Best Kept Secret on Oahu !
Apartment in Makaha, HI
4 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Includes essentialsPool, Kitchen or Kitchenette, Air conditioner and more
About this apartment rental
Please feel free to contact us even if this "Owner's Unit" appears booked on our VRBO calendar. We have two units at the Hawaiian Princess and get many inquiries daily from various referral sources and our calendar can change frequently. This "Owner's Unit" ( VRBO #854197) or our "Guest Unit" ( VRBO #507795) just might be available all of your requested dates! The unit are both remodeled and upgraded at the same time. This "Owner's Unit" has some additional upgrades that make it very unique. We have recently starting advertising this unit on the VRBO website, but we have rented this unit many times so see all our positive reviews on VRBO "Guest Unit" #507795. In compliance
With the new laws this unit is required to advertise and rent for minimum of 30 days. Please contact owner directly for availability and any discounts that are available
Liable.
These units are privately owned and managed by the owner. I personally manages all inquiries and reservations on both of our units to assure that you get the best possible personal service. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions that are not addressed in the description.
Our recently remodeled and upgraded 4th floor units in the Hawaiian Princess at Makaha are one of the most sought after and revisited vacation destination on Oahu's west side. The west side of Oahu is known as the dryer and sunnier side of the island resulting in some of the clearest and cleanest waters on the island of Oahu. These clear blue waters provide an ideal backdrop for photography, sunbathing, beachcombing, snorkeling, diving, bodyboarding, surfing, kayaking, boating, hiking or simply relaxing on the lanai. Makaha is located approximately 40 minutes from the airport by car and 60 minutes west from the hustle and bustle of the state capital Honolulu and the famous Waikiki Beach. Most of the other major tourist attractions are an easy day trip away. Come and stay at the beach in this local rural community of Makaha. Enjoy the "local" environment and experience some of the most beautiful, uncrowded sandy beaches on the island of Oahu. Be sure to bring your camera. Visit the famous Makaha International Surfing Beach, North Shore's historic surfing spots, Pearl Harbor, and enjoying activities of Waikiki and Honolulu easily from this location. You can then return home to Makaha, enjoy the beach, swim in the pool, relax on your lanai, and unwind watching the sunset as the fabulous day closes and you recharge for another great day in paradise.
The Hawaiian Princess is one of only a few condos that are built right on the beach with the Pacific Ocean at your door step. Few areas in Hawaii can boast of such an secluded, white sand, crescent shaped beach with waters flat at times for snorkeling and surf at other times for "riding the waves". This beach is often referred to as "Oahu's Best Kept Secret" . Very few travelers even know of this beach and it is not seen from the street. Our units faces the ocean with 180 degree view of this white sandy beach, clear blue ocean and the historic Lahilahi Point. The fabulous views, spectacular sunsets, sounds of the waves, tropical trade winds and the close proximity to the beach makes this a perfect place to enjoy Hawaii's casual life style. Enjoy paradise, relax with the tropical trade winds, and play all day at the beach. Marine life is abundant in this cove known locally as "turtle cove". Daily sightings of turtles, dolphins, whales (in season), monk seals, schools of fish, and more can be seen from your private lanai. You might even see the turtles on the beach being warmed by the sun.
This recently upgraded 1 bedroom /1 bathroom units can accommodate up to 4 persons and can be adjoined with our other unit next door creating a 2 bedroom and 2 bath accommodations. This combination of both units has been very popular with couples traveling together or larger families requiring the extra space. The unit has everything that you will need with fully equipped kitchen, linens, and beach gear. We have tried to think of everything for your comfort. We have free internet in the unit, smart TV in living rooms and bedrooms, newly created desk area to accommodate electronics and office work, large front loading washers and dryers, upgraded mattresses in each bedroom and art work of local artists throughout the units. Repeat guests are a norm at both our units. Guests have been returning here year after year which confirms this is truly a "special place".
With the new laws this unit is required to advertise and rent for minimum of 30 days. Please contact owner directly for availability and any discounts that are available
Liable.
These units are privately owned and managed by the owner. I personally manages all inquiries and reservations on both of our units to assure that you get the best possible personal service. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions that are not addressed in the description.
Our recently remodeled and upgraded 4th floor units in the Hawaiian Princess at Makaha are one of the most sought after and revisited vacation destination on Oahu's west side. The west side of Oahu is known as the dryer and sunnier side of the island resulting in some of the clearest and cleanest waters on the island of Oahu. These clear blue waters provide an ideal backdrop for photography, sunbathing, beachcombing, snorkeling, diving, bodyboarding, surfing, kayaking, boating, hiking or simply relaxing on the lanai. Makaha is located approximately 40 minutes from the airport by car and 60 minutes west from the hustle and bustle of the state capital Honolulu and the famous Waikiki Beach. Most of the other major tourist attractions are an easy day trip away. Come and stay at the beach in this local rural community of Makaha. Enjoy the "local" environment and experience some of the most beautiful, uncrowded sandy beaches on the island of Oahu. Be sure to bring your camera. Visit the famous Makaha International Surfing Beach, North Shore's historic surfing spots, Pearl Harbor, and enjoying activities of Waikiki and Honolulu easily from this location. You can then return home to Makaha, enjoy the beach, swim in the pool, relax on your lanai, and unwind watching the sunset as the fabulous day closes and you recharge for another great day in paradise.
The Hawaiian Princess is one of only a few condos that are built right on the beach with the Pacific Ocean at your door step. Few areas in Hawaii can boast of such an secluded, white sand, crescent shaped beach with waters flat at times for snorkeling and surf at other times for "riding the waves". This beach is often referred to as "Oahu's Best Kept Secret" . Very few travelers even know of this beach and it is not seen from the street. Our units faces the ocean with 180 degree view of this white sandy beach, clear blue ocean and the historic Lahilahi Point. The fabulous views, spectacular sunsets, sounds of the waves, tropical trade winds and the close proximity to the beach makes this a perfect place to enjoy Hawaii's casual life style. Enjoy paradise, relax with the tropical trade winds, and play all day at the beach. Marine life is abundant in this cove known locally as "turtle cove". Daily sightings of turtles, dolphins, whales (in season), monk seals, schools of fish, and more can be seen from your private lanai. You might even see the turtles on the beach being warmed by the sun.
This recently upgraded 1 bedroom /1 bathroom units can accommodate up to 4 persons and can be adjoined with our other unit next door creating a 2 bedroom and 2 bath accommodations. This combination of both units has been very popular with couples traveling together or larger families requiring the extra space. The unit has everything that you will need with fully equipped kitchen, linens, and beach gear. We have tried to think of everything for your comfort. We have free internet in the unit, smart TV in living rooms and bedrooms, newly created desk area to accommodate electronics and office work, large front loading washers and dryers, upgraded mattresses in each bedroom and art work of local artists throughout the units. Repeat guests are a norm at both our units. Guests have been returning here year after year which confirms this is truly a "special place".
Amenities
Pool
Air conditioner
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
Hot tub or spa
TV
Family friendly
Map of Makaha, HI
$$$$
Ratings and reviews
Summary of reviews
Amazing beachfront property with stunning views, well-equipped condo, comfortable stay, and friendly staff. Perfect for a quiet getaway and enjoying beautiful sunsets.
10.0 / 10.0
The location, the unit, the beach hit the spot for a getaway. No crowds, pleasant people, clean. We will be back.
10.0 / 10.0
Gerry is the most accomodating host that I’ve experienced. The place is simply awesome, we watch sunset everyday either from the beach or from the apartment. It has all things that you would need and you would definitely have a feel of living in someone’s home, not at a rental place. There are few supermarkets near by that make cooking so much easy. We were not disturbed or concerned by homeless people - it’s just a sad fact of Hawaii living conditions that make many not being able to afford houses.
10.0 / 10.0
Clean, well equipped condo. Stunning view and not many people. First time not staying in Honolulu or with a friend. For a quiet getaway, this place is perfect. Stop for groceries or necessities on the way.
10.0 / 10.0
The place was wonderful. The view from the lanai was breathtaking! Those two weeks flew by!!! H1 is a scary highway for us country bumpkins, but we managed. Would stay here again for sure!
10.0 / 10.0
This property was exactly as described!!! Highly recommend !! Beach View spectacular!!
10.0 / 10.0
Awesome relaxation with my husband. Quiet concrete building, great office space and separate bedroom for remote work. and Gerri and onsite staff were excellent. Thanks for having us. Appreciate it.
8.0 / 10.0
This unit has a beautiful view right outside the door. Snorkeling was awesome. My husband and I were able to see sea turtles. When we arrived there, there was a note on the washer and dryer not to use it that someone was going to come by so we stayed out of the room for the day to repair. When we returned I tried to do laundry and the issue was not fixed a little inconvenient, considering I booked 7 days. we drove all over the island. Hawaii is so beautiful. Unfortunately there’s a large homeless community in this area. There is a security guard on duty at this location. I highly recommend the experience.
10.0 / 10.0
As in description, property was literally on the edge of the ocean with a sandy beach flanked by amazing lava cliffs. We were not prepared for the homeless camps adjacent to and on the beach along route. To be clear, we never felt threatened in any way and came to realize this is a scene across the two islands we visited and know that the owner has no control over the locations of camps. That said, would not hesitate to recommend and revisit property.
10.0 / 10.0
Condo was immaculate. Kitchen was well stocked with pots and pans, etc. There were several beach chairs and a beach umbrella in the closet. The beach front at the condo was incredibly peaceful and relaxing.
10.0 / 10.0
True oceanfront! Well kept up condo complex with a security gate to enter. Very few people on this beach. Woderful for us. The view IS the ocean! This small complex is just that, a condo complex without the touristy stuff like lei making, open bars or restaurants on site. You feel like a local. Very nice!
Only negative: lots of homeless camps along the Farrington Highway to get to it.
10.0 / 10.0
Second time we’ve stayed here. Washer/dryer is greatly appreciated. Suitcase amounts are greatly diminished. Comfortable bed. Will stay again next time.
10.0 / 10.0
My husband and I recently had a relaxing stay here in Hawaii! From the moment we arrived, we were impressed by the cleanliness of the place. It was spotless and well-maintained. The property was thoughtfully stocked with everything we needed from beach chairs to snorkel gear to coolers, making our stay comfortable and convenient. You can tell Gerry has thought of everything.
But what truly took our breath away were the stunning views. The property offered breathtaking vistas of the ocean. Every evening, we were treated to mesmerizing sunsets that painted the sky with vibrant colors.
Keep in mind, this condo is on the west coast of the island and the west coast has become overwhelmed with homelessness. But that did not deter us from renting. This stay provided us with an unforgettable Hawaiian experience. It was the perfect place to relax, unwind, and soak in the beauty of Hawaii.
10.0 / 10.0
Great property and property owners! This was just as advertised and the condo property was so peaceful and quiet. Everyone from the staff to the other guests were so nice and friendly.
10.0 / 10.0
Just like what previous comments stated- area is older and tents lined up on beach for a few miles while driving in.. condo next to older residential area…HOWEVER.. property is gated and people are friendly.. we did not have any issues.. the view from the unit is totally worth it..Beware of the traffic- add at least 45 minutes on weekdays due to rush hours and location on northwest side of island .. I recommend taking a left turn out of the complex if you have time to explore.. the road goes for a few miles and dead ends into a beach park, but the ocean views from the road are spectacular, we pulled over a few areas for photo ops, and even found some tide pools
10.0 / 10.0
The place itself is stunning! The decor is beautiful and the bed is comfy. Just step outside and directly onto a private beach! Every amenity of home. Parking was simple and security was a bonus! Great if you are staying in amd looking to relax. We rented a car and drove around the island daily
10.0 / 10.0
This property is a great place to stay on Oahu. You will see the most amazing sunsets every day and being able to hear the surf all day. The beach is never crowded and the staff is fantastic and helpful.
10.0 / 10.0
Loved the friendly atmosphere, met some great people! The property was quaint and beautiful! Simple and peaceful. The beach was gorgeous and uncrowded. Loved our stay, will definitely book again. Thanks!
8.0 / 10.0
This property is on the west side of O'ahu, so less touristy and more local flavor. The property is in good shape and upkeep is good. The beach is great and was never crowded during our stay. The sun sets over the ocean here and is beautiful. We saw sea turtles and many fish.
The owner is great to work with. Very helpful and responsive to questions and requests. The equipment closet is wonderful, with all the things you need for the beach, but didn't have room to pack!
If we travel to O'ahu again, this will probably be our first choice if available.
8.0 / 10.0
This property is great especially if you just stay within the condo complex. Great food with 30-45 min drive. The beach was clean and never crowded. The condo itself was clean and well stocked with activities to do when not on the beach. Along with beach chairs, snorkel equipment, umbrella, and boogie boards.
10.0 / 10.0
The view from this condo is amazing with easy access to a beautiful beach and ocean made for swimming. The condo was clean and well equipped. The only downsides are the lack of good restaurants and multitude of homeless camps on the way to the condo. If you want to cook yourself, or eat fast-food, this place is great.
We spent our days touring and ate out before returning to the condo for beach time and beautiful sunsets.
10.0 / 10.0
Loved the layout. Appliances were top of line. The washer/dryer was so convenient. Very clean and well stocked. Already booked for October.
10.0 / 10.0
Lovely 3 week stay! Condo is well appointed, upgraded, well equipped and very clean. Communication with owner first rate and beach is one of nicest in Hawaii and relatively private. Rate this one 5 star
10.0 / 10.0
I would recommend staying here to anyway, I was so glad we decided to stay here instead of Waikiki! The check in process was a little rough, we got in around 930 at night and nobody was there to buzz us in or register us and that was a little stressful, but after 20 mins or so we finally found the security guard and we’re taken care of. Other than that everything was wonderful!
10.0 / 10.0
We absolutely loved our stay here. The unit was cleaner than any I've ever been in. If you prefer a non-crowded beach and beautiful views, this is the place for you. A short 40 minute drive to Oahu or a great base for reaching the rest of the island if seeing sights is in your plan.
10.0 / 10.0
This place was incredible! The views from the unit are spectacular especially the sunset. The host was easy to communicate with and we had no problems throughout our stay. If you are looking to stay on the west side of the island, I would highly recommend this place. It also has all the beach toys and items that you would need for your stay.
10.0 / 10.0
A fabulous view of an exquisite beach, the condo couldn’t have been better. Very responsive and helpful owner who gave us tips on great places to eat and see. Can’t recommend highly enough.
10.0 / 10.0
Unit was clean and stocked with everything you need to enjoy the beach-chairs,cooler, boogie boards, snorkel equip & towels. We were all over Oahu during our stay and the sunset on this beach was the best we saw on the island! The view from the condo and the beach should be on a post card and probably is. Beautiful, private, quiet beach. Pool and hot tub..There’s not a lot of food/shopping in the area and as other reviews mention the homeless population is present but I knew that going in, plus that seems to be an issue anywhere on the island. The souvenir/shaved ice place in Makaha was surprisingly pretty decent. I ate a few different L&L’s around the island and the Waianae/makaha L&L was actually my favorite. This condo is perfect if you plan on buying groceries and staying at the condo enjoying the beach for the majority of your trip. Even when leaving early in the morning, doing any touristy activity can quickly turn into an all day event with driving and traffic. I’m used to atlanta traffic and was shocked at how bad the traffic on the island can be. I really LOVED this spot!! We got to watch some surfers in the distance and saw sea turtles every morning. This unit doesn’t have a lanai but has more space inside instead. Gerry also owns the unit next door that does have a lanai and I imagine that unit is just as nice. We were able to leave the sliding doors open and fall asleep to the waves crashing into the beach every night. Overall, It was a great condo to stay at. The only critique I have is that the ice maker didn’t work but ice trays were provided, no big deal but a working ice maker would have been much more convenient. Also, without going into too much detail, there is a neighbor below that I assume is a full time resident that was sure to make his presence known and he clearly isn’t fond of having a short term rental above him. Overall it was a wonderful get away for my wife and I. If it’s your first time visiting Hawaii and you are looking to play tourist you should probably stay closer to Honolulu/Waikiki. If you’re like us and don’t want to be anywhere near the tourist action then this spot can’t be beat. The beach was never even close to crowded. We shared the beach for sunset with literally just a few other couples/groups pretty much every night. I would return and recommend staying here to anyone.
10.0 / 10.0
Our 2nd time staying at Gerralee's condos.
Very clean, well stocked kitchen, comfortable, updated and beautifully decorated.
Owner is generous with providing every detail you could possibly need. From snorkel equipment to fancy beach chairs with umbrella.
Wonderful stay, will return soon:)
10.0 / 10.0
Don't hesitate to book. The condo's ocean view is amazing.. It is a bit of a drive and there is traffic at times but don't let this deter you.. We were unsure because this condo doesn't have a lanai but it actually is so much better to have more indoor space. Just open the sliders and you hear the ocean. Property and condo are well taken care of. We found everything we needed for our 7 night stay. Check in/Check out was easy. Gerry was easy to communicate with and answered all my questions before arrival.
Don't miss Mountain Mike's shave ice.
We will be back.
Mahalo Gerry for sharing your paradise with us.
6.0 / 10.0
Family staycation
The place is okey, view is great. Beach is so accessible. Great place for the family. But the only thing is too much restriction on the place. You make a little bit noise even it is still too early, got busted. My kids using the pool, not even jumping they got yelled by the security. So we supposed to enjoy ourselves to get away from home but my kids cannot coz they are scared already thinking they gonna get busted again. So it’s too much restrictions around the place.
10.0 / 10.0
Very nice condo with beautiful view
The condo was very nicely decorated and clean. There were plenty of beach towels and a cooler and some reusable ice blocks in the freezer making it easy to pack a lunch and head out to adventure in Oahu. We were about an hour from the eastshore and the north shores and close to electric beach and Ka'ena Point and nearby beaches.
10.0 / 10.0
Relaxing
Beautiful sunsets, everything you need for a relaxing, beach vacation. We loved it and would stay again.
10.0 / 10.0
Hawaiian princess never disappoints
Nicely remodeled. We always have a great time at the Hawaiian princess!
8.0 / 10.0
A very nice property in an area we did not really like.
Our host was terrific and the property was very nice with a beautiful view. However, I was not familiar with the area when I booked it and should have done more research there. The overall area is well to put it nicely "not very nice". I consider it a rough area and for this reason alone would not consider staying at this property again.
10.0 / 10.0
The owners of the property are awesome! Security on the premises was great. Beach gorgeous.
Will def be returning to this property!!! Great spot! Beautiful beach.
10.0 / 10.0
Stunning view!
We really enjoyed our time here. The condo is beautiful and well equipped with everything you need. You really can't beat the view. It is just stunning to look at.
The only reason why I gave the location a 4 star is because it is about an hour away from Honolulu and The North Shore. I am a vegetarian and eating out was difficult in this town. However, I wouldn't let that keep me from staying there again!
The manager is also really great to work with and check in process is easy.
10.0 / 10.0
December 24-28
We enjoyed this property very much the beach was great and not crowded saw some turtles! Owners were great to deal with and prompt with questions!! Would stay here again if we ever get back!
10.0 / 10.0
Beach Walk-out
The condo was a week's stay in paradise! If you are looking to get away from the hustle of Waikiki or other tourist destinations, book at the Hawaiian Princess! A car is necessary to get to restaurants and bars, but well worth it. The condo is set up to provide everything you need, including the use of beach toys and umbrellas/chairs. Walk out of the condo and onto the quiet, secluded beach! Gerry was a fantastic host and everything was just as expected from the pictures and description. Highly recommended!
10.0 / 10.0
Awesome
Nice location
8.0 / 10.0
Great condo, didn't love the neighborhood
I will preface this by saying that the condo itself was exactly as described. It was clean, easy to find, easy to get into, everyone was friendly, and best of all, it was right on the beach. The beach was beautiful, and had very few people on it, even on the weekend. I really can't say enough good things about the condo, and how easy it was to get ahold of the owner, and how responsive they are.
The area the condo is in is away from the the tourists, and the rest of the craziness of Waikiki, which was what we were looking for. I knew Waianae was a lower income neighborhood, and by extension so was Makaha, but I foolishly expected there would still be some food/shopping options. Aside from multiple Long's Drugs, and gas stations, the only food around is fast food, or two or three bars/restaurants (which are not in walking distance, everything is a 15-20 min drive). If you want a walkable area, this is not it. Be prepared to grocery shop, and cook for yourself. The kitchen in the condo is nice, and decently appointed.
The traffic was pretty frustrating, on Farrington Hwy, as it's only 2 lanes in either direction, and the speed limit ranges from 25-35mph. It was nowhere near San Diego, or LA traffic, but it's there.
There were other commenters between the time I booked everything, and the time we actually stayed there, that pointed out that there were homeless camps everywhere, and when I say everywhere, I mean EVERYWHERE. Honolulu PD doesn't seem to care to do anything about them (which I should add, HPD is all constantly present in the area. We saw more PD there than we do in San Diego in 6 months). They were not on the beach at the condo itself, but they were on the trail right next to the beach, and on every other beach near the condo. I am a runner, and was really excited to get to run somewhere new, and was really disappointed that I just didn't feel safe enough for me to do so.
All in all, we had a good time, and really appreciate the condo, and owner, but we would not stay here again. The area is just too far from everything, and I, as a woman, just didn't feel safe enough. If your plan is to grab a bunch of groceries, and never leave the condo/stay on the beach with the family, this is a great location, it just wasn't a good fit for us.
FAQs
How much does this apartment cost compared to others in Makaha?
The average price for a rental in Makaha is $304 per night. This rental is $252 above the average.
Is parking included with this apartment?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Best Kept Secret on Oahu !. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this apartment?
Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at Best Kept Secret on Oahu !. Enjoy the water!
Is Best Kept Secret on Oahu ! pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this apartment is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Best Kept Secret on Oahu !?
We found 11 amenities for this rental. This includes pool, air conditioner, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, and parking.
Explore similar vacation rentals in Makaha
Explore all rentals in MakahaMakaha travel inspiration
Read our blogGuides
Best East Coast Beaches and Getaway Locations You Can’t Miss
Budget Travel
7 Most Affordable Snowbird Destinations for 2025
Guides
Top Activities to Try in Panama City Beach, Florida
Guides
Top Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama: Adventure and Fun Await
Local Culture
Exploring Miami’s Wynwood District: Street Art, Food, and More
Guides
Fun Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
Local Culture
A Foodie’s Guide to the Best Dining in Orlando, Florida
Guides
Top Things to Do in Oahu and Honolulu