Cozy Tropical Retreat Guest House with AC

Hilo · Big Island · 1 bedrooms · 1 bathrooms · Sleeps 4 · 10.0/10 · 197 reviews

Rental Details

Property Overview

Our Tropical Retreat Guest House is a luxurious 1 bedroom, 1 full bath resort-style guest house located in one of Hilo’s premier subdivisions. Our guest house is truly a tropical paradise with a very spacious living area. The guest house opens up to a beautiful manicured tropical garden on over an acre of lush tropical gardens with numerous fruit trees, and indigenous plants found only in Hawaii.

The guest house is equipped with an air-conditioned, uncommon for vacation rentals in the area, and full-size shower-tub. The property also features a fully equipped kitchen (including gas stove with electric oven, rice cooker, blender, air fryer, toaster, coffee maker, washer and dryer, cooking utensils, drinkable filtered water system, etc), a queen size pull out sofa bed, house phone, high-speed internet, and a 50” LCD High Definition TV with Hulu live TV, Hulu on demand, ESPN, Disney+, Netflix, and Amazon Prime. The living room TV is also connected to a High Definition Surround Sound System, BlueRay player, and a Nintendo Wii Console. The 32” LCD TV in the bedroom is equipped with Hulu live TV, Hulu on demand, ESPN, Disney+, Netflix, and Amazon Prime. The guest house is also equipped with smart locks, smart smoke/carbon monoxide detector, fire extinguish, baby proof outlet covers (available when needed), and recycling station. Finally, for guest traveling with babies and infants, we offer a clean and extremely well maintained Pack-N-Play and high chair.

The guest house has its own private gated driveway, parking, and it is protected with 24/7 security monitoring for the protection of our guest and our property (there are no cameras inside the guest house or on the private back yard).

When in season, trees are loaded with bananas, Kau orange, lemon, loquat, mountain apple, coconut, tangelo, rambutan, lychee, mac nut, lime, star fruit, tangerine, breadfruit, avocado, grapefruit, and more. Not to mention a large variety of beautiful palms (Royal, Fan, Rica, Foxtail), tropical plants, and flowers. There is a screened garden house with a table and chairs in the middle of the garden for guests to enjoy a relaxing fresh air snack. The guest house is located on a gated property approximately three miles from downtown Hilo. It's more than a beautiful place to stay, it’s a lifestyle. You'll experience charming “Old Hawaii” where life is slow and easy. Our property allows you to relax in style or pursue a variety of adventures right outside. Amenities include a secluded beautiful outdoor garden. The landscaped grounds and naturalistic setting capture the tranquility and beauty of the islands where travelers can relax and experience the true Hawaii where the locals live.

Your host resides just a couple minutes up the road, and can be available in person at anytime when requested. Your host will be happy to answer questions you may have, assist you with any special needs and help you plan your stay. Your host is also happy in sharing tips on where to visit, how to get there, where to lunch and favorite local dining spots.

The property is within walking distance to a very picturesque area of East Hawaii surrounded by streams, waterfalls and off a quiet street perfect for walking or jogging. A private serene opens up to views of the garden below for ultimate relaxation. Our Retreat is a perfect Hawaiian getaway for couples celebrating their special occasion and is centrally located making it an ideal home base while exploring exotic points of interest on the island.

Hilo is famous for its warm aloha spirit, relaxed lifestyle, unique shops, art galleries and restaurants with local regional cuisine. Local attractions include Lyman Museum, East Hawaii Cultural Center, historic Palace Theatre, Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, UH Hilo Performing Arts Center and Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens. Hilo Farmer's Market is a favorite for fresh, local produce. The Merrie Monarch Festival, Hilo's premier hula competition, and cultural events are held annually in April. East Hawaii's black sand beaches and freshwater pools are some of the best for snorkeling, diving, surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming with turtles and tropical fish, or watching the whales offshore. Take a helicopter volcano tour or a short scenic drive to active Kilauea volcano to view a lava flow, ride horses in Waipio Valley or tour the summit and view the night skies of Mauna Kea.

Our retreat is a Non-Smoking property: Hawaii State Law dictates that all public areas are designated as smoke-free. The safety and comfort of all our guests are of the utmost importance to us. As such we have a non-smoking policy. Smoking is not allowed in any of our buildings or on the property grounds. Please inform your visitors about our non-smoking policy. Your support and cooperation to maintain a smoke-free environment.

Sorry, no pets are allowed.

Registration Number: TA-117-179-2896-01, GE-117-179-2896-01

Rental FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is this vacation rental located?
  • City: Hilo (postal 96720) Hawaii

Nearby highlights

  • Location: Hilo, HI (Keaukaha – 4.45 km to center), United States
  • In the city center
  • In the mountains
  • Near a zoo
  • Near outlet shopping
How many bedrooms and bathrooms does it have?

1 bedroom and 1 bathroom.

How many guests can it sleep?

This rental sleeps up to 4 guests.

What amenities are available?
  • Private vacation home
  • Unit size: 700 sq ft (65 sq m)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Bed sheets provided
  • Sofa bed
  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided
  • Air conditioning
  • Free WiFi
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Laundry facilities
  • Near laundromat
  • Washing machine and dryer
  • BBQ grill grill
  • Fenced yard
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Lanai / balcony
  • Car required
  • Onsite parking
  • A/C
  • BBQ grill
  • Crib
  • Dryer
  • Extra Bed
  • Fitness Equipment
  • Free Parking
  • Internet
  • Kitchen
  • Laundry
  • Living Area
  • No Smoking
  • Outdoor Hot tub / space
  • Toys
  • TV
  • Washer
  • Washer And Dryer
What should I know about check-in?
  • Check in starts at 4:00 PM
  • Check out before 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check in age: 18
  • Check in time starts at 4:00 PM
  • Contactless check in available
  • Contactless check out available
  • 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 117 179 2896 01, GE 117 179 2896 01
What are the house rules and policies?
  • Pets not allowed
  • Children are welcome.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
What are popular things to do nearby and on Big Island?
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fitness center
  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Golf nearby
  • Hiking nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Surfing/body boarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Location: Hilo, HI (Keaukaha – 4.45 km to center), United States
  • In the city center
  • In the mountains
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 private vacation home 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

Ping H.10.0/10
Jan 30, 2026

Everything is great. But if you could provide the dishwasher it would be much better

TEODORA S.10.0/10
Dec 13, 2025

Thank you :) Clean and nice home

Lisa T.10.0/10
Dec 11, 2025

Lovely spot. Very clean and comfortable, and in a beautiful neighborhood. Great to have a kitchen, and a washer/dryer. Raul was nice, and very responsive to our questions. A perfect spot for our trip. Thank you!

Todd P.10.0/10
Nov 1, 2025

Great stay. Host was very available and helpful. The place is well equipped with quality furnishings and amenities.

Benjamin L.8.0/10
Oct 31, 2025

Lovely place. Spotless clean. Well laid out, equipped and supplied. As described. Be aware that although there is a seperate entrance to the place it is attached to the owners home. Going in and out during the day we could hear the lady next door on the phone, often scolding someone loud enough fir us to hear. Our turn came the day before we left when she loudly berated us from the middle of the driveway for going too fast coming in, repeating herself again even after my wife apologized profusely. I dont think I was going too fast down the driveway which is only about 100 feet long after you stop at the gate) but fair point. It could have been handled far better with a text or a polite conversation rather than an angry scolding from the middle of the drive. This put a negative note on an otherwise beautiful stay. A near perfect experience except for a an unfriendly lady who is perhaps not cut out for the hospitality business.

Mike M.10.0/10
Oct 29, 2025

The Cozy Tropical Retreat was just as advertised. It was located in a quiet neighborhood with easy access to parking through a dedicated guest security gate. The bed was comfortable and the full kitchen had everything we needed to prepare great meals. Raul was quick to respond to our questions and special requests. The AC worked great. I wish we would have had more time to spend in Hilo at the Guest House. The guest information book was a masterpiece!

Adam G.10.0/10
Oct 1, 2025

The place was very nice and we thought the location was really nice, kind of tucked away from the hustle and bustle but still not too far from town. The AC worked great and kept us cool at night and they left a large container of filtered water in the fridge, which was super helpful. Overall, we would definitely stay here again!

John S.10.0/10
Sep 16, 2025

Many unexpected extras made the stay superb. Yoga mat greatly appreciated, as were the dumbbells. WiFi worked great. Didn’t use the TV, so cannot comment. Bed very comfy. Kitchen supplied everything we needed. Filtered water container in fridge lasted all 3 days. Would definitely book this again

Shannon H.10.0/10
Sep 14, 2025

This unit was clean, well-equipped and had nice upgrades. It’s very spacious and in a good location to explore the Hilo area. It’s only a few minutes from Rainbow Falls. Our only problem was figuring out the tv, but that’s because we don’t use any streaming at home so we didn’t know what we were doing. Anyone who is used to streaming would enjoy the variety of options included. We would stay at this unit again if we’re lucky enough to get back to the Hilo area.

Lukas W.10.0/10
Jul 27, 2025

very beautiful place, super well furnished, a bit outside, but the way to the airport was fast enough.

Jade B.10.0/10
Jul 21, 2025

Our family of 4 really enjoyed staying here! The property is in a nice, safe neighborhood with a coded security gate and is very well kept. We enjoyed comfortable sleeping arrangements, plush towels, a well-supplied kitchen (tools/small appliances/dishes/spices), washer/dryer with detergent, filtered drinking water, A/C and ceiling fans to keep comfortably cool, Wifi, streaming services and what came in really handy was a cooler with ice packs for our daily excursions around the area. The owners have a guest guidebook that really helped out with information on how to use some of the features of the house as well as information and sights to see around the local area. Communication was outstanding when we had questions and we had no issues at all. If we are ever back in Hilo, we will be staying here again! We highly recommended staying here!

Andy G.10.0/10
Jul 2, 2025

This was a great spot to stay as our home base while we explored the Big Island. Great location- central to everything we wanted to do on the Hilo side (about an hour from VNP, and within an hour of several waterfalls). Easily the cleanest VRBO we have ever stayed in, and the added bonus of a gate made us feel safe and secure. If we return to the Big Island, we will definitely be staying here again!

Moose A.10.0/10
May 31, 2025

If you are looking for a spot out of the hustle and bustle of Hilo this is your place. It was an excellent launching spot for all our adventures on this side of the island. The house had everything we needed. It was clean, updated, very comfortable.

Debora D.10.0/10
May 28, 2025

Raul was an excellent host, providing us with all the necessary information to easily check in and check out. His cozy cottage was ideal for my husband and I and our friend to stay. I highly recommend staying here.

Mark B.10.0/10
May 7, 2025

The unit is located about 15 minutes drive out from the center of Hilo and the bay, up the hillsides in a quiet neighborhood that achieved an almost rural feeling, as if at the edge of the countryside. It is seemed quite spacious, had beautiful light morning and afternoon / evening, and was nicely furnished. The shower and bathroom were terrific. Its air conditioning worked well. The kitchen was well equipped and stocked with cooking gear - far far better than most short-term rental units. [We mostly ate out, but if one cooks in, the well-stocked herb and spice rack was a great touch, and the gas stove looked excellent.!] The host merits a special shout-out of praise for great communications and flexibility. The helpfulness was evident before and in early parts of the stay. And then there was an evening electric power outage while we were staying, which disabled the power-operated security gate to the drive. The host was super-helpful in dealing with all of that, which worked out fine, but the exceptional good attitude and communications skills make an extra difference when some disruption outside of anyone's control arises during a stay.

scott m.10.0/10
Apr 3, 2025

The property is well maintained and pretty much has everything one could want in a vacation rental. If one wishes quiet solitude, then this is the place to stay.

Douglas A.10.0/10
Mar 29, 2025

Great place… I would definitely recommend.

Joanne D.10.0/10
Mar 24, 2025

Raul & Stefanie are excellent hosts for this peaceful, clean and comfy one bedroom. Firm and comfortable bed and a lot of space in the livingroom and dining room area. Lots of amenitiesand on-site parking. Quiet and safe neighborhood within 10 mins drive to UH Hilo and quaint Hilo town.

Cade10.0/10
Mar 10, 2025

A beautiful guest house with everything you would need. There is a gate for privacy and very good hosts that can help you with whatever you need.

Ellen L.10.0/10
Mar 9, 2025

Quiet, modern place to stay in the hills above Hilo. The private gated driveway and quiet neighborhood made for a very restful stay. Easy access to local parks, restaurants, and attractions on the East half of the island. The appliances are all modern and spotless, the furnishings comfortable and the property meticulously maintained.

Nancy H.10.0/10
Mar 5, 2025

This home is perfect—super clean, well furnished, and a quiet location. The guestbook put together is OUTSTANDING! It lists not only local activities, restaurants, etc…but QR codes on every item for a quick reference to details! Definitely recommend!

Joseph R.10.0/10
Mar 3, 2025

Well thoughtout and maintained home. We enjoyed the area.

Estellita A.10.0/10
Feb 12, 2025

Happily satisfied with our stay in Hilo. Our hosts were welcoming. I would definitely recommend

Michael W.10.0/10
Feb 8, 2025

Great place

Cris T.10.0/10
Jan 23, 2025

The guest house is conveniently located near downtown Hilo in a nice neighborhood. The place is roomy and has all the amenities you need. The bed is comfortable and everything is very clean. The hosts were easy to reach. Enjoyed my two week stay. Thank you.

Keoni B.10.0/10
Jan 8, 2025

This rental is situated in a lush, magical, area in Hilo with easy access to all conveniences. The cottage is impeccably clean with access to a beautiful garden. I found the ventilation great if you want to leave windows and sliding doors open while also having the convenience of A/C. Will stay again!

Francisco Carlos B.10.0/10
Jan 6, 2025

We had a fantastic stay at this property! The location was perfect—far enough from the downtown area to avoid the crowds but still close enough to easily enjoy the beaches and the city. The neighborhood was quiet and pleasant, which made for a very relaxing stay.The house itself was comfortable and very clean, with plenty of space for two people. We especially appreciated the air conditioning, which made our stay even more enjoyable.I did have a minor issue during our stay, but Raul was incredibly responsive and apologetic, resolving it quickly.Overall, we had a great experience and would absolutely stay here again if we’re ever in Hilo. Highly recommended!

Mary C.10.0/10
Dec 19, 2024

Raul was very organized. Everything was labeled, making it easy to know what remote went with each item. The guest house was clean, quiet and easy to access. Great place to stay!

Deborah R.10.0/10
Nov 27, 2024

This property is nicely appointed and well-stocked with everything you might need. We explored all around the island and appreciated the ease in heading out in multiple directions. We appreciated the close proximity of both the gas station, multiple grocery stores and dining options. At the end of the day we enjoyed returning back to our quiet, secluded space to relax. If you plan to cook you might want to add cooking oil to your list and any condiments that you might need. The kitchen is very well stocked with great qualities of cooking pots and pans, blender, toaster over anything else you might wish to have for meal preparation. We will definitely return to the property again and recommend it to our friends. Thank you to our hosts who were quick to respond to any questions we might have. Mahalo!

Paula Corina r.10.0/10
Nov 25, 2024

The house is located in a nice neighborhood, was very clean, and well equipped with everything we needed; it was a short distance from a few beautiful waterfalls, very close to the downtown, and about 15-20 minutes driving to the beach. We enjoyed our stay very much!

K P.10.0/10
Nov 7, 2024

The home is spacious, very clean and super convenient to Hilo activities! Raul is very responsive. Great experience.

Richard B.10.0/10
Nov 3, 2024

Very clean, everything was in working condition and well furnished, great place to stay.

Harry W.10.0/10
Oct 25, 2024

Lots of extras including even a spice rack and an LG clothes washer/dryer. Large living area with a large kitchen and a generous dining table. Great bathroom with shower/bathtub and a very fancy toilet/bidet with operating instructions.

Karen10.0/10
Oct 16, 2024

We concur with all the other positive reviews. Raul and Stefanie’s property did not disappoint. I loved their guest book with all the restaurant and activity suggestions. I also loved all the thoughtful touches like the clothesline in the shower and the beach towels. Thanks for a lovely stay.

Stephanie M.10.0/10
Sep 30, 2024

The property is about 10 mins from town and really close to so much. Loved hearing the sounds of the wildlife and getting to see all the stars (there are very few streetlights so you have an amazing view of the sky!) everything was clean and quiet. Great place!

Dean R.10.0/10
Sep 26, 2024

Relaxing spot overlooking the city.

Jessica L.10.0/10
Sep 25, 2024

Guest house was clean, no issues, had everything we needed. We stayed 7 nights, we were really only there at night time as we spend the full day's adventuring. Check in was easy, the codes given for the gate and the guest house were correct, so we had no issues getting in. Really loved how we were able to park the rental car right next to the door of the guest house, this was handy and gave us peace of mind. The area felt like a safe neighbourhood & was in a great location, close to town but didn't feel like you were in a city. I would definitely recommend staying here, and I will book this again if I'm every lucky enough to visit the big island again!

Kristine A.8.0/10
Sep 17, 2024

1st trip to the big island, celebrating our wedding anniversary and recent retirement. Spent the 1st 4 day on west side (Kono area) and the last 4 days on the east side (Hilo area). Have to say we really enjoyed our time in Hilo and up the north coast - simply beautiful. The Cozy Retreat Guest House was a good home base for our site seeing trips and offered a comfortable place to wind down and relax at the end of the day. Location wise, we were further from downtown Hilo then we'd like, so not within walking distance. The Guest House was clean and very well equipped. The top-end appliances made meal preparation very easy and enjoyable. The patio was a bit small with only a table and chairs in the fenced in area and an umbrella would have been nice to offer some protection from the ever changing weather in Hilo. Overall, we enjoyed our stay at the Cozy Tropical Retreat Guest House and would stay here again on our next visit to Hilo. Thank you for sharing you house with us.

Shane S.10.0/10
Aug 30, 2024

We loved the cleanliness and layout of the space. Plenty of outside area to explore, private entry, and fantastic response when we contacted the host.

Kyle K.10.0/10
Aug 9, 2024

It’s all you need and more in a very quiet and convenient location. I will stay there again if applicable when we come back to Hilo. Perfect location in an amazing part of Hawaii.

Debbie K.10.0/10
Jul 8, 2024

Location was perfect for our purpose. The house was clean and secure. Communication with Raul was very responsive.

Steve V.10.0/10
Jun 19, 2024

Lovely little guest house in a safe and well kept neighborhood ten minutes from downtown Hilo. Our host Raul was readily available to answer any questions. The property is very secure with a combination operated gate, although there was no indication that it was necessary. The property was clean and comfortable, and one could easily prepare meals there (we did) if tired of eating out (we were). We would stay here again. It’s the perfect size for a couple.

Jennifer N.10.0/10
May 30, 2024

Great stay! Cleanest Vrbo to date! Don’t pass this one up. Loved this location.

Carol O.10.0/10
May 28, 2024

As usual Raul's rental was very clean and secure. Unfortunately we happened to be there when there was a huge storm that brought down many trees on the roads. No power for 6 hours but Raul brought over flashlights so we could see our way around. No Internet until after our stay ended. Raul offered to move us to another of his rentals which had internet.

marci a.10.0/10
May 23, 2024

Well maintained and comfortable.

Vanessa H.10.0/10
May 9, 2024

Well accommodated and cared for property,

Victoria W.10.0/10
May 2, 2024

Hosts were very communicative before, during, and after our stay. The home was very clean and cozy, with wonderful organization and suggestions for activities and restaurants nearby. We are very happy with our choice to stay here!

Linnea R.10.0/10
Apr 13, 2024

It was clean and comfortable. Nice quiet peaceful neighborhood. Good for cooking your own meals.

Michael H.10.0/10
Mar 11, 2024

Clean, well equipped, and comfortable... we would stay here again.

Patricia J.10.0/10
Feb 8, 2024

The property was amazing! The place was immaculate and looked brand new. The host provided everything we would need along with details about local restaurants and tourist sites. It was perfect for us. You’ll need a car as it’s not walkable to the things you’ll want to see and do but getting around is easy.

Lisa L.10.0/10
Jan 27, 2024

This was the nicest place we ever rented. The bed was so comfortable. The kitchen was so well stocked. The linens were so comfortable; the towels are plush! We had lots of room to spread out, unlike a hotel. They even have an orange and avocado tree in the back yard. We would definitely stay here again. The hosts were amazing to work with. I hate to leave.

Debbie10.0/10
Nov 9, 2023

Nice place!

Haizhong10.0/10
Jan 11, 2023

super clean, very well equipped, lots of space, great garden and area

Tam10.0/10
Oct 31, 2022

This property was an ideal and very comfortable base for us (party of two adults). The location is close to the downtown area, the famous waterfalls, lava tube and foothill farms. It is centrally located making it easy to plan daily jaunts to the amazing sights up and down the Hilo side of Hawaii. The unit was clean, quiet and had all the amenities of home. We will definitely look to stay here on our return visits to Hawaii and recommend it to others.

Diane10.0/10
Oct 8, 2022

The place was clean and everything needed for a relaxing time on the island. We loved that they had a filtered water system for drinking or cooking. The place was very quiet at night and comfortable.

Michael10.0/10
Jun 13, 2022

Wonderful place to use as a base camp. This property easily qualifies in my top 5 favorite places, and I have been to many places. It does not feel like a rental, it feels like someone's living quarters, full of character and high-end gadgets and devices. Highly recommended.

Sheree10.0/10
Nov 23, 2021

WONDERFUL property and easy to use. It’s gated and in a quiet community. Not close to downtown though without a car, and be advised that Uber and cans stop running h reliably after 8:30, so plan accordingly.

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Hilo, Big Island

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