Unique Places to Stay on Big Island, Hawai’i
If you’re looking for the authentic experience of Hawai’i, I suggest veering off the path of manicured resort chains. Part of the real experience is the raw wild jungle, diversity of fruits, canoe crops, and a glimpse into everyday life. Between Eco lodging, elevated farm stays, and treehouses the Big Island has so many unique places to stay in Hawai’i.
The Falls at Reed’s Island
This luxurious estate is so effortlessly etched right along a serene waterfall to breathtaking lava cliff views. One of my favorite aspects is the large windows in each room that make you feel so immersed in the jungle with the comfort of a cozy bed. You can crack the window to fall asleep to the sounds of the waterfall and jungle. They also offer hot and cold soaking tubs perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
They are conveniently located right in Hilo, allowing you to feel immersed in the jungle without being too far away from all the adventure outside of where you’re staying.
Click here to book The Falls at Reed’s Island
Star Seed Ranch
Tucked along the stunning Kohala Coast, this 26-acre regenerative farm stay is loaded with exotic fruits, abundant gardens, and uniquely crafted architecture. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in rejuvenation, healing, and learning while enjoying modern comforts. This estate is completely off-grid, run by hydroelectric and solar systems. This area of the island is also one of my favorites because of the charming towns of Waimea and Honoka’a nearby. It’s also relatively close to some sunnier parts of the island that contain the most white sandy beaches. If you’re into horseback riding at sunset this property is only 30 minutes away from my favorite horseback outfitters Paniolo Adventures.
Throughout the ranch, you will find Balinese-style buildings, good warm mana (energy), and natural beauty. They offer tours of the farm with a tasting of fruit afterward or a farm-to-table dinner if available, which I highly recommend if you have the opportunity!
Honaunau Farms
I have never felt more at peace than staying at Honaunau Farms. It is so effortlessly immersed in nature. On the 4-acre regenerative farm, you can see how life operates with chickens, goats, sheep, ducks, and adorable cats. They have over 100 growing edible plants so be sure to schedule a farm tour to learn all about them and to try a few! I learned so much about exotic fruits from around the world and it sparked a new passion for me. I also loved learning about their permaculture practices, food forests, and how they live sustainably by harvesting rainwater.
The location of this farm is perfect if you’re looking to be close to epic snorkel spots and a little further outside of the hustle and bustle of Kona. There are also various beaches within 15 minutes of Honaunau Farms that have a loyal community. Honaunau farms has various accommodations that could suit anyone’s needs, from a rustic cottage studio to a luxurious 3-bedroom house with lanai that boasts an incredible view of the property and the sunsets of Kealakekua Bay.
Click here to book at Honaunau Farms
Puakea Ranch
Puakea Ranch is one of the most authentic and beautiful historic ranches on Hawai’i Island. Located on the Kohala Coast, Puakea blends history, nature, and rustic comfort with its guest cottages, special events, and dedication to sustainability and preservation. The heart of Puakea Ranch is the main driveway bordered by majestic old-growth trees and surrounded by sprawling lawns, forests, and ranch lands. One of my favorite amenities is the rock lava pool that is so seamlessly immersed into the natural beauty of the ranch. They also offer farm-to-table dinners prepared by their private chef which sources ingredients from an incredible farmers’ market right in town. It’s also a short 15-minute drive to the iconic Pololu Valley for a stunning view of the valleys or a short hike down to the black sand beach.
Set amid rolling green pastures and blue ocean views, Puakea Ranch pairs the romance and charm of Old Hawai’i with luxury and privacy. I love the preservation of the historical architecture and the rich history of this ranch. Kohala has always been a sacred place to Hawaiians as it is where King Kamehameha was born and lived out many years of his life. They even offer a private concierge to assist with booking all your adventures while staying on the Big Island.
Click here to book Puakea Ranch
The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls
The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls sits among 22 lush, sprawling acres, surrounding Hawaii’s largest privately accessible waterfall. The Kulaniapia experience is like no other, just minutes from Hilo town, but completely tucked away. Whether you come for relaxation or adventure, there’s plenty of both to discover. They offer a chef’s table dinner by reservation only. This experience is so unique because it is truly local and right from their farm on the island, so you can get a real taste for Hawaiian cuisine.
Accommodations are provided in several Asian-inspired buildings. The Residence, includes the largest suite, the Jade Cottage with a private covered lanai, the Pagoda Guest House with its own kitchen, and the Harmony House with some of the best waterfall views. They also have rustic cabins overlooking the ocean if you’re looking for something more casual.
Breakfast is included in your stay and is served daily. Enjoy a wholesome, locally sourced breakfast and the Big Island’s best coffee, all while soaking in epic views of the waterfalls in the morning. Be sure to book an experience a waterfall experience such as rappelling or kayaking!
One of my favorite aspects of the Inn is how it executes luxury and sustainability. The property generates all it’s energy from a hydroelectric system powered by the waterfalls, and solar panels. They have many luxury amenities but do not provide air conditioning as they encourage thoughtful consumption of resources. Most homes on Big Island do not have AC but I can assure you it’s very manageable- its a part of island life!.
Click here to book a stay at the Inn at Kulaniapia Falls
Hamakua Sunrise
This unique farm stay is located along the Hamakua Coast and is the perfect place for a quiet getaway on one of Big Ialnds’ most famous coastline. Owner Chris and his partner emphasize regenerative farming, permaculture, sustainability & art in a spiritual, yogic & relaxing environment.
They have a range of offerings from wellness and yoga retreats to horseback riding and massages. They also offer farm-to-table dinners on the property during harvests. This 10-acre farm also has multiple waterfalls within walking distance for guests to explore. They have a gorgeous new Art Cafe that was constructed from recycled and sustainable material that is the perfect spot for you to get your creative juices flowing. They provide paints, canvas & various other supplies and fuel you with farm-grown coffee & musical instruments.
If you’re looking for a venue to host a small wedding they can host up to 20 of your guests for a truly immersive experience, whether you’d like a traditional wedding with an ocean view backdrop or at the summit of a waterfall! They also grow coffee and honey on the farm and when it’s in season there could be some available for purchase.
Click here to book Hamakua Sunrise
Glass House
Hinu Hale is a beautiful unique glass house located on a breathtaking horse ranch and nestled in a Kukui nut and Hau tree forest. With private access to the Ka’awaloa Trail (Captain Cook Trail), it’s the perfect off-grid experience without being too far away from all the adventure. It’s quite honestly a piece of art with lava tile floors and a mango wood table in the lanai.
You have the privacy of your own space but can also enjoy walking around the ranch, watching the sunset, and even arrange a time to meet the farm animals.
I love that they offer guests special experiences such as a professional massage, private yoga, 4WD trips to Green Sands Beach or Mauna Kea volcano, fishing charters, and more!
Click here to book the Glass House
Holualoa Inn
This adorable Inn is right in the heart of my favorite old historical coffee town of Holualoa near Kailua-Kona. Holualoa Inn Estate offers spectacular ocean views, 30 acres of lush gardens, 5,300 Kona coffee trees, a custom-tiled mosaic pool and hot tub, and rooftop gazebos. Originally built as a private residence in the late 1970s, Holualoa Inn is a true escape with a homey feeling. Perched at 1,400 feet on the cool slopes of Mt. Hualalai, the estate resides in harmony among fragrant flower gardens, tropical fruit, coffee trees, culinary herb gardens, and rustic walking trails. Early Hawaiian footpaths wind through the estate and along green pastures. The entrance is lined with avocado and mango trees, red torch ginger, and pineapple. A lava path winds to the fruit orchard, past the plant nursery, and up to Malulani Pavilion for an infinity view of the vast Pacific Ocean.
Throughout the inn, Old Hawai’i is masterfully echoed. The original eucalyptus floors have been restored with care in preserving the past. Designed for indoor-outdoor living, the Great Room features works from local artists, traditional Polynesian furniture, stunning sculptural accents, and a working fireplace. The covered lanai is complete with rockers and a daybed to relax and take in the sweeping views. The rooftop gazebo is my favorite for morning coffee and sunsets!
Be sure to peruse the quaint town of Holualoa and check out my favorite coffee shop, White Nene Coffee Roasters!
Click here to book at Holualoa Inn
Hawai’i Island Retreat
Looking for your perfect Big Island retreat? This luxurious eco-boutique hotel is the perfect getaway for someone seeking an elevated retreat experience complete with a spa and farm-to-table meals. This unique wellness spa in a place of intentional peacefulness is set among sacred land along Hawai’i Island’s North Kohala Coast. Here, you can relax and unwind on 50 oceanfront acres of gardens, wild groves, and ancient valley trails. They offer elegant accommodations in harmony with the surroundings.
Experience life as our ancestors did – in deep connection with the land and the other creatures who share it. Guests will have the opportunity to visit their goat pen, enjoy luscious fruit picked and eaten right off the tree, harvest vegetables from the organic garden, and traverse 50 acres of land among the gardens, orchards, and animals. Hawai’i Island Retreat focuses on re-establishing your relationship with the living world with comfortable lodging.
Click here to book the Hawai’i Island Retreat
Bamboo Treehouse
This bamboo treehouse is the perfect location if you want to be closer to Volcano National Park, Punalu’u Beach or Green Sands Beach. The house is perched up in the clouds at 1,400 feet and is completely secluded by the surrounding jungle.
They also use a rainwater catchment system to supply water making it another way they are practicing sustainable eco tourism principles. This beautiful treehouse is fully constructed with bamboo imported from Vietnam and is fully code-compliant with anti-earthquake and hurricane engineering. This bamboo is stronger than any conventional lumber!
Enjoy some coffee or hot chocolate on the lanai and admire a view of the picturesque greenery of the rainforest while listening to the native apapane singing, coqui frogs, and other wildlife.
Click here to book the Bamboo Treehouse
Luxury Treehouse
If you’re looking for a luxurious treehouse experience that isn’t too far away from the town of Kailua-Kona, this treehouse is the perfect fit for you. This place honestly makes all my childhood dreams of having a treehouse come true and beyond. With sweeping views of the ocean, a cozy hot tub, and true immersion in nature, this is the perfect place to unwind and appreciate the beauty of Kona.
Click here to book the Kailua-Kona Treehouse
Dreamy Tropical Treehouse
This dreamy tropical treehouse is one of the cutest airbnbs on the Big Island! With a red brick road leading you into the enchanting forest, it feels like my childhood dreams came to life with this gorgeous treehouse. Relax downstairs on the aerial hammock or up in the trees in your cozy bed. This treehouse is located right outside of Hilo on your way to Volcano National Park making it one of the best locations for East Island adventures. This completely off-grid stay is constructed of bamboo and has large windows which makes you feel even more immersed in the forest. My favorite aspect is the outdoor shower option, nothing quite feels more peaceful than showering around jungle noises!
Click here to book the Tropical Treehouse
Ka’awa Loa Plantation
This adorable bed and breakfast is nestled amongst a tropical fruit farm just 8 miles south of Kailua-Kona and is in the perfect spot to base your adventures to Kealakekua Bay. Their daily breakfast includes fresh Kona coffee and seasonal fruits from their farm and other local markets. They use solar panels as part of their commitment to sustainable living. They encapsulate the ambiance of Old Hawai’i with the preservation of the plantation-style home. I absolutely love this peaceful side of the island and it’s proximity to the sacred Kealakekua Bay.
Click here to book a stay with Ka’awa Loa Plantation
Overall, there are so many unique aspects to the Big Island and the most unique lodging experiences. I hope that this guides anyone looking for an authentic stay and to wander off the beaten path.
