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SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTED GROTTO HOUSE--SEE THE LAVA FLOWS FROM SAFE DISTANCES!!

SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTED GROTTO HOUSE--SEE THE LAVA FLOWS FROM SAFE DISTANCES!!

Photo gallery for SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTED GROTTO HOUSE--SEE THE LAVA FLOWS FROM SAFE DISTANCES!!

Tucked under enormous trees this cozy cabin is charming, magical and memorable.
Exterior
The carpet is an antique the owner got in Africa in 85'. The ceilings are 12 ft
View from property
Living area

Overview of SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTED GROTTO HOUSE--SEE THE LAVA FLOWS FROM SAFE DISTANCES!!

Reviews
9.6 out of 10 Exceptional
1 bedroomSleeps 260 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Breakfast availableBreakfast availableBreakfast available
  • KitchenKitchenKitchen
  • Free WiFiFree WiFiFree WiFi
  • Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaceOutdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Pahoa, HI
  • Popular LocationKehena Beach15 min walk
  • Popular LocationThe Point4 min drive
  • Popular LocationSPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center5 min drive
  • AirportHilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.)55 min drive

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Studio bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Outdoor/Flush Toilet

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTED GROTTO HOUSE--SEE THE LAVA FLOWS FROM SAFE DISTANCES!!

Welcome to The Sweet Spot!

This is about as unique a place as they come in the Kehena Beach neighborhood along Puna's southeast coast of Big Island, Hawai’i. The land is a multi-dimensional park with grottos, terraces, dramatic lava walls, out of which grow massive Jurassic Park size trees. It is an awe inspiring place which took 16 years to put the three geologically connected lots together to create this 1 1/2 acres paradise. Many people think it a park when they arrive. The Sweet Spot got its name because people who came always said the same thing, "This is a sweet spot." It really is the kind of place and experience you write home about.

It is tucked under a soaring green canopy in an enchanting grotto with floor to ceiling windows looking out into a breathtaking, magical scene. The walls are knotty pine and tile/wood floors with exotic an antique Persian carpet set in a sunken living room. Everywhere you look out is green beauty laced with the colors of a tropical paradise.

Since 1991 I have been gathering exotics to plant on the property so my guests could enjoy a wide variety of fauna, flowers, and fruit. Seasonally, cacao pods, lime, grapefruit, avocado, banana, coconut, mango, and papaya, and for the cooks there is rosemary, thyme, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, oregano and many other edible items on property.

You literally stand in the tree tops as the land falls away under the giant branches of a Monkey Pod tree. A small trail dips into the grotto and the base of the trees and you step into another realm and ecosystem.

The outdoor shower is next to a massive mango tree. A truly beautiful and unique experience. The new flush toilet is also outside (private) with a spectacular view of the lush ravine and a towering monkeypod tree with a branch span of well over 80 feet.

Our resident watch cat, Meow Meow, keeps the property rodent-free. She loves having company but lives outside.

The cottage is off-the-grid, driven by 100% sunshine. The cooking is done with gas.

You will be serenaded to sleep by the pleasant song of the Coqui frogs and awaken by the Morning Doves cooing.

The neighborhood is pleasant to walk and there is more pedistrians than cars here. it is just minutes to the spectacular coast line and the clothing-optional Kehena Black Sand Beach. Kehena Bay is a favorite haunt for dolphins and is frequented by whales in the wintertime. A totally cool local scene has lots of color and character.

Wednesday night in Kalapana is Uncle Robert's Open Air live music event just four miles down the road. We dance, socialize and experience what it means to live Aloha. There is a wonderful farmer's market on Saturday at the same place.

The "Red Road" is one of the most stunning drives in all Hawaii and its magical beauty winds its way along the coast through overgrown tree-lined curves that create tunnels of vegetation.

Pahoa Town, 20 minutes away, is originally a plantation town and retains its down-home, funky and eclectic scene. Tin Shack Bakery, Island Natural Food Store, Thai, Italian, Pizza, American, Hawaiian, Sushi, and Chinese restaurants offer a variety of delicious choices for your in-house or take-out dining.

A new 10x16 deck built up into the tree next to the house, up the branches where you can lounge, chill or even work as the WiFi signal reaches You can do your video conferencing there and it never fails to elicit a response from those seeing where your at.

I know you will love it here, everybody does. It is that kind of place. Rustic, chic, and 100% Aloha!

Property manager

Michael Marlin
Premier Host
Premier Host

Languages

English
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Amenities

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Breakfast available

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Adults only

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Please smoke out doors if you must. Thank you.
Please leave shoes outdoors. It is Hawaiian custom. Mahalo.
Do not let the cat into the house. She lives outdoors.
Do not leave food on out on the counter. It will attract all manner of critters, insects, lizards, etc.

Damage and incidentals

You will be responsible for any damage to the rental property caused by you or your party during your stay.

Important information

You need to know

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number TA-101-069-0048-01, GE-101-069-0048-01

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Pahoa

Located by the sea, this cottage is in Puna Palisades, a neighbourhood in Pahoa. Mackenzie State Park and Kehena Beach reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Pohoiki and Hobby Garden Hawaii. Hilo Coffee Mill and Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden are also worth visiting. Scuba diving and snorkelling offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours and cycling nearby.
Map
Pahoa, HI

What's nearby

  • Kehena Beach - 15 min walk
  • The Point - 4 min drive
  • SPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center - 5 min drive
  • Pohoiki Beach - 21 min drive
  • Isaac Hale Beach Park - 21 min drive

Getting around

  • Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.) - 55 min drive

Restaurants

  • Kalapana uncle Roberts awa bar - 9 min drive
  • Uncle's Kitchen - 9 min drive
  • Karuna Foods - 9 min drive
  • Kalapana Lava Boat Tour - 7 min drive
  • Dosa Mama - 8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTED GROTTO HOUSE--SEE THE LAVA FLOWS FROM SAFE DISTANCES!! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTED GROTTO HOUSE--SEE THE LAVA FLOWS FROM SAFE DISTANCES!!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTED GROTTO HOUSE--SEE THE LAVA FLOWS FROM SAFE DISTANCES!!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTED GROTTO HOUSE--SEE THE LAVA FLOWS FROM SAFE DISTANCES!! located?

Located in Puna Palisades, this cottage is within 2 miles (3 km) of Kehena Beach, The Point and SPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center. Star of the Sea Painted Church and Mackenzie State Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 10 out of 12 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 12 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 12 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 12 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 12 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.0/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Really beautiful place but...
Cons: no hot water in the shower or house. At all. Ran ONLY the hot water line & never got hot water. Hubby bathed in kitchen sink with water from tea kettle. No privacy. At all. Other houses can be seen clearly from all windows & shower of this house. That deck? It's for anyone to use & anyone on it can look right down into your shower. A house up the hill can be clearly seen from shower which means they can clearly see you in the shower. We bought 50ft clothesline and 2 shower curtains from Walmart. Removed when we left. House has no curtains or blinds or any other attempts for privacy. Maybe a dressing blind would be nice to hide behind when getting dressed? No air conditioning. Cools off nicely at night & is fine into the am but then the humidity starts to climb & it's time for a cold shower & leave for the day. Off grid/solar power. Ran out of power one night. Came close on other nights. Issue if you need cpap. Very hard to find in the dark. Poor lady there had to direct us in. The good? Overall it was great! We slept well. The little peeper frogs sang loudly all night. The stars were beautiful! Vegetation like a lush rainforest. If you approach this with tent camping in mind, you'll do fine. We are both very happy we did this. Even with all the 'cons' for us, this place was a great experience & it's one we'll never forget. We talked about it since we've left & agree that we would stay here again but would be better prepared. Thanks for this place! Truly unique!
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katherine A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It's Just Like Avatar!!!
A beautiful and slightly secluded property that is practically in a jungle. This is the coolest place I have stayed for sure. Imagine Avatar the movie in real life, that's what I kept thinking to myself! Also there is a great black sand beach within walking distance!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kevin L.

Very private
Quite and relaxing

10/10 Excellent

Jordan F., Brooklyn

Stay here.
Kat was very welcoming and a great host. Her place is a perfect place to stay. The house is very comfortable with a huge window and view of the rain forest surroundings. Her yard and property is nicely landscaped with interesting plants and fruit trees. The location is great, a short walk to a beautiful and laid back beach, a short drive along a scenic road to snorkel spots, warm pools and flowing lava. I would definitely come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2018

10/10 Excellent

Gabriel H.

What a great place
We live on the Big Island, but on the other side, and about once a year have a "staycation" in or near Pahoa. This has been one of our best experiences yet. This was island living as it should be; quiet, self sustaining, and filled with aloha. The grounds are full of tropical fruits and local plant life, and you are welcome to explore. The cottage has a very open but safe appeal to it snuggled under majestic trees. While there is not an ocean view, when it is still at night you can hear the surf, (The surf was high during our stay so no guarantees, just our experience). Kat and her daughter are amazing hosts who live just up the hill, and they are full of aloha to share. Loved meeting them and hope to see them again soon. Aloha from, Gabe, Jana, George, and Geneva
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2018

About the host

Hosted by Michael Marlin

Host profile image
I am a unique and rare individual and can tell you stories of running away with the circus, playing Las Vegas and headlining comedy clubs as a juggler last century. I am producer of the show LUMA: Art in Darkness which you can find by a google search. It is a human light show that has played internationally. I am the author of the Contemplative Navel, which you can see the cartoons of at mindofmarlin (dot) the the whole profile of me. I am a toy inventor Slingerzz which is based on how vines rap around things. I got the idea watching nature and you can see vids of those at MindofMarlin I am a humorous guy and a creative artist in many ways. My place is a reflection of my artistic and creative bent. I have been cited by POTUS for my volunteer work with boys and mentoring and work as a life and transformational coach as my life has been a study of communications, humanities, psychology, mythology, and various modalities of facilitation.
I have traveled to over 40 countries and have stayed at lots and lots of hotels and the like. I created a place that really embraces the person so they feel at home.

Why they chose this property

It took sixteen years to put the three lots together as the fit geologically, You will understand when you come. I could have gone for the view of the lava and the ocean but I wanted the lush and green grotto with the three giant trees as my companions and I am so glad I went that way. I came to the area in the 80's and founded a juggling community and lived in a tree house with no electricity for five years. But the time came to move on and I found this place which is closer to the beach and stunning. That is the best word to describe the property as it really does take your breath away when you drop down into the Magic Grotto or what Hawaiian's call a "Puka" which literally means hole. KiPuka street has a collapsed lava tube that runs the length of the street and this is at the top of the division with the most dramatic lava wall that you look out over from the window seat. The trees and terrain is what drew me here.

What makes this property unique

The view from the main room out into the Grotto is a marvel to behold. The outdoor shower next to a massive trunk of a mango tree is priceless and looking up at the big tree laying on the giant roots that snake over the ground will have you feeling like a little kid again. You have stayed and may have forgotten the many hotels you have stayed in. This place is unforgettable. The tree deck is the kind of place where people just melt over. Big enough for a dinner party and so enchanting to lounge in. The WiFi signal works well enough that you can video conference and your friends and family won't believe you are up in a tree top. Though in a subdivision, you would hardly know it give how private this location is.

Languages:

English

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