Refresh Your Soul: A Hawaiian Gem Between Mountain & Ocean
Lift your eyes to the mountains and the sea! We invite you to find your peace in our private retreat—a modern studio attached to our main home, nestled within a secure, quiet gated community completed in 2023.
A Personal Touch from Your Hosts We are a family-based business and have called Hawaii home for over 25 years. Your stay is managed by Annie & Joy for Promise Land LLC, with Annie McCrea, a local realtor and long-time resident, as your main contact. With my background in real estate, I have ensured this space meets the highest standards of comfort and quality. We have a deep appreciation for the beauty of this island and have done our absolute best to create a true "Haven" that enhances your spirit and makes your stay unforgettable.
Thoughtful Comforts & Amenities We have furnished this dwelling with everything you need for a restorative stay: Restful Sleep: A plush queen bed with nightstands featuring dimmable, touch-controlled lamps.
Chilled Retreat: The "Island Breeze" experience with a whisper-quiet Split A/C system and flat-screen TV to keep you cool and comfortable.
Convenience at Home: A private washer and dryer right in the unit, plus a yoga mat in the closet for your morning stretches.
Kitchen Essentials: Prepare light meals with our cooktop, rice cooker, pots, pans, and coffee maker—perfect for a slow morning before heading out.
Outdoor Relaxation: Soak in the fresh air at your private outdoor seating area, featuring comfortable chairs and a coffee table.
Easy Parking: We’ve made your arrival stress-free with a designated parking space located on the far left side of the property specifically for this unit.
Resort-Style Living & Local Secrets Step outside and enjoy the premier community center just a short walk away. As our guest, you’ll have full access to the sparkling pool, relaxing hot tub, and a fully equipped gym.
While you're here, don't miss our favorite local spots: Aki’s Beach: A secluded "hidden" cove where you can often spot sea turtles sunbathing in the quiet mornings.
Maili Pink Pillbox (Puʻu O Hulu): A local favorite for sunset! This short but rewarding hike is just a short drive away and offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the coastline—it's the perfect spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Pōkaʻī Bay: Located just minutes away, offering calm, protected waters perfect for a peaceful morning dip.
We’ve added every detail with the hope that you will find rest here. We look forward to welcoming you to our island home!
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Please keep noises / vulunm down, especially during 7pm - 7am. Be courteous and respectful to all neighbors and community.
Please communicate your concerns and issues as soon as possible so it can be dealt with early on.
Park at the designated the parking space which is the far left of the driveway. Observe the speed limit (15 miles) in the community.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number GE-058-196-5824-01, TA-058-196-5824-01, 1840291500107
Property # 3166958vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses solar energy
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
About the area
Waianae
Waianae is home to this apartment. Makaha Valley Golf Club and Ko Olina Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Kaʻena Point State Park and Waianae Mountain Range. Wet'n'Wild Hawaii and Kuuloa Kai Charters are also worth visiting.
Keone‘ae / University of Hawaii - West Oahu Station - 35 min drive
Kapolei, HI (JRF-Kalaeloa) - 35 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 9 min drive
Kahumana Farms & Cafe - 17 min drive
Countryside Cafe - 13 min drive
Spicy House Thai Cuisine Express - 16 min drive
T8Ste Buds 808 - 13 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does A Gem btw Mountain & Ocean have a pool?
Yes, this property has a pool.
How much does it cost to stay at A Gem btw Mountain & Ocean?
As of 10 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at A Gem btw Mountain & Ocean on 27 May 2026 start from NZ$266, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is A Gem btw Mountain & Ocean pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at A Gem btw Mountain & Ocean?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at A Gem btw Mountain & Ocean?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at A Gem btw Mountain & Ocean?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is A Gem btw Mountain & Ocean located?
Situated in Waianae, this apartment building is 1 mi (1.6 km) from Kaneʻaki Heiau and within 3 miles (5 km) of Makaha Valley Golf Club and Kane'aki Heiau. Waianae Mountain Range and Mauna Lahilahi Beach Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Would absolutely return- we spent 3 weeks. The West Side of the island is so charming, as is the apartment. Annie is an exceptional host and we were lucky to have found this spot.
Host was very welcoming, and also very responsive to inquiries during our visit; location was beautiful, and apartment was very clean, organized, well-equipped and accessible; property was exactly as listed.
I had a great stay at this vacation rental and would definitely come back again. The mountain view in the back was beautiful and really made the experience feel peaceful and relaxing. As someone traveling solo for the first time, I especially appreciated that the home is located in a gated community—it made me feel safe and comfortable throughout my stay.The place itself was very clean and well-equipped. I liked that there were chairs outside to sit and enjoy the view, and having pans available made it easy to cook when I didn’t feel like going out. One of my favorite touches was the guest book—it was fun reading through past visitors’ experiences and getting recommendations for things to do nearby.The community was very quiet, which made it even more enjoyable to unwind. Annie was a wonderful host—very kind, responsive, and communicative. She made sure to keep me informed about some work that needed to be done during my stay so I wouldn’t be caught off guard, which I really appreciated.Overall, this was a great experience and I would absolutely stay here again.
We loved staying out in the Makaha Valley. We wanted to be away from the city area and enjoy nice beaches and beautiful surroundings, and we had just that. The gated community made us feel safe, and the views were amazing.
Gianluca M.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 April 2025
Thank you so much for the kind words! I’m so glad you enjoyed your stay in Makaha Valley and appreciated the peaceful setting and beautiful surroundings. We’d love to welcome you back anytime!
I went on a solo trip to Oahu and stayed here. I felt very safe and the view of the mountains was GORGEOUS. This stay had everything I needed and was very clean. I could easily communicate with the owner, although I never needed anything. I would definitely stay here again!
This is a very nice studio suite with private entrance in a new house in a quiet gated subdivision in the valley, backing onto mountain side and wooded area.The suite is well equipped and very comfortable for two people .We really appreciated being able to BBQ outside and have use of boogie boards. Host is quickly responsive and was very helpful to us, she went out of her way to meet our needs
Lauren R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 January 2024
Thank you Lauren! Yes we do our best to exemplify the spirit of Aloha!
The little apartment had every thing we needed, even a grill. What a backyard. Wow, the view! House was in a gated community. They do have a homeless issue on that side of the island and finding a beach without an encampment was discouraging. It was far from most of the things that we wanted to do.
Gail A.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 27 February 2024
Thank you Gail! Yeah the homelessness is a sad thing and we often try to donate and do what we can to help as locals. The good thing is that our home is in a gated community passing through the country club and golf course. Very safe and peaceful.
Joy is amazing and is one of the best hosts we have had. Perfect communication!
We enjoyed our stay tremendously.
It is out of town and in a new development that Google doesn’t quite recognize yet.
You do have to drive through about 2 miles of homeless to get to their connecting road that leads up to the neighborhood. But with the gated community we felt so safe. Beautiful Mountain View’s and a peak of the ocean.
The living space is clean and beautiful.
Fully enjoyed our stay and would stay there again!
The overall property was good. It is a new development and there is no street lighting. I could see a streetlight installed but not working. Also, there needs to be some motion detection lighting at the entrance to the VRBO. It is very dark when returning at night. I would also suggest some type of welcome book when you arrive that would share some places of interest, shopping, food upon arrive.
Rick L.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 1 August 2023
Thank you Rick! It is a brand new community and the lighting/speed bumps need to be completed. We are in the middle of finishing landscaping and yard that includes the lighting. We do send info about shopping/Restaurants/tourist spots as the welcome/check in note. Will have the hard copy soon. Mahalo!
We enjoyed staying at this home during our 9 day trip to O'ahu for our 20th Anniversary! The owner was very responsive to our arrival, as well as giving us suggestions of where to eat and play! The accommodations were fantastic and were perfect for the two of us. The only issue that came up was that the fridge kept being tripped at the circuit breaker. We contacted the owner immediately and she was quick to respond and was going to be sending out an electrician as soon as one was available.
As far as the other reviews about homelessness in the area, it wasn't in the immediate area (more noticeable on the beaches approx 2 miles away) and generally wasn't an issue for us; especially since we see this same issue back home. The area in which the property sits, is beautiful, quiet, and gated with a 24 hr guard who checks everyone in. We loved that the property wasn't really close to tourist attractions, as we were looking for a more quiet place! We enjoyed driving around the island exploring!
We would stay at this property again if we travel back to the island!
The process started with detailed communication a week in advance. We found the communication welcoming. The host provided clear directions so we knew what to expect as though we had been there before. This is a gated community with a positive neighborhood vibe. The views start as you approach the neighborhood and continue as you look out the front door towards ocean. The property is well landscaped including a patio with the backdrop of the mountains. Nature is on full display and you find yourself immersed in it. The sounds of nature were so peaceful during morning yoga on the patio. We were overwhelmed with the thoughtfulness of the host from the kitchen supplies, extra bedding, beach chairs, beach towels, and the list goes on. This was a memorable experience for us and we will always cherish the the views and the hospitality. Views to remember! Thank you so much!
Mike D.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 17 February 2024
Thank you so very much, Mike! Welcome back anytime!!!
My wife and I stayed here for 4 nights and really enjoyed ourselves. The ADU is small but well equipped and comfortable. The owner is very attentive and kind. The neighborhood is quiet and the views of the surrounding mountains in Makaha Valley made for really great mornings or evenings on the patio. Really the only downside of the unit is the fan for the main house AC; when it kicks on it’s a little annoying while you enjoy the quiet morning in the valley. It’s a minor disturbance and not really a complaint.
Regarding the location of the rental, Hawaii is home to more than tourism, and you’re going to be aware of that fact on the west side. Unfortunately a lot of people are squeezed by the high cost of living, and the homeless population has grown on the beaches that dot the coast. You’ll drive at least 15 minutes to find a beach without an encampment, unless you can access the military beach 10 minutes away.
We did a lot of driving because that was our plan on this trip, so this wasn’t an inconvenience to us. If anything it just gives you a sense of the real situation on Oahu. If your goal is to post up in one place and walk to the beach every day, this probably isn’t the place for you. But if you can enjoy some driving and want to see all of Oahu, this is a good option.
Absolutely wonderful place to stay and has a 50 inch Tv on the wall right in front of the comfortable queen size bed! All the counter tops are beautiful! This home is in a really nice gated community and all the neighbor's waved at us while we drove by! So friendly! There is a really nice beach to relax at pass the Makaha street that you make a right onto to get to the cute studio just drive down further pass that street and there is practically no one at this beach here! A hidden gem! There is pots and pans to use while you stay at the studio. The stove is a two bunner stover top that was really great to use for cooking! There was Olive Oil for us to use and Tide Detergent as well. I would absolutely love to stay here again and also the couch I believe pulls out into a futon. It was just me and my husband who stayed here so we didn't need to use it as a bed for kiddos. The host stayed in contact with us and she was really sweet! Oh my goodness and the blow dryer to blow dry my hair was extremely good and I have thick hair and it dried my hair in only 7 minutes! Also I loved the tub/shower and the window in the shower is up high and is prettier in person! The water flasks jugs to borrow while hiking was a life saver! There was an umbrella to borrow as well to and that was very helpful! I know me and my husband would definitely stay here again! And if there are any golfers, Makaha Valley CC is right next door which my husband really enjoyed. He said the course was great to play and had some spectacular views.!
This is on the leeward side of the island. The beaches on this side are less crowded than in Waikiki, especially in the morning. There's a chill, party vibe at night. It was nice for days we just wanted to lounge and play at the beach. But it was a long drive to the North shore (there's no road going north, you have to drive back south and then up to the north shore). We didn't mind, we loved seeing all parts of the island. But it is something to consider when booking.
The guest house is built into the main house, but has a private entrance. Aside from being able to hear the water turn on when folks upstairs turned on the shower, we couldn't hear the neighbors in the main house. The property backs up to a gorgeous mountain, and the neighborhood is quiet. It was under heavy construction during our stay, but we got through the streets alright, and we didn't hear any of it.
Oh! We did hear lots of peacocks and roosters in the early morning. That was pretty cool. Couldn't hear them with the windows closed though.
The bed was smaller than we thought it would be. (I guess it's been a while since we slept on a queen). But we slept just fine.
Some things not mentioned in the listing were that they have a washer and dryer (super helpful!), a stovetop, a full size fridge, and a toaster oven, as well as cups, bowls, plates, utensils, etc. We didn't have to bring any of that. They also had a couple beach chairs, big beach towels, and a boogie board. It definitely made our trip more enjoyable.
The host was very communicative and friendly. All in all, it was a great place and I highly recommend it for couples looking to get away.
Caitlyn D.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 5 March 2023
Thank you for choosing to stay in our place and taking time to do the review! Mahalo!