Sometimes it can be so difficult to tell whether a particular Airbnb will meet your needs and expectations. You can read reviews, spend time on TripAdvisor, and even use Google Earth to help make an informed decision. We had never been to Kauai (or Hawaii for that matter) so the process was a little daunting.
We were initially drawn to Margaret's place because of it's central (east side) location and close proximity to the 4-mile Kauai Multiuse Path (Ke Ala Hele Makalae trail). We also thought the photos of the apartment, with its abundance of Hawaiian art decorating the walls, would be a fun place to stay.
What these photos did not convey is just how beautiful the grounds are and how fantastic the staff is. The entire complex (including our apartment) is meticulously maintained and has such a peaceful, artistic vibe. Every night the parking area (which offered a great view of Sleeping Giant!) was filled with cars, yet we rarely saw or heard anyone. It felt like we were staying in some quaint villa on the outskirts of town, yet we were literally a block from Kuhio Hwy (which is really just "Main Street" as it runs through Kapa'a town) and another block or so to beaches and a ton of shops/restaurants.
The apartment itself was PERFECT for our week on Kauai. The place was sparkling clean, well maintained, and had everything we needed. The bed was super comfortable, there was always hot water for showering, everything in the kitchen worked as it should, and there was even fresh fruit/coffee when we checked in. Oh, and two giant beach towels! We also took full advantage of the many free-to-use bicycles, beach chairs, umbrella, and laundry facilities during our stay.
My review would be incomplete if I didn't mention Margaret's right-hand man Arnold. Arnold and his wife Ida (who we didn't have the pleasure of meeting) handle the day-to-day running of the complex. They live on-site and obviously take great pride in making their guests feel at home. Arnold has a great sense of humor and was more than happy to answer questions about life on Kauai.
With so much to see and do around the island, I wish there would have been more time to simply chill at the complex. While we were there, however, it was a peaceful (yet vibrant) space to come home to every day. If we are ever lucky enough to return to Kauai, I hope we are able stay at Margaret's place again!