We had a wonderful stay at Kristen's beach house! The gift basket and card were lovely touches and we felt welcomed and ready to relax, especially after the exhaustion of 14 plus hours of travel. The chocolate covered macadamia nuts were really delicious and appreciated.
It truly is steps to the beach out the back doors, and it was perfect for the kids to play all day in the sand and water while we played with them or watched from the back porch. Kristen is an amazing hostess and quickly responded to messages and questions. We had a minor disaster while on the island (not anything to do with the house!) and even though it was not her responsibility at all, she was incredibly helpful.
The house was very clean and well set up. Everything we could possibly need was available in the house, from an ironing board to a cappuccino maker, a counter top ice maker, pots and pans, and even springform cake pans, blender, food processor, toaster, etc.; snorkeling masks and beach toys, toiletries and laundry detergent (with wonderful, high tech stacked washer and dryer), spices and cooking ingredients, a printer, pens and paper, batteries, and plenty of beach towels. It was beautiful and peaceful, with comfortable beds and a/c (when needed), lots of pillows, and fluffy towels.
The beach was very quiet, and we saw maybe three or four other people a day walking or swimming. In December, the waves do come up close to the beach wall at high tide, but the majority of the day there's plenty of beach. The waves were small, just enough for kids to boogie board, because of fringe reefs quite a way out from the shore. It was very safe, with no strong breakers or current. It was excellent for swimming. We definitely hope to stay at Kristen's beach house our next visit to Oahu.
Mahalo, Kristen!