Top 10% of guest reviews in this areaTop 10% of guest reviews in this area
7 bedrooms6+ bathroomsSleeps 14
Popular amenities
Ocean view
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Gym
Explore the area
Hilo, HI
Kalakaua Park
Place, Kalakaua Park
15 min walk
Hilo Farmers Market
Place, Hilo Farmers Market
2 min drive
Wailoa River State Park Hawaii
Place, Wailoa River State Park Hawaii
2 min drive
Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.)
Airport, Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.)
9 min drive
Rooms & beds
7 bedrooms (sleeps 14)
Bedroom 6
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 7
1 Double Bed
Garden suite
1 Queen Bed
Orchird suite
1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Futon
Reeds Island suite
1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Futon
River King suite
1 King Bed
River Queen suite
1 Queen Bed
6 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom
Activity and TV rooms
Toilet · Shower only
Half Bath -- Main Level
Toilet
Room 1: King Suite
Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only
Room 2: Queen Suite
Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only
Room 3: Orchid Room
Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only
Room 4: Ocean Room
Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only
Room 5: ensuit studio
Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Office
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden
About this property
Grand Historic Hilo House
This grand Victorian is located on prestigious Reeds Island -- a hidden jewel of Hawaii's Big Island! Situated on the Wailuku River, Reed's Island was once home to royal Hawaiian families and is only minutes from Hilo's historic downtown, Bay Front and the popular Famers Market.
Built in 1916 by the British banker Thomas Guard, the property is grand and elegant, and on the National Registry of Historic Places. The gracious living room has large sliding picture windows framing the magnificent canopy of nature across the river. A spacious dining room and family room are perfect for family gatherings. The enclosed veranda has large French windows and doors with a desk area and dining table, perfect for creative work and relaxing. The house has 4 spacious bedrooms, one office with day bed, one activity room with large screen TV, game table and day bed, and one children's room with two day beds. We have an open balcony on the second floor overlooking Hilo Bay. The kitchen is large and updated. Two washers and two dryers are in the roomy basement level.
The refined landscape garden ground has been meticulously cared for by our gardeners. Every direction offers lush green and tropical colors.
With the Wailuku River flowing in the backyard and the tropical rain forest setting covering the grounds, the Hilo House is a beautiful place for relaxation and tranquility! Enjoy the view from our newly added cabana and deck area right over the roaring river and water falls.
We are 3 minutes to historic downtown with fine dining and famous Hilo Farmers’ Market; 8 minutes to the Coconut Island and Japanese Zen Garden with ancient Hawaiian fish ponds; 12 minutes to Carlsmith and Richardson Beach with tons of fish and giant turtles for swimming and snorkeling ; 15 minutes to Hilo Airport; 20 minutes to the Akaka Falls; 4 minutes to the Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pots; 40 minutes to National Volcano Park; walking distance to Waianuenue Avenue where local museums, churches, shops and a library reside.
3 surveillance cameras are installed around the exterior of the house. One camera is located over the front entrance, one over the sun-room door and the 3rd one over the driveway.
For additional guests over 2 people there is a $40 additional charge per person per night. Undeclared additional guest fee is $100 per guest per night. Merrie Monarch rates are higher.
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number GE-167-057-4080-01, TA-167-057-4080-01
Property # 479849vb
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property, but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Hilo
Located in Hilo, this holiday home is in the city centre and on the beach. Naha Stone and Lyman Museum are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Naniloa Country Club and Edith Kanakaole Tennis Stadium. Mokupapapa Discovery Center and Pacific Tsunami Museum are also worth visiting. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and ecotours nearby.
Wailoa River State Park Hawaii - 2 min drive - 1.6 km
Getting around
Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.) - 12 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 16 min walk
Kozmic Cones - 10 min walk
L & L Drive-Inn - 17 min walk
The Temple Bar - 14 min walk
Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine - 18 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Grand Historic Hilo House pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Grand Historic Hilo House?
As of 9 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Grand Historic Hilo House on 1 Sept 2026 start from £406, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Grand Historic Hilo House?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Grand Historic Hilo House?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Grand Historic Hilo House?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Grand Historic Hilo House located?
Located in Hilo, this beachfront holiday home is in the city centre and within a 15-minute walk of Hamakua Heritage Corridor, Kalakaua Park and Naha Stone. St. Joseph Catholic Church and Lyman Museum are also within 15 minutes.
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We had a lovely but too short stay at your beautiful historic home. The location was perfect and the views and seating areas overlooking the ravine and waterfall are unparalleled. There were a few uninvited creepy crawlers in the lower level that spooked some of our group and caused us to use only the upper level bedrooms but nothing unexpected in a historic home in this climate. Mahalo!
This house was the dream home for our family of 8 vacation! Beautifully maintained, everything we needed for family dinners, and gorgeous spots to just relax and talk. It was a joy sleeping to the sound of the river and chirping frogs. We loved gathering on the wide veranda for coffee every morning before heading out to explore Hilo!
Karen L.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Nov 2025
It was wonderful hosting your families. You are grateful you respect and love our home.
Mahalo for being such great guests!
Charlotte
We would have given all 5s except that when we arrived we were not met by a host. We were able to let ourselves in using the lock box key. We discovered the beds not made, trash in the rooms and on the floors, linen in piles and in the washing machine. After checking to make sure we had the correct day and time, we called Charlotte and got an immediate response. She apologized for a missed communication, and arranged for 3 housekeepers to make the beds and provide clean towels. The next day the housekeeper returned to finish cleaning. In spite of our initial dismay and confusion, it was clearly evident to us that even in its dishelved state, this property was/is unique, loved (well maintained), and worth waiting for. So we did, and we are glad that we did!
James H.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Mar 2026
Thank you Jim for your understanding! Everyone felt bad we made a mistake in the cleaning schedule. You have been so gracious and kind accepting our apologies. We certainly learnt from this!
I am so glad you had a good time at my house after all!
Aloha and Mahalo Luo Loa!
Charlotte
Fantastic old Hawaii charm! A beautiful home with room for the whole family to spread out and relax. A great yard, a view of the river and waterfall, a sprawling lanai for meals and playing games. We love this house for our family trips to Hilo. Close to everything but in a quiet neighborhood. Mahalo piha Charlotte
Donna R.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Aug 2025
You are wonderful guests Donna!
I enjoyed hosting you!
Thank you for being such gracious guests!
Aloha!
Charlotte
It is a beautiful and stunning home. Property is immaculate. View of the river is awesome. So many places to sit with family members, inside (huge dining table, living room, sun room) and outside (front porch, deck, bbq area). Bedrooms and bathrooms are huge and very comfortable.
This is a spectacular historic house complete with historic furnishings. The host was very easy to work with, excellent communication. I would ask all guests to please respect this very special home and take extra care when you stay, you will not be disappointed. Mahalo!
allen h.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jul 2025
Mahalo Allen for your beautiful review! What an honor to host you as a returned guest! Your love and respect for the house is greatly appreciated!
Please do come back in the near future!
Gratefully!
Charlotte
Beautiful house on gorgeous grounds. Lots of space for our family holiday and super well equipped. We loved it!
Valerie S.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Patrizia F.
2 Jan 2018
We had a wonderful visit in this beautiful historic home!
This was the perfect location for our family of 8 to spend Christmas! Beautiful home in a beautiful setting. We really enjoyed our stay!
Patrizia F.
Stayed 10 nights in Dec 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Mar 2020
Thank you Pat to spend your family holiday at our beautiful home. I am so pleased you had a wonderful time. You are also a gracious guest!
Have a happy and healthy new year!
Charlotte
Our group of 8 had a fantastic stay at this beautiful house. We were in Hilo for Merrie Monarch for the 3 days. Had a great time!!Charlotte’s home is unbelievably beautiful and very well maintained. I have nothing but great things to say about it.Mahalo Nui!!
Cynthia S.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Apr 2025
It was so wonderful hosting you and your party! You left the house in beautiful condition!
Mahalo nui loa!
Charlotte
This Historic home is very spacious, well kept and well supplied with everything you may neeI highly recommend staying d. Plenty of dishes, utensils and even 2 washers and dryers.The view of the waterfall in back was amazing.I highly recommend staying at the Historic Hilo House.
The historic home and setting is absolutely beautiful. We especially appreciated the well equipped kitchen as well as the 4 large bedrooms upstairs each with their own private bathroom and shower. The home is immaculate and the grounds well maintained. An added bonus is the view into the Wailuku Gorge and upstream to one of several waterfalls.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this historic home. It had all the amenities we needed & more. Our family made great memories here. We hope to return someday.
A wonderful place for a large family gathering. You will find everything you need plus a very helpful host! We would return if in Hilo again!
Deborah L.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Jul 2024
Thank you for your kind review! I am so glad you and your families had a good time at our house!
You are wonderful guests and we welcome you back anytime!
Fondly!
Charlotte
We had a great time celebrating my mother’s 60th at this gorgeous property. It is within walking distance of downtown Hilo itself and an easy drive to the islands best sites. We would definitely stay again if we ever find ourself in Hilo!
Ronnie T L.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jan 2024
Thank you Ronnie for your kind review. You are a wonderful guest truly caring for our historic property. You left it in great condition, clean and tidy!
We would love to host you again!
Aloha
Charlotte
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Joseph A.
9 Apr 2014
Hil House
Great large house with absolutely beautiful setting! Will stay here again if ever in the area.
Joseph A.
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Mar 2020
Aloha, Joseph! Thank you for staying at the Hilo House and we truly enjoyed having you as our guest. We do hope you return and if you do we would be happy to have you stay with us again. Mahalo!
15 adults and teens stayed in the house. We had a great time.
Karen C.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Dec 2023
Thank you Karen for your kind review. Unfortunately my cleaners were quite disturbed at how you left the house. They sent me photos. In her words the house was left in messy and filthy condition. The towels were so dirty that she had to soak them in the bleach for 6 hours. She spent twice as much cleaning after your party.
I told her you had a large group with young kids. I apologized on your behalf and paid her extra for her extra hours and stress. They had to get the house ready for the next group so quickly.
It is hard to manage a large family/friends group in a big house like mine. I wish people were more respectful living in other’s home. We love our home and have given it so much care and attention. It saddens me when our guests don’t treat our home like their own.
Happy new year!
Charlotte
This home is a beautiful and elegant place to spend time with family! Lots of space and many areas to congregate. The location by the river is truly special. Charlotte was a very communicative host and I would highly reccommend staying here.
Julie R.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
About the host
Hosted by Charlotte Dewar
Graduated from Peking University with a degree in English Literature, I became an English teacher at the university. I have been living in California and Hawaii for 35 years. This exquisite property surrounded by natural wonders is our sanctuary. Tranquility, beauty and pure air calm the body and mind and uplift the soul...
Why they chose this property
This is one of the most beautiful homes on the Big Island. If you love beauty, elegance and tranquility, this is the place!
Please note we do refund 40% of the deposit if you have to cancel the booking 60 prior to arrival.
What makes this property unique
Reeds Island where the house locates is an exclusive community between two volcano rivers. Beautiful homes line the small road with kind and loving neighbors. Tropical rain forests and wildlife lie in every direction. A walk on the island is a step into natural beauty. We are ten minutes walk to historic Hilo downtown where boutique shops, galleries, restaurants and Farmers Market line the streets. Beeches, parks and Japanese garden are minutes away.
Languages:
English, Chinese (Mandarin)
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests