Hale Ohai: Modern Elegance in the Jungle near Pohoiki and Kehena Beaches
Relax in sleek, contemporary style at this modern Pahoa getaway, a private screen home once featured in the pages of Dwell Magazine. Walk the black sands of Kehena Beach in the warm island sunshine, and come home to a striking living space with a 500-foot deck where you can dine and unwind among gorgeous monkeypod trees.
The home features open concept living with entry on the top floor over a walking bridge. From the unique entryway, take in the splendor of the giant monkey-pod tree in the back yard. The home was built to highlight the natural beauty of the area. There is a comfortable living room as well as a sprawling sun deck and plenty of yoga gear if you want to take your sun salutations on the deck. The kitchen and dining areas are well-stocked and ready for your cooking adventures. Down the artful, red spiral stairs are two master suites each with a king sized bed, closet and en-suite bathroom. To note: both showers are out doors from the bathrooms, a unique Hawaiian experience.
What's nearby: This home sits three-quarters of a mile north of the black sands of Kehena Beach (please note that this beach is clothing-optional), where dolphins are known to come by and frolic with swimmers. You'll be 10 miles down the coast from a spectacular surfing beach at Pohoiki, a 20-minute drive from popular restaurants like Paolo's, Ning's and Kaleo's, and 90 minutes by car from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The bustling town of Hilo, 32 miles north, is home to many shops, restaurants, and sources of entertainment as well.
Things to know: Free WiFi (but no TV) Full kitchen Private outdoor showers
Book with confidence—this is a licensed, legal vacation rental managed by professionals with decades of local experience. Always double check that you are booking a place that is operating legally in Hawaii - no surprises, just aloha! TA-084-079-2064-01 STVR-19-360-29 NUC-19-132
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Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
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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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number TA-084-079-2064-01, GE-084-079-2064-01
About the area
Pahoa
Located in Puna Palisades, a neighbourhood in Pahoa, this holiday home is in a rural area and by the sea. Mackenzie State Park and Pohoiki reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include SPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center and Hobby Garden Hawaii. Hilo Coffee Mill and Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours and hiking/biking trails.
SPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center - 4 min drive - 2.7 km
Pohoiki Beach - 18 min drive - 13.7 km
University of Hawaii at Hilo - 55 min drive - 62.4 km
Port of Hilo - 59 min drive - 68.1 km
Getting around
Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.) - 55 min drive
Restaurants
Uncle's Awa Bar - 9 min drive
Behind the Bamboo - 5 min drive
Ono Korean Bbq - 21 min drive
Luquin's - 26 min drive
Uncle’s Kitchen - 9 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Hale Ohai: Modern Elegance in the Jungle near Pohoiki and Kehena Beaches pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Hale Ohai: Modern Elegance in the Jungle near Pohoiki and Kehena Beaches?
As of 7 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Hale Ohai: Modern Elegance in the Jungle near Pohoiki and Kehena Beaches on 17 July 2026 start from AU$283, 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 Hale Ohai: Modern Elegance in the Jungle near Pohoiki and Kehena Beaches?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Hale Ohai: Modern Elegance in the Jungle near Pohoiki and Kehena Beaches?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Hale Ohai: Modern Elegance in the Jungle near Pohoiki and Kehena Beaches?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Hale Ohai: Modern Elegance in the Jungle near Pohoiki and Kehena Beaches located?
Located in Puna Palisades, this holiday home is 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from SPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center and within 6 miles (10 km) of Star of the Sea Painted Church and Mackenzie State Park. Pohoiki and Pohoiki Beach are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
The place was fantastic! From the surrounding landscape to the terrific kitchen and screened in living area - all was exceptional.
Donald S.
Stayed 10 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Mar 2026
We are delighted that you had a excellent visit at Hale Ohai. Come stay again, anytime!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Crew
Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
patrick s.
20 Dec 2025
Amazing stay
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Absolutely love this home. So well equipped. Literally anything you need in a kitchen. A grill on the patio would have been the cherry on top.
patrick s.
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Jan 2026
We're so happy you enjoyed your time at Hale Ohai! Please keep us in mind if your travels bring you back to our little corner of paradise :-)
Warmest Aloha
The Salt Water Hawaii Reservations Crew
Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Chad T.
2 Apr 2026
Modern living in a jungle tree house
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
The house truly exceeded our expectations. The beautiful, thoughtful, clean, modern design and open-concept layout are even more impressive in person. The lush landscaping creates a private oasis that feels completely immersed in the jungle.One of our favorite features was the open-air, screened-in living room and the abundance of windows, which allowed for an incredibly refreshing cross breeze—it made the space feel relaxing, comfortable, and unique. Each bedroom was also well equipped with ceiling fans, box fans, and extra blankets, ensuring a comfortable stay.The elevated deck was perfect for both morning coffee and evening dinners, offering a peaceful setting surrounded by nature. The outdoor showers were another standout feature—such a fun and memorable touch. One offers more privacy with a traditional curtain, while the other is more open with a glass partition, though still very private thanks to the surrounding landscaping.The kitchen was well stocked and made cooking meals enjoyable and easy for the whole family. The only addition that would make this home even better would be a propane BBQ grill on the deck.We would absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it!
Chad T.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Luke
12 June 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Great house and property. Stayed 5 weeks and enjoyed it very much. Location close to black beach. Nice neighborhood.
Jørgen R.
Stayed 36 nights in Jan 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar 2025
Mahalo for your review, Jørgen! It was a pleasure to host you. We hope you'll come stay again soon :-)
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Communication with property management was simple and effort free. Everything in the property description was spot on. If you’re looking to get away From the hustle and bustle of every day life. This is a great place to relax and recharge. The locals were welcoming and inviting. If you love nature you will love the property. Would definitely recommend and plan on coming back!
Bart E.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Apr 2025
Mahalo nui for your review, Bart. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the relaxing, nature-forward vibe of Hale Ohai and lower Puna in general. This place can get under your skin, so when you find yourself craving a return visit we'll be here to welcome you back!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Mahalo for your review, Lisa. We love when guests' expectations are met :-) We hope you'll keep us in mind if your travels bring you back this way!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Loved the place. The literal open design was wonderful. The living room has screens and no windows which makes it seem like a tree house. I would stay again.
Brian S.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Apr 2024
Mahalo for your review, Brian. We're glad you enjoyed Hale Ohai and hope you'll come stay again soon!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
Everything you could ever need is inside the home. Just bring good company and enjoy! If there was anything it's the distance from a major city, but trust me it makes up for that with the Black Sand Beach!!
Donald B.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jan 2022
Mahalo for your review, Donald. Hale Ohai is so special - we're glad that you loved it like we do :-D Come stay again, anytime!!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Chris C.
12 Dec 2021
Very nice stay in Puna
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
A lovely property. Quiet area. We had everything we needed.
Chris C.
Response from VrboOwner on 13 May 2022
Mahalo for your review, Christopher. We are glad you enjoyed your time at Hale Ohai. Keep us in mind if you return the area. We'd love to host you again :-)
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
I can't say enough good things about the property and area. It has everything you need and want. it is very clean, and the atmosphere is really awesome. make sure to take a drive down to the beach park and new lava field that is about 20 minutes away. Its a beautiful drive and really cool beach.
Greg M.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Nov 2021
Thank you so much for your review, Greg! We are glad you got to experience our area, including one of the planet's newest beaches ;-) Come see us again, anytime!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Carlin F.
22 June 2022
Peaceful Hawaiian escape
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We had a lovely time in this remote getaway. The kitchen was well equipped, the setting beautiful, and the architecture interesting.
Carlin F.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 1 July 2022
Mahalo for your review, Carlin. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. Come back, anytime!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
I want this place to be a secret! It is soooo wonderful! Everything was above expectations! Could not be happier with this price. A warning….it is far away from Hilo, so plan for that. Pohoa is great though. Loved it!
Kelley B.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2022
Mahalo nui for your review, Kelley. We are so glad you enjoyed your visit to our little corner of paradise :-) We would love to host you again, anytime!!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
We enjoyed the Sounds of the jungle and outdoor showers. Feeling one with nature. Kitchen was Stocked with all the necessities, even instapot! Books, games, yoga mates free weights,
Make sure to stop for coffee beans on your way in.
Enjoy having coffee and doing yoga on the large deck. Make sure to save a day just to chill and enjoy this space!
Linh W.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 May 2023
Mahalo for your review, Linh. Come stay again anytime!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
21 Mar 2023
Great place!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was more than happy with the location.
I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
This was such a nice place to stay! The house has a nice open concept where you feel like you are outside but still protected by the big screens. The kitchen is well stocked. It is a cool area to check out, the hit ponds are great and the market was fun!
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Mar 2023
Mahalo for your review, Chris. Come stay again, anytime!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
We loved this house! It was our second week-long stay here, the last being two years prior. It is a beautiful, inviting home perfect for two people or four if they know each other well. The home is well equipped from the kitchen to anything else you might need. The open-air format is perfect for daytime or nighttime enjoyment. We particularly love the sound of the frogs at night.
The location is perfect for volcano visits or just a very relaxing place to unwind.
We will stay here again as this truly is a home away from home!
Mark P.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 20 May 2022
Mahalo nui for your review, Mark. Hale Ohai is such a special place - we're glad you enjoyed your time there!! Come back soon - we'd host you again anytime :-)
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Kristin C.
21 July 2020
Great experience even for locals
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We live here on the Big Island and booked Hale Ohai for a staycation so we could explore new parts of the island. The home was perfectly clean and we felt as though we were living in a private treehouse, surrounded by beautiful landscaping. We enjoyed several afternoons just down the road at Kahena Beach and loved having this home as our retreat after a long day of exploring.
Kristin C.
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Nov 2020
Mahalo and come again!
Aloha, Jess and the Salt Water Hawaii Crew
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
2 Oct 2023
Terrific!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Beautiful home in a fabulous off the beaten path neighborhood. The modern architecture fits perfectly in the gorgeous jungle setting and the open air concept is very comfortable. The kitchen is well equipped, only lacking an outdoor gas grill. Overall, a great spot to escape the daily grind.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Oct 2023
Mahalo for your review, John. We're so glad you enjoyed getting away from the 'real world' at Hale Ohai ;-) Come stay again anytime!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Dave C.
17 July 2023
Beautiful property for a quiet getaway!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We had a fantastic stay! The unique design and modern amenities made this a very fun place to stay. The home is stocked with games, yoga mats and everything you need in the kitchen for cooking. The beach is walking distance from the house. We enjoyed the open air concept upstairs and the privacy of the downstairs bedrooms. The house has a lot of character, seating options both inside and outside and is very comfortable. We'd definitely stay here again.
Dave C.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 July 2023
Mahalo nui for your review, Dave! Hale Ohai is such a special spot. We're so happy that you enjoyed your visit and we look forward to hosting you next time your travels bring you back this way!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
I love the outdoors so I loved the NO AC, and natural cooling, I loved the frogs croaking loudly all evening and night I loved the geckos in the house and the bugs. My husband hates camping and he loved this place. Bring ear plugs and you will be set...as long as you are not adverse to nature! And LOVED the outdoor showers again joined by creatures so wonderful!
People in the area complained that there are no restaurants or amenities nearby...that is another thing I loved! We brought our own food and were set to be alone!
Yvette M.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Sept 2021
Mahalo nui for your review, Yvette! You clearly did your research and were looking for this experience :-D There are plenty of resorts if that's what travelers are looking for. Hale Ohai is something different! We are so happy that you enjoyed your visit. Come stay again next time you want to 'get away from it all'!!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Claudius G.
30 June 2024
In the heart of nature
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was more than happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We are city dwellers from Germany and really enjoyed being close to nature. We felt like we were sleeping in the jungle, the noises of the animals at night were so loud, but we found it very calming. The house lacked nothing. The only negative thing is that you have to put up with a very long journey. But we knew that beforehand.
Claudius G.
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Aug 2024
Mahalo for your review, Claudius. We're so glad you enjoyed connecting with nature at Hale 'Ohai! If you ever make it back to our corner of paradise, we hope to host you again!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
Salt Water Real Estate, Hilo HI
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Susan S.
20 Nov 2022
Perfect blend of off-grid & luxury
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
A memorable,enjoyable stay in what feels like a treehouse amongst the monkey pod trees. Very well maintained property. Very accurately described in the previous reviews. Wonderful communication/response time from host agency. Note: The 2 bedrooms are very intimate with each other- luckily the nighttime chorus of coqui frogs helps a bit with “sound privacy”☺️. Would recommend highly to other adventurers who are seeking a non- touristy visit to the Big Island. Tip: you’ll likely be driving a lot to take advantage of all the big island has to offer, so invest in a comfortable rental car/suv. 😎
Susan S.
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Dec 2022
Mahalo for your review, Susan, and for the helpful tips for future guests. We're so glad you enjoyed your visit. Come stay again anytime!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Bev H.
5 Dec 2022
Lovely Hale ‘Ohai❣️
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
This house fulfilled a spot on my bucket list that I didn’t even know was there. The home is so uniquely placed on the land , architecturally smart with clean lines, bright & airy, utilized space so well, organized in all places, and artistically rich...simply elegant!!!! Then there’s the monkey pod trees and all the other variety of trees & plants. What a pleasure, it was hard to venture out because we just wanted to STAY! Oh , did I mention the great bedroom & bathroom ideas with the best outdoor showers!!! Also appreciated the special wood furniture and wood island & outside table! Hawaii was represented well❤️!
Bev H.
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Dec 2022
Mahalo nui for your review, Bev. Hale Ohai is such a special spot. We're so glad you enjoyed your time there. Come stay again anytime!
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Nancy G.
3 Oct 2021
Unique experience
Rating Details:
The property manager was more than helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
If you’ve ever wanted to live in a beautiful home in a tropical botanical garden with adorable emerald green gecko friends (and who hasn’t?) then this is your dream home. Very comfortable and well stocked. The lack of AC was not a problem at all. It feels remote but is 20 minutes to an excellent grocery store and restaurants. Because the living room is only screens, you may hear your neighbor’s muted conversation during the day. At night, the frogs are loud, however, we slept well with the doors closed and the windows open.We would stay again.
Nancy G.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Oct 2021
Mahalo for your review, Nancy! I agree - coqui frogs are a great source of night-time 'white noise'. Live among them a few years and it's hard to sleep without them LOL Please come stay again - we would be delighted to host you :-)
Warmest Aloha,
The Salt Water Hawaii Vacations Crew
About the host
Hosted by Salt Water Vacations, Hilo, Hawaii.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests