Kona Plaza#217

We've stayed at the Kona Plaza many times in the past because of the parking and the location in the middle of downtown - close to shops and restaurants. This time we were a little disappointed with how run down things appeared - starting with the parking garage. It was a maze with scaffolding and orange webbing making it hard to drive through and concerned us about the safety of the whole structure. A heads up would have been appreciated so we could have been prepared for what we saw and may have alleviated our concerns. We were glad they were working on fixing the problem(s) but it was noisy much of the day and kept us from using the lanai as much as we would have liked. There were some updates in the unit we were in and we did enjoy our stay but things were getting a little worn. The mini slit AC was a real plus and the the couch/bed in the living room was comfortable. If we return to Kona, we will probably try to stay there agsin.

Manager's Response

Problem free would be the best way to describe our stay. All of the access codes worked, and everything in the unit worked with no issue. The balcony doesn't have a water view, but it is roomy with a nice breeze. It was the default location for morning coffee. Communication from the mgmt company was also prompt, friendly, and efficient.

Manager's Response

Our experience was great! The location was perfect! Maintenance fixed the one issue quickly!! The beach gear was great! We loved our stay!!!

Manager's Response

We had a nice time in Kona and the condo was everything we were expecting. The photos and description were perfect other than the sofa has been updated. We were there for appr. 4 weeks and everything was great. We really enjoyed relaxing out on the deck late in the day and the view across to the church. We used the bbq's on the upper deck a few times and that was nice. This isn't a 5 star condo (and your not paying for one) so if you set your expectations realistically you'll be happy with your stay here. Having parking was an added bonus and touring around the island was the highlight of our stay. On the days we stayed in Kona it was very nice to be able to walk everywhere.

Manager's Response

We had a wonderful time, and would definitely stay here again!

Manager's Response

Had a great time staying here. Check-in was easy and condo included a kitchen.

Manager's Response

We had a fantastic stay at this property. The location is unbeatable, very easy to find & the checking in was relatively easy. All the amenities were perfect, we enjoyed sitting on the porch at night & listening to the live music that was happening downtown. It was perfect for what we needed - a place to crash during a beach vacation! All the amenities were as described & it was nice to have a full kitchen during our stay.

The rental has chairs & an umbrella which were very helpful as well! The rental was also very clean & well maintained. I would recommend this to any couple staying somewhere, it's probably a little small for any other type of relationship.

Big shoutout to TK Noodle down the street, you can walk here & the food is incredible! The guy made everything fresh for us.

Our only complaint was that the furniture is just not very comfortable. The bed is very, very soft (we are not picky mattress people). The couch is stiff, it wasn't ideal for sitting and watching a movie or anything. Just not that comfy.

Manager's Response

Not only was the location the best cause you could literally walk a few min to downtown kona but the place we stayed was clean and had everything we needed for snorkeling, hanging at the beach and what was also great was the washer/dryer was in the unit and to be able to do laundry before we headed home really was nice. Would definitely return in the future.

The only thing is I wish the bed was a little newer and more comfortable felt like we kind of rolled to the middle when sleeping

Manager's Response

As an old RN/Adult NP, I came for a short visit to assist my sister with her husband in late stages of head & neck cancer. Surprisingly she agreed to spend 2days/nights with me and this place provided a wonderful respite for her. Sitting on the Beautiful lanai drinking coffee, together was the best with a view of a church, plumeria hedges and birds singing. Close to beaches, shops & restaurants. Parking underground was convenient. Wasn't posh but perfect for me. Very hard to initially find in the dark. Residents were kind and helpful. Fully equipped kitchen, terrific bathroom and super shower. Nice amenities, as beach chairs, snorkeling gear, plenty of towels, wash cloths, beach towels and washing machine and dryer. Questions answered by phone. A most enjoyable stay. TV service hard to obtain. Recommend a clock. Didn't use swimming pool.
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Manager's Response

First and foremost the team and Knutson & Associates has to be the best property management company I've had to work with. Their communication is fantastic and thorough. Second of all, the property is primely located in downtown Kona and close to EVERYTHING. Their ad is 100% spot on. The property has everything you need from extra sleeping accommodations (blow up mattress) and a full kitchen to things you didn't know you'd need like beach chairs, beach towels, boogie boards, sunscreen and beyond. The only thing that needs a little cleaning is the AC because it does have a certain musty smell when ran, but that is trivial compared to everything else that comes with the unit. It's well maintained and extremely clean with a beautiful lanai (deck) area. If I head back to Kona, this is where I'm going to stay.

Manager's Response

Location can’t be beat, and parking is included. My kid loved the pool, which was a great way to cool off at the end of a day of exploring. Kitchen was well appointed. Living area was lovely and spacious with a futon couch for our kiddo. The bedroom was dark and good for sleeping (note the bed is *very* soft). AC worked well to cool down the whole place. Balcony was lovely and north facing, so stayed cool. Note there are beach things for use (towels, snorkle gear, chairs), but the beach umbrella is broken and should be thrown out - dont bother bringing it with you to a beach. Rules around the property (mandatory registration at check in, parking pass, etc) are strict and annoying but once you get past all that “admin”, the place is great.

Manager's Response

The place is cute, clean, and central. It has extra towels, blankets etc. Just like a regular family condo but small. Which is awesome being in town. Unfortunately I have to buy toilet paper for my stay cause there's 4 of us and 1 roll. The pillows with the covers in the closet were dirty. The other downside is the loud humming noise outside the building last night that was so loud I literally slept on the porch cause it permeated the bedroom. And the fact that the sofa sleeps just one not two, and has no cushion. So the girls were like sardines. I stayed at the Hilton grand this past week and opted for this condo to be close to friends. For $250 we had all our amenities including coffee. It was a 2 bedroom with 2 bathroom. And there even was a smoking area for guest. You may want to rethink the comfort level of this condo. Especially the pull out couch. That was a huge miss for me. So yeah me and my daughter slept on the porch pretty much the whole stay.

Manager's Response

We had an amazing stay at an older unit right in the heart of Kona. Although we we're steps away from Ali'i Drive the unit itself facing a quiet church away from the street. It was perfect with an extra large lanai, fully appointed with beach toys and snorkel gear. Knutson & Associates was very responsive and went out of their way, allowing us both early check-in and extended departure time. They even dropped off an extra fan to help keep the place cool. Would be happy to rent any of their units.

Manager's Response

Pros:
- Very close (walking distance) to tons of shops
- Balcony was really nice to lounge
- Roku setup in the bedroom
- Snorkeling gear, beach chairs, noodles, and towels provided
Cons:
- Lots of noise due to construction
- Very little hot water
- Company took 3 days to respond to a question
- Initial instructions were confusing... had to park away from the place before we could park in the parking garage
- WiFi kept going out

Overall was a great stay and we would book here again.

Manager's Response

This was a nice basic, well-priced condo. While it was not fancy, it suited our purposes perfectly. Nice and central to everything, restaurants, bars and shopping are right there. Underground parking was nice so the car was not sitting in the hot sun. Condo complex is well maintained, pool area and BBQ/sun deck were great. Also really loved the central A/C so no noisy air conditioners to keep you awake at night. Could be a bit better furnished with more comfortable sitting area in the living room, maybe some end tables and lamps. Get rid of the daylight white bulbs! Lanai was great, large with a sectional sofa so we spent most of our time out there, enjoying the warm weather.

Manager's Response

This was a nice basic, well-priced condo. While it was not fancy, it suited our purposes perfectly. Nice and central to everything, restaurants, bars and shopping are right there. Underground parking was nice so the car was not sitting in the hot sun. Condo complex is well maintained, pool area and BBQ/sun deck were great. Also really loved the central A/C so no noisy air conditioners to keep you awake at night. Could be a bit better furnished with more comfortable sitting area in the living room, maybe some end tables and lamps. Get rid of the daylight white bulbs! Lanai was great, large with a sectional sofa so we spent most of our time out there, enjoying the warm weather.

Manager's Response

We loved this condo for our recent visit to the Big Island. The location is fantastic - right in the heart of historic downtown Kona on Ali'i Drive. You can literally walk to everything on Ali'i. The condo itself was spotless when we arrived and very well stocked/appointed. The kitchen, while small, was stocked with everything you would need for meal prep. The queen sized bed was quite comfortable, and the shower in the single bath was wonderful (a rarity in many vacation condos). One of the best features of the condo is the lanai, which features very comfortable furniture for lounging. View of the church is lovely off the lanai as well. The central air worked great and kept the condo very comfortable during our stay. And the washer/dryer, located just off the bathroom, is a definite must for us. Thankfully, the W/D worked great and was larger than many I've seen in the Hawaii condos. We would definitely stay here again! Finally, the management team for the condo is literally the best I've dealt with in my many years of traveling to the islands. They are on top of everything and were a dream to deal with. Next time we're on the Big Island, if this condo isn't available, we'll look at this management company's other offerings. Outstanding condo, well-appointed, great location, and reasonable price. Book this space now!

Manager's Response

This is the place to stay!!! Perfect, quiet little spot right along the main strip. We really enjoyed how clean and comforting this place was.... We didn’t want to leave!!!! I couldn’t say a single bad thing about this place.

Manager's Response

Our family thoroughly enjoyed our time in Kona thanks to this cozy condo. We brought our elementary-school age boys. The pull out bed and inflatable mattress worked great for them, and we could easily make meals for them in the kitchen.

Once you're downstairs, you can be on Ali'i Drive in minutes. Very convenient for a family with young children. We enjoyed the proximity to great shops, restaurants, historical attractions, and the little beach by the Marriott. Within 15 minute drive of a great beaches for snorkeling.

The lanai was our favorite. Comfy sofas overlooking the oldest church in Hawaii. We ate breakfast there and we got a great picture there before heading out for our anniversary dinner.

The only thing we would change would be the air conditioner. It didn't work for us. But it's not too much of an issue if you're out most of the day. Just open the sliding glass door to the lanai and let in the cool evening air when you get back from your adventures.

Really good experience. Would love to come back some day.

Manager's Response

The property was clean fully stocked with all items actually way beyond expectations with gear for the beach experience.

Manager's Response

This rental unit is perfect for a couple or small family. Unit 217 has everything you need in it, from beach gear, to coolers, sunscreen and aloe Vera. Kitchen has all your cooking needs met after you've picked up some groceries. This downtown location is tucked just behind a shopping area on Ali'i Drive. On-site, secured parking makes it easy to leave the car behind and walk instead. Tons of eateries just minutes away. Our favorites were Papa Kona, TK Noodle, and Island Lava Java. Lockbox on unit makes it easy access and convenient for check in and out.
One amenity that we didn't realize we would need and really helped us out was the elevator! We came to Kona to visit our Grandma, we didn't realize that she can no longer climb stairs without extreme difficulty and pain. The elevator made it so she could come over for dinner, a dip in the pool and to spend time with her great granddaughter. Central air conditioning was nice to have as you acclimate to the Hawaii heat, the washer and dryer inside the unit is hugely helpful especially if you don't bring a checked bag and each person fits clothes into carry-on, like we did. But aside from the elevator, the lanai is our second favorite amenity. It is large, the sectional is awesome, the view of the church and steeple is spectacular anytime of day, there are plenty of dry racks for wet clothes, and the shades and fan make it a perfect spot to eat dinner. We loved our vacation time and it was largely due to how easy the unit made our trip! Would 100% stay again!

Manager's Response

This rental unit is perfect for a couple or small family. Unit 217 has everything you need in it, from beach gear, to coolers, sunscreen and aloe Vera. Kitchen has all your cooking needs met after you've picked up some groceries. This downtown location is tucked just behind a shopping area on Ali'i Drive. On-site, secured parking makes it easy to leave the car behind and walk instead. Tons of eateries just minutes away. Our favorites were Papa Kona, TK Noodle, and Island Lava Java. Lockbox on unit makes it easy access and convenient for check in and out.
One amenity that we didn't realize we would need and really helped us out was the elevator! We came to Kona to visit our Grandma, we didn't realize that she can no longer climb stairs without extreme difficulty and pain. The elevator made it so she could come over for dinner, a dip in the pool and to spend time with her great granddaughter. Central air conditioning was nice to have as you acclimate to the Hawaii heat, the washer and dryer inside the unit is hugely helpful especially if you don't bring a checked bag and each person fits clothes into carry-on, like we did. But aside from the elevator, the lanai is our second favorite amenity. It is large, the sectional is awesome, the view of the church and steeple is spectacular anytime of day, there are plenty of dry racks for wet clothes, and the shades and fan make it a perfect spot to eat dinner. We loved our vacation time and it was largely due to how easy the unit made our trip! Would 100% stay again!

Manager's Response

We loved our stay. The room was very well-kept and the location was very convenient for walking through town. One thing I didn't like was the bed.. it was extremely squeaky and needs replacement. Also, the couch is different and smaller (for sleeping) than pictured. Despite those things, I would stay there again!

Manager's Response

I grew up in Kona and hadn't been back in a few years, we had our first baby at the start of COVID so this trip was the culmination of a long wait to bring her to see grandparents and family. The apartment was the perfect place for us, it was a clean room in a good location, my family came to visit us and sit on the lanai while we were in town. All in all a fantastic experience in a charming property.

Manager's Response

The location of the property is outstanding and it was super clean with all of the amenities you would need. The parking was secure however it was a bit confusing because the lockbox is at the unit versus being at a lock box site and then we had issues with the security key for the elevator but everything was quickly resolved. Walk to everything in downtown or just do what we did which was relax ever day on the comfortable sectional on the lanai. Honestly the lanai is what made this place for us. I was looking to reboot for next January but didn't see the calendar yet. You know you had a good vacation when you start losing track of days! Mahalo!

It's a very convenient little place - a bedroom, a small bathroom, a living room and a small kitchen, and a really nice covered balcony. There's AC in the living room, and ceiling fans in the bedroom, living room and balcony. Location is great- walking distance from shops/restaurants/kid-friendly beach, and driving distance to the airport and a variety of sites. This is a great place to stay for a couple or a family with a child.

Manager's Response

Good location, very clean, even the pots and pans were almost new. We didn't go there to watch TV but the control were awkward and not user friendly. I called management about the TV and when they arrived unannounced my wife said there was no problem, my bad, I hadn't told my wife that I complained so she sent the guy away when he came to assist with the TV. The AC was quiet and worked will. We have been to Kona several time and this location close to most of the restaurants, shopping, and pier area. Next time I might pay the extra for a better view. Knutson and associates could be a little more flexible about early arrivals, especially if the unit is empty a day or two prior to our arrival. We were mildly reprimanded for entering the unite 30 minutes early. Lots of rules, your visitors are on vacation, Aloha.

Manager's Response

We had a fantastic time on our vacation in this condo. The location is absolutely amazing, it’s right on the strip with all the shopping and restaurants. Super clean unit. The beach is a couple minute walk where the snorkeling was amazing, the condo was equipped with many snorkeling sets, beach chairs and boogie boards. The kitchen was stalked with all the cookware and utensils you could need. Thank you so much, highly recommend this condo.

Manager's Response

Very good. Condo was well maintained and very clean. Well stocked with anything we would need.

Manager's Response

The condo is in a great location - walking distance to wonderful restaurants, shopping, and the beach. What more do you need?! Quiet location, great amenities, and parking included. We had a great time in Kona - hope to come back soon!

Manager's Response

Very relaxing for my stay...home away from home. Good location, ac great, perfect size for 1-2 people. Quiet
and private.

Manager's Response

We had a wonderful week in Kona. This condo was within walking distance of many great restaurants, shopping and entertainment. The condo is well-stocked with all the beach items you need. (Nice beach chairs, snorkeling gear, bogie boards, sun umbrella and even a cooler)! Kona Plaza has one pool and two sun decks with barbeques. On one of the sun decks has a book library. There is also secure parking if you rent a car.

Manager's Response