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Private Tropical Guesthouse in Hilo with AC & Lush Gardens

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A tropical garden with a gravel path, palm trees, and various plants.
A small, single-story building with a covered porch and a fenced area.
A room with a sliding glass door leading to a patio with a table and chairs.
A playground with a slide and climbing structure, surrounded by a fenced yard with grass and palm trees.
A spacious kitchen with modern appliances, a dining area with a large table, and a balcony with a view.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Room to spread out
    Enjoy spacious layout that give everyone more room to relax.
  • Beach equipment
    A rare find — beach equipment ready to go for your days by the sea.
  • At the centre of it all
    Stay in a top rated central location, steps from the best attractions, dining, and entertainment.
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Deck or patio
  • On-site fitness centre
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air-conditioning
  • Washer/dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View in a map
Hilo, HI
  • Place, Wailuku River State Park
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Kaumana Caves Park
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Rainbow Falls
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.)
    ‪17 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Office
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Private Tropical Guesthouse in Hilo with AC & Lush Gardens

Welcome to Tropical Retreat Guest House

Escape to your own peaceful tropical retreat in beautiful Hilo, Hawaiʻi.

Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, palms, fruit trees, and the sounds of nature, our private guesthouse offers a quiet place to relax while keeping you just minutes from downtown Hilo, Rainbow Falls, Kaumana Caves, restaurants, shopping, and many of East Hawaiʻi's favorite destinations.

Whether you're starting the morning with coffee on your private deck, walking through the tropical gardens, or relaxing after a day exploring the island, our goal is to give you a comfortable place that feels like your own little piece of Hawaiʻi.

YOUR PRIVATE TROPICAL RETREAT

The guesthouse is a fully independent private home with its own entrance and living spaces, giving you the freedom and privacy to enjoy your vacation at your own pace.

Inside, you'll find a comfortable, thoughtfully maintained space with air conditioning, a full kitchen, high-speed Wi-Fi, washer and dryer, and everything you need to feel at home during your stay.

Outside is where the Tropical Retreat experience really comes to life.

Step into the surrounding gardens and enjoy tropical plants, palms, flowers, and peaceful pathways throughout the property. Relax on your private deck, enjoy the fresh Hilo air, or spend some quiet time in our screened garden house listening to the sounds of nature.

PEACEFUL, YET CLOSE TO HILO

One of the things our guests love most about our home is the peaceful setting.

You can enjoy the feeling of being tucked away in tropical Hawaiʻi without giving up the convenience of being close to town.

Rainbow Falls is approximately a six-minute drive away, Kaumana Caves is about five minutes away, and Hilo International Airport is approximately 17 minutes from the property.

Downtown Hilo, restaurants, farmers markets, beaches, waterfalls, shopping, and other East Hawaiʻi attractions are all within easy reach.

The guesthouse also makes a wonderful home base for exploring Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and the many waterfalls, rainforest trails, botanical gardens, scenic drives, and coastal areas found throughout East Hawaiʻi.

A PLACE TO SLOW DOWN

This property is especially well suited for couples, solo travelers, and guests looking for somewhere peaceful to return to after exploring the island.

Wake up to the sounds of Hawaiʻi's tropical environment, enjoy a slow morning surrounded by greenery, and come home after a day of adventure to your own comfortable retreat.

We want you to feel like you're staying in Hawaiʻi, not simply sleeping here.

LOCAL HOSTS, HERE WHEN YOU NEED US

We love sharing our island with our guests and are always happy to recommend our favorite restaurants, waterfalls, beaches, scenic drives, farmers markets, and local places that you may not discover in a typical visitor guide.

At the same time, we respect your privacy and allow you to enjoy the property and your vacation at your own pace.

GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE BOOKING

We believe in giving our guests a clear understanding of the property before they arrive so they can book with confidence.

• Private Guesthouse: Your guesthouse is a separate and independent living space with its own entrance.

• Air Conditioning: The guesthouse is air-conditioned for your comfort.

• Full Kitchen: Prepare anything from your morning coffee to a complete meal during your stay.

• Washer & Dryer: A Washer/Dryer combo is available for your convenience.

• Tropical Environment: Our property is surrounded by lush vegetation and nature. Hawaiʻi's tropical climate is part of what makes this setting so beautiful and unique.

• Exterior Security Monitoring: Exterior security cameras are used for the safety and protection of our guests and property. There are no cameras or monitoring devices inside the guesthouse.

Whether you're coming to Hilo for waterfalls and adventure, visiting family, exploring Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, or simply looking for a peaceful tropical escape, we'd love to welcome you.

Come slow down, relax, and experience the beauty and aloha of our Tropical Retreat Guest House.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number TA-117-179-2896-01, GE-117-179-2896-01
Property # 7182126
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 a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
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 near the beach. Lyman Museum and Imiloa Astronomy Center are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Gilbert Carvalho Park and Joint Astronomy Centre. Pacific Tsunami Museum and East Hawaii Cultural Center are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and mountain biking.
Map
Hilo, HI

What's nearby

  • Wailuku River State Park - 4 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Kaumana Caves Park - 5 min drive - 3.8 km
  • Ainako Park - 5 min drive - 3.8 km
  • Kaumana Caves County Park - 6 min drive - 4.2 km
  • Rainbow Falls - 6 min drive - 5.0 km

Getting around

  • Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.) - 17 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Ohana Cafe - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Kozmic Cones - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Antics Pizza - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Private Tropical Guesthouse in Hilo with AC & Lush Gardens pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Private Tropical Guesthouse in Hilo with AC & Lush Gardens?

As of 25 Sept 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private Tropical Guesthouse in Hilo with AC & Lush Gardens on 22 Dec 2026 start from £220, 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 Private Tropical Guesthouse in Hilo with AC & Lush Gardens?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Private Tropical Guesthouse in Hilo with AC & Lush Gardens?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Private Tropical Guesthouse in Hilo with AC & Lush Gardens?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Private Tropical Guesthouse in Hilo with AC & Lush Gardens located?

Located in the heart of Hilo, this holiday home is within 3 miles (5 km) of Wailuku River State Park, Pu'u 'O'o Trail and Kaumana Caves County Park. Kaumana Caves Park and Ainako Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 201 out of 210 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 210 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 210 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 210 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 210 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The guesthouse was as advertised, very appealing and affordable and a great location.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This guest cottage is a great home base to explore the Hilo side of the island. It is only minutes away to Rainbow Falls. It is clean, quiet and comfortable. We have stayed here twice and would not hesitate to stay here again if we are lucky enough to be back this way in the future. The only thing missing was some beach chairs, but there are lots of picnic tables at the beach parks so it was not a big deal.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We spent 3 nights at this unit and found it extremely spacious for two people, very well-equipped, clean, detailed instructions and excellent lists of restaurants, places to visit, and museums. It is less than a 15 minute drive to downtown Hilo. We had visited Hilo before and since this time we had rainy weather, we visited three museums: Mokupapapa Discovery Center, Lyman Museum and Iamoli Planetarium. They were all excellent. One restaurant we recommend is Moon and Turtle, sit at the bar, and enjoy a wonderful meal. We would return to this unit with no hesitation.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice place great location
Stayed 14 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved the property, and it worked perfectly for our few days in Hilo. We will definitely book this house again when we come back. It is close to down town Hilo, and was our perfect homebase for our adventures. Our host was responsive and so accommodating. 5 stars all the way
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent property. Well equipped. Good instructions. Would stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved the location away from busy downtown. Accommodations were perfect for 2.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was clean and updated. The kitchen was well stocked with everything needed to prepare meals. There were beach towels to use and a medium sized igloo cooler to use for day trips. The host communicated with us well and check in and check out was smooth. Great place to stay while in Hilo.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Overall our experience was pleasant the house was clean and fit my wife and I very well and we enjoyed our stay. Our only complaint was the electric gate remote used to enter and exit the property. It was very finicky and sometimes we couldn’t get it to work at all especially under heavy rain conditions.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
A very lovely guest house that is attached to the back of a main house. Complete privacy and quiet. Nice yard to enjoy. House has all updated appliances and decor. Very modern and comfortable. Set in a quiet residential area. I would definitely stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice, safe property. We actually ended up staying at another property through the same owners. Maintenance was being done at property. Very happy with communication! Property was clean and welcoming. Would recommend!
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The place was perfect. Very clean. Comfortable beds. Peaceful. We visited Hilo to see family and the location was 5 minutes from my mother -in-law’s house. We will definitely stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Great stay, excellent accommodations, attentive hosts.

Great stay, excellent accommodations, attentive hosts.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar 2020
Thank you for the review Dennis. We enjoy having you and your wife as our guests.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay. Host was very available and helpful. The place is well equipped with quality furnishings and amenities.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Overall good property. Host is very friendly and responsive. However there were quite some roaches in kitchen area. Some are common in this area but it was quite a lot. Also listing pictures has playground for kids but that area is not accessible for renters.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 8 May 2026
Aloha Greg, Once again, I apologize for the inconvenience you experienced during your stay. I truly did everything I could to address the concerns while you were at the property, including offering to have our pest control company come inspect and treat the area, which was declined. Our property is treated monthly by a local pest control company, Will Kill Pest Control, to help ensure the home remains pest-free. In addition, the property is fully cleaned and sanitized after every checkout and receives a deep “white glove” cleaning approximately every three months. In the 8 years we have been hosting, we have never previously had guests report an issue of this nature. After your checkout, we had the property inspected by our pest control company, and they confirmed there was no evidence of a roach infestation or nesting on the property. I also showed them the photos provided, and they advised that the roaches shown are not commonly found in Hawaii and may have been brought in through luggage or personal belongings. Since your stay, we have hosted three additional guests, and none have reported any pest-related concerns. Regarding the playground, we understand the confusion. However, the playground is not listed as an advertised amenity on our rental listing. It is a private, non-commercial playground intended for our children’s personal use. Due to liability and insurance concerns, we are unable to allow guest access to that area. We truly appreciate your feedback and ar
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
very beautiful place, super well furnished, a bit outside, but the way to the airport was fast enough.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The place very comfortable. The AC was important for our adjustment to the humidity here in Hawaii. Sleeping with AC is a good way to start that transition. The rooms were spotlessly clean. The kitchen was ideal for preparing meals although we didn't use it much. The place felt like our little home away from home. So far it was the best place we stayed at on the big island. It is a little ways outside of Hilo town but it was cool to be able to peal back the layers of Hilo slowly. You do need a car to get around. This place would be quite nice with a small family. My son and I enjoyed it very much, having a bed each was really nice. My son gives it 5 stars as well.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Clean spacious stay

Well thoughtout and maintained home. We enjoyed the area.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Happy in Hilo

Great place
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent place!

Location great, right between Moana Kea and Volcanoes National Park super clean outdoor seating for those who smoke✅.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

5 day stay

Very clean, everything was in working condition and well furnished, great place to stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tropical retreat

Great place
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Everything is great. But if you could provide the dishwasher it would be much better
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The place was very nice and we thought the location was really nice, kind of tucked away from the hustle and bustle but still not too far from town. The AC worked great and kept us cool at night and they left a large container of filtered water in the fridge, which was super helpful. Overall, we would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely spot. Very clean and comfortable, and in a beautiful neighborhood. Great to have a kitchen, and a washer/dryer. Raul was nice, and very responsive to our questions. A perfect spot for our trip. Thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2025

About the host

Hosted by Raul Castro

Host profile image
Raul and Stefanie are a young, friendly, and welcoming couple. Raul is originally from Portugal but has been in the USA since 2007 (since 2009 is Hawaii). Raul owns a medical billing company and is a graduate student from BYU Hawaii. Stefanie was born and raised in Hilo. She is an ER nurse and a graduated from University of Hawaii in Hilo. Together they have 2 amazing children. Raul and Stefanie love traveling, making new friends, and enjoy family time activities.

Languages:

English, Spanish, Portuguese

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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