Aerial view

Reviews of HamCove Full Ocean View GolfCart,WIFI,BBQ,A/C,rare,Smart TV Pool,Gym,OceanClose!


Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 145 out of 185 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 24 out of 185 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 10 out of 185 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 185 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 4 out of 185 reviews" "

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jean C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great location! Great view!
We came for a long weekend of relaxation. Comfortable bed. Full kitchen. Dining table. Grill. Shared balcony. Ocean views from bedroom and den. The sunrises were spectacular! There are steps down from the street to get to the unit. Carrying heavy luggage could be problematic. The golf cart was a plus for getting down the hill into town, though we did walk it a few times. Lots to do on the island. My favorite was the falconry!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Liem L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful place!
This is a wonderful place! Full ocean beautiful view. We will book it again. The owner is super nice and helpful. We recommend it highly.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Douglas T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Absolute beautiful condo and setting!
Beautiful views and condo. Great communication with owner/host. Deffinately will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Dec 2023
Thank you for the great review!!! Having my personal cell phone(and assistant's) is a sure way to satisfy our guests the best we can. It's an island and things happen...unlike management companies that you can contact only 9 to 5pm and Not weekends we realize it's our desire and responsibility to ensure a magical stay and communication is key! You're welcome back anytime!

10/10 Excellent

Denny W.

Liked: Cleanliness
We will be back for sure!
Our stay was great and the view was fantastic! We look forward to staying again.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

8/10 Good

Ana M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great getaway
Condo was very nice and clean, had beautiful views , the entire complex looked like something from Greece,the bathroom had entrances from bedroom and living room which was good if there’s more than 2 people staying, There’s not a sofa bed in living room , it’s like a full size futon, there’s an air mattress and an expandable thin cushion to sleep in. I would of preferred a sofa bed tho. it is not walking distance to the town center we used the golf cart to go back and forth and when we arrived at the island we got a taxi to take us to the condo. If you use the golf cart very early in the morning, take some towels because the seats are going to be wet from the mist, there was a lot of fog the came from the ocean to the island you can see it from the balcony. Vons grocery store is close to the Main Street where all the shops and restaurants are at. FYI, restaurants are very expensive, get ready to pay unless you share. I found out the day I was leaving that the pool was heated. very grateful to Rich that offered a golf cart, but it sounded like it was time for an upgrade, we didn’t go to the top of the mountains for some panaramic pics because we weren’t sure if the cart was going to make it going so high up and we didn’t want it to stall on us. Overall it was a very nice getaway!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicholas O.

Liked: Cleanliness
TRULY AMAZING
This place is magical! Our host Richard was fantastic and replied quickly to any questions asked. The villa is INCREDIBLE and the ocean view is a truly beautiful sight! Thank you! We will be back
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sheldon S., Lafayette, Colorado USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Best Value in Hamilton Cove
This one bedroom (KING) was clearly one of the earlier units built (1971 to 1988 construction timeline for the development) yet displays an architectural design that was ahead of its time. It wears its age gracefully and the owner has priced it realistically to be one of the best bargains on the island. Like the unit, the golf cart is a vintage work of art (2007 Yamaha) that shows its age, but it was a “best friend” and highly reliable for us. Renters need to know there are 56 steps from street to front door, something we wanted as part of our daily exercise plan. The kitchen has every modern convenience you might need with updated large and small appliances. There is ample dishware and glasses for any need from morning coffee to evening cocktails or wine. Though we ate out each night during the JazzFest, one could easily cook and stay in here. The owner has a portable A/C unit which we never needed in mid-October. The TV is a modern Roku and the unit provides cable channel access to local, major news and sports programs in addition to streaming capabilities. We found this a cut above what we usually see in most rentals. WiFi signal is easy to access with good speed (50-70 mbps) and good 5G signal on our phones via Verizon. Master bedroom had a great (soft) mattress—we left the door open at night to hear the ocean waves. Finally, the views from the back (shared view) are timeless and memorable. We'd rent this unit again in a heartbeat.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bill F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Nice visit
Nice place to stay
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeremy H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place
Easy check in and check out. The property manager was responsive and fixed the Wi-Fi right away. No issues.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christina S.

A perfect island retreat
I stayed here with my 11 year old daughter. It was wonderful and very family friendly. We cooked dinner at home and really enjoyed hanging out on the balcony. Avalon was a perfect place for us and we enjoyed the ropes course, mini golf, and of course the arcade. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robin

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

Jennifer

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great property - loved the pool / jacuzzi/ put out mini golf / ocean access / beautiful views. Close to ropes course which our kids loved. Town of Avalon is amazing & has tons of great restaurants/ shops. Definitely recommend visiting the island & staying in Hamilton cove!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shannon S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Charmed!
We loved Hamilton Cove, pool, gym, jacuzzi, golf cart…. The amenities that make it all fun! Great communication with host.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott H., El Segundo, California

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing rental in Hamilton Cove
Second time staying at this rental and it’s as great as we remember it from 2019. Not sure why the rental has some bad reviews, the place is in excellent condition, amazing ocean views, well appointed with everything you need to make yourself feel at home. Appreciated the extra bedding so we could turn the Eurolounger into a bed for our our kids. Golf cart is super handy and a necessity if staying at Hamilton Cove. Views are spectacular and perfect for catching the sunrise or a glass of wine at sunset. Rich is a very attentive host and responds promptly to any texts. We’re definitely coming back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Angel C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Gorgeous Place.
As I opened the door to the condo I couldn’t believe my eyes. Pictures do no justice! Open spaces all around, with an amazing view of the crystal clear water. Easy access to beach, pool with great temperature and jacuzzi to unwind after a long day of fun activities. At night the serene sound of the waves is just magical. The view at night is something you will come back to in your memories very often….I enjoy cooking so having all the utensils and things I needed was a plus. All appliances worked perfectly. Owner is very responsive and accommodating which made our stay feel like a blessing and our departing transition very smooth. Golf cart is a real life saver it made our stay worry free! My only complaint is that I have a job, two kids and a labradoodle at home waiting for me so I have to leave! Till next time beautiful Hamilton Cove we had an amazing anniversary and we will definitely be back! “À bientôt”
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anita M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Hamilton Cove
Amazing view
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Thank you! With a Full, Unobstructed 180 degree view of the coastline,across the Pacific you can sometimes see the San Gabriel Mountains!!! And the Cove just below you :)

10/10 Excellent

David H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Villa
Beautiful place to stay with amazing views. Clean, safe place with lots of amenities. Will definitely book again for out next visit to the island.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Jun 2023
Thank you for the concise, nice review. The pictures of the view just can't do justice to the majestic color of the Pacific and serene nature of the early morning coast

10/10 Excellent

Ronda

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jane G.

Liked: Cleanliness
We will be back!!
My son & I stayed at Richard’s place for a few days over Thanksgiving. I was a little ‘nervous’ re: a really bad review, but Richard put my fears to rest in a very friendly manner. The villa was very clean with everything we needed- the golf cart is a BIG plus. Watching sunrise each morning is a true gift. Plenty of hot water, burners worked on stove - it’s just a fantastic place to stay for a holiday. We’re planning to be back next year.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 3 May 2023
Thank you for the wonderful, king words. As mentioned below, after some hard work and finding a guy to help...the previous issues have all been resolved...the ceiling( from Monster rains) is fixed and painted, bathtub reglazed, I personally installed a dishwasher, new fridge, new ceiling fans and remember, no other hosts I'm aware of in Hamilton Cove, have portable AC which is necessary on those HOT summer days.

10/10 Excellent

Joe R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Experience
Safe, convenient, quiet, relaxing and gorgeous views!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 3 May 2023
Thank you! Spot-On We are back to our great reviews after Post-pandemic employee issues and lack of repair people. It is ALWAYS our intention to make things as perfect as possible for all of our guests. Please check VRBO # 1049064 for availability and reviews too! same owner

6/10 Okay

Donna M.

Disliked: Cleanliness
Love the property owner and location. Lots of stairs-so be prepared.
Unit desperately needs a new bathtub/shower. Otherwise it is beautiful!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Nov 2022
After a VERY Busy summer the island is finally slowing down. It's accurate the the tub needs reglazing. Like the entire economy, finding workers to repair things has gotten difficult. In early December, I'll be going to fix All issues if I can't find the help and revamp everything The Villa and VIEW are Amazing so if you're planning to go in the future rest-assured everything will be back to beautiful

2/10 Terrible

Doreen E.

Disliked: Cleanliness
DON'T BOOK HERE!!!
The place was disgusting! I have photos to prove it. The walls were dirty of hand prints and foot prints and the light switched were sticky. The ceiling was falling in from some large water build up. The doors had seal failure so the view in the living room was obstructed. The floors were not cleaned and their was dog pee on the corners of the couch in living room. The sinks in the bathroom and tub would not drain and the top was chipping from the porcelain. The door lock on the front was a huge challenge too. The dishwasher was broken (he told us that day). The golf cart was the most outdated and frankly unsafe yet we had to drive all the way to get gas nonetheless. iThe outlets were missing a back plates and the whole place was very very grossly neglected. We did not even want to stay there and stayed away as much as possible. I informed the owner today as I was too troubled to let him know on our holiday and surely there was no way they could have fixed our issues...while we waited. The ceiling??? the plumbing? Horrific.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Nov 2022
This guest attempted to extort me by asking for money prior to her reviewing me. I told her that and refused to pay so I knew she'd put much effort into destroying me. She has grossly exaggerated issues. The ceiling does have an area like 5 x 5 inches of water damage that the HOA is to repair. She may have had a less than perfect maid job before her arrival although my asst on the island and I have done this for 7 years with nearly ALL 5 Stars. Thats why I asked her and all guests to make me aware of issues that can be addressed. I pay alot of money to the maids and hope and desire for them to do a perfect job. My asst has been asked to make sure the place is spotless and when I arrive in early December, any and all issues will be addressed, replaced or maintained. Please do not let one mean guest sway your opinion

10/10 Excellent

RENEE C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Island Paradise
Always a pleasure to stay here !!! We have booked this property more than once and I am certain we will stay here again. 😎
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

6/10 Okay

Neil G.

Needs some work/beautiful view
We have stayed at Hamilton Cove several times. As always, the view is beautiful. The positives of this property- -bed was comfortable -portable AC unit -again, the view The negatives- -ceiling had peeling paint. Doesn’t affect the stay per se, but does give a “run down” feeling -bathtub is peeling and needs to be reglazed. Same reason as above -walls are scuffed up and need painting or at least a good scrubbing -dishwasher had standing water and smelled(a problem a previous reviewer mentioned in June) -ant problem within a day -golf cart is old but functional. The plexiglass “windshield” is so scratched up and hazed that when the sun hits it visibility is near zero. Had me hunting for some plastic polish on the island to no avail. Pricing was the same as other units at which I have stayed, yet this one needs work the others didn’t. Host did accommodate an early check in(11am) for a fee which I appreciated and was happy to pay. The negatives mentioned are all easy, inexpensive fixes. Overall, a nice stay but with the price paid, one does not expect to encounter the negatives listed.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 3 May 2023
UPDATE!We did have a few issues back then( this is 5/3/23) Post-pandemic getting help has been a nightmare. But the ceiling is now perfect,the bathtub reglazed...No appliance guy on the entire island so I literally,bought,shipped and installed a brand new dishwasher. We listen to our reviews..we respond as quickly as possible. The work was done a couple of months ago . Everyone else has ceiling fans, but we have a portable AC and brand new ceiling fans( I had to install as well) to keep cool. The ants are a complex wide problem when it's HOT and we provide ant spray and many traps but ask guests to keep things clean and/or in the fridge( brand new as well)

10/10 Excellent

Mandi

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had an absolutely wonderful time and the communication from Owner was prompt and on point. Thank you for hosting us. We would definitely book again.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

8/10 Good

Carl S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful view and nice quiet Abs outta the way
The property is awesome. Richard had a portable ac unit in the living room which was a life saver being it was 101 for one of the days. Property needs a little TLC but The owner says he plans on doing some work this off season to get it fixed up. He was extremely communicative and helpful when needed. And was a pleasure to work with. I would recommend renting here.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

8/10 Good

Pilar E.

The Condo
The condo was not as clean as I would have liked. Ants were in the bathroom. The tub and shower were not clean or the closet area. I had to do some reorganizing to actually use the closet. Other than that the view and location was really nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

8/10 Good

Ruthie P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing view!
Amazing view! Great communication:)
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

2/10 Terrible

JoDee V.

Disliked: Cleanliness
This property is in need of attention by owner. Peeling paint on ceiling, bathtub need resealing .
Barstools on patio seat fabric ripped and screws exposed,.covered up with separate cushions, if you sat to enjoy the beautiful view for much time you could feel the chair was not comfortable. chair cushions at dining room table dirty and stained. Bathroom left sink no stopper. Right sink stopped up when water running: some dishes in cupboard were not clean. We had friend staying in a beautiful unit below us and that was the saving grace of the weekend. We enjoyed there Patio and balcony. And their unit had a newer bigger 4 seater golf cart that we went into Avalon in. Our golf cart was old and we did not feel it was safe to leave the property in. We never heard from the owner or property manager after check in. We would never stay in that unit again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Aug 2022
Once discovered that a previous guest ruined the Outdoor barstools constantly beat up by the ocean air, we replaced ASAP and are now Brand new,Table top too. All issues are addressed as quickly as possible, but this is an island and sometimes things get complicated. The maids have been spoken to again, but this guest failed to mentioned we got her to Checkin Early, she told me how beautiful the villa was.......so once she settled in, knowing she has my personal cell #, I didn't think it necessary to contact her as our understanding is, if there's an issue to contact me....do you really want the Hotel front desk checking on you daily? See other reviews....I guide my guests in,then leave them to enjoy their stay....other statements have been exaggerated as other reviews will attest

8/10 Good

John M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Pretty good overall.
A broken dishwasher and tv remote made the trip a bit less, but the view and location made you forget about it.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Jul 2022
We always appreciate the review and for future guests as soon as we realize there's a problem, we address it. The remote was replaced immediately with an Amazon purchase. The dishwasher is 2 years old, replaced when a guest broke the doorhandle...Since our villa is on an island, we are at the mercy of the very busy repairman, but fix ALL issues as quickly as possible...And YES, the View should make you forget little distractions

6/10 Okay

jill R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Hamilton Cove Condo Review
We had stayed in Hamilton Cove previously and love the location. The condo we stayed in this time has not been well maintained. The bath tub needs to be replaced and the ceiling in the living room needs repair. The picture of the golf cart on the listing was deceptive as it looked really nice but the one for the condo is not. The balcony is not private like the unit we leased last year. We loaded the dishwasher to clean our dishes before we left and could not get it to work. The host was nice but for the price we paid for the condo ( which comes out to over 700 a night when you add in all the fees) I would think they could do a better job of maintaining this unit!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Aug 2022
Yes, the View is Unmatched and pictures do not do it justice. The bathtub needs to be resealed, but being so booked, busiest summer ever, we will do it ASAP when there's a break. The HOA is/was to fix the ceiling and is short on staff. The dishwasher is 2 years old and a guest managed to break it...and my asst can't find anyone on the island to fix it...Nobody...an Island thing...so again, shortage of staff post-pandemic. We try to make the condo as nice as possible, but fight an uphill battle with guests not treating the place like it's their own. as far as the rate, compare the managed condos at $1,000 a night with No flexibility and good luck contacting them outside of business hours( and no weekends)

10/10 Excellent

Veronica W., Redondo Beach

Liked: Cleanliness
Views
Prime balcony location. Beautiful views. Loved the use of the golf cart.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bradley H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful View
Hamilton Cove is a must stay location for Catalina Island. The views are amazing. The grounds are well kept and the amenities are in great condition. This condo does need a little updating. The plaster is pealing in the main room. The kitchen appliances are old and the master bathtup needs to be replaced. We would stay here again, but in a different condo.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

David A., Southbridge

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place to stay!
The view was beautiful and really appreciated the golf cart. The management was easy to get a hold of and very accommodating.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael N.

Liked: Cleanliness
birthday
great place in Catalina
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Strela

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Views are stunning. We walked down to the beach which felt very private. Rich communicated very timely via text, even asking if we made it to the home safely concerned about wind conditions. All the locals travel by golf cart, and to have the golf cart included with the stay was a bonus that we didn't even know we needed.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Scott M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful ocean view
I had only been to Catalina on a cruise, so I didn't see much the first time. Hamilton Cove is an amazing place to stay in Catalina. It is a short golf cart ride from town, which ends up being a huge bonus. If you want to be secluded, Hamilton Cove is for you. This Condo was nice but it has the most perfect view of the ocean from the balcony, bedroom, and living room. It is really amazing, to have a beautiful ocean view with the sounds of wave throughout the condo. The bed is very comfortable. The kitchen is well stocked to cook at home. I only have two complaints, the bathroom is decent but mostly a basic bathroom with two sinks. The stairs aren't awesome. It is 55 steps from the road, not a deal breaker but be aware. Richard and his gal on the island were incredible, very helpful, and responsive. I would highly recommend this condo and if I go back, we'll be staying there again.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022

8/10 Good

Jackie S.

Beautiful views
Helpful host. Beautiful views. Comfortable bed. In need of maintenance.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Marina F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful view.
The view from this unit is unbeatable. The location of the complex is off the beaten path which is lovely. Access to the golf cart was awesome. Both the unit and golf cart have deferred maintenance. It is also important to note that there are stairs to the unit, perhaps 40-50 stairs. Totally manageable for able adults but would be difficult with a stroller, older people or less able adults.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sanchez F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Best relaxing place to stay
The best relaxing place ever you can leave a door or window open and hear the ocean a very beautiful place have breakfast or dinner on the patio with a view of the ocean.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Vesha W.

Liked: Cleanliness
great place
very easy check-in!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kristy S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Thank you we had a wonderful time and it was beautiful for our 20 yr anniversary
Wonderful quiet relaxing place
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sanchez F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Just you and an ocean getaway
Being able to meditate with nature from the bedroom is by far the BEST benefit of the place. Rich has a very personable relationship hosting from the moment you book until you leave. He was always prompt with a response. The place was clean and came with most condiments you will need to cook with. Ex. Salt pepper etc. If not there is a grocery store available close by that you can get to on the golf cart that also comes with the stay. Just check the gas before you drive so you don't have to fill up when you arrive and when you leave. The unit was very clean and in place. Although it rained every day during our stay we were able to enjoy meals on the balcony overlooking the beautiful ocean. I brought a bath bomb to relax in the tub but was unable to use it there. Overall the stay was just amazing. To hear the ocean and no cars, Rich has the best view for an amazing budget. I hope he invites us each time we come. His place stands out. Very satisfying.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Joni F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place
We have stayed at this property multiple times. The owner is very accommodating. Views are AWESOME!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Santiago

Travelled with partner
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
great view great place
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

8/10 Good

Betty S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stairs
My partner and I are older, and several flights of stairs were almost too much for us
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Donna C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Spectacular View!
Richard, our host, communicated with us every step of the process making for a true relaxing experience. The view from the living room, terrace and bedroom was simply SPECTACULAR! We will return for sure, as there are still many more things to do that time didnt allow for. 3 nights is not enough! :)
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Ruth

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was the most relaxing getaway ever!! Everything that was promised was delivered!!! A great place to refresh your life and attitude. Can’t wait to come back
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

6/10 Okay

George E.

57 Steps Down from Plaza Azul
TV system was great, but otherwise, whole place could use some attention. No need to get into details, but . . .just saying! Host was great, easy to talk to, but probably won't stay again due to the climb! Thanks
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Gerald d., HENDERSONVILLE

Liked: Cleanliness
Paradise
Thank you Rich and family for sharing your vacation home. Beautiful view! Weekend was too short, will be back soon. Cheers
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021