibly need or think of.
Great Location to explore local spots because you are ways from most tourist locations.
5.0
The cottage was perfect for our getaway! It was just the right amount of things you need and a beautiful view! We lived waking up to the sound of the ocean and having our coffee with an amazing view!
4.0
If you don't mind being off the beaten path, this is place for you. Great location!
5.0
My husband and I came to celebrate our 29th Anniversary and Vicky's place did not disappoint. It was perfect for us quiet and out of the crowds of Honolulu. The private beach access was all we hoped it would be and we hope to come back soon.
5.0
This place was everything we needed and nothing more. Which is just exactly what we look for when booking a trip. There is only a wash machine and no dryer which we had no problem with as there is a clothes line right outside over looking the yard and the ocean view. I had no qualms with doing laundry chores in that environment <3. :)
5.0
This was a great location with gorgeous views. The constant rumble of the waves was so relaxing. Gloria and her son Shawn were pleasant and helpful. I would definitely come back again. You have to adjust to the heat with no air conditioning but the fans sure helped.
4.0
This is a cozy, quirky place with amazing views and beach access. I would highly recommend staying here. There is some street noise, but the ocean drowns out most of it! The sunsets were absolutely amazing to watch and you can't beat the beach access!!
5.0
My sister and I stayed at this property a couple weeks ago and it was perfect for the two of us. And what an amazing location! You are literally steps down to the beautiful beach which is also not very busy. It does have the shared yard but Gloria and Shaun are great and always made sure we were doing ok and it was great chatting with them and getting to know them. It’s not a fancy place so don’t expect that but property had all that we needed and would definitely come back to this amazing location!
4.0
If you are a surfer on a budget, here is your chance!!!
5.0
My partner and I felt like we had stepped into the life and home of carefree surfers, when in fact we had truly stepped into the home of a surfing icon. While you won't find tourist amenities nearby, you also won't battle the tourist crowds. Instead, you'll feel like you have the ocean, waves, sun, and sand all to yourself. This is Oahu's best kept secret in more ways than one.
4.0
The property was as expected. We visited here last year and enjoyed it very much so decided to return this year in January. The property itself is wonderful however the noise level is high. Lots of sirens and load music from passing cars/trucks. Also road construction was happening with some heavy truck movement.
5.0
This is a very rustic beach house situated on a beautiful beach with gorgeous views. Perfect location if you want to relax and wind down. Beautiful selection of books to read and comfortable beds as the ocean sound rocks you to sleep. Gloria and Sean next door were very kind and helpful if you had any questions. Surfers paradise and a yummy food truck steps away. Definitely would stay here again!
5.0
The location is absolutely beautiful! We loved that it was a quiet neighborhood away from the busy city/touristy locations. Being able to take walks on the beach at sunset was one of the best things! I would definitely recommend this location and I would definitely come back and rent from Vicki again! Thank you for being an amazing host!
5.0
It is important to know what this property is and what it is not. If your expectations match what it “is,” then this is the perfect spot.
IS:
- this is a true beach house, just a few steps from a great beach with turtles, surfers, swimmers and locals fishing (relatively quiet beach
- the house location is very out of the way, perfect for a quiet getaway
- this is an addition to a family home (shared wall, parking, backyard), the family has owned the original house since the 50s, and the family still lives in the main house and will be seen doing normal living things like yard work (not intrusive at all); the “Wave Woman” book was a very interesting read that gives the background on the family and the history of the property
- the layout is quirky, but functional, with the entrance to the bathroom outside the studio portion
- kitchen is fully stocked and there is a washing machine in the carport/porch
IS NOT:
- conveniently located to Honolulu, the North Shore, or the windward side of the island; traffic is pretty bad getting out of Waianae as there is only one way in and out, so if you plan on traveling around Oahu, the location is difficult
- a full service hotel room with A/C or unnecessary amenities (although the fans did a good job of cooling during the day)
- fully private
- updated with the latest furniture or decorations
SUMMARY:
This is a quiet, quirky and quaint beach house for someone looking to stay away from crowds and enjoy a great beach/location literally right out the back door; I’m not sure how many like this still exist on Oahu
5.0
Very beautiful views and the sound of the ocean sleeping on the porch was amazing.
4.0
We found the previous reviews very helpful and accurate, the cottage was definitely rustic. Things to note when staying during the summer; the beach is nearby but not in front of the cottage. Also, we had to leave the cottage in the afternoons, even though we are acclimated to heat and no air conditioning. The cottage faces south and the sun is intense; an overhead fan would make a big difference.
As with most places we stay there are things that you know you will need to get used to, and that was our initial reaction. But as the week went by we mostly forgot about our first impression. Some nice things were the extra sunscreen that is left by others, and there was ice ready for us. There were plenty of towels, including beach towels. We loved the stargazing- very few lights to contend with. We saw meteorites, satellites, and the Milky Way in addition to all the stars.
Having a few consumables like a box of tissues, would have been nice, as well as small shampoo/conditioner, soap. Even a little laundry detergent would have felt more welcoming. Our first task upon arrival was to make a list and find a grocery store. We purchased a 3rd beach chair to leave for others.
The cottage is part of a small complex that includes another rental and Gloria's home. We found Gloria delightful and always helpful. We loved meeting the locals, beaches were not crowded, and shop employees were always pleasant. The Library staff were especially welcoming, We would consider staying again.
5.0
Great place
The location was a little out of the way, but easier to navigate from there. Views were amazing, and the neighbors were very nice.
5.0
Very cozy quarters everything we needed short walk out the back gate to a beautiful sandy beach. Close to supermarket and good restaurants.
5.0
Paradise Found
Very cozy quarters everything we needed short walk out the back gate to a beautiful sandy beach. Close to supermarket and good restaurants.
5.0
If your looking for the best place to stay for a very relaxing vacation, this is the spot. Peaceful, quiet and relaxing. Great ocean scenery outside the doors, the sound of the waves, Plenty of open beach to enjoy and not crowded, great and friendly people live right next door. (Gloria, Shawn & Sherry). Away from the hustle & bustle of the bigger cities but a short drive to every part of the island.
Cheaper than any of the hotels down in the other cities.
We highly recommend this place to anyone that wants a TRUE piece of paradise. We'd give 10 stars to this place but only allowed 5 LOL
Thanks Vicky for having such a place to visit and relax.
Oh yeah the wife really liked reading your book and was curious how to get a signed copy of it?
5.0
Best Ever 35th Wedding anniversary
If your looking for the best place to stay for a very relaxing vacation, this is the spot. Peaceful, quiet and relaxing. Great ocean scenery outside the doors, the sound of the waves, Plenty of open beach to enjoy and not crowded, great and friendly people live right next door. (Gloria, Shawn & Sherry). Away from the hustle & bustle of the bigger cities but a short drive to every part of the island.
Cheaper than any of the hotels down in the other cities.
We highly recommend this place to anyone that wants a TRUE piece of paradise. We'd give 10 stars to this place but only allowed 5 LOL
Thanks Vicky for having such a place to visit and relax.
Oh yeah the wife really liked reading your book and was curious how to get a signed copy of it?
5.0
Our visit to the cottage was excellent. Our only complaint would be the road noise. This was mostly during the daylight hours. There was some road construction to the north that I think attributed to some of the noise. Also the fire/ambulance station to the south made several trips each day to the north and the siren noise was loud. The beach area in front was mostly private and so close to the cottage that you could hear the ocean. That in itself was wonderful. I would recommend this location to anyone wanting a restful and relaxing vacation.
5.0
Relaxing
Our visit to the cottage was excellent. Our only complaint would be the road noise. This was mostly during the daylight hours. There was some road construction to the north that I think attributed to some of the noise. Also the fire/ambulance station to the south made several trips each day to the north and the siren noise was loud. The beach area in front was mostly private and so close to the cottage that you could hear the ocean. That in itself was wonderful. I would recommend this location to anyone wanting a restful and relaxing vacation.
5.0
Vicky was fantastic from the first communications. Place was super clean, check-in easy, communication very quick. Amazing stretch of beach and line of beachfront houses about 100yds from Makaha Bay. Kitchen was great, fully equipped, including grill. Place has such charm and great energy. Mahalo!
5.0
If you want to get away from the city and stay in this is the place to be.
Wake up to the waves and have coffee by yourself on the beach.
You are not far from stores or town.
Kitchen is fully equipped.
The family is here to help and answer any questions.
I will be back!
5.0
Amazing getaway, incredible location and views…just as advertised!
Vicky was fantastic from the first communications. Place was super clean, check-in easy, communication very quick. Amazing stretch of beach and line of beachfront houses about 100yds from Makaha Bay. Kitchen was great, fully equipped, including grill. Place has such charm and great energy. Mahalo!
5.0
The best of the best
If you want to get away from the city and stay in this is the place to be.
Wake up to the waves and have coffee by yourself on the beach.
You are not far from stores or town.
Kitchen is fully equipped.
The family is here to help and answer any questions.
I will be back!
5.0
We absolutely LOVED this cottage! With direct beach access and a cozy patio to relax on, we couldn’t ask for more! We slept on the sleeping porch and the natural vibe is amazing. The sister and her son who live next door were very friendly and made sure we knew if we needed anything that they were there to help. Overall would definitely look to rent again if we return to Oahu!
5.0
As advertised!
We absolutely LOVED this cottage! With direct beach access and a cozy patio to relax on, we couldn’t ask for more! We slept on the sleeping porch and the natural vibe is amazing. The sister and her son who live next door were very friendly and made sure we knew if we needed anything that they were there to help. Overall would definitely look to rent again if we return to Oahu!
5.0
If you're looking for a place away from the crowds and without any frills, this is the place. My wife and I loved being right on the beach, in fact some mornings, it felt like it was our own private beach. The sand was incredibly soft and prestine. We enjoyed breakfast on the patio and beautiful sunsets on the beach. An absolute perfect location to enjoy our 30th anniversary and first time on an island.
5.0
The beach is within steps of the cottage. The host’s sister and nephew who live next door were incredibly nice and helpful. We could not have been happier with everything . If you want a relaxing time this is the spot!
5.0
Relaxcation
The beach is within steps of the cottage. The host’s sister and nephew who live next door were incredibly nice and helpful. We could not have been happier with everything . If you want a relaxing time this is the spot!
5.0
The cottage has a great location at the end of Makaha Beach. We could access the beach via a short set of stairs. The beach was not very crowded at all. This part of Oahu has fewer tourists than other areas. We went to the North Shore which was very crowded. We were glad to get back to the quiet of the west side.
We could watch the surfers from the backyard. The cottage is a bit rustic which was ok for us. Between the grill and the propane range we were able to cook what we wanted. The weather was perfect, sunny and warm but not hot. The sunsets were spectacular and the sunrises were sublime. It was a great location to hang out and relax.
5.0
Cottage on the Beach
If you're looking for a place away from the crowds and without any frills, this is the place. My wife and I loved being right on the beach, in fact some mornings, it felt like it was our own private beach. The sand was incredibly soft and prestine. We enjoyed breakfast on the patio and beautiful sunsets on the beach. An absolute perfect location to enjoy our 30th anniversary and first time on an island.
5.0
Rustic with great location
The cottage has a great location at the end of Makaha Beach. We could access the beach via a short set of stairs. The beach was not very crowded at all. This part of Oahu has fewer tourists than other areas. We went to the North Shore which was very crowded. We were glad to get back to the quiet of the west side.
We could watch the surfers from the backyard. The cottage is a bit rustic which was ok for us. Between the grill and the propane range we were able to cook what we wanted. The weather was perfect, sunny and warm but not hot. The sunsets were spectacular and the sunrises were sublime. It was a great location to hang out and relax.
5.0
Very relaxing stay
My wife and I recently stayed at this property and it was amazing. Very relaxing and quiet. You can watch the sunset everyday at the beach just steps away from the cottage.
4.0
We are a couple in our 60s-the flat has a casual, relaxed, 60’s boho surf shack feel to it; we slept in the side room, gazing up at a sky full of stars, and the little stove unit was perfect for cooking breakfasts. The adjacent beach was wonderful for body surfing and regular surfing depending on how high the surf was. The undertow was a bit strong for a boogie boarding, but it can be done. The neighborhood we were in was relatively safe, but remote from the rest of the island that we wanted to explore, so we needed to drive a bit to get to the North Shore or to go to the windward side…but for the price, the ambiance and being right on the shore, with the sound if ocean surf lulling us to sleep, it was well worth it.
4.0
Week in Makaha
We are a couple in our 60s-the flat has a casual, relaxed, 60’s boho surf shack feel to it; we slept in the side room, gazing up at a sky full of stars, and the little stove unit was perfect for cooking breakfasts. The adjacent beach was wonderful for body surfing and regular surfing depending on how high the surf was. The undertow was a bit strong for a boogie boarding, but it can be done. The neighborhood we were in was relatively safe, but remote from the rest of the island that we wanted to explore, so we needed to drive a bit to get to the North Shore or to go to the windward side…but for the price, the ambiance and being right on the shore, with the sound if ocean surf lulling us to sleep, it was well worth it.
3.0
I booked a trip to stay at The Cottage for 11 days. Part of that time was spent with friends and the other 6 days were solo.
The interior of the space is as advertised. Cute, no frills, and has everything you would need for a stay. The bed in the sleeping porch is quite comfortable and the breeze from the window is great. Appreciated the full size fridge for grocery store trips.
The part that was NOT as advertised is that the cottage is attached to the owners sister's home, which her & her adult son live in full time. The cottage shares a wall with their home. In the photo's, you will see an outside space. Beyond that cement deck is their deck, which you can clearly see from the cottage. The picture of the outdoor space leaves that view out. Additionally, to reach the beach entrance, you have to walk past their windows/home to access.
The sister was very nice and we only ran into one another a few times over the 5 days. However, a few times they walked past the cottage while we were changing. The son saw my friend breast pumping. Not ideal, but you are so close to their space that it really is a shared backyard/space. Another review notes a similar instance with the son, where they felt he was looking in the windows.
In the guide book that the owner has left in the cottage, it notes to lock up your valuables and keep all doors/windows locked for safety. The front gate is locked form the inside, and that is your protection from someone entering from the street, as the sliding glass door can only be locked from the inside & the sleeping porch door does not lock at all.
One of the days we left for the day & upon our return found that the first sliding glass door had been locked. As you can only lock this from the inside, it seemed very strange that it happened. That was when we found the sleeping porch door does not lock at all, and we were able to enter the house.
As there is no AC, the house is semi warm throughout the day, but does cool down at night. The ocean breeze is fantastic. However, with the safety guidelines to keep all doors and windows locked, it felt unsafe to leave windows open for the cool air, when sleeping there alone. Additionally, the sleeping porch door doesn't lock at all, so that is a potential easy entry point.
In communicating these concerns to Vicky, the owner, i received no response from her. She was communicative up until there was an issue.
Wouldn't advise for a solo female traveler or if you want privacy.
FAQs
How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Makaha?
The average price for a rental in Makaha is $206 per night. This rental is $88 above the average.
Is parking included with this cottage?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Steps From the Sand Charming Beach Front Cottage Located on Makaha Surfing Beach. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cottage?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cottage. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Steps From the Sand Charming Beach Front Cottage Located on Makaha Surfing Beach pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this cottage is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Steps From the Sand Charming Beach Front Cottage Located on Makaha Surfing Beach?
We found 7 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen / kitchenette, internet / wifi, parking, laundry, and balcony / patio.
Makaha travel inspiration
Read our blogGuides
Ski Trip Packing List: What to Bring Skiing or Snowboarding
Trends
VacationRenter Holiday Travel Trends 2023
Featured Rentals
Architectural Vacation Rentals: Experience the Beauty of Unique Properties
Featured Rentals
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Vacation Rentals Around the World
Featured Rentals
Our Favorite Vacation Rentals With Unique Experiences
Featured Rentals
Amazing Cabin Rentals Across the Globe
Featured Rentals
Have You Ever Wanted to Stay in a Dome Rental? Now You Can
Featured Rentals
Jaw Dropping Treehouse Rentals All Over the World