Location: Hilo, Hilo District, Big Island, Hawaii, USA (Hawaii Vocanoes National Park 30 min, Hilo Airport 12 min.) View Map
Accommodations: House, 3 Bedrooms + Office, 3.5 Baths (Sleeps 6)
Keywords: 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 2.25 acre estate, river front with private waterfall
“..... a vacation rental located in Hilo's upscale enclave, Reed's Island, a mile from downtown Hilo. The three-bedroom house is perched at eye level to one of Hawaii's most beautiful waterfalls, and is flanked by the Wailuku River and rainforest. The Falls at Reed's Island features private bathrooms, hot-and-cold soaking tubs and views from every window.” - ModernAgent
Featured in The New York Times - "Secluded Retreats on the Big Island"
Featured on the TV special - "Around the World in 80 Homes" produced by the Fine Living Channel, owned by the same folks that bring you HGTV - Home and Garden TV.
Guest comments from Honolulu - “Thank you, thank you, thank you! We have loved the experience of this magical place. The soothing cascades of the waterfalls, the falling rain, the calls of birds, the black rocks and so many colors of green just overload the senses and provide an un-imagined tranquility. Steve told us of this paradise - but even he could not prepare us for this setting. From dawn to dark we have been captive and can only speak in low voices as if not to break the spell. Thank you for sharing this all with us. We leave with memories and feelings that will last forever. Much aloha, ....”
“feels like being on a private island” - Reed's Island is a Hilo neighborhood where the wealthy built their homes in a bygone era, and it still holds that reputation today. The two and a quarter acre estate is located at the very end of the island's only road, giving it the most prestigious and secluded setting on the island.
Historically home for the Hawaiians was not on the beach, they lived in the valleys where the weather was appealing, inspirational, serene. Legend has it that Reed’s Island, (original name “Koloiki”) was the play ground of the Alii. Imagine staying in what seems to be deep in a rainforest, but just a mile up river of Hilo Bay, where a Hawaiian King spent his time.
The Falls at Reed's Island is about 1 mile from old historic Hilo town and Hilo Bay “The Beautiful Bayside City”. The land is more vertical than horizontal, a sliver with about 700' of frontage on the Wailuku River, the largest river in the State. It is protected by a fragment of State land on its side away from the river, and the land across the river is protected by a conservation easement. When on the property, it seems deep in the rain forest, although it is really in downtown Hilo.
Designed by San Francisco architects David Morton and Thomas Cordell, as their private vacation home in Hawaii. Completed in 2002, the narrowness of the site dictated the uniqueness of the house layout, three comfortable private bedrooms with baths, surrounded with large windows opening into the magical rain forest setting. A kitchen building, a pavilion with large windows on all sides surveying, as from a crow's nest, the two gorges and the waterfall. The three buildings are joined by a long screened lanai, with a colonnade of posts made of native Ohia tree trunks. Interior wood is untreated Port Orford cedar from Oregon which has a pleasant aroma.
Over eons of time the river eroded the gorge down on the North side of the island to a level of about 85 feet below the island, leaving the South gorge high and dry about 30 feet below the island. With cliffs flanking both sides, this dry channel is an ideal site for a garden, the bottom is a near level grass area. It undulates the length of the property, culminating beyond the tip of the old island at a cliff overlooking the active North gorge and a grand waterfall directly below. The house exterior is mostly black, with black anodized aluminum windows giving the feeling that the house emerges from the black lava rocks below.
“....we said we would be back. Nineteen months later, here we are for a longer vacation that allows us to settle in and enjoy this setting at a relaxed pace. And what a place to relax! Everything was as wonderful as we remembered and better: the smell when we walked in the door, the music, the flowers, the house, the garden, the falls. And though we visited many special places while here, it was always more wonderful to come back to this private paradise. How rare to find a place so special that spending a day without going anywhere was a highlight. ....”
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Washer
- Dryer
- Linens Provided
- Off Street Parking : House and parking area is 450' into the property.
- Beds
- King Bed : Master Bedroom
- Queen Bed : Bedroom #2
- Twin/Single Bed : Bedroom #3 make as a king (by request set as two twins)
- Bunk Bed : Two twins beds set up as bunk bed in office (no private bath)
- Entertainment
- Private Hot Tub : Soaking tubs (hot & cold)
- Cable/Satellite TV
- DVD
- VCR
- CD Player
- Stereo System
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen : Sub Zero Refrigerator, Ice Maker, Kitchen Aid Range, Dishwasher, Two Sinks, Cooking Utensils
- Cooking Utensils Provided
- Refrigerator
- Dishwasher
- Microwave
- Ice Maker
- Catering Available
- Outdoor Features
- Gas/Electric BBQ Grill : Weber gas BBQ grill
- Lanai : 50' screened lanai connecting the three pavilions
- View/Location
- Waterfront, not Lake/Oceanfront. Ask for details : 750' of Wailuku River, largest river in Hawaii. Private walkway to the river 87 steps.
- Communications
- Telephone
- Free Long Distance : Free direct dial US Minland and interisland
- Computer
- Broadband Internet
- WiFi (Wireless Internet)
- Other Amenities
- Phone (free, direct dial, mainland and inter-island calls), Fax, Laptop Computer with DSL, Cable TV, DVD, VCR, CD player, Hot and Cold Soaking Tubs, Full Kitchen; Sub Zero Refrigerator, Ice Maker, Kitchen Aid Range, Dishwasher, Two Sinks, Cooking Utensils, All Linens including Beach Towels, Iron and Ironing Board, Hair Dryers, Washer and Dryer, Weber Gas BBQ, Robes.
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed
- Handicapped Accessible (may have limitations)
- Wheelchair Accessible (may have limitations)
- Smoking Not Allowed
- Activities
- Golf
- Tennis
- Shopping
- Kayaking
- Boating
- Swimming
- Surfing
- Windsurfing
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Live Theatre
- Horseshoes
- Horseback Riding
- Zoo/Wildlife Park
- Restaurants
- Hiking
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
- Museums
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
Rates*: Mauna Kea Skies - Special Rates for 2012
Per night (single or double occupancy):
6 nights or more $255.00 per night,
4 or 5 nights $285.00 per night,
2 or 3 nights $305.00 per night
Plus $35 for each additional occupant per night
Cleaning 1 or 2 guest $150, 3 or 4 guest $175, 5 or 6 guest $200.
* See Owner's Website for full information.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
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Credit Cards Accepted:
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Map & Owner's Profile
The Falls at Reed's Island "Your Adventure Starts Here"
Why the Owner Chose Hilo
The property was a private vacation home designed and built by two Architects, from San Francisco. Upon the death of one the property was put on the market. We purchased the property because of its simplistic beauty, and by the way it has a 25' waterfall right in the yard. Jane and I converted it to a vacation rental.
Owner's Map of Hilo
Owners are Jack and Jane Stevenson. Jack is a fourth generation Hawaii resident. His great grandparents came from Germany in 1882, straight to Kauai. Jane has lived in Hawaii 52 years. They grew up on Oahu and spent 14 years on Kauai before moving to the Big Island when they purchased the property and created “The Falls at Reed's Island”. They have fallen in love with Hilo in the last seven years. Think that Hilo feels like Honolulu did in the fifties. They love the verdant green side of the Island and all the beautiful rivers and streams. They live in an historic house just five minutes from The Falls. Jack is very active in the Rotary Club of South Hilo. Jane spends time on historic preservation. Jack is an avid scuba diver, who only recently sold his dive boat.
Property Photos
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- Private - Just you and your guest on the property - Hilo, HI - Big Island of Hawaii Vacation Rental - Better than a Hotel!
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- Your Adventure Starts Here - Hilo, HI - Big Island of Hawaii Vacation Rental - Better than a Hotel!
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- Private, Secluded and Romantic - Hilo, HI - Big Island of Hawaii Vacation Rental - Better than a Hotel!
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- Screened Lanai with Colonnade of Native Ohia Tree Trunks
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- Master Bedroom - (King)
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- Bedroom #2 Garden Side (Queen)
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- Bedroom #3 River Side (King or 2 Twins)
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- View of the Wailuku River - North Terrace
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- Family Pavilion
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- Lanai (West End)
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- Private bath in each bedroom
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- Property has private stairs to the River
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- Soaking Pools
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- 25' Waterfall right in the yard
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- Walkway to soaking pools
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- Ancient Riverbed - South Side (Right) now a garden
Traveler Reviews (22)
Unbelievable!
Guest: Dana M.
(Minneapolis)
Date of Stay: 12/16/11
Review Submitted: 12/31/11
This place is so beautiful. We loved the decor and the layout. It is close to all the sights in Hilo town and very close to Rainbow Falls. Fresh flowers and music were awaiting us upon arrival. We could have stayed here for even longer. The only downside is the roosters and coqui frogs can make sleeping a little bit challenging.
Owner response:Have been working on reducing the noise of both. Looks like I need to work harder.
Recommended for:
Amazing!
Guest: Corey
(Santa Cruz, CA)
Date of Stay: 12/11/08
Review Submitted: 10/12/11
It has been about 3 years since we stayed here, and still I dream of the day that I can return. I have vacationed at numerous 5 star resorts, and have yet to find one place that that can compare to this beautiful home on this enchanted piece of land! You will not regret your decision to stay at this home! Thanks again for having us! We hope to return as soon as we can!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, girls getaway, families with teenagers.
Majical and Amazing!
Guest: Kauai Boy
(Kauai, Hawaii)
Date of Stay: 02/12/11
Review Submitted: 02/15/11
Whatever the web site shows....it is EVEN BETTER. This is a movie set....not even believable with the most fabulous setting you could ever imagine. This is a tropical retreat in the true sense of the word. Every detail has been attended to, and the waterfalls is the centerpiece. Located in a wonderful older Hilo neighborhood across a wooden bridge, this place rocks. It is amazing that this private piece of tropical rainforest is so close to everything in Hilo. You can walk to town or use it as a base to see the Volcano, the north shore, and the Puna Coast. Don't waste your time in Kona, just settle in here. Even a rainy day at this house would be better than a sunny day in Kona ....with the VOG. I own a vacation rental company on Kauai and Molokai and this would be above the top of my list! I have never seen anything quite so naturally stunning. I was blessed to be able to share in it. Go there and then you won't want anyone to know the secret.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, girls getaway, age 55+, families with teenagers.
Unforgettable Paradise
Guest: Jufecymom
(Houston, TX)
Date of Stay: 07/27/10
Review Submitted: 02/14/11
This home was one of the most beautiful places we have ever stayed. Every detail was considered and the location was quiet and secluded yet only a mile from downtown Hilo. I would highly recommend this for up to three couples who are traveling together. However, we brought our two teenagers and they LOVED it! In fact they want to do our same vacation again this summer. Wish we could. Mahalo to the owners who are willing to share this piece of paradise. They have maintained the house and grounds immaculately. There was not one leaf out of place. I have made books, calendars, and stationary from all of the pictures I took here. I can still hear Iz singing "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" on the CD player in the house. This is my new happy place I go to in my mind when I have stress. Anyone who stays here will not be disappointed. We definitely hope to return one day.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, people with disabilities, sightseeing, adventure seekers, girls getaway, age 55+, families with young children, families with teenagers.
Enchanted Tropical Paradise
Guest: MicOliver
(Boston, MA)
Date of Stay: 05/16/10
Review Submitted: 05/28/10
This house is absolutely amazing. The photos, as beautiful as they are, don't come close to capturing the magic of this home. Perfectly designed to take full advantage of the magnificent setting and so comfortable and luxurious at the same time, we found ourselves spending long afternoons watching the birds soaring amongst the trees that line the waterfalls right outside the house. My sister enjoyed exploring the different snorkel spots. We also loved relaxing in the hot and cold plunge pools. They use very little chlorine so we were all able to get really great soaks in which did wonders for John's tight back and my achy legs. One night the owner arranged a six course gourmet dinner catered at the house by the dynamic duo "Dean and Dean". Highly recommended! Overall, the most relaxing vacation we have had. We look forward to returning.
Recommended for:
Perfect, just perfect!!!
Guest: Roberta from Oceanside
(Oceanside, CA)
Date of Stay: 09/07/07
Review Submitted: 11/04/08
We can not say enough good things about Waterfall House. The word beautiful does not do it justice. Staying here was like staying in a primal rain forest. The sounds, scents, sights all wonderfully organic and sensual. We loved the house so much we could hardly bring ourselves to leave it. And the owner and wife are great people, not intrusive just helpful when asked and a wealth of knowledge about the area. Go , Stay, trust me you will love it. Roberta & David, Oceanside, CA
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing, adventure seekers, girls getaway, age 55+, families with teenagers.
Guest: Oct 2006
(-)
Date of Stay: 12/16/07
Review Submitted: 12/16/07
Mahalo for this Paradise on Earth! We have never felt so welcomed and all alone with the beautiful surroundings of your home - this is the most magical place we have ever been! Our 22nd anniversary has been more than we ever imagined with the gorgeous surroundings and peaceful spirit we felt throughout our stay! Thank you does not even begin to express how much this visit has meant to us. We only hope that we can take a little of this feeling home to enjoy until our next visit here.
Recommended for:
Guest: Nov 2005 Honolulu
(-)
Date of Stay: 12/16/07
Review Submitted: 12/16/07
Thank you! thank you! thank you! We have loved the experience of this magical place. The soothing cascades of the waterfalls, the falling rain, the calls of birds, the black rocks, and so many colors of green just overload the senses and provide an unimagined tranquility. Steve told us about this paradise - but even he could not prepare us for this setting. From dawn to dusk we have been captive and can only speak in low voices as if not to break the spell. Thank you for sharing this all with us. We leave with memories and feeling that will last forever. Much Aloha.
Recommended for:
Guest: June 2005
(-)
Date of Stay: 12/16/07
Review Submitted: 12/16/07
I’m sure David and Tom would be proud of how you have carried on the spirit of what they had set out to accomplish when they built this house. Having spent the past two years building our dream house in the Shenandoah Valley (and it’s still not finished!), I knew immediately that a professional architect and artist had designed the house and landscaping. You couldn’t invent a more idyllic setting nor perfect balance of harmony the way the house is integrated into the setting. A wonderfully appointed kitchen we made good use of , and an oasis to return to after playing tourist on this side of the Island. We’ve been to Kauai a number of times, but our first trip to the Big Island has shown us it is every bit as beautiful. Attention to detail and thoughtful touches has made for an unforgettable 30th Anniversary for us. Until the next time. Thanks for sharing your dream.
Recommended for:
Guest: Dec 2006 New Orleans
(-)
Date of Stay: 12/16/07
Review Submitted: 12/16/07
I can’t count the number of times I have uttered the words, “I thank you lord for allowing us to stay here!” Truly, it was a bit of an accident that we happened upon your home! We had a 17 day vacation to plan and I needed to fill in a couple of nights, so I searched on vrbo and just happened upon your listing. I thought our friends (the ___ from New Orleans) would enjoy seeing the non-touristy side of Hawaii. What I didn’t realize then was now much I would fall in love with your home, and now am regretting that we only had 2 nights here. I have taken every breath I can to try to remember the sweet aromas of this place, I have tried to capture in my mine all of the incredible sights and sounds that evoke from this place. In my mine, I will travel here again and again whenever I need to calm my thoughts from the craziness of the “real world.” Although you cautioned against t, this morning we swam upstream, to the waterfall. The view from that vantage point – plus the crisp, cool water was exhilarating! Thank you for all the special touches you added to make us feel as though we were not merely “renters”, but that we were your guests. To be here with our friends makes for the most wonderful Christmas Hawaiian vacation ever! A year ago, we were surrounded by piles and piles and piles of debris from Hurricane Katrina. Now, we are surrounded by – WOW. Thank you, thank you, thank you!We’ll be back!! – next time for a longer stay!
Recommended for:
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #6024
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