"This is a unique property in a cute rural setting. I could see how it’s not for everyone and it’s most definitely non-traditional. However, the setting is beautiful and the accommodations are adorable. Bed was comfortable, staff were pleasant; although for the most part we were on our own for check in, etc. No issues there, clear communication with directions and door codes were provided.
There are indeed a number of ‘rules’ but I saw them more as a guide for how to use this special property and be considerate of the other folks staying in the house as well.
For those staying in the house there was a restroom and shower inside and right one ‘outside’ the front door (on the porch). And frankly I mostly showered in the outside one because it was just a pleasant novel experience. It still has a door and privacy, including blinds but is open to the air at a height and in directions where privacy isn’t affected.
The property is maintained well enough. It clearly gets some use and being on the wet side of the island surrounded by jungle is definitely rough on the building, particularly anything that slides (like windows and screen doors). They seem to keep up with what is clearly a never ending
The ‘swimming hole’ is a gorgeous little waterfall, the trail down may be a bit tricky for some. Very natural unimproved area as it should be; not exactly much space around the water to lounge there, for example. There’s plenty of other locations on the property to lounge and chill."
River View Rainforest Tiny Cabin with Kitchenette (No Cleaning Fee)
8/10 Good
"This tiny cabin is a great blend of roughing it with conveniences. The toilet and shower stall are full size and normal. The small fridge, cooktop and large sink made for a useful kitchenette space while being on the screened porch to keep heat out of the sleeping room. The bunkbed is a clever use of space, with a decent mattress and lots of pillows.
The hosts were responsive to texts and located not too far away, just in case. Checking in and out was a breeze, and all instructions were very clear.
The downside is just the natural environment of the rainforest. With no AC and minimal ability to move the air, the humidity is oppressive. The presence of the nearby waterfall is lovely but the tree frogs overwhelm the peacefulness and the mosquitoes are vicious. The building is suffering a bit from the constant moisture. It was also disconcerting to see a huge feral hog on the driveway, and witness the extensive digging they have done all around the property. I certainly came away feeling like it was a true break from civilization!"
Royal Palm Cottage/5 mins from beach/Akaka Falls/Private Lanai
10/10 Excellent
"This is a sweet cottage and the welcome fruit was delicious! Accommodations are exactly what is in the listing. Laurel was very quick with communication."
Embrace the soothing trade winds & let the ocean breeze carry your worries away
10/10 Excellent
"Clean, comfortable, convenient to town and all Hilo has to offer. Beautiful view, tranquil setting. Perfect for our family of 5! Can’t wait to come back!"
Waterfalling Estate is an oceanfront compound on the Big Island unlike any other
10/10 Excellent
"The property is everything advertised and then some. It is beautiful and restful with the waterfall and waves surrounding you every moment. The two things to note are that only 3 bedrooms have A/C and on hot summer days it gets stifling hot, but those days are rare, we had one night like that in our week. The bunk room is not a room but a space that has a curtain that is a makeshift wall.These items should be noted in the property description so that visitors expectations are set correctly. The property and the trip we had was worth every penny and I can't stress enough how little stress I felt at the Waterfalling Estate. We had an amazing week that the 4 families and 17 of us will never forget."
"Wonderful house and location! Everything was exactly as advertised and enjoyed the stay. The drive into the house is tricky, but manageable. Limited cell service in the area, so make sure you have directions and the provided video downloaded before you get into town!"
What's the area like around Mauna Kea Observatory?
If you're planning to come to the area to visit Mauna Kea Observatory, take some time to see the rest of the sights while you're in town. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, you could search for properties close to public transport so it's easy to get around.
What's the best place to stay near Mauna Kea Observatory?
Castle Waimea Country Lodge is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this hotel offers free parking and free WiFi. You'll find it 18.5 mi (29.8 km) from Mauna Kea Observatory. Other good choices in the area include Kikala Waterfall Lodge and Paniolo Greens At Waikoloa.
If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Mauna Kea Observatory, will I receive a refund?
Yes! Most hotel reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before check in. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you may still be able to cancel and get a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Add dates, click "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to review the top deals on offer near Mauna Kea Observatory.
What can I see and do near Mauna Kea Observatory?
Keck Observatory, Subaru Telescope and WM Keck Observatory are fun stops for the whole family while you're in town. Explore nature at Mauna Kea and Mauna Kea Ice Age Reserve. A visit to Onizuka Center for International Astronomy is worth the trip when you're visiting.