Absolutely Direct Ocean Front Condo 1.5 Miles from Downtown Kailua Kona

Our stay at this condo was 1/11/13 to 1/19/13. We loved it. We sighted whales from the lanai daily... and watching the surfers and boogie boarders was great entertainment as well. The condo is well equipped with everything you need for your stay... the owners kindly provide boogie boards too (which came in handy when snorkeling in some big surf). The bed was comfortable, but provided good support. The island provides so many different activities... beyond swimming in warm ocean water ~ there's the volcano & the crater drive, rain forests with botanical gardens (Hilo area), star gazing at the top of Mona Kea (INCREDIBLE), "riding the rim" at Waipio Valley, kayaking or just relaxing by the spring fed pool. We will definitely come back to this condo!!!

We had learned of this complex- Kona Riviera Villas- through a coworker. We arrived late in the evening and found this unit to be quite the hidden gem. Quiet, except for the sound of the waves, it has most private lanai of all of the other units. You cannot get any closer to the water without being wet! That first evening we went to sleep to the sound of crashing waves. The unit is very well stocked with everything one might need for a stay on the Big Island. We found many pleasant surprises when we opened the bed room closet- 2 body boards, an assortment of sun block and other toiletries, luxurious beach and bath towels and the list goes on.
The caretaker of the complex, a fellow named Andy, is very helpful and welcoming.
We spent many nights just sitting on the lanai watching the sunset and enjoying the relaxation that Hawaii gives. The unit is clean and confortable. My only critique, and this is because I am a Canadian, was I couldn't get the hockey game on the TV-
Magic Sands Beach is two miles away to the south- about a 4 minute drive or 25 minute walk. Downtown Kona the same distance in the opposite direction. The beaches to the North- are all less than an hour away by car. Snorkelling in the front of the complex is risky as the entry into the ocean is rocky. But if you are experienced and the surf is not too high, the coral there is pristine compared to nearby Kahalu'u Snorkel Beach. But be warned the rip in front of the the Complex is strong.
If the surf is high you will enjoy watching the locals surf the breaking waves nearby from the Lanai as you sip on your Mai Tai.
Tired of cooking and want to treat yourself for a night out- Huggos on the Beach or next door, Huggos on the Rocks for live entertainment and dancing. Breakfast- Bongo Ben's. All these establishments are minutes away from KRV.
There is a farmers market across the street and another in Kona proper. Fresh fruit and vegetables abound!

If you want a clean place with a killer view in paradise, then this is for you.

Oh and one last thing, the owners Cris and Bryan- very professional and helpful to deal with.
We'll be coming back real soon. We simply love the place.

Your are on the ocean! Well not quite it was only 6 ft. away. The turtles are within easy site. And the Eels will entertain you. The sound of the waves are perfect. The pool is well kept. The location is a couple of miles from the main part of the town which is not a negiative. Very private setting. You cannot beat the location!
The condo is the right size for two. It would be best for adults only.
Overall it was very enjoyable. Parking is tight.
Recommendation: It is time for a "do over". The appliances needed to be updated and the furnitature needs to be replaced.The place has much potential and needs some help.
A couple of more bath towels would be great. We like clean and the cleaning folks need to pick it up a notch.
On site person Andrew very helpful.
Breakfast at Bongo Ben's, Dinner at Sammy Choys and drinks at the Rock.
There is much to see on the Big Island. Rent a vehicle.