SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby
Welcome to The Sweet Spot Stay NOTE- The house itself on 12-179 Kipuka however the entrance is on 12-7110 Kalaunu.
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 really sweet spot." It is the kind of place and experience you write home about and never forget.
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.
There are ducks and cats wandering the property tending to their tasks of weeding and pest extermination.
The cottage is off-the-grid, driven by 100% sunshine however the cooking is done with propane. You will have 800mbs fiber optic speeds.
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. 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!
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
For a smooth check out leave the sheets on the bed and towels on hooks. Please take yours to the Pahoa Recycling station found with this link https://maps.app.goo.gl/jZzWma9BSn8PSLju7?g_st=ic. Mahalo
Leave the key where it was found for the next guest. Turn off all items to save our solar power.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
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.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number TA-101-069-0048-01, GE-101-069-0048-01
Property # 960979vb
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 no smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Pahoa
Located by the sea, this cottage is in Puna Palisades, a neighbourhood in Pahoa. Mackenzie State Park and Pohoiki reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include SPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center 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 cycling and hiking nearby.
Is SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby?
As of 9 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby on 4 Jun, 2026 start from S$196, 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 SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby located?
Located in Puna Palisades, this cottage is 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from SPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center and within 6 miles (10 km) of Star of the Sea Painted Church and Mackenzie State Park. Pohoiki and Isaac Hale Beach Park are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Lovely property. Wonderful friendly host. Lots of room. Nice living room with giant windows overlooking a forest view. Well equipped kitchen with if cooking equipment. Dark sky for stargazing.
Ken R.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Feb, 2026
Thank you for the kind words. We look forward to having you back again
The Sweet Spot is a very special place. The house is tucked under a massive tree canopy that made it the perfect place to escape the mid day heat. September must be mango season because the mangos falling on the tin roof caused quite the racket. We enjoyed the rustic house and outdoor shower and we had everything we desired to cook and enjoy a lovely vacation. Mickey who lives on the property made us feel right at home and had great recommendations for our daily excursions. Thank you Michael!!
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!
Katherine A.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Mar, 2023
Mahalo for the review. What a wonderful comparison to Avatar and yes all the treetop scenes in the movie, I can see the similarities. Again, thank you for staying with us.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Gabriel H.
28 Mar, 2018
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
Gabriel H.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar, 2020
Aloha Gabe and fam. It was so nice to meet you all! Thank you for taking good care of Meow Meow and the cottage. You are such a sweet family. We look forward to hanging out on the other side with you!
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!
Jennifer W.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 18 May, 2023
Hi Jennifer, thanks for reviewing us! I’m glad we got the electricity stable enough for your cpap. Regarding the hot water, I am so sorry to read you were struggling in silence. The whole house runs off one hot water system so the fact that you had hot water in the kitchen - I wonder if you missed my initial message about the hot water tap in the shower being blue, rather than red - ie, you were using the wrong tap in the shower. Regarding the privacy, we haven’t had complaints before but are reviewing the setup. Generally the huge mango tree and jungle hide the shower from the neighbors.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Kevin L.
29 Jan, 2019
Very private
Quite and relaxing
Kevin L.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Jordan F.
29 Mar, 2018
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!
Jordan F.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2018
Verified
6/10 Okay
John O.
27 Feb, 2018
Three weeks at Puna Palisades
To begin, I must state that Kat is a wonderful host and was a delight to meet. However, the cottage was advertised as having a "composting toilet." The composting toilet was actually a 5 gallon bucket. While the contents may technically be composted, this was technically NOT a composting toilet.
Upon arrival, we were informed that the resident cat needed to be fed twice a day. This detail was omitted in the description of the property. I graciously fed the cat, but as I was on vacation I would have preferred not having this assignment. I don't own a pet because I don't want to care for a pet.
Finally, the bed pillows in the cottage reeked and should have been changed out years ago. In fact, the stench was so bad that I bought 2 new ones. So, to the next occupants, "you're welcome!"
John O.
Stayed 21 nights in Jan 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar, 2020
Aloha John! Thank you for being wonderful guests.
Thank you for your feedback. I appreciate the opportunity to make each visit better for future guests.
I'm sorry the toilet was more rustic than you expected. I will be more clear on the listing so that people have an accurate idea of what to expect. That being said, it is a functional system that tends to be unoffending to the nose because of the sawdust that is used in the process. And you have to admit, it's an epic view to enjoy while doing your business ;)
I apologize for not checking in with you about feeding Meow Meow. I usually give guests the option to feed her or have me feed her, and when I reviewed our communications, I realized that I did not offer that option to you. No one else has ever actually taken me up on the offer to have me feed her, I think generally people prefer their privacy to having me come over to do it. But thank you for taking on the chore while you were here. She definitely appreciated it!
And darn it I'm so sorry I missed the musty pillows. It's the most common frequently replaced item because in this humid climate, they do tend to get icky rather quickly. I wish that you had asked me about it, I would have grabbed some new ones for you no problem! That's part of my job here, keeping everyone taken care of! So hopefully future guests who read this know that I'm here to help make their stay as fantastic as possible.
Thank you for staying with us. A hui hou!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Deana D.
3 Feb, 2018
Loved it. Exactly what I had imagined. Close to everything we wanted to see.
The house is in such a perfect setting. The sounds are incredible. It's like nature putting you to sleep every night. The interior fits it all. Meow Meow is awesome. There is something to be said about simple living. No stress and a great place to meditate. Thank You Kat. You are wonderful and perfect to deal with. Hope you have a wonderful day. I will be back. Aloha
Deana D.
Stayed 12 nights in Jan 2018
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Joe L.
20 Nov, 2017
Great location, relaxing stay
We had a wonderful time visiting the big island and staying in this cozy, relaxing home. It is tucked away nicely in the woods in a quiet area that is close to the beach, but not too far from the city life and attractions that the big island offers. Would highly recommend staying here if you plan to visit the big island, especially if you are flying into Hilo. Was a great weekend getaway.
Joe L.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar, 2020
Thanks for staying with us Joe! You are welcome back any time!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
April C.
5 Oct, 2017
Beyond great expectations!
I was very comfortable in a charming and rustic cottage in beautiful surroundings. Kehena black sand beach, Wai'opae tidepools and bike ride or hike to lava flow into the ocean were very close by. I love the friendly locals, and Kat the property manager and her daughter are the nicest and most helpful people. Also the pets (2 dogs and 3 cats) are super friendly and add character to this wonderful place.
April C.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2017
Archival
8/10 Good
Gene M.
18 Feb, 2017
Charming with lots of frogs. Kitchen could use a good cleaning.
Private and jungly.
Gene M.
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar, 2020
I am not sure what Gene means by "Kitchen could use a good cleaning" because other than using scouring powder on the stove so there isn't a spot on it, or the counter tops or the sink the next step would be, paint?
The wood in the kitchen is recycled old growth redwood and I admit it looks rustic and like it is 100 years old. I could bust out a floor sander and re-do it. The stone work I have scrubbed on my hands and knees. I am always open to improve the experience and after each guest I go through the place with vacuum, mop, scrub brush (where needed) soap, scouring powder and pads. The fridge does have some rust on it, (which may make it look dirty) and that is due to living so close to the ocean. The salt air corrodes everything. The next option is to get a new fridge that is stainless steel.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Chris S.
14 Feb, 2017
Authentic Hawaiian experience
This is a beautiful place!!! The bed was comfortable, the shower under the mango tree unique and warm water. It was was unusual for us and out of the box. We ate and enjoyed the hot tub at nearby kanalui resort. Also enjoyed uncle jimmys, a place where wonderful food and art store with jewelry and pottery. Withinin 6 miles the most amazing lava experience, 4 m bike ride to see lava firehose. Never saw anything like it. Micheal is a wonderful host, did his best to help us! Lord Bless him and his house was special place to us.
Chris S.
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar, 2020
I love to hear this from my guests. I want them to really feel the magic of the land and nature. As an FYI: it is Kalani Honua eco resort that has spas, massage, hot tubs and meals served to the public. And it is Uncle Roberts' (not Jimmy's)
Aloha all,
Marlin
Sweet Spot
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Ana P.
25 Jan, 2017
Sneekily private close to lots of attractions
Marlins place was a perfect place to crash after full days or just chill around. The outdoor shower, huge trees and beautiful gardens made me feel like I was right in the jungle! It was a funky place with a welcoming host. Ill visit again. Thanks Marlin :)
Ana P.
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar, 2020
This Canadian couple was a dream to host. Appreciative for the closeness of the natural surroundings and digging the 'cabin in the woods' feeling but more like "cabin in the jungle". They even took me out to dinner. WoW! that really blew me away.
I think what they mean by 'funky' is that the place looks homemade because it was. Not a contractor/subdivision type dwelling but built in such a way that it brings the beauty of the property into the cabin with the giant floor to ceiling windows. Nature lovers really love the location as so much is so close and no need to go far to see alot. I look forward to hosting you and make your vacation epic
About the host
Hosted by Michael Marlin
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.