Royal Palm Cottage/5 mins from beach/Akaka Falls/Private Lanai
Situated on an 8.5 acre exotic fruit farm along the Hamakua Coast, Royal Palm Cottage will provide you real feeling of Hawaii country living. A view of Mauna Kea greets you as you drive up Chin Chuck Road, known for the well manicured, 10 acre farm lots. As you enter the estate you will marvel at the breathtaking views of mature Royal Palms, 30 foot tall Black Bamboo, ocean views and many tropical Hawaiian flowers. Famed Akaka Falls State park is just 6 miles away. The night skies are perfect for stargazing. As the sun rises, common country sounds of rain, roosters, cows, birds, owls, hawks, coqui frogs & dogs can be heard. We have a designated path with chairs set up for watching the sun rise. A boarding dog Kennel shares a portion of the property. Barking can be heard 8-10 am during feeding times or if wild pigs are roaming. It is best if our guests are lovers of dogs, man's best friend.
The evenings are perfect for star gazing thru the royal palms.
A Romantic, newly built private 1 bedroom, 1 bath with tiled shower, kitchenette, dinning area and living room will welcome you home after a day of exploring. Amenities include a Propane Fire pit, BBQ grill, dry sauna, Koa wood floors, queen bed, air conditioning, ceiling fan, sofa that converts to a single bed, dimmable lights and a private lanai. The colors are cool and relaxing for the nature enthusiast. Perfect for a lovely romantic retreat, anniversary, Honeymoon or just a visit on the Hamakua side of the Big island.
1 or 2 bed room cottage studio will be available to book 11-1-2022. inquire for details.
Just 15 miles from Hilo, 30 miles from Waipio Valley, 1 hour from the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Over 200 mature fruit trees are on property. Seasonal Lychee, Emperor Lychee, Rambuton, Mango, Mangosteen, Atemoya and Papaya will be included in the welcome/Breakfast fruit bowl. We may have a litter of puppies 2-3 times a year on the property. Puppy noises , some barking can be heard during business hours, feeding times 8-10. Smoking allowed on Lanai ONLY ( please close glass sliding door).
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Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
$1200 SITE FEE charged.$500 security deposit.
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Pets
No pets allowed, service animals permitted
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Smoking
Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Smoking allowed outside on the Lanai only.
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
No need to fix the bed. Please wash used dishes.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Weddings w/ site fee. Max of 24 guests $1200. Full out door kitchen, bathroom, tables chairs. 6 hr event window. $500 security deposit.
Cottage is insulated to keep sound minimized. Barking dogs may be heard at random times, if pigs roam. Coqui frogs. Close windows, turn on AC.
Please use ice and filtered water dispenser on the refrigerator on the lanai. Extra freezer space is available here.
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 24
Note from host: $1200 SITE FEE charged.$500 security deposit.
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances 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
Property Registration Number TA-146-684-9792-01, GE-146-684-9792-01, 290020200001
We should mention
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property
About the area
Hakalau
Located in Hakalau, this cottage is in the mountains and by the sea. Pacific Tsunami Museum and Mokupapapa Discovery Center are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Palace Theater and S. Hata Building. World Botanical Gardens and Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden - 15 min drive - 15.5 km
Getting around
Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.) - 31 min drive
Restaurants
Onomea Country Market & Cafe - 11 min drive
The Hive - 7 min drive
Na’au - 10 min drive
Mr. Ed's Bakery - 7 min drive
Hilo Shark’s Coffee Shop - 7 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does Royal Palm Cottage/5 mins from beach/Akaka Falls/Private Lanai have a pool?
Yes, this property has a pool.
How much does it cost to stay at Royal Palm Cottage/5 mins from beach/Akaka Falls/Private Lanai?
As of 27 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Royal Palm Cottage/5 mins from beach/Akaka Falls/Private Lanai on 30 Mar 2026 start from AU$194, 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.
Is Royal Palm Cottage/5 mins from beach/Akaka Falls/Private Lanai pet-friendly?
No, only service animals are welcome at the property.
How much is parking at Royal Palm Cottage/5 mins from beach/Akaka Falls/Private Lanai?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Royal Palm Cottage/5 mins from beach/Akaka Falls/Private Lanai?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Royal Palm Cottage/5 mins from beach/Akaka Falls/Private Lanai?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Royal Palm Cottage/5 mins from beach/Akaka Falls/Private Lanai located?
Situated by the sea, this cottage is 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Hamakua Heritage Corridor and within 3 miles (5 km) of Hakalau Beach Park and World Botanical Gardens. Zip Isle Zip Line and Kolekole Beach Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Laurel was extremely gracious and so kind. The space was very welcoming and the perfect vacation getaway. Very clean and comfortable space as well. I can’t imagine a hawaii vacation anywhere else!
Tatiana C.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Feb 2026
So glad you enjoyed your stay in Hawaii and the Royal Palm Cottage.
Beautiful setting, very abundant plant life. We enjoyed the coqui frogs serenading us at night. The native fruit grown on the property was a treat along with the homemade banana bread. Only issue was musty when first opened, cleared fairly well when ac was turned on. Dogs barking at times at night woke us up. Beautiful place, comfortable with everything you need.
Susan P.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Feb 2026
Glad you enjoyed the fruits from our farm and green surroundings. This side of the island has seen a large amount of rain before and during your stay. Glad you turned on the AC. We do provide ear plugs incase the frogs or dogs are much for our guests. It was nice to chat with you both.
We had an amazing time. This sweet place was perfect for us and Ms. Laurel was beyond amazing. The yard was so much fun for our girls to run around and play - they had a blast! The beds were comfy and the sleeper for the kids was perfect! My only regret was that we didn't have more down time to spend hanging and relaxing. Hope to be back so soon! 3 Mahalo
Vanessa S.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Feb 2026
It was our pleasure to hear the children laughing and collecting leaves and sticks in the large field in front of the cottage. Enjoyed the chat we shared. Please visit us again if you are on the island.
If you are looking for a beautiful and quiet place to get away from it all this is it! As we opened the door of the cottage we were like wow this is beautiful and very clean! A tray filled with a variety of fruit and a loaf of banana bread (the banana bread was so yummy!) was waiting for us on the table as well as a welcome note from our hosts Laurel and Lani. The 8 acre site that the cottage is located on is a fruit orchard that is maintained by the hosts. A very unique cottage with a setting that is far different than you will likely experience. The cottage is conveniently located not too far from the cities of Hilo and Honokaa. Driving in either direction provided beautiful views of the island as well as the ocean. Laurel and Lani were very gracious hosts! During our stay there we sat at the fire pit outside and had a few cocktails with them. What a terrific and fun couple! Thank you Laurel and Lani! We will be back!
7 days straight and absolutely 0 complaints. Well kept, clean, and quiet. Awesome neighborhood also surrounded by 10 acre farms. Can’t say enough….I didn’t know about a pool, but I am sure it’s as good as the everything g else so I gave it a 5 also.
Mick T.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jan 2026
Always nice to make new friends. It was so cool that we both have a dog named Elvis!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Mariana
1 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
A little drive north out of Hilo Check in and communications with host was easy and helpful. Property was as advertised and very relaxing. Loved the location!Definitely would stay again!
Rich M.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Aug 2025
Wonderful getting to talk with you. Welcomed back any time. Mahalo.
Safe, clean, peaceful, cozy, with all amenities you need. Communication was great as well. The fresh fruit and banana bread are such a nice gift upon arrival. Much appreciated and would stay again. Mahalo Nui
We had an amazing stay at this beautiful Hilo property! The lush surroundings and well-maintained grounds made it a stunning retreat. We felt incredibly safe throughout our visit, which added to the overall comfort. The owner was responsive and approachable, making us feel we could reach out anytime with questions or needs. A delightful bonus was the fresh fruit provided, which was a perfect touch of local flavor. Highly recommend this gem for anyone visiting Hilo!
B W.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Sept 2025
Glad you felt relaxed, safe and welcomed. Luckily your stay was right in the middle of an abundant fruit harvest. Fresh from the farm Lilikoi, Mangosteen, Rambuton, Apple Bananas, Limes, Papayas and Fresh Pineapple. More then any 2 people could enjoy during a short stay. Mahalo for your recommendation.
We only stayed one night but would have loved to stay longer had we had the time. The cottage and property were absolutely beautiful, offered everything we needed, and Laurel was a lovely hostess. The breakfast with fresh fruit grown on site was a perfect way to get acquainted with Hawaii. We had to google what some of the fruit was and how to eat them. So much fun, and super fresh and delicious. Great experience!
Brandy S.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Oct 2025
So glad I was able to share some fresh Lilikoi and Limes to take with you. Glad you were able to rest after your long flight from up North.
We enjoyed the fruit and bread when we arrived, a great touch! Sauna was easy to use and enjoyable. Loved exploring chin chuck.
Megan S.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2025
So glad you enjoyed the home baked banana bread and farm fresh fruits. The location is beautiful with the view of Mauna Kea as you drive up Chjn Chuck Road. Mahalo.
We had a really nice stay here for 2 nights-we spent the days out exploring and came back to clean up for dinner. We didn't experience any disruptive noise from the kennels and the yard was nice with birds. We met the owner a couple times and she was kind. Everything was clean and they left fruit and homemade bread for us which was perfect for breakfast. Thank you!
Brittany C.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 July 2025
Appreciate your honest review. We are a cottage in the county. Glad you enjoyed the bread, birds and accommodations. Mahalo.
About the host
Hosted by Laurel Smithson
I am born and raised in Hawaii. My husband Kalani and I love to travel the world and meet new people. We wanted to share a bit of paradise with our guests. Note a dog boarding kennel shares the property.We are the original owner of the property. Built the home and cottage. Planted all trees, orchards and landscape ourselves. Our labor of love. Hawaii is where we call home. The Royal Palm Cottage is New, built in August 2019.
Why they chose this property
The road we live on is quite historic. Sugar cane used to be planted on this section of Chin Chuck Road. The soil is very fertile and most of the property is home to over 200 exotic fruit trees. Lychee, Rambuton, Mangosteen, Mango, Papaya and Atemoya. The parcels are mostly10 acres and are well maintained and most have agriculture zoning. Many fruit orchards and farms line both sides of the road. It is a breath of fresh air. On a brisk winter morning, you can see Mauna Kea and the telescopes on a snow capped mountain. When you drive down the road, you may see a whale spouting in the ocean.
What makes this property unique
15 miles from Hilo town with not even one stop light along the way. Beautiful coast line drive in both directions along highway 19. 500 foot elevation keeps us cool with tradewind breezes, well maintained Farm style neighborhood. Tuesday's we have a Hakalau Farmer's market that hosts live music and local farmers with their produce baked goods and crafts. We also have 2 ladies from Thailand making delicious pad Thai, green paypaya salad and curries right there on site. Lots of new and old farmers join together to add to Hakalau's charm.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests