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PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat

Photo gallery for PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat

Living room with seating for six including a full size sleeper sofa to sleep 2
Living room features sleeper sofa sleep 2, room darkening shades, and television
Spacious, great room, incorporating, living area, dining, and kitchen
Open concept great room includes step down lounge area
Entertaining Kitchen with breakfast bar.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6111.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Pet-friendly

Explore the area

View map
Keaau, HI
  • University of Hawaii at Hilo
    ‪28 min drive‬
  • Port of Hilo
    ‪32 min drive‬
  • Carlsmith Beach Park
    ‪38 min drive‬
  • Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.)
    ‪31 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Livingroom

1 Double Sofa Bed

Primary Bedroom

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 2

Bidet · Toilet · Shower only

Primary Bathroom, ensuite to Primary Bedroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub · Bidet · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat

Escape to a charming traditional Hawaiian home, elevated on post and pier for enhanced airflow and privacy. This unique blend of classic architecture and mid-century design features an open-concept great room, complete with a sunken living area, dining space, and kitchen, all adorned with stunning vaulted wood ceilings.

The spacious primary bedroom invites you to unwind on a luxurious king-size bed, complete with a private en-suite bathroom featuring a shower. Enjoy the convenience of a double closet, TV with Chromecast, and a dedicated workspace. Step out onto your private balcony to take in breathtaking views of the sunken garden, highlighted by terraced lava stone walls and lush tropical fruit trees.

The second bedroom is equally inviting, featuring a California king bed, TV, and ample storage. The spacious second bathroom includes a full-size tub and is stocked with complimentary toiletries, a hairdryer, and beach towels for your adventures.

Gather in the sunken living room, designed for relaxation and entertainment, with comfortable seating for six and a sleeper sofa that accommodates two. Oversized windows frame picturesque views of the vibrant gardens, making it a perfect spot for movie nights or cozy conversations.

Cook up a feast in the fully equipped kitchen, seamlessly integrated into the great room. It features a full-size refrigerator, electric range, double sink, microwave, toaster oven, and coffee station—all the essentials for culinary creations. We even collect organic waste for off-site composting in our lovely garden.

Embrace the spirit of outdoor living in the spacious carport, which doubles as a dining area, laundry space, and gathering spot. With a dining table for six, washer and dryer, and a clothesline, you’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips.

This home has been thoughtfully updated with new paint, doors, flooring, fans, and centrally located split AC, ensuring a fresh and inviting atmosphere. While you may spot the occasional friendly insect—an endearing part of island life—the home is professionally treated for your comfort.

Come experience the true essence of Hawaii in this enchanting vacation rental, where relaxation and adventure await!

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 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

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Call rule and binder in left kitchen

Important information

You need to know

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
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is no smoke detector on the property
Property Registration Number GE-037-452-2880-01, TA-037-452-2880-01

About the area

Keaau

Located in Keaau, this holiday home is in the city centre and near the beach. Palace Theater and S. Hata Building are local landmarks, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Prince Kuhio Plaza and Hilo Shopping Center. Hobby Garden Hawaii and Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden are also worth visiting.
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Map
Keaau, HI

What's nearby

  • University of Hawaii at Hilo - 28 min drive - 20.1 km
  • Coconut Island Park - 32 min drive - 24.6 km
  • Port of Hilo - 32 min drive - 25.0 km
  • Ha'ena Beach - 37 min drive - 15.9 km
  • Carlsmith Beach Park - 38 min drive - 27.7 km

Getting around

  • Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.) - 23 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Countryside Cafe - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Poppy - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Kaleo’s Bar & Grill - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Kurtistown Cafe - ‬21 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much does it cost to stay at PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat?

As of 18 September 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat on 21 September 2025 start from NZ$465.52, 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.

What time is check-in at PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat located?

Located in the heart of Keaau, this holiday home is 2.8 mi (4.5 km) from Hobby Garden Hawaii and within 9 miles (15 km) of Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden and Fuku-Bonsai Cultural Center. Pahoa Museum and Kilauea Caverns of Fire are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 31 out of 36 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 36 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 36 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 36 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Gayle B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a beautiful property that is out in the country and makes you feel like you are out in nature with all the sounds of the frogs and birds around you. It is a comfortable place where you can relax after a long day of site seeing. We enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

BRAD W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful island home. Very well maintained and equipped.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew V.

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

Great Place To Stay!

very clean, host was super responsive, felt like home - would definitely rent again!!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Maurice S.

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

Beautiful and Amazing Stay Near Hilo

Amazing location and an amazing stay in a beautiful well maintained home nestled in what feels like the Hawaiian tropics. With dozens of exotic fruit trees on the property to unique flowers, palms and night time tree frogs, this location is truly a unique and memorable spot. It is very central to many locations in the Hilo area including the National Volcano Park. We only stayed TWO days as we were traveling on the other side of the island, but wish we could of stayed longer. The host - Arthur was very kind and even gave me a complete tour of the property and brought some fresh fruit to our front door. 5 STAR location all the way thru. Looking forward to another visit in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

kate k.

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

Tropical Paradise

This home was the most amazing, gorgeous, clean tropical paradise imaginable! It was like staying in our own Botanical garden and Arthur even showed us a few fruit trees we could eat from!! There were all sorts of convenient things like beach chairs, coolers, towels, boogie boards, etc! We couldn't have asked for a better stay. Very well-appointed too. Thank you for sharing your oasis with our family, Arthur! We'll be back for sure!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laura F.

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

Great Experience

We had a great stay at Puna Zen Retreat. It was the perfect place to experience the big island away from the crowds and close to Volcanoes National park, waterfalls, and a wonderful Keaau farmer’s market. Arthur had everything we could have needed during our stay from meal prep to beach gear to recommendations for activities, and the best guidebook waiting on the coffee table. We appreciated all of the small touches like coffee in the pantry, fresh fruit from his trees, and a couple of friendly chats. We would definitely recommend!
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Debra G.

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

Excellent location, quiet setting

Wonderful gem of a place to stay. Owner was close by friendly and helpful though not intrusive. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Nice stay

Quiet beautiful place!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kathy S.

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

*****

Great place to stay with your family!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Stacy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication
The house was difficult to find, GPS brings you next door so the neighbors helped us find the house. Phone went to voicemail when I called for help but messages was active. The house was nice, clean but my biggest issue was we booked the house for the AC (which was actually just 1 mini split in the living room) but it had not been turned on all day so the house was a stifling 78 degrees upon arrival. We turned the AC on it was locked out at 70. We like it very cold when we sleep and instead was sweating to death. I tried to explain to the host that he should have posted that AC was controlled with app and that there was a 30 charge to use during the day. There was 1 box fan and 2 bedrooms so 1 group did not get fan. I did not feel that I was respected by the host, I was told that the climate was good and most people don’t even use AC when I asked to drop it below 70. I’m not other people and I wanted to use the AC. Otherwise the house had lots of rules, I’m glad we just did a sleepover and most things did not apply to us but I’ll share the pics of the rules since the host did not. And last by not least this house is NOT near Volcano National park, it’s about 35/40 minutes away. If you love hearing nature and sweating while you sleep this is the place for you. If you like things convenient, quiet and cool this is not the place for you. Overall it’s a very cute house, I just feel the listing needs to be clarified.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rachel M.

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

Lovely house in a lush setting

Great place equipped with everything we needed for our short stay in the area. Loved looking out the windows at the lush vegetation. Conveniently located in between Hilo and Volcano and bear other local places to eat.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Chris C.

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

Amazing!

This property is fantastic and a great place to stay to experience this side of the Big Island. Everything was wonderful and my whole family loved it!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth R.

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

Great place to stay

Spacious home all to oneself, beautifully decorated in tropical decor - and very important, an attached carport - extremely handy when it rains. Set among beautiful tropical landscaping. Items available to borrow: snorkling gear, kayaks, life jackets, beach umbrellas,coolers, etc! Very responsive host lives on grounds. Very much enjoyed stay!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Loretta K., ST. LOUIS, MO

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

So pleased. Lovely home. Two bedrooms. 2 bath. Full kitchen

We truly enjoyed our stay. Clean. Two bedrooms. Two bathrooms. Enjoyed watching a movie after a full day of sightseeing. Highly recommend
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Chrichelle F.

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

Perfect house for a relaxing stay!

After spending 10 days in the business of Oahu, this was the perfect, most peaceful house to relax at. My only regret is we didn't get to stay longer. The bedrooms and bathrooms are spacious and the living room has a comfortable sleeper sofa as well. Check-in and house instructions were clear and the entire property was beautiful. The house is also located in a quiet neighborhood away from busy streets. This is a great house for families and we hope it's available next time we're back on the Big Island! Thank you!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dena R.

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

We enjoyed this adorable home!

Loved having space to spread out in this home. Being from Texas we enjoyed the opportunity to sleep with windows open (the house has an A/C unit) but we opted for the natural breeze. We miss the coqui frogs serenading us to sleep and loved them so much we recorded them! Arthur was great with communication and even made it possible for us to check in early. It was an easy drive to Hilo, the Volcanoes National Park and Mauna Kea. We even drove down to Punalu’u black sand beach and South Point. Would definitely stay there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Leslie L., FORESTDALE

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

Very Homey

Everything was exactly as listed. Very cool yard with fruit trees. The temps cooled nicely in the evening so it was comfortable with the fans. Nice to have a washer and dryer too. It was very well organized and had lots of extras, chairs, beach stuff, condiments. The hosts were excellent. Would stay here again if visiting the Hilo area.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jessica H.

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

Beautiful Hawaiian getaway!

This house is amazing! The host was so kind and gave our family a tour of his property upon arrival. The lush gardens with tropical plants and fruit trees really adds to this beautiful home. We felt comfortable and relaxed, as it has all of the amenities needed to feel at home. Close to Hilo where we enjoyed the farmers market, Rainbow Falls and just strolling around. Would highly recommend this property, for all types of travelers, including families with kids. Thank you for sharing this lovely piece of paradise!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

nadezhda M., Aurora

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location, spacios

Spacious house in decent shape. Location was perfect for us between Volcanos Ntl Park and Hilo. Was not clean to our standards, but not too bad. Host responses immediately to address any concerns. Don't forget to bring ear plugs - frogs sing loudly entire night. Not sure if this is year round on only in spring.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marnie K.

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

Rainforest Getaway

We stayed at Arthur’s for a week, and enjoyed hearing the tree frogs and rain showers at night and birds in the morning. Easy access to Hilo and Volcanoes NP. Very lush property with beautiful plants. We never used the A/C, as the home was comfortable with just a slight breeze through the screens. The home had plenty of towels, and recreation equipment available such as life vests, snorkeling gear, body boards, etc. Arthur was kind enough to share a fresh avocado with us from the property. We had no needs during our stay, as the home was well-stocked.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Luke R.

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

Serenity in Keaau

Arthur has created a remarkable property here. The house is just as described in the listing, only better. The spaces are beautifully decorated with extra touches that made the stay memorable. Fresh flowers and fruit from the property were very special. The beds were very comfortable with high end bedding. Fans and windows in every room kept the air fresh. The Wi-Fi was fast and the tv/media equipment top notch. The kitchen and bathrooms were well equipped and efficient to use. What you don’t see in the listing photos is how beautiful the surrounding property is with serene green views from every room. We had a very relaxing stay and wouldn’t hesitate to book again. Aloha!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Chad K.

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

Nice Stay for Family of 4

Great home for us to use for 2 nights (family of 4 with 2 teenage kids). Windows open the whole time we were there (70's to 80's). Great beach amenities for us to use in the garage. Appreciated Arthur chatting with us one morning and offering us some ideas to see locally and sharing tropical fruits from his trees. Hiked to Shipman's Beach (about a 2.5 mile hike one way and tough terrain) but worth it as we saw turtles swimming in the lagoon and one was up near us on the beach. Noticed the home was a little musty when we first arrived and some dusty windows and cobwebs. Not a deterrent at all but that's why we gave a 4/5 on cleanliness.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Adrienne M.

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

Perfect stay- definitely would stay again

Loved our stay! Down n dirty Wins Location , park like yard, en-suite, dishwasher, big main bath, so many extra outside beach gear, high end comfy bed, option for air (not needed, see below), privacy, labeled lights/remotes Opportunities Washer 10$/load, should be listed so renters don’t count on using it Updated toaster oven Labeling cupboards/drawers Cooler, ice packs 4 ⭐️ for cleaning, was fine but not up to our normal standards Hubby n I flew in to Kona so we had to drive across the island & hence We checked in very late in the dark but thankfully the car port was light up and made it easier to find (since Google stops you next door!). At first we were concerned that the air wasn’t on and everything was open but we soon found out air was not needed. The fresh air and cool breeze was perfect with the ceiling fan. The master bed n pillows were so comfy. The small porch off the master was great to sit on and enjoy coffee and the beautiful yard. We loved the beautiful vibrant colored geckos who came to visit us on the porch and we wanted to tape the frogs so we could play it all night at home! So peaceful. The place is definitely big enough for 2 couples or family of 4.n Plenty of seating and large bathroom n shower with good pressure. Neighborhood was quiet and it was perfect location for us because we wanted to see the volcano park and the Hilo attractions and it was smack in the middle. Gas n groceries nearby. Host very responsive n helpful.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

6/10 Okay

marilyn s.

Liked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in, communication, location

Very hard to find location. GPS did not get us to location so address on listing needs to be updated

Lock box number was not correct on the listing. So had to call owner again. Care taker saw us come after we had a terrible time finding the place and he did not greet us or help us get in. I thought that was very odd. Then the lock box code was written incorrect. The guy complained about a stain on the sheet and charged me 69 dollars. Sent me a text. Was very upsetting to be texted about a stain and charge 69 dollars for a new sheet. Also wanted the dishwasher unloaded and dishes put away. That was not expected. Not real pleased with the owner. So would not recommend this property even though it look nice.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Louise S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

About the host

Hosted by Arthur Pavliska

Host profile image
I’m so delighted to have you here! Nestled on this beautiful lush tropical property, my aim is to ensure your stay is both relaxing and memorable. I live in a separate house tucked away at the rear of the property, and you might spot me strolling with my puppies in the morning—please feel free to say hello!

Since falling in love with Hawaii in 2016, I’ve transformed this space into a botanical garden bursting with exotic flowers and fruit trees. If you’d like to pick some fresh fruit during your stay, just let me know, I can point you to what’s ripe! While I kindly ask that guests refrain from picking the flowers, there’s always something beautiful in bloom for you to enjoy. Complementary arrangements of foliage enhances the indoor outdoor connection.

I moved here from Asbury Park New Jersey and New York City, though I grew up in Austin, Texas. My passions run deep: I adore hiking through the 16 climate zones the Big Island provides from lush jungle trails, alpine forest, to vast sweeping arid landscapes, camping under the stars, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and snorkeling to explore the vibrant underwater world. Cycling along scenic routes fills me with joy, while travel allows me to discover new cultures and experiences.

I’m also a lover of movies, fashion, art, architecture, and history—each passion adding layers to my appreciation of the world around us. As an LGBTQ-friendly host, I welcome everyone with open arms and a warm heart.

There’s always something exciting happening on the island, from cultural events to outdoor adventures. Let me know your interest and I will ensure you discover the Hawaii to suit your desires. Depending on my work schedule, I may have the chance to connect with you during your visit, sharing stories and recommendations.

Welcome once again, and may your time here be filled with exploration, relaxation, and the beauty of this incredible place!

Why they chose this property

Welcome to our property in the heart of Puna, perfectly situated for exploring the breathtaking attractions of East Hawaii on the Big Island. You’ll find yourself centrally located near Kehena Black Sand Beach, the awe-inspiring Volcanoes National Park, and the recent eruption in Leilani Estates. Just a short drive will take you to Hilo and the stunning Hamakua Coast, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and lush waterfalls.

Our home in Hawaiian Paradise Park, Keaau, sits on a spacious 1-acre lot with two homes nestled in tropical foliage at opposite ends, providing privacy and tranquility. An up and coming neighborhood of many unspoiled native forests, old Hawaiian plantation vernacular homes, and a mix of new architecture, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The property is conveniently located just 12 miles from Hilo Airport and 86 miles from Kona Airport, making your arrival and departure a breeze.

The climate in Keaau is warm to muggy, with temperatures typically ranging from 63°F to 83°F, rarely dipping below 60°F or exceeding 85°F. Expect occasional nightly rain, as Keaau receives an average of 122 inches of rainfall per year, creating a lush and vibrant landscape. A Mini-Split air conditioning or heating to make your days cool or warm up the night. You may choose to keep the windows open and enjoy the abundant tropical breezing as Hawaiians have for centuries.

For your comfort, please message me when booking if you are sensitive to detergents or perfumes, allowing adequate time to modify cleaning and maintenance practices.

Additionally, HawaiiIsland is home to a diverse spiritual communities to ground and renew, providing a peaceful space for reflection and community.

Exploring the Big Island requires a car, as its vast beauty is best experienced on your own terms. From the volcanic landscapes to charming towns, there’s so much to discover. I look forward to helping you create unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise!

Languages:

English

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