How far is the condo from downtown Kona? And the ocean?
Kailua Village is a three-minute walk from Ali’i Drive, which is right on the Pacific Ocean. Check out the video below to see how to get from the condos through the Kona Islander Inn grounds to Ali’i and the ocean. (In the video, the walk takes a minute, but that’s thanks to iMovie editing. ;))
What does ‘pono’ mean?
Pono is a Hawaiian word that means “righteousness” and is often used to describe a state of balance, integrity, and contentment. It can also mean to achieve excellence, prosperity, and equity. For example, ka poʻo kahiko (chiefs of old Hawaiʻi) and their descendants believe that living in pono means living in balance with ourselves, others, and the world.
What beach goodies do you have stocked?
In the large closet, you’ll find plenty of room to hang your belongings, as well as everything you need for the perfect day at the beach:
- Tommy Bahama Beach Chairs (2) & Umbrella
- Boogie boards (2)
- Cooler
- Beach towels (2)
- Snorkels (2)
- Swim buoy
- iPhone Protectors (2)
Is there a place in Kona to rent bikes?
Yes! We recommend Bikeworks Kona. It’s about a 15-minute walk or 8-minute drive from Kailua Village. You can check out the rental prices here.
Bikeworks Kona
Where is the Pono Condo?
The Pono Condo is located within the Kailua Village complex at 75-5766 Kuakini Highway.
When I arrive, where do I park?
Pono Condo renters can use parking spot #59, free of charge.
What happens when I arrive? How do I get the keys?
You’ll need to fill out a quick registration form; you’ll find the forms outside the building manager’s office. You can either hand the completed form to Ron, or drop it in the dropbox. After you submit the form, outside the office you’ll see a bar that houses all of the vacation rental lockboxes:
Use the code in your AirBNB note to obtain the keys. One of them will open the elevator, and the other two are for the top and bottom locks.
Take the elevator (pictured below) to the third floor.
When you get off the elevator, take a right. The Pono Condo is the second condo from the end. (Please note that there are two sets of stairs — four stairs each — on the way there.) If you’re prefer not to take the elevator, there are stairs on both sides of the building. To open the doors to these, you’ll need the key marked elevator.
What if I have questions?
If you have questions about the Big Island or the condo, we (your hosts, Tamara and Brian) would love to help answer them via the AirBNB app. Since we’re in New York and several hours ahead, our on-island contact Tiffany is available to answer any time-sensitive questions or concerns. For emergencies, get in touch with the Kailua Village resident manager Ron. All of these folks’ info can be found in the binder in the condo.
What is the WiFi password?
You’ll find it written in a picture frame in the kitchen.
Where can I throw out trash?
Across from the elevator on the third floor, there is a door to the trash chute. Alternatively, you can go down to the first floor. As you’re coming out of the elevator, take a left, go through the door (your elevator key opens the door), take a right, and you’ll see two dumpsters (one on your left and one on your right).
Is there laundry onsite?
Totally! It’s on the first floor, clearly marked as Laundry. Please note that laundry room hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. (you must begin your last load by 8 p.m.). You’ll need to download the PayRange app in order to pay for both washers and dryers.
Kailua Village Laundry Room
Is there a pool?
There sure is! It’s not huge or opulent, but it’s perfect if you’re looking for a quick midday dip.
The Pool at Kailua Village
How about an outdoor grill?
Yes! The grill is located on the right when you enter from the parking lot.
Is there another way to get around Kona besides driving?
The best part about the Pau Hana and Pono Condos is that downtown Kailua Village is completely walkable from our complex on Kuakini. The Hele-On Trolley is also an amazing option for getting around; you can find the schedule here.
Hele-On Bus
That said, if you’re looking to explore the Big Island (or even the Kona coast) more fully, we definitely recommend renting a car.
