The Dolphin Cottage at Kehena Beach

Location right next to a beautiful black sand beach.

I booked The Dolphin Cottage at Kehena Beach based on its high rating (9.3/10) and positive reviews, but after just one night, I cannot understand how this place has received such praise. It was a huge disappointment and, frankly, misleading. We were traveling as a family—two adults and our 6-year-old daughter—and arrived in the evening around 8 PM. Had we arrived earlier in the afternoon, we would have canceled immediately due to serious health concerns. From the moment we stepped in, it was clear something was off. All the windows were wide open, every fan was running, and a strong, pungent odor of cockroach spray filled the air. This wasn’t just routine pest control—it was obvious that the place had been recently treated for an infestation. We found cockroach droppings inside the cupboards, a can of roach spray under the sink, and even a live cockroach crawling around. To make matters worse, there were ants all over the apartment, adding to the overall filth and lack of proper upkeep. Speaking of filth—the cleanliness was unacceptable. The floor was disgusting—after wiping just a few inches with a damp cloth, it turned brown. There was visible dirt under the bed, and the entire place felt neglected and unsanitary. The strong chemical smell lingered throughout the night, making it difficult to breathe or sleep comfortably. I feel completely misled by the reviews, and I want to warn future guests: if you care about hygiene, safety, and an honest representation of a property, stay elsewhere. This place is NOT what it claims to be.

The location in front of the ocean, size of the house, parking in the property

If you are looking for dinner or shops is a little bit far from the areas, you have to drive some time to get to any store or restaurant. If you are looking for disconnection from crowds and noise it is perfect

It is just as advertised. Meets the expectations. We can tell the owner cares abt the property and the comfort of the guests. We enjoyed the sun rise from the beach across!

Nothing

Host is very considerate and response promptly! Close to the sea and environment is really nice. Have air condition!

Bathroom floor is a little slippery.

A lovely little cottage across the road from a black sand beach. Clean and comfortable. We only stayed one night but was a good stop point to explore the Puna coast. Good communication and easy to get in.

A little hard to spot in the dark. Sign was a bit over grown. But lovely once there. Wish could have stayed for longer!

The cottage was very cute and welcoming. It smelled very clean and was nice and cool upon arrival. I loved the balcony and view of the ocean.

The location was stunning. I wish we could have stayed longer. The owners were responsive and answered any questions I had.

The screen door was difficult to slide, but I did get it opened.

Cute little cottage right by the sea.

Tableware (plates, glasses, cutlery etc.) were rather scarce.

Views from the cottage. Proximity the beach. Nice and quiet surroundings.

For a family of 4 I should have gone for a bigger cottage.