The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe" | House in Kailua-Kona

10.0 (176 Reviews) |   3 Bedrooms  2 Bathrooms  6 Guests
Kailua-Kona House | The Onion House "Architecture so full of life it seems to breathe"

The Onion House: Architecture So Full of Life It Seems to Breathe

Welcome to The Onion House, an exceptional architectural gem originally designed for the McCormick Spice family. This remarkable residence is not just a place to stay; it's a vibrant experience that has caught the attention of major networks, including MTV, the Travel Channel, and HGTV, as well as prestigious publications like Architectural Digest and Global Architecture Magazine.

You will enjoy exclusive access to the entire house, complete with a sprawling lot enveloped by lush foliage, ensuring your privacy while you soak in the sun or take a refreshing dip in the expansive 70' (unheated) pool. Delight in the tranquility of beautifully manicured gardens and serene lily ponds. The terrace offers picturesque views of breathtaking sunsets over Kailua Bay, creating a romantic ambiance perfect for candlelit dinners.

The home's innovative design features translucent roofs and stained glass walls that filter sunlight through the living spaces. The detached master suite includes a private walled garden, enhancing your stay's intimacy. A covered outdoor walkway connects you to the master bedroom, flanked by tranquil lily ponds and the inviting turquoise pool overlooking the sea.

Set on nearly an acre of lush grounds, The Onion House is just a five-minute drive from local beaches and town. It's an ideal launching point for your adventures across the stunning Big Island. For more details about your stay, be sure to visit our personal website and check out the page titled "Vacation at the Onion House."

Please note that this unique property is best suited for smaller groups of 2-4 guests and is not recommended for children under 12 or for individuals with mobility challenges due to certain limitations. For families traveling with younger children, we advise considering alternative accommodations. Each guest beyond two incurs an additional fee of $25 per person per day, detailed clearly in your booking confirmation.

We adhere strictly to the vacation rental regulations established by the County of Hawai'i. The Onion House holds an official license and complies with all common-sense rules that ensure a pleasant stay:

  • Quiet hours are observed from 9:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m., ensuring peace for adjacent neighbors.
  • Sound must remain within residential area norms during non-quiet hours.
  • All vehicles should be parked in the designated onsite parking area.
  • Commercial use is not permitted on the premises.

Your peaceful Hawaiian getaway awaits at The Onion House. Experience architecture that feels alive and engage with the beauty of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

STVR Registration Number: STVR-19-361289
Nonconforming Use Certificate Number: NUC-19-1205
Hawaii State Tax ID # GE-157-258-9568-01, TAT: T-157-258-9568

Where to Stay in Kailua-Kona: Experience the Unique Onion House

When considering where to stay in Kailua-Kona, you will discover a charming coastal town on Hawaii's Big Island, renowned for its stunning ocean views, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant community. Nestled between the majestic Mauna Kea volcano and the inviting blue waters of Kailua Bay, Kailua-Kona is famous for its ideal climate, historical sites like the Hulihee Palace, and exhilarating outdoor adventures. A distinctive accommodation option in this paradise is the Onion House, a remarkable architectural treasure created for the McCormick Spice family. This luxurious abode boasts captivating stained glass and translucent walls that allow natural light to dance throughout the space, providing guests with a unique, serene experience, as well as privacy within its lush grounds. Featured across multiple renowned channels such as MTV and Architectural Digest, the Onion House truly embodies an escape into beauty and tranquility.

Your stay at the Onion House places you just five minutes from downtown attractions and pristine beaches, making it a perfect base camp for exploring the best of the island. Enjoy the breathtaking sunsets from the terrace overlooking Kailua Bay, or venture out for unforgettable experiences nearby. Whether it's snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay, hiking through the lush trails of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, or indulging in local cuisine at nearby restaurants, your adventure awaits just moments from your doorstep. After a day of exploration, return to the Onion House's expansive 70-foot pool, lily ponds, and private gardens, ensuring that your Hawaiian getaway remains both intimate and rejuvenating.

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Kailua-Kona, 96740, USA

Amenities

ParkingParking
PoolPool
TVTV
ViewView
Private PoolPrivate Pool
Ocean ViewOcean View
Balcony/TerraceBalcony/Terrace
OceanfrontOceanfront
Security/SafetySecurity/Safety
Bedding/LinensBedding/Linens
Wellness FacilitiesWellness Facilities
EntertainmentEntertainment
Barbecue/Outdoor CookingBarbecue/Outdoor Cooking
Child FriendlyChild Friendly
InternetInternet
KitchenKitchen
LaundryLaundry

Policies

Check-in
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 pm minimum check-in age: 12
Check-out
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 am
Child Policy
Child Policy
This property does not allow children. note from host: no children under 12 due to safety concerns.
Pet Policy
Pet Policy
Pets not allowed
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 host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited property registration number 3770090520000, ta-157-258-9568-01, ge-157-258-9568-01 safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed this property is managed through our partner, vrbo. you will receive an email from vrbo with a link to a vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
License number: 3770090520000, TA-157-258-9568-01, GE-157-258-9568-01

Reviews

Mary Kay P.
Jan 19, 2026 04:35:34 AM
Review Score:   10
Summary: Exquisite house with glimmers of creative genius large and small everywhere you look. We splurged for our 35 wedding anniversary victory lap. Thank goodness this was a 2nd trip to this island and we didn’t feel tourist driven. We wanted for nothing but a local grocery, occasion beach day or restaurant, a trip to see the volcano spew and the ONION HOUSE. I never wanted to leave. Be prepared to live in a masterpiece of art surrounded by nature. Magical! and STFUMahalo to the angels and owners for your stewardship and sharing this magnificent home with us.
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FAQ's

Is this Kailua-Kona house pet-friendly for guests?

No, pets are not allowed at this property. Check the guest reviews to learn what guests had to share.

Does the Kailua-Kona house have a swimming pool?

Yes, this Kailua-Kona house has a swimming pool. Check the Facility Overview section for details about the pool and other available facilities.

How much does it cost per night to stay in Kailua-Kona house?

Best-rates for the Kailua-Kona house starts from $959 per night with includes Private Pool, Oceanfront, Wellness Facilities, Laundry, Bedding/Linens, Child Friendly, Parking, View, Ocean View, Security/Safety, Internet, TV, Balcony/Terrace, Entertainment, Kitchen, Barbecue/Outdoor Cooking, Pool with all amenities included. HawaiiVillas pairs each traveler with their ideal accommodation, whether traveling with a group, family, friends, or pets.

Is Kailua-Kona house a family-friendly place to stay?

Based on the information we have received from the owner or our partner, this is considered to be a family-friendly property. Families have rated this house good or guests have recommended them suitable for families. As reported by the owner or manager, the house has specified that children are welcome. Please see details about suitability for your family or inquire with the property to learn more.

Is the Kailua-Kona house wheelchair accessible or offer services for disabled guests?

Based on the information received from our partner, the Kailua-Kona house has not specified they are wheelchair accessible. Likewise, there is not an elevator specified as being available at the property. Specific accessibility details may be addressed in the property details section of this page.

What is the minimum night stay policy for the Kailua-Kona house?

Based on the information reported by the owner or manager, the Kailua-Kona house indicates 1 day stay policy at this house. Guests are cautioned that the minimum stay policy may differ based on seasonality or availability and may be at the discretion of the owner or manager.

What cancellation policy is in place for Kailua-Kona house?

Based on the information reported by the owner or manager, details for the cancellation policy for the Kailua-Kona house are as follows: Cancellation policy Guests are cautioned that the cancellation policy may differ based on seasonality, availability, or current travel restrictions. Guests should also be aware that this policy may be subject to change and should be confirmed prior to booking. More details may be available on this page in the property description. However, early check-in or late check-out can sometimes be negotiated between the guest and the owner or the manager of this property.

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