Let me start by saying that I rented this Beach House from Joseph last year (2019) and my family and I had an amazing time. I decided to rent it again this year (2020) and assumed it would be just as amazing but unfortunately it turnt out to be terrible.
First off, there are at least 5 security cameras on the exterior parts of the house (with the capability of listening to your conversations). 3 Motion Detectors inside the house (possible hidden cameras) and a Security System that informs the host every time a door is opened or closed. Needless to say, there is no sense of privacy. Joseph claims this is for the safety and protection of his guest but in actuality he uses then to monitor and police his guest every move. He will not hesitate to call/text you at the slightest deviation.
The house is equipped with a beautiful balcony overlooking the ocean but you will not be able to enjoy it. As soon as you step out on to it, 2 floodlight cameras with very bright lights will turn on taking you by surprise. So gazing at the stars at night will be difficult knowing someone is definitely watching you and possibly listening as well. In fact, it deterred us from going on the balcony at all.
Secondly, I was scheduled to check in at 4pm and did not check in until 630pm. I was not offered any monetary reimbursement or even a late check out; which would have been fair in my opinion.
Thirdly, in the back of the house there is a beautiful Beach Park under the jurisdiction of the City and County, open for public use on a first come, first serve basis. My family and I had an event there. Joseph insisted it was in his house and at his listing when in all honesty, it was in the park, which he has no say over. In fact I directed my elderly parents and other family members to use the park restroom in fear that he would complain of them even using the restroom.
Being that I am from the island, I informed Eric (co-host) that our guest will be coming in and out due to their work schedules. Not all guest would stay every night. There was never a time that 15 guest (which is the maximum) stayed overnight. Yet, Joseph charged me the maximum every day. I was asked to modify the reservation, which I had no problem paying for guest “staying” per night. But this was not the case. Expect that you will be charged even if your guest come for two hours and then leave.
Lastly, 5 family members were sitting outside on the patio table chatting, having a few cocktails and listening to music at a very low level. Joseph texted me, demanded I have my guest leave, be 100% quiet or he would call the police. Expect to be “100% quiet” at all times or you will be scolded, threatened to call the police or even kicked out.
In closing, this is a beautiful Beach House no doubt about that, but not worth the price or the headache. Expect your host to be fussy and overly finicky with his restrictions leaving no room for breathing. Definitely not the true experience of ALOHA..