Oceanfront Cottage in Scenic 'Old Hawaii' - Off-Grid, solar-powered property.

Pahoa · Big Island · 2 bedrooms · 1 bathrooms · Sleeps 4 · 10.0/10 · 175 reviews

Rental Details

Property Overview

The Original Rainbow Dreams Cottage - with a spectacular oceanfront view - is the only vacation rental so close to the ocean on the scenic Old Red Road (Rural Route 137) in the small village of Opihikao. The cottage is Off-Grid with limited (ATT & Cricket) only cell service.

Situated on the beautiful Puna Coast of the Big Island amidst a majestic 'king's-grove' of coconut palms, the cottage faces directly on the Pacific Ocean with stunning, 180-degree views framed thru palms and native, mahogany trees. Set within a tropical garden planted with over 100 coconut palms, exotic fruits and the fragrance of tropical flowers, this cottage is simply the best rental in the area.

Inside this private home is a new kitchen and bathroom with tropical decor and vintage koa wood, mahogany and bamboo furnishings. The cottage is set up with everything you need - a well-appointed kitchen, one full bath, an extra outside shower for washing off after the beach, and two bedrooms with queen beds and plenty of closet space. All rooms have windows to let the natural trade-winds in, and there is a front porch and a screened lanai on the side to enjoy the balmy air.

Rainbow Dreams Cottage is the perfect eco-retreat, where you can really get away from it all. We are entirely solar-powered, so alternative energy serves your needs with a few limitations to this rental. Because we are off the grid, there is limited cell service (2 bars) and no WiFi - just the beauty and the power of nature, and the sights and sounds of the ocean. Also, we have catchment water from the rain, so we advise using bottled water, or free Pahoa town water available at roadside taps, for cooking and drinking. Full-grid services are just minutes away, up the road or in the nearby town of Pahoa.

With a direct view of the ocean, you may spend your whole vacation simply gazing at the waves, yet the cottage is the perfect base for exploring the unique nature and culture of the Big Island. All along the coast in the Puna District, you will discover special places to explore, from scenic parks to sheltered coves. Three miles from the cottage is exotic Kehena Black Sand Beach, and two miles in the other direction is MacKenzie State Park, where steep lava cliffs form a rugged shore.

Hilo is the largest town on the Big Island with a quaint Old Town that features historic architecture, specialty shops, many restaurants, and nearby attractions, including Rainbow Falls, Banyan Drive, Lili'uokalani Gardens, and the "singing bridge' across the Wailuku River, to name a few.

Volcanoes National Park, is a major attraction, and the improved Saddle Road in between Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea Mountains is both scenic and convenient, connecting between our cottage and the Kona side of the island in a 2.5-hour drive.

Registration Number: TA-138-334-6176-01, GE-138-334-6176-01, 3130020930000

Rental FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is this vacation rental located?
  • City: Pahoa (postal 96778) Hawaii

Nearby highlights

  • Location: Pahoa, HI (Kalapana Sea View Estates – Opihikao – 0.63 km to center), United States
  • Near a health or beauty spa
  • Near a zoo
  • On the waterfront
How many bedrooms and bathrooms does it have?

2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom.

How many guests can it sleep?

This rental sleeps up to 4 guests.

What amenities are available?
  • Cottage
  • 100% renewable energy
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Eco friendly cleaning products used
  • Property does not allow children
  • Recycling
  • Reusable coffee/tea filters
  • Unit size: 900 sq ft (84 sq m)
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided
  • Outdoor shower
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Water dispenser
  • Near laundromat
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Lanai / balcony
  • Car required
  • Onsite parking
  • Free Parking
  • Kitchen
  • Living Area
  • No Smoking
  • Outdoor Hot tub / space
  • Toys
What should I know about check-in?
  • Check in starts at 3:00 PM
  • Check out before 10:30 AM
  • Minimum check in age: 25
  • Check in time starts at 3:00 PM
  • You will receive an email from the host with check in and check out instructions
  • Government issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check in for incidental charges
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
  • Property Registration Number TA 138 334 6176 01, GE 138 334 6176 01
  • Property Registration Number TA 138 334 6176 01, GE 138 334 6176 01, 3130020930000
What are the house rules and policies?
  • Pets not allowed
  • This property does not allow children.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
What are popular things to do nearby and on Big Island?
  • Cave exploring nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Farming classes
  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Horse riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Surfing/body boarding nearby
  • Water sports equipment
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Location: Pahoa, HI (Kalapana Sea View Estates – Opihikao – 0.63 km to center), United States
  • Near a health or beauty spa
Do I need a rental car on Big Island, and what about parking?

A rental car may not be required for every stay, but transportation needs depend on your arrival airport, activities and how much of the island you plan to explore. Parking notes: Car required, Onsite parking.

What kind of rental is this?

This is a cottage rental.

Is the Check Availability button the official booking link?

The button opens the partner listing page where you can review final rates, fees, availability, policies and booking details.

Guest Reviews

Reviews

Catherine C.10.0/10
Jan 23, 2026

The Rainbow Dreams Cottage NEVER disappoints! I’ve had the privilege to stay here on other occasions with a girlfriend. We always treasured our time here. This time I brought my husband. I was worried that he would prefer to have wifi and cell coverage. He was a bit sceptical before we checked in. However, as we sat in the main room on our first night, the room lit with candles, the windows open to let in the warm breeze, listening to the coqui frogs and crickets, the waves crashing against the rooks across the road… he turned to me and said, “this is magical!” He is a fan! The cottage had everything we needed. It was comfortable and quiet (except for the waves). It is very well-maintained, thoughtfully appointed, and the hosts are very communicative and helpful. Read the host’s description - it is detailed and informative. While it is located off the beaten path, the privacy and serenity are well worth the short drive to restaurants and groceries. The village of Pahoa has some great dining options and there are delicious smoothies down the road in Kalapana. There is lots to explore or just hang out on the lanai at the cottage and read. If you prefer to make your own meals, the kitchen has been updated and has what you will need.If you are looking for a peaceful and beautiful part of Hawaii to get-away and recharge, the Rainbow Dreams Cottage is for you! Thank you David and Clay for sharing your little slice of paradise!

Alan H.10.0/10
Nov 9, 2025

Such an amazing, relaxing place. Still just as charming as our first visit. We’ll be back soon!

Terry W.8.0/10
Nov 2, 2025

Lovely location! The cottage was very comfy. I would recommend more lighting in the kitchen and a microwave.It was fun exploring this side of Island. Mahalo

John H.10.0/10
Oct 23, 2025

It was amazing, everything we expected and more. Was very peaceful. We cant wait to stay again.

Richard T.10.0/10
Oct 18, 2025

It was beautiful and quiet. Having no WiFi was a plus. We saw turtles and dolphins while sitting on the beach across the quiet street. The location was amazing - loved it.

Phillip P.10.0/10
Oct 1, 2025

A very unique and wonderful location.

MARGARET B.10.0/10
Sep 22, 2025

Perfect in every way.

Oliver H.10.0/10
Sep 8, 2025

This was such a fantastic off-grid getaway. If you enjoy the sound of crashing waves against the rocky cliffs 24/7, living in the jungle with fresh fruit trees and coconut trees, and hearing the sound of evening rain showers from the topical climate, then this is the place for you. My fiancé and I booked this 9 months in advance to go visit the Volcanoes National park (which is less than 45min away) and got to see Kilauea erupting!Also, booking well in advance will save you money as most hotels in the local area cost more than this vacation rental.

Barbara W.10.0/10
Jul 21, 2025

May be one of the best places I’ve stayed at. I was able to relax, and feel at peace. The cottage was comfortable, clean and had a well set up kitchen, three lanai and lovely decor. The beauty of the surroundings was wonderful; trees, plants, ocean, and our own good luck gecko:). The owners were kind and respectful of our time there. Putting my phone away for a bit, other than taking photos also increased my joy. Thank you David and ClayWe hope to be back again soon!

Jim L.10.0/10
Jun 20, 2025

Nice! Everything was as described.

Pam R.10.0/10
Jun 10, 2025

This was an ideal vacation stay to shut out the world. It is the best vacation i have had. The house is amazing.

Jacqueline W.10.0/10
May 29, 2025

We had an amazing stay. Lovely hosts and adorable cottage. It was located at the best location and had such charm! Would highly recommend!!

david m.10.0/10
May 17, 2025

Perfect hawaii

Dave h.10.0/10
May 2, 2025

This is the first time we ever stayed in an off-grid house. It was easier than we thought it was going to be it was actually really nice to be unplugged from everything. No television set no problem!. No cell service no problem

Joly & Ingo Hoffmann /.10.0/10
Apr 11, 2025

We loved the house and its close setting to the shore, where you could see sunrise, big waves, dolfins and turtles. The area of rainforest and fresh lava fields is amazing. So spend a few more nights on Big Island and visit that spot! Its absolutely worth it.

Charles M.10.0/10
Apr 5, 2025

Off the beaten path and peaceful. We enjoyed the views and the property was beautiful. Very clean and well supplied with what you need. Will come back here if ever on the island again.

Gordon F.10.0/10
Mar 23, 2025

When you want to come back agai n afrer staying at Rainbow cottage twice that says alot! Beautiful cottage and a perfect escape!

Susan S.10.0/10
Mar 22, 2025

Each time we stay here, we book a longer period and spend more time on the lanai, watching the waves come crashing in. This is the most restful place you can imagine. It IS off the grid, so you have time to get over the twitch of social media withdrawal. An extraordinary place.

William G.10.0/10
Feb 28, 2025

This was our fourth trip to rainbow dreams and it never disappoints.This is a great location with a fantastic view of the ocean. This time around, we did discover the sea turtles out front. They’ve probably been there every time before.

Tonya D.10.0/10
Feb 26, 2025

We've been staying at this cottage for years now and keep returning because it's simply the best way to de-stress, put yourself into a slower timeframe, admire the beauty and creativity God used to create the world and visit our favorite "place" in Hawai'i.The improvements the owners have made over the years are subtle (it was already pretty great) but shows us how much they value this property and treat guests as they would treat their own friends. Loving the new shower (in addition to the outdoors one!) but here's the alert that the water is much warmer during daylight hours (duh!).Cleanliness is top-notch, property upkeep is solid and we always appreciate the small touches such as fresh, wild-grown flowers filling the little vases. I truly hate to write such a glowing review because I'm afraid it'll mean less "available" days here for us, but my conscience pricks me to do so regardless... :DA quick note: I've heard that there *is* now spotty cellphone coverage in the area, but both of us have Verizon and the coverage was still unavailable nearby; no problem at all because it's what we anticipated. You might have coverage if you have AT&T, I heard from a neighbor.Here's hoping the cottage is waiting for us the next time we are fortunate enough to plan a trip to Hawai'i. Thanks, guys, for the hard work keeping this place great!

Karen S.10.0/10
Feb 9, 2025

This is an amazing off grid property, it is the most relaxing place we have ever stayed. To just sit on lanai and watch the water is the best. Super clean and hosts are very welcoming.

Susan R.10.0/10
Jan 27, 2025

The location, property, owners and overall spirit of Rainbow Cottage made my stay one of the most perfect get-aways. Spend your days exploring Puma district or sit on the deck studying the waves and sunrises. Read, paint, play games, discover new fruits and take advantage of David and Clay’s knowledge of the history and quiet places of Opihikao.

Cody w.10.0/10
Dec 31, 2024

My wife and 20 yo daughter stayed here with me for 4 nights. I’m actually in mourning right now as I write this from Maui because we miss everything about the little cottage. I’m gonna go out on a limb here and say that this place facilitated my most successful down regulation ever. We cooked most meals in the cottage’s kitchen and spent hours on the deck watching the surf and waving at the occasional passerby on the old highway. This place feels ocean front even though there’s a small and very underused 2 lane road between the cottage and the ocean. The place sits up higher than the road so it’s barely noticed. Loved all of it. We’ll be back.

Frantisek T.10.0/10
Dec 18, 2024

The cottage is unique by its location and environment. Highly recommended to everyone who wishes to spend quiet quality time off the grid. The black sand beaches and thermal pools nearby are amazing.

Jay P.10.0/10
Nov 17, 2024

This is a wonderful off the grid property away from all the hustle and bustle. The ocean views are spectacular. You can just wander a few hundred feet to enjoy the ocean and all the sea life. The grounds are well kept with an abundance of fresh fruit. The lack of Internet was a great reprieve from daily life. The unit is very well appointed with plenty of areas to relax and it has just enough modern conveniences.

Alan H.10.0/10
Nov 15, 2024

Excellent environment and atmosphere. A breath of the earth when it was young.

Karen S.10.0/10
Nov 9, 2024

This is an amazing house, 2nd time staying here, absolutely love this place, just across from ocean, great views and can go to sleep with sound of the ocean

Lisa C.10.0/10
Oct 30, 2024

Just finished our second visit to Rainbow Dreams Cottage and it was absolutely wonderful! The cottage is beautifully decorated and immaculate. It has everything you need for a relaxing stay from comfortable beds and linens to a lovely kitchen. You can’t find another spot along the Puna coast with this incredible ocean view! Can’t wait for our next visit!

Ann T.10.0/10
Oct 22, 2024

We loved this cottage for many reasons. We renewed our vows a couple of miles from the house at a spot we found on our honeymoon 15 years ago. It was perfect to stay on the red road with its amazing views and ocean. The cottage was well furnished with good beds and appliances. Some of the lights did not work, but the candles were handy for the evenings. The breezes cooled the house pretty well, but a heat activated fan (non-electric) in the ceiling would be a great addition. It was perfectly private and we would return here in a heartbeat.

Gerhard D.10.0/10
Oct 14, 2024

This was our second stay at this beautiful property in a stunning location. We hope to return again.

Carol F.10.0/10
Sep 19, 2024

After reading the reviews, we decided to book our entire 10-day trip at the Rainbow Cottage. It was the most wonderful place we have ever stayed in. Being “off the grid” was delightful. Having no cell or internet service allowed us to totally disconnect and be present. Each night the waves and coqui frogs lulled us to sleep. As we drank our coffee in the morning, we sat and looked at the ocean while eating fresh coconut, papaya, and starfruit from trees on the property. We traveled to all parts of the island on most days, but the highlight of the trip was sitting on the cottage’s lanai and seeing spinner dolphins dancing. What an amazing sight. David and Clay’s communication was excellent and everything about the cottage is well thought out for simplicity and ease. We hope to stay again soon. Thank you for sharing your amazing place with us!

Diane M.8.0/10
Sep 13, 2024

Just as the title said. Unfortunately due to the lack of any Wi-Fi or cell service we are not able to stay again. If there was a medical emergency there would be no easy way to get help. Exceptional property otherwise!

Stephanie B.10.0/10
Sep 8, 2024

This was the best rental we've ever stayed in. The location can't be beat and the views from all angles of the property were amazing. Couldn't recommend this place more and will absolutely be back.

Laurie E.10.0/10
Jul 31, 2024

We enjoyed our stay

Elizabeth L.10.0/10
Jul 5, 2024

Thank you for sharing your beautiful cottage. The views of the ocean from the deck through the mahogany trees is spectacular while the well- designed interior, with its large windows all over, is a pleasant place to relax. The beds were very comfortable. We enjoyed the birds-even saw a Hawaiian hawk! Too bad about those noisy coqui frogs…but they are everywhere on the island. We really enjoyed all the information you had in your binder about the local volcanoes. Fascinating!

Laura N.10.0/10
Jun 30, 2024

Rainbow Dreams Cottage is a gem. I can’t wait to go back. The surroundings are breathtaking! The cottage is decorated in “Old Hawaii“ style. The beds are very comfortable and the kitchen is well equipped.

Tuan N.10.0/10
Jun 4, 2024

Great house in a peaceful neighborhood. Our family enjoyed the beautiful, well-maintained ground. We definitely recommend this house to anyone looking for peace and serenity.

Michelle B.10.0/10
May 20, 2024

Really lovely secluded property. Well appointed with attention to detail. Didn’t want to leave. I will miss not hearing the crashing of the waves tonight.

joe h.4.0/10
May 17, 2024

I would not recommend this property to anyone. I had one washcloth for five days. When I requested more washcloths the owner replied that a VRBO was not a hotel. That he had traveled all over the world and been in rental business twenty five years and that I was the first person ever to request more than one washcloth for five days.

tanya m.10.0/10
May 3, 2024

Clean private well appointed...porch has an close up ocean view...kitchen dining room too.. the sounds of the ocean waves truly lulled us tp rest and sleep on between our adventures.

Renee B.10.0/10
Apr 6, 2024

Loved everything about our off grid stay. Very cozy and lovely comfortable home in a Garden of Eden setting. Fun to see neighbors cats, rooster, chickens and the black wild boar come for a visit. Sleeping with open windows is a dream and you can hear coconuts falling, crickets, frogs, birds, ocean waves and the rooster is the perfect alarm clock to wake up to view amazing sunrises. Thank you for sharing your lovely home. Blessed Mahalo

Tina D.10.0/10
Mar 14, 2024

Everything and more than we expected. Loved our stay !! Hope someday that we can return, its just amazing.

William G.10.0/10
Mar 10, 2024

We have stayed at Rainbow Dreams Cottage three times. We appreciate the sound of the waves crashing on the shore as well as the voices of the frogs and birds. The cottage is comfortable and just the right size for two. The kitchen is well equipped. We bought fresh fruit from local stands and enjoyed that with our breakfast while watching the sun rise. Area is very residential, not built up with resorts. Great Place.

Alan D.10.0/10
Feb 6, 2024

Great stay at this quiet and very comfortable waterfront cottage completely off the grid. Solar power allows you to want for nothing here and the unplugged feeling is refreshing. Sunrises were amazing! Owners Davis and Clay were nearby and helped us enjoy a wonderful stay!

CB W.10.0/10
Jan 18, 2024

This is our second time staying at Rainbow Cottage! We love the atmosphere and the local Hawaiian culture. It feels like “old Hawaii”. It’s every thing a mega resort isn’t!!

Andrea10.0/10
Jan 10, 2024

The property is in an amazing location, opposite waves crashing on jagged volcanic rocks. It was very clean and i loved the furniture and style of the cottage. It is out of the way and off grid, so felt like a very different experience to Kona and Honolulu.

ANNA10.0/10
Jul 6, 2022

Great place to stay if you don't like people and want to get a feel for what Hawaii actually is. Really enjoyed our stay. The place was beautiful and the area quiet. There isn't any touristy stuff to do in the area, which is what we enjoyed! The owner had a lot of information in his welcome email with places to go and what to see. Very helpful. The only reason I docked communication is the directions and key code things could be updated, but it didn't impact my stay at all. I appreciate the information provided. This place is great and I would recommend it to anyone who wants an out of way place to stay. Don't rent if you need to be in the middle of things and want to be close to town. This is not for you!

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Pahoa, Big Island

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