Gingerhill Farm Retreat

Gingerhill Farm Retreat Overview

First Impressions

You know what hits you first when you pull up to Gingerhill Farm Retreat? The smell — honestly, it’s this incredible mix of tropical flowers and fresh mountain air that you just don’t get at those beachfront resorts. This three-star property sits right on Mamalahoa Highway in Kealakekua, but don’t let the highway address fool you. Once you’re on the property, you’re in a completely different world, surrounded by working farmland and the kind of lush greenery that makes the Big Island so special.

The Setting

I mean, the location really is something else — couples rate it 9.3 out of 10, and I totally get why. You’re perched up in the hills with these sweeping views down toward Kealakekua Bay, where Captain Cook met his fate (local history lesson there). The parking is free and right on-site, which actually matters more than you’d think since you’ll want to explore the area. What’s brilliant about this spot is that you’re close enough to the coast for day trips but high enough up to catch those cool mountain breezes in the evening.

Your Room Experience

The accommodations here aren’t fancy — this is farm-style living, not resort comfort. But honestly, that’s exactly the point. My room had this rustic charm with wooden accents and windows that actually open (remember those?), so you can hear the roosters in the morning and the coqui frogs at night. The beds are comfortable enough, and there’s something really peaceful about falling asleep to the sounds of the countryside instead of air conditioning units humming all night.

The Farm Experience

Here’s where Gingerhill really shines — it’s an actual working farm, not just some themed hotel. You can wander around and see tropical fruits growing that you’ve probably only seen in the grocery store. The owners are usually around and happy to chat about sustainable farming or point you toward the best local spots. There’s no formal restaurant on-site, but they’ll often have fresh fruit available, and honestly, driving into town for meals becomes part of the adventure.

Why Guests Love It

Look, if you’re expecting room service and a concierge, this isn’t your place. But if you want to experience the real Hawaii — the one where locals actually live and work — Gingerhill nails it. Recent guests consistently rate the location highly (8.6 out of 10), and I think it’s because you get that authentic island experience without the tourist crowds. You’re close enough to hit Kealakekua Bay for some of the best snorkeling on the island, but far enough from the resort areas to feel like you’ve discovered something special. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about supporting a local farm while you’re getting a good night’s sleep in the process.

Gingerhill Farm Retreat Accommodations

Reviews of Gingerhill Farm Retreat

• Aurore from Germany (9/10)

  the cabins are located in a mini jungle with beautiful trees and plants, that was for me the highlight! very peaceful out there and with a car not too far from anything really…
  there’s a terrace outside the room where your private kitchen is and you have everything you need including fresh coffee, fresh eggs, filtered water and all cooking appliances you need. you have beach towels, beach chairs, sun umbrella at your disposal!
  there’s a large car park, they encourage composting and recycling!
  everything was really clean

• Jeff from United States (7/10)

  Beautiful setting, friendly host!

• Małgorzata from Poland (9/10)

  This is the farm with beautiful garden and ocean view from the kitchen place. I love the night sound of nature

• Loc_d from United States (9/10)

  Very interesting place to get away from the urban bustle. Lots of nature sounds and really neat landscape. Close to grocery stores, places to eat, and great coffee nearby as well. Was greeted by the host who showed us the way to our cabin.

• L from United States (8/10)

  The sunset suite is appropriately named. WOW the sunset was the highlight of my stay.

• Aaron from Australia (9/10)

  Beautiful location

• Paige from United States (8/10)

  Staff was extremely friendly and welcoming, rooms were very comfortable and cozy with a great ocean view.

• Diane from United States (9/10)

  remote & old Hawaii style accommodation

• Klaus from Germany (9/10)

  We had a nice cabin in a wonderful lush green environment, away from the touristic jumble, but still close to all attractions. We found this a charming alternative to the soulless hotel complexes at the coast. You shouldn't go there with a full-service mentality, but if you are open-minded and willing to adapt, it's a wonderful experience. The staff was very friendly and helpful. You could tell that they were understaffed in the aftermath of the pandemic. So we wish Gingerhill all the best for the future and hope that they will be back to full operation soon again.

• Jennifer from United States (4/10)

  The hosts were great and kept the rooms, the kitchen and the bathroom perfectly. The kitchen and patio overlooked the ocean and was a great place to view the sunset. The outside shower was magical.

Surroundings

Facilities