Keaau Getaway with Patio, 3 Mi to Shipman Beach!

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about this place? It’s one of those gems that doesn’t try too hard to impress you with fancy lobbies or marble everything, but somehow ends up being exactly what you didn’t know you needed. The Keaau Getaway sits in this quiet residential pocket where you’ll actually hear coqui frogs at night instead of traffic – which, honestly, is either going to charm you or keep you awake depending on how you feel about nature’s soundtrack.

The patio is where this place really shines, and I mean that literally during those gorgeous Big Island sunsets. I spent most evenings out there with a beer from the local Malama Market (about five minutes down the road), just watching the light change over the ohia trees. The setup feels lived-in rather than sterile – there’s decent outdoor furniture that’s clearly been chosen for comfort over Instagram appeal, and the space gets this perfect cross-breeze that makes you forget Hawaii doesn’t really do air conditioning the way the mainland does. What really sold me on the location was realizing how close you actually are to everything without feeling like you’re staying in a tourist trap. Shipman Beach is legitimately three miles away – I timed it – and it’s this black sand beauty that most visitors never find because they’re all crowding Punalu’u. The local families know about Shipman though, so you’ll see kids learning to surf there on weekends while their grandparents set up elaborate picnic spreads under the coconut palms.

The whole Keaau area has this authentic vibe that’s getting harder to find on the islands. You’re close enough to Hilo (maybe 20 minutes) when you want real restaurants or need to stock up at Safeway, but far enough out that you’ll discover places like the Keaau Natural Foods store where the lady behind the counter knows everyone’s story and makes killer açai bowls. I actually ended up driving the back roads toward Pahoa a few times just because the jungle gets so thick and green it feels like you’re in a nature documentary. Fair warning though – GPS gets a little confused around here sometimes, so don’t panic if your phone tells you to turn down what looks like someone’s driveway. The roads can be narrow and winding, which adds to the adventure but might stress you out if you’re the type who needs everything mapped out perfectly. Check-in was refreshingly straightforward, parking’s never an issue, and the whole experience just felt… easy, I guess? Like staying at a friend’s place who happens to live in paradise and actually knows all the good spots to send you.

Rooms

• Holiday Home with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed, 2 × 1 large double bed, 2 × 1 single bed and 1 double bed for 7 adults

Reviews

• Nazshalee from United States (10/10)

  I loved everything about the property.

• Gladys from United States (8/10)

  Newer home an had all you needed for several days as described. Very clean. All appliances were newer and worked well for our 5 night stay. Beach towels and chairs were great to have. Body wash, shampoo and conditioner in the bathrooms were a plus.

• Mary from United States (9/10)

  Awesome layout and new home made our stay very comfortable. Beach towels and stuff were a great touch. Property was large and we loved having our own space and quick drive to town and not too far for us to explore Hilo and surroundings. Host was friendly and responsive.

• Tracey from United States (9/10)

  Location was good as long as you aren’t traveling to or from Hilo during before and after work traffic. Kitchen was well stocked with things to make meals everyday. Ample room for five of us. Appreciated the air conditioning, washer and dryer.

• Gouge (10/10)

  This home is beautiful, and in a nice, quiet location. Seven of us fit in the house comfortably, and everyone had a great time. The washer, dryer, dishwasher and grill were a big plus. The home came with a little guide book that led us to some really good breakfast.

• Federico from Italy (10/10)

  Ampia e luminosa,accessoriata di tutto ciò che si può aver bisogno, ben arredata e con gusto.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities