Prime location in park-like setting located in the highly desirable Waiakea Uka area of Hilo. Fully furnished 1-bedroom, 1-bath rustic, beautifully trimmed, cedar cottage with loft and vaulted ceilings on a gated two-acre property - 10 minutes from UH Hilo and shopping. Sleeps 4: queen bed in bedroom, queen sleeper sofa in living room, 2 queen & 1 full airbed in loft. Recent upgrades to kitchen, bath, and laundry room (now with additional shower and sink). Covered and fenced patio.<br /><br /><b>The space</b><br />Cozy, warm and charming, your 1000 square foot cedar cabin is surrounded by undulating, grassy hills and bordered by lush tropical forest. Vaulted ceilings give it a spacious feel while the cedar walls give it a luxurious warmth. A seasonal stream runs through the back of the 2-acre property, accented by beautiful anthuriums, orchids, flowers, tropical foliage and several fruit and nut trees.<br /><br />While staying at the Hilo Rainforest Sanctuary and Retreat, you’ll find a wide variety of spectacular attractions—most less than 30 minutes away. Explore stunning waterfalls like Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls, and Umauma Falls (which also features a thrilling zipline experience), as well as Boiling Pots. For parks and gardens, visit Queen Liliuokalani Gardens, Moku Ola (Coconut Island), Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens, Carlsmith’s Beach Park, and Richardson’s Ocean Park. If you enjoy nature trails and unique sites, don’t miss the lush rainforest hikes, Kaumana Caves, and the renowned Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. For those interested in cultural and educational destinations, discover the Lyman Museum & Mission House, Pacific Tsunami Museum, ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, Kamehameha the Great Statue, Hilo Farmers Market, and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center. There’s something for everyone to experience and enjoy during your stay.<br /><br /><b>Guest access</b><br />Our guests enjoy exclusive access to the home and the scenic, park-like property grounds. Step onto your spacious, private patio—fully fenced for comfort and peace of mind—where you can unwind to the gentle rustling of leaves, grill a favorite meal, or savor an alfresco dinner as the sun sets and the sky glows with evening colors.<br /><br />Awaken your senses each morning to the sweet scent of citrus blossoms drifting through the air, and listen for the cheerful songs of native birds from the treetops. As you stroll among the vibrant flower, nut, and fruit trees, you’re invited to pick your own oranges, lemons, grapefruits, bananas, avocados, jaboticaba, or white, red, and strawberry guavas—each offering its own burst of fresh, sun-ripened flavor when in season. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a breakfast of fruit you’ve gathered yourself or sharing a sunset barbecue on the patio, surrounded by the sights and sounds of this tropical retreat.<br /><br />Deliveries are not allowed at this home. USPS, FedEx, UPS, and Amazon packages cannot be received. If you send mail or packages here without written approval, they will be returned to the sender. If you need to arrange a delivery, please contact us in advance to discuss options.<br /><br /><b>Other things to note</b><br />Immersed in the heart of the tropical rainforest, you'll likely cross paths with some of the island’s most fascinating residents. It’s not uncommon to spot wild pigs and free-roaming chickens quietly making their way through the undergrowth—they’re naturally shy and will do their best to steer clear of people. As evening falls, the distinctive chorus of Coqui frogs, a recent addition to Hawai'i’s ecosystem, provides a unique soundtrack to your nights. And if you’re especially fortunate, a gecko might pay a surprise visit inside the cottage; these harmless little lizards are cherished as tokens of good luck in many cultures, bringing a special touch of island charm to your stay.<br /><br />The lush landscape also brings with it a few environmental considerations. As dusk approaches, you may encounter small mosquitoes—nothing a bit of repellent can’t handle. For added comfort, consider packing lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and pants to protect your skin, especially if you’re sensitive to bites. If the cottage is equipped with window screens or mosquito nets, make use of them to keep your evenings bite-free. The sun near the equator shines with extra intensity, so don’t forget your sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. For the most pleasant outdoor experiences, plan your hikes or patio dinners in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler and the sunlight is gentler.<br /><br />What truly sets this retreat apart is its authentic Hawaiian spirit. Here, you’ll discover a slower pace of life, where the simple joys of nature are celebrated and genuine aloha is felt in every interaction. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs, Hawai’i Island retains a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere—neighbors greet you with a smile, and traditions are cherished and shared. Take time to unwind, breathe in the fragrant air, and immerse yourself in old Hawai'i at its finest. You’ll return home not only refreshed, but also enriched by the warmth and hospitality that make this place so special.<br /><br /><b>Registration Details</b><br />TA-032-697-6512-01