Located in Puna Palisades, this cottage is 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from SPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center and within a 10-minute drive of Star of the Sea Painted Church. The cottage includes a kitchen, a patio, and a refrigerator.
SPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center - 4 min drive - 1.7 miles
Pohoiki Beach - 18 min drive - 8.5 miles
University of Hawaii at Hilo - 55 min drive - 38.8 miles
Port of Hilo - 59 min drive - 42.3 miles
Getting around
Hilo Intl. Airport (ITO) - 55 min drive
Restaurants
Uncle's Awa Bar - 9 min drive
Conscious Coconuts - 9 min drive
Kalapana Night Market - 11 min drive
Hale Aloha At Kalani - 5 min drive
Kalapana Village Cafe - 9 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
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!
The cottage features a kitchen and a patio, and there's space to spread out with a separate bedroom. Guests can expect to find free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and a phone. Housekeeping is available on request.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Hardwood flooring in public areas
No elevator (single-level property)
Wheelchair accessibility
Smoking not allowed
Note from host: Please smoke out doors if you must. Thank you.
Services and conveniences
Concierge services
Housekeeping (on request)
Phone
Location highlights
Near the sea
Things to do
Cycling nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Scuba diving nearby
Snorkeling nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Whale watching nearby
Safety features
No carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector)
No smoke detector (host has indicated there is no smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Garden
Housekeeping (on request)
Property does not allow children
Unit size: 650 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
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.
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Children and extra beds
This property doesn't allow children
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Please smoke out doors if you must. Thank you.
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated 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 there is no smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
Property Registration Number TA-101-069-0048-01, GE-101-069-0048-01
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to see close to this cottage?
This cottage is situated in Puna Palisades, close to SPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center, Mackenzie State Park, and Lava Tree State Monument.
Will I be able to park at this cottage?
No, this cottage doesn't offer parking.
Is a spa located at this cottage?
Spa services at the cottage include massages.
Is this cottage associated with a casino?
No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this cottage?
No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.
Is SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby a good place to stay for couples?
Couples staying at this cottage will appreciate amenities like access to a chef and a kitchen as well as massages.
Does SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby have a hot tub?
No, there isn't a spa tub at this cottage.
Does this cottage include breakfast service?
This cottage offers breakfast for a surcharge.
Will this cottage allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this cottage.
Are there connecting rooms at this cottage?
No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
What is the closest airport to this cottage?
The closest major airport to this cottage is Hilo Intl. Airport (ITO), which is about 22.8 mi away.
Are there rooms with balconies at SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby?
Yes, every accommodation at SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby comes with a deck.
SWEET SPOT STAY-ENCHANTING GROTTO--Walk to the Beach and Warm Ponds Nearby Reviews
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 11 out of 14 reviews
10 - Excellent
11
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 14 reviews
8 - Good
2
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 14 reviews
6 - Okay
1
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 14 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 14 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Ken R., Fairbanks, Alaska
Jan 18, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
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
8/10 Good
Ash C.
Sep 27, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
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!!
Ash C.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer W.
Apr 30, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Really beautiful place but...
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
10/10 Excellent
Katherine A.
Mar 20, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
It's Just Like Avatar!!!
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
10/10 Excellent
Kevin L.
Jan 29, 2019
Very private
Quite and relaxing
Kevin L.
10/10 Excellent
Jordan F., Brooklyn
Mar 29, 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
10/10 Excellent
Gabriel H.
Mar 28, 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
6/10 Okay
John O.
Feb 27, 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
10/10 Excellent
Deana D.
Feb 3, 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
10/10 Excellent
Joe L.
Nov 20, 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
10/10 Excellent
April C., Hawi, Hawaii
Oct 5, 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
8/10 Good
Gene M.
Feb 18, 2017
Charming with lots of frogs. Kitchen could use a good cleaning.
Private and jungly.
Gene M.
10/10 Excellent
Chris S.
Feb 14, 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.
10/10 Excellent
Ana P.
Jan 25, 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 :)