Skip to main content

Historic Guest Cottage • A/C • Pool • 2BR/2BA

Photo gallery for Historic Guest Cottage • A/C • Pool • 2BR/2BA

guest cottage
A wooden porch with two rocking chairs and a table, a white railing, and a black bucket with a blue item leaning against the wall.
A covered porch with a wooden table and chairs, white walls, and a sign that reads "Welcome".
A garden with a paved pathway, lush greenery, and a white fence.
A white colonial-style house with a porch, steps, and a garden.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue
  • Garden

Explore the area

View map
Keaau, HI
  • Place, Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Kilauea Caverns of Fire
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Airport, Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.)
    ‪16 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Historic Guest Cottage • A/C • Pool • 2BR/2BA

Experience the charm of old Hawai‘i in this historic 2BR/2BA cottage (now with AC in both bedrooms!) on the former Ola’a sugar plantation estate. Surrounded by the island jungle and timeless beauty, this serene escape blends heritage charm with modern comfort.

Inside, you’ll find original floors, moldings, trims, and weighted wood sash windows that reflect the craftsmanship of a bygone era.

Enjoy shared pool access, sip coffee on the lanai, or simply relax to the sounds of nature.
We are surrounded by about ten acres of luscious botanical gardens, meadows, orchards, and jungle, preserving its unique plantation ambiance.
It allows you to connect with the charm of a past simpler life, as it used to be a century ago on the Island.

Our estate is rich in island history that dates back beyond the plantation era to ancient Hawaiian legends and fairytales. The land was originally owned by King William Charles Lunalilo. The land was then purchased by the Shipman Family and the main residence was built in 1898 as the home to the Ola'a Sugar Planation Manager.

It was sold by the Shipman Family in the 1980's after the collapse of the Hawai'i sugar industry and has been privately owned since that time. The estate has been featured in books, films, commercials and television shows.

Add dates for prices

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Guest house private Koi fish pond area.
Private guest house on gorgeous 3 acre Hawaiian estate perfect central location.
Keaau
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (220 reviews)
Private guest house on gorgeous 3 acre Hawaiian estate perfect central location.

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
There are mostly safety concerns
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking allowed on lanai

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Place trash in black can behind main residence
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
No visitors during quiet hours. Remove shoes before entering.
Close all doors and windows when using A/C and turn off A/C when leaving the cottage.
Furniture is not to be rearranged.

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number GE-079-875-0720-01, TA-079-875-0720-01, 160030850000
Property # 95530vb
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 a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Keaau

Located in Keaau, this holiday home is in a rural area. Hilo Municipal Golf Course and Regal Prince Kuhio are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Prince Kuhio Plaza and Hilo Shopping Center. Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden and Fuku-Bonsai Cultural Center are also worth visiting. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and mountain climbing nearby.
View more Holiday homes in KeaauOpens in a new window
Map
Keaau, HI

What's nearby

  • Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden - 6 min drive - 6.5 km
  • Fuku-Bonsai Cultural Center - 6 min drive - 6.5 km
  • Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory - 9 min drive - 9.9 km
  • Kilauea Caverns of Fire - 9 min drive - 9.5 km
  • University of Hawaii at Hilo - 13 min drive - 14.4 km

Getting around

  • Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Kaleo’s Bar & Grill - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬20 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic Guest Cottage • A/C • Pool • 2BR/2BA pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Historic Guest Cottage • A/C • Pool • 2BR/2BA?

As of 2 August 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Historic Guest Cottage • A/C • Pool • 2BR/2BA on 5 December 2026 start from NZ$1,374, 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 Historic Guest Cottage • A/C • Pool • 2BR/2BA?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Historic Guest Cottage • A/C • Pool • 2BR/2BA?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Historic Guest Cottage • A/C • Pool • 2BR/2BA?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Historic Guest Cottage • A/C • Pool • 2BR/2BA located?

Situated in a rural location, this holiday home is within 6 miles (10 km) of Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden, Fuku-Bonsai Cultural Center and Kilauea Caverns of Fire. Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory and Ha'ena Beach are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

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. 132 out of 143 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 143 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 143 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 143 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 143 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Brent G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Best find of our trip. Lisa was super helpful and the cottage was just amazing. We will definitely be back and recommend this as the best place to stay in Hilo
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Dalton A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property, cottage was amazing. Great place to start from and explore the island.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Scott S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very quiet , pool very clean & private . Great central location to go out & about or stay home.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jacquelyn B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful cottage. The home is full of charm and character, and the grounds are absolutely lovely and well maintained. The location was excellent—convenient yet peaceful. Everything about our stay felt relaxing and comfortable. We would happily stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and relaxing getaway.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Linda H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
The hosts were very responsive when we needed them!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lisa W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our stay in the cottage. The beds were very comfortable. We loved the chickens, pigs, and lizards. The grounds are beautiful. The pool is beautiful. We loved sitting out on the front porch drinking our coffee in the mornings. We would definitely hope to go back! The hosts were so friendly and attentive.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage was a nice travel back in time with all the conveniences of the present. The place was clean and orderly, and the grounds are AH-mazing! We were able to relax and enjoy the sites and sounds of the surroundings.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jessica S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful cottage and grounds. Pool was nice along with all the local wildlife. Near a wonderful bakery and deli and nicely situated between Hilo, Pāhoa, and Volcano. Hosts were very kind and friendly.
Stayed 10 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Marci H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This historic cottage was a wonderful place to stay while we visited Volcanos Nat’l Park and the surrounding Hilo area. The AC worked well & the grounds were lush and green. Our hosts were easy to keep in touch with if we had questions or needed recommendations. Thanks!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lucy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Cottage was lovely! Cute and cozy. It was a perfect family getaway. The pool was an added bonus and private. It is conveniently located between Hilo and Pahoa. It’s also close to the Keaau Shopping Center and the Natural Foods store. The owners were super friendly and accommodating. We will definitely be returning!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Chuck P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A great cottage for 2 couples or a small family. Loved tht chickens, cats, and pigs that roamed the property. The roosters were annoying at first, but the provided brown noise machines drowned them out and let you hear the sounds of tides or waterfalls as you fell back asleep. The air conditioning worked well as it was particularly humid when we were there. The hosts were great and very responsive. All-around, a great place to stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Stephen K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hosts were friendly and property was very relaxing. Each morning we enjoyed coffee on the front porch while watching the pigs and chickens roam. We even found a few chicken eggs that we cooked up for breakfast :) Property had great hot water, bed were comfy, and AC units did the job to keep us comfortable.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Barry S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
There was a lot of space with a private porch. The cottage was very clean and included many amenities including spices, sauces, and oils. We enjoyed the early morning and night sounds. We had a great time.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 February 2026
Mahalo Barry, we hope to see you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The guest house had everything we needed, even Yoga mats! We enjoyed the pool. The kitties, chickens pigs and frogs made the stay more authentic. We had fun walking through the jungle/gardens. Pick fresh lemons and coconuts was a special treat!Thanks Lisa and Veltry for your awesome tips! We want to come back.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sarah

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Beautiful, magical place!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Donna B.

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

Keaau fun

Came to visit friends on the Island, had a great time in the pool every afternoon.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jeanne H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Well organized and fully equipped with everything from emergency first aid kit to flashlight, sunscreen to coolers, wide array of kitchen tools were great in case needed. We enjoyed the veranda seating and the proximity to the community center where we spent 3 days intensive lauhala weaving. Conveniently located for our needs. Mahalo Nui loa.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Randy W.

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

Historic Hawaii

Charming two bedroom cottage with the feel of rural Hawaii.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Terrie M.

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

Guest Cottage

Except for the unexpected pig hunt in front of us, it was not bad.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Judy A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage was very clean and well appointed, we found everything we needed. Parking was easy and WiFi worked well. Check in was easy. There are some outside maintenance things that could be addressed, and the brick walkway across the property to the cottage was uneven and sometimes slippery. Caution is advised especially at night and with luggage. Host was available for questions and we got a lovely grounds tour. Be ready for rural choruses of coqui frogs and roosters! Part of the ambiance.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Colleen A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was as expected.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tammy

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Very pretty and unique property, loved the feeling of being away from it all and the sounds of nature on the farm but with the convenience of driving right out to stores etc
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Monica W.

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

Wet Side getaway

We enjoyed this historic property, beautiful old cottage. Two days here exploring the botanical garden and Volcano NP
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

David B.

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

Beautiful Property

This is our second time staying here. We highly recommend it. The house and the property are absolutely gorgeous. We are comfortable here and the hosts are very sweet and accommodating.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Laila M.

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

great stay

We had a lovely peaceful stay here. We really enjoyed sitting on the porch in the mornings with our coffee watching the wild pigs and piglets. We wished we had booked it for longer. The cottage is decorated impeccably with everything you need.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

About the host

Hosted by Lisa Potter

Host profile image

What makes this property unique

One of the unique and special aspects of this property is its location. It provides an oasis of peace and quiet in the middle of modern day conveniences.
We are very central to everything, yet very private and secluded, surrounded by acres of garden and jungle areas.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback