Private Ohana on the lush Hamakua coast with AC

Hotel Description

You know what? I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first pulled up to this place on the Hamakua coast – honestly, the listing just said “Private Ohana” and I’m always a little skeptical of vacation rentals that keep things vague. But man, was I pleasantly surprised. This little gem sits right in the heart of all that lush, green paradise that makes the Hamakua coast so special, and I mean *actually* lush – you wake up to the sound of everything growing around you, if that makes sense. The air conditioning was clutch too, because even with all those trade winds, it can get pretty muggy when you’re tucked into all that tropical vegetation.

What really struck me about staying here was how you get that authentic Big Island experience without feeling like you’re roughing it. The ohana (which is basically a guest house or cottage for those not familiar with Hawaiian terms) has this lived-in comfort that you just don’t get at those big resort chains up the coast. I spent most mornings on the lanai with my coffee, watching the mist roll through the eucalyptus and ohia trees – and trust me, that’s not something you can fake in a hotel brochure. The host clearly knows this area well because they’ve got all these little touches that show they actually live here, not just rent out properties. Plus, you’re positioned perfectly to explore some of the coast’s best kept secrets. I mean, you can hit up the scenic route to Akaka Falls without dealing with all the tour bus crowds from Hilo, and you’re close enough to Waimea that you can grab dinner at some of those upcountry spots locals actually go to.

Here’s the thing though – and this is coming from someone who’s stayed all over the islands – this place just feels right. Maybe it’s because you’re staying in someone’s actual ohana rather than some sterile vacation rental, but there’s this sense of place you don’t get everywhere. The 9.5 rating honestly makes sense once you’re there, because it’s those little details that add up: the way they’ve got the outdoor shower set up so you feel private but still connected to all that greenery, how quiet it gets at night (seriously, just rain on the roof and maybe some coqui frogs), and yeah, having AC when you need it but windows you actually want to keep open most of the time. It’s not fancy in that Instagram-perfect way, but it’s genuine – and on the Hamakua coast, where the landscape does most of the heavy lifting anyway, that authentic vibe is exactly what you want.

Rooms

• Standard King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults

Reviews

• Hendrik from Netherlands (10/10)

  Spacious, clean, has everything you need and more like Snorkel gear, beachtowels and chairs. It also has full kitchen.
  
  It is located in a small Village. Perfect if you want to explore waipio valley or the north east part of the island.
  
  The owners are realy friendly.

• James from United States (8/10)

  Room was very clean and reasonably spacious. Bed was large and comfortable. Good hot water and decent pressure. We don’t like to drive over the Saddle Road at night with the fog and goats so were looking for a place to crash on our way back to Puna. This place fit the bill well at a reasonable price.

• Dixon from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Super room – very spacious and comfortable.
  Lovely downstairs studio below owner’s house.

• P from United States (10/10)

  Quite and secluded

• Prngtn from United States (10/10)

  Well equipped kitchenette.

• Jeremie from France (10/10)

  Quiet neighborhood, easy access, modern kitchen with everything for 2

• Mary from United States (9/10)

  The room was exactly as expected, though the "ocean view" was over buildings. The room,en suite, had everything we needed. The kitchen unit was complete with coffee, tea, even oatmeal if we wanted to eat breakfast. We loved the bench in the front for night sky gazing (there is no light pollution there), and sitting in the morning watching the sunrise over the ocean. Beautiful! We were warned of feral roosters that might wake us but the room is well insulted.

• Stephanie from United States (9/10)

  Wonderful little spot perfectly positioned between Hilo and the Kohala beaches. This studio space is what we wish hotel rooms could be, with a comfy bed, ample table space, a kitchen that has all you need, and a spacious bathroom. Billy, the owner, was friendly and very helpful — and we appreciated the touches like the snorkel gear, beach chairs and towels, extra bathroom towels, etc.

• Chiara from United States (9/10)

  The room is very comfortable and fully equipped. Nothing was missing and everything was organized pretty well. Easy check in, very clear informations from the landlord and possibility to park. Close to several thing on the big island and great view from outside. The possibility to parking is very appreciated and few snorkeling + beach items were provided if in need. Very nice kitchen to cook a quick dinner after an entire day out and wanting to relax.

• Dakota from United States (10/10)

  Very accomodating, friendly homeowner. Room equipped with enough amenities to move in!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities