Temple Tree Retreat: An Adventurer's Oceanfront Paradise!

Photo gallery for Temple Tree Retreat: An Adventurer's Oceanfront Paradise!

A coastal property with a house featuring a green roof, surrounded by lush greenery and a rocky shoreline.
A two-story house with a green roof, surrounded by lush greenery and a palm tree.
A coastal property with a rocky shoreline, clear blue waters, and lush greenery.
A coastal landscape with a rocky shoreline and a clear blue sea.
A coastal house with a porch, surrounded by lush greenery and a rocky shoreline.

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation
    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.

Popular amenities

  • Patio
  • Barbecue
  • Refrigerator
  • Washing machine
  • Internet
  • Onsite parking available

Explore the area

View map
Keaau, HI
  • Place, Pahoa Museum
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Place, University of Hawaii at Hilo
    ‪29 min drive‬
  • Place, Port of Hilo
    ‪34 min drive‬
  • Airport, Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.)
    ‪33 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining area

Add dates for prices

Similar properties

About the area

Keaau

Located in Keaau, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Prince Kuhio Plaza and Hilo Shopping Center are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Kilauea Caverns of Fire and Lava Tree State Monument. Hilo Coffee Mill and University of Hawaii at Hilo Botanical Gardens are also worth visiting. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including ecotours, whale watching and birdwatching.
Map
Keaau, HI

What's nearby

  • Pahoa Museum - 20 min drive - 22.4 km
  • Kilauea Caverns of Fire - 25 min drive - 27.3 km
  • Prince Kuhio Plaza - 27 min drive - 30.7 km
  • University of Hawaii at Hilo - 29 min drive - 31.4 km
  • Port of Hilo - 34 min drive - 36.7 km

Getting around

  • Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.) - 34 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Kaleo’s Bar & Grill - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Lava Thai Food - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Peppercorn Spice House - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Tony's Huli chicken - ‬21 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Temple Tree Retreat: An Adventurer's Oceanfront Paradise! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Temple Tree Retreat: An Adventurer's Oceanfront Paradise!?

As of 30 October 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Temple Tree Retreat: An Adventurer's Oceanfront Paradise! on 10 January 2027 start from NZ$4,308, 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 Temple Tree Retreat: An Adventurer's Oceanfront Paradise!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Temple Tree Retreat: An Adventurer's Oceanfront Paradise!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Temple Tree Retreat: An Adventurer's Oceanfront Paradise!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Temple Tree Retreat: An Adventurer's Oceanfront Paradise! located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is within 16 miles (25 km) of Pahoa Museum, Kilauea Caverns of Fire and Lava Tree State Monument. Ha'ena Beach and Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory are also within 16 miles (25 km).

Reviews

9.4

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. 70 out of 88 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 88 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 88 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 88 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 88 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved the location of this property. The view was incredible. The layout of the house was so unique. We felt like real Hawaiians We would definitely stay here again!!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
One of the most unique VRBO’s we’ve stayed at. The views were breathtaking, the neighborhood was peaceful and beautiful to take morning and evening walks, and the house was pretty neat. Owner provided plenty of necessities where we weren’t running to the store to buy extra items. Close to Hilo and Volcanoes National Park for sight seeing and lagoons. We will look to this place first the next time we come back.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 12 June 2026
We are so happy that you enjoyed the distinctive charm of Temple Tree Retreat! We look forward to hosting you again next time you visit!! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Reservations Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo & Poipu, HI
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We wish all 3 units had air conditioning. With windows open and fans going it was very hot. Our kids slept in the library on the pull out sofa with AC instead of the main house where they should have been on beds. The kitchen also left much to be desired, there were some definite basics missing, no mixing bowls, no measuring cups, rusty knives etc. The view is spectacular but there is no access to beach or ocean, so keep that in mind. We just slept horrible due to the heat. The house is extremely rustic, no insulation or drywall, so if that’s your aesthetic, you will like it.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 August 2026
Mahalo for your review. We are so sorry that Temple Tree did not meet expectations. There is a cupboard in the nook just outside the great room and next to the laundry room that is chock full of kitchen items and is described in the welcome binder. This has been an exceptionally hot summer thanks to El Nino - as local residents we feel you on that, for sure!! The entire east side of the island does not have ocean access aside from in a few spots in Hilo. This is an important reminder for guests to research an area to make sure it will work for them :-) An ocean front home in Hawaii with beach access would rent for at least ten times the rate of Temple Tree Retreat. We are happy that you did enjoy the view. We agree - it's spectacular! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo & Poipu, HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 January 2026
We're so glad you enjoyed it! Please keep us in mind for future visits :-) Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Private and quiet (except for the frogs!). Perfect for unwinding. Loved the simple 'cottagy' accommodations. No issues whatsoever. Would love to come again.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 22 April 2026
Mahalo for your review! We are so happy that you enjoyed your visit, and we would love to host you again, anytime! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place was like a dream! We were able to watch the whales from the deck and enjoy the beautiful scenery. I couldn't imagine a more beautiful place in paradise! This place had everything, especially stunning views, and incredible sunrises!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 10 February 2026
We are delighted to hear that Temple Tree Retreat checked all the right boxes for your visit :-) We hope to host you again if your travels bring you back to our little corner of paradise! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

2/10 Terrible

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The only good thing about this property is the view. Right as we arrived into the main area, we were hit with a wave of unbelievably hot musty air. I understand because of El Nino that it was more hot than normal at this time of year but it would have been nice if they had already had the fans going for us. With all of the money they make, it would be so easy for the property owners to put AC units in all of the rooms. There was no way we could have slept in the upstairs bedroom. I contemplated going to a hotel or going out and buying more fans so that we could actually sleep at night. Luckily it rained the rest of our days there so it wasn't as hard to sleep but even with the rain, it was still pretty uncomfortable. The pictures online are very deceiving and all of the furniture is very old. The pullout couch mattress was as hard as a rock. It did not feel clean inside and we felt like we had to wear shoes the entire time because the floors felt dirty. We found one dead cockroach and two cockroaches that were alive. Also, because of how humid it was, all of food that we bought we had to throw away. The fridge was old and all of the deli meat we bought ended up slimy even before opening up the package. It was just very disappointing and there is no way I would recommend this place to anyone.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing view, great beds, easy to contact. Very clean
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 January 2026
Mahalo for your review and kind words. Come stay again soon! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Great stay, thank you!

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: We loved staying at this property! The sunrises are breathtaking and the location was great for us.
Response from VrboOwner on 8 January 2026
We're so happy that Temple Tree worked great for your visit. Come stay again, anytime! Warmest Aloha The Salt Water Hawaii Reservations Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Outstanding, surreal location - simply breathtaking!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 July 2025
Thanks for your review, Kayla. We are so happy you enjoyed your visit. Mahalo for staying with us! The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Good place for 2 couples to stay. Cozy place with everything you need. The views are something else. Your right on the ocean and wouldn't want to get to close. Only down side is the constant ocean spray on the property and the wind. Maybe it was poorer than average weather when we were there? Host was helpful for a couple small problems.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 March 2026
Mahalo nui for your review. It doesn't get much more 'ocean front' than Temple Tree, right? We're glad you enjoyed your visit, ocean spray and all, and we hope you'll keep us in mind if your travels bring you back to the Big Island! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We felt very comfortable at this retreat. The gated property gives a sense of security. The open air bedroom to the sea provides a wonderful view and great sleep. The ocean view is spectacular.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 November 2025
We are so happy to hear that you were relaxed and comfortable at Temple Tree Retreat. That's the vibe here in East Hawai'i ;-) We'd love to host you again, anytime! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Temple Tree Retreat

lovely, relaxing location
Stayed 9 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 April 2025
Mahalo for your review, John. Come back anytime! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Absolutely loved the place.. right off the ocean.. watched and listened to the whales all day n nite

This property made our whole trip ❤️❤️
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 February 2023
Awww thanks for your review, Bob. We are so happy you enjoyed your stay :-) Come back anytime!! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Delightful Stay

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Terrific stay. Traveling with my wife and sister. More than ample room, kitchen well-stocked and clean. Upstairs bedroom overlooks the ocean and is amply ventilated. A bit off the beaten path, but adds to charm. Groceries, Target, Walmart, etc., are only a few minutes away. Any inquiries or questions were promptly answered. Location and view cannot be beat-best place for morning coffee or cocktails. Spiral staircase to upstairs bedroom a bit narrow and steep; older guests might find it a challenge. Would definitely stay again, heartily recommend.
Response from VrboOwner on 26 April 2026
We are so happy that you enjoyed the unique charm at Temple Tree Retreat :-) We hope we can host you again soon! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We were 4 adult women friends traveling through Hawaii. This place was wonderful! It was such a lovely drive to get here and it was very secluded, clean and comfortable for all of us. The ocean views were marvelous and all the frog singing is ringing in our ears. There were many many spaces to be in and those stars at night!Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful house and we hope to come stay with you again someday.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 October 2025
We are delighted to hear that Temple Tree worked so well for your ladies trip!! We would love to host you again, anytime :-) Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Loved This Property!

Right on the water with spectacular views! This plantation style home is very nice, with lots of charm and character. Overall, a very nice and comfortable stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 21 January 2025
Mahalo for your review, John. We're delighted that you enjoyed your visit, and we hope you'll keep us in mind for future trips to the beautiful Big Island! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Relaxing and Amazing Sunrises

Everything about this property was exactly as expected. The views are simply breathtaking, and the privacy of the property was just what we needed.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 May 2025
Mahalo for your review, Janell. We are thrilled to hear that Temple Tree Retreat met expectations :-) Come stay again, anytime! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved the house! Host was very responsive for the one question I had. We watched porpoises from the back yard, and saw humpbacks from a distance. They must come much closer after dark because we could hear them spouting and grunting and (I think) slapping the water with their tails quite clearly from the upstairs bedroom, even with the windows closed. The day geckos that live under the lanai are adorable. Its a bit of a drive into town, but that's perfect for us. If you stay, try to make the hike down to Hāʻena Beach. It's a quick drive to the parking area, and a trek through the jungle, but so worth it. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 3 March 2026
We're thrilled that you got to experience the whale show! It never gets old - even after 20 years I still squeal every time I spot one. So glad that you made the hike out to Hāʻena - it's such a special place. We hope to host you again soon! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Remote stay with great views

My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon. Great house with beautiful views- the sunrises are amazing. Was exactly what we were looking for and was true to the listing.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 23 January 2023
Mahalo for your review, Lydia, and CONGRATS on your marriage! You'll have to come stay again for an anniversary ;-) Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Amazing stay!

A quaint experience in a quirky set of buildings in a dreamy location. We had whales so close you could hear them blowing from inside over the sound of the pounding surf, and watched turtles playing from our porch. Decently appointed, comfortable beds, great views. It was clean, and the management was responsive.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 January 2025
Mahalo nui for your review, Ellen. What a thrilling experience! We're so happy you enjoyed your visit and we appreciate your kind words about our services. Please keep us in mind if your travels bring you back to our little corner of paradise :-) Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Incredible

Amazing views
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 11 August 2024
Mahalo for your review, Kim. Please keep us in mind if your travels bring you back to our little corner of Paradise! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Location and Lodgings

We had a great time at Temple Tree. A very unique lodging experience with incredible sunrises out the bedroom window. Multiple whale sightings including some real close to shore.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful Serene Location

We loved the property. The area was beautiful and the croaking of the frogs at night along with the sounds of crashing waves was wonderful.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 31 December 2022
Mahalo nui for your review, Carol. We are so happy that you enjoyed your stay at Temple Tree Retreat. Come back anytime!! Warmest Aloha, The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
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