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PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat

Photo gallery for PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat

Living room with seating for six including a full size sleeper sofa to sleep 2
Living room features sleeper sofa sleep 2, room darkening shades, and television
Spacious, great room, incorporating, living area, dining, and kitchen
Open concept great room includes step down lounge area
Entertaining Kitchen with breakfast bar.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Garage parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Balcony

Explore the area

View map
Keaau, HI
  • Place, Kilauea Caverns of Fire
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Place, University of Hawaii at Hilo
    ‪26 min drive‬
  • Place, Port of Hilo
    ‪30 min drive‬
  • Airport, Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.)
    ‪29 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Livingroom

1 Double Sofa Bed

Primary Bedroom

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 2

Bidet · Toilet · Shower only

Primary Bathroom, ensuite to Primary Bedroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub · Bidet · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat

Escape to a charming traditional Hawaiian home, elevated on post and pier for enhanced airflow and privacy. This unique blend of classic architecture and mid-century design features an open-concept great room, complete with a sunken living area, dining space, and kitchen, all adorned with stunning vaulted wood ceilings.

The spacious primary bedroom invites you to unwind on a luxurious king-size bed, complete with a private en-suite bathroom featuring a shower. Enjoy the convenience of a double closet, TV with Chromecast, and a dedicated workspace. Step out onto your private balcony to take in breathtaking views of the sunken garden, highlighted by terraced lava stone walls and lush tropical fruit trees.

The second bedroom is equally inviting, featuring a California king bed, TV, and ample storage. The spacious second bathroom includes a full-size tub and is stocked with complimentary toiletries, a hairdryer, and beach towels for your adventures.

Gather in the sunken living room, designed for relaxation and entertainment, with comfortable seating for six and a sleeper sofa that accommodates two. Oversized windows frame picturesque views of the vibrant gardens, making it a perfect spot for movie nights or cozy conversations.

Cook up a feast in the fully equipped kitchen, seamlessly integrated into the great room. It features a full-size refrigerator, electric range, double sink, microwave, toaster oven, and coffee station—all the essentials for culinary creations. We even collect organic waste for off-site composting in our lovely garden.

Embrace the spirit of outdoor living in the spacious carport, which doubles as a dining area, laundry space, and gathering spot. With a dining table for six, washer and dryer, and a clothesline, you’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips.

This home has been thoughtfully updated with new paint, doors, flooring, fans, and centrally located split AC, ensuring a fresh and inviting atmosphere. While you may spot the occasional friendly insect—an endearing part of island life—the home is professionally treated for your comfort.

Come experience the true essence of Hawaii in this enchanting vacation rental, where relaxation and adventure await!

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
A full set of house rules are in a gray binder located in the kitchen.

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number GE-037-452-2880-01, TA-037-452-2880-01
Property # 3007710vb
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
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is no smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Keaau

Located in Keaau, this holiday home is in the city centre and near the beach. Palace Theater and S. Hata Building are local landmarks, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Prince Kuhio Plaza and Hilo Shopping Center. Hobby Garden Hawaii and Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden are also worth visiting.
View more Holiday homes in KeaauOpens in a new window
Map
Keaau, HI

What's nearby

  • Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden - 19 min drive - 12.9 km
  • Kilauea Caverns of Fire - 22 min drive - 15.9 km
  • Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory - 22 min drive - 16.3 km
  • University of Hawaii at Hilo - 26 min drive - 20.1 km
  • Port of Hilo - 30 min drive - 25.4 km

Getting around

  • Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.) - 23 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Kaleo’s Bar & Grill - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Bite The Eye - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Nicky's Mobile Cafe - ‬14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much does it cost to stay at PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat?

As of 8 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat on 14 May 2026 start from AU$282, 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 PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is PUNA ZEN Botanical Garden Retreat located?

Located in the heart of Keaau, this holiday home is 2.8 mi (4.5 km) from Hobby Garden Hawaii and within 9 miles (15 km) of Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden and Fuku-Bonsai Cultural Center. Pahoa Museum and Kilauea Caverns of Fire are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 32 out of 38 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 38 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 38 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 38 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 38 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

9.4/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ron C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property was very welcoming and decorated with lots of aloha! Property has everything you need to enjoy time in and on the water.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gayle B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a beautiful property that is out in the country and makes you feel like you are out in nature with all the sounds of the frogs and birds around you. It is a comfortable place where you can relax after a long day of site seeing. We enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

BRAD W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful island home. Very well maintained and equipped.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew V.

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

Great Place To Stay!

very clean, host was super responsive, felt like home - would definitely rent again!!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Nice stay

Quiet beautiful place!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jill J.

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

Relaxing Home!

We enjoyed this property! It was inviting and felt like we were home. Arthur, the property owner, was an amazing host offering ideas on where to swim and visit. We highly recommend the ZEN Retreat!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Vibha D.

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

Magical place!

We had a great time at this place. The place was very clean, abundantly stocked, and neatly organized.The garden was very beautiful with a variety of plants and flowers and it felt as if we were in the middle of a tropical forest.We had a memorable stay and will certainly return and recommend to others!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Mar 2025
I am so glad you enjoyed yourself. It's a great time of year to come to the island, lots of fruits you can pick right off of the tree, and always fun adventures to be had. For future guest, your welcome to explore the grounds on your own or feel free to request a tour. We are adding new plants all the time.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debra G.

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

Excellent location, quiet setting

Wonderful gem of a place to stay. Owner was close by friendly and helpful though not intrusive. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rachel M.

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

Lovely house in a lush setting

Great place equipped with everything we needed for our short stay in the area. Loved looking out the windows at the lush vegetation. Conveniently located in between Hilo and Volcano and bear other local places to eat.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathy S.

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

*****

Great place to stay with your family!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katie A.

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

Awesome jungle get-a-way!

We were extremely happy with our stay! The house is beautifully taken care of and our hosts were extremely welcoming - brought us fresh fruit several times. Beds were very comfortable and the grounds were absolutely gorgeous. A must stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Feb 2023
Thank you for your lovely review
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amy F.

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

Perfect

Wonderful home. Great location. Very quiet neighborhood.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chris C.

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

Amazing!

This property is fantastic and a great place to stay to experience this side of the Big Island. Everything was wonderful and my whole family loved it!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth R.

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

Great place to stay

Spacious home all to oneself, beautifully decorated in tropical decor - and very important, an attached carport - extremely handy when it rains. Set among beautiful tropical landscaping. Items available to borrow: snorkling gear, kayaks, life jackets, beach umbrellas,coolers, etc! Very responsive host lives on grounds. Very much enjoyed stay!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura F.

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

Great Experience

We had a great stay at Puna Zen Retreat. It was the perfect place to experience the big island away from the crowds and close to Volcanoes National park, waterfalls, and a wonderful Keaau farmer’s market. Arthur had everything we could have needed during our stay from meal prep to beach gear to recommendations for activities, and the best guidebook waiting on the coffee table. We appreciated all of the small touches like coffee in the pantry, fresh fruit from his trees, and a couple of friendly chats. We would definitely recommend!
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richard L.

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

Zen in Kea'au

Wonderful island flair decorated beautifully. Spacious and airy, no need to use AC. Beds were very comfortable with lovely linens. Kitchen was large and well stocked and eco-friendly with composting and recycling. Outdoor amenities included beach chairs, boogie boards, kayaks, life preservers, etc. Heavenly gardens with flowers and many fruit trees. Quiet neighborhood with easy access to all nearby sites. We loved our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

kate k.

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

Tropical Paradise

This home was the most amazing, gorgeous, clean tropical paradise imaginable! It was like staying in our own Botanical garden and Arthur even showed us a few fruit trees we could eat from!! There were all sorts of convenient things like beach chairs, coolers, towels, boogie boards, etc! We couldn't have asked for a better stay. Very well-appointed too. Thank you for sharing your oasis with our family, Arthur! We'll be back for sure!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Mar 2025
Thank you for your very generous review. I really enjoy everyone's excitement in seeing for the first time how incredible our island. I was so thrilled I was able to let you know within an hour of a new volcano eruption so that your family could go and see live lava before the eruption ended. You certainly wouldn't of gotten that level of attention staying in a hotel. The county of Hawaii is considering adding restrictions or banning vacation rentals. The hotel lobby finances political campaigns to restrict local families from operating vacation rental small businesses. Here in East Hawaii you would be restricted to staying in a hotel on the water front owned by an international corporation at what ever price they choose with little to no competition. In East Hawaii most of our neighborhoods are zoned agriculture. This makes us especially susceptible to losing the ability to host guests in our homes and contributing to the local economy. Please write Mayor Alameda to allow local homeowners to host vacation rentals on ag land in East Hawaii.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Loretta K.

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

So pleased. Lovely home. Two bedrooms. 2 bath. Full kitchen

We truly enjoyed our stay. Clean. Two bedrooms. Two bathrooms. Enjoyed watching a movie after a full day of sightseeing. Highly recommend
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maurice S.

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

Beautiful and Amazing Stay Near Hilo

Amazing location and an amazing stay in a beautiful well maintained home nestled in what feels like the Hawaiian tropics. With dozens of exotic fruit trees on the property to unique flowers, palms and night time tree frogs, this location is truly a unique and memorable spot. It is very central to many locations in the Hilo area including the National Volcano Park. We only stayed TWO days as we were traveling on the other side of the island, but wish we could of stayed longer. The host - Arthur was very kind and even gave me a complete tour of the property and brought some fresh fruit to our front door. 5 STAR location all the way thru. Looking forward to another visit in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chrichelle F.

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

Perfect house for a relaxing stay!

After spending 10 days in the business of Oahu, this was the perfect, most peaceful house to relax at. My only regret is we didn't get to stay longer. The bedrooms and bathrooms are spacious and the living room has a comfortable sleeper sofa as well. Check-in and house instructions were clear and the entire property was beautiful. The house is also located in a quiet neighborhood away from busy streets. This is a great house for families and we hope it's available next time we're back on the Big Island! Thank you!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leslie L.

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

Very Homey

Everything was exactly as listed. Very cool yard with fruit trees. The temps cooled nicely in the evening so it was comfortable with the fans. Nice to have a washer and dryer too. It was very well organized and had lots of extras, chairs, beach stuff, condiments. The hosts were excellent. Would stay here again if visiting the Hilo area.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica H.

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

Beautiful Hawaiian getaway!

This house is amazing! The host was so kind and gave our family a tour of his property upon arrival. The lush gardens with tropical plants and fruit trees really adds to this beautiful home. We felt comfortable and relaxed, as it has all of the amenities needed to feel at home. Close to Hilo where we enjoyed the farmers market, Rainbow Falls and just strolling around. Would highly recommend this property, for all types of travelers, including families with kids. Thank you for sharing this lovely piece of paradise!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dena R.

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

We enjoyed this adorable home!

Loved having space to spread out in this home. Being from Texas we enjoyed the opportunity to sleep with windows open (the house has an A/C unit) but we opted for the natural breeze. We miss the coqui frogs serenading us to sleep and loved them so much we recorded them! Arthur was great with communication and even made it possible for us to check in early. It was an easy drive to Hilo, the Volcanoes National Park and Mauna Kea. We even drove down to Punalu’u black sand beach and South Point. Would definitely stay there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

nadezhda M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location, spacios

Spacious house in decent shape. Location was perfect for us between Volcanos Ntl Park and Hilo. Was not clean to our standards, but not too bad. Host responses immediately to address any concerns. Don't forget to bring ear plugs - frogs sing loudly entire night. Not sure if this is year round on only in spring.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marnie K.

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

Rainforest Getaway

We stayed at Arthur’s for a week, and enjoyed hearing the tree frogs and rain showers at night and birds in the morning. Easy access to Hilo and Volcanoes NP. Very lush property with beautiful plants. We never used the A/C, as the home was comfortable with just a slight breeze through the screens. The home had plenty of towels, and recreation equipment available such as life vests, snorkeling gear, body boards, etc. Arthur was kind enough to share a fresh avocado with us from the property. We had no needs during our stay, as the home was well-stocked.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

About the host

Hosted by Arthur Pavliska

Host profile image
I’m so delighted to have you here! Nestled on this beautiful lush tropical property, my aim is to ensure your stay is both relaxing and memorable. I live in a separate house tucked away at the rear of the property, and you might spot me strolling with my puppies in the morning—please feel free to say hello!

Since falling in love with Hawaii in 2016, I’ve transformed this space into a botanical garden bursting with exotic flowers and fruit trees. If you’d like to pick some fresh fruit during your stay, just let me know, I can point you to what’s ripe! While I kindly ask that guests refrain from picking the flowers, there’s always something beautiful in bloom for you to enjoy. Complementary arrangements of foliage enhances the indoor outdoor connection.

I moved here from Asbury Park New Jersey and New York City, though I grew up in Austin, Texas. My passions run deep: I adore hiking through the 16 climate zones the Big Island provides from lush jungle trails, alpine forest, to vast sweeping arid landscapes, camping under the stars, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and snorkeling to explore the vibrant underwater world. Cycling along scenic routes fills me with joy, while travel allows me to discover new cultures and experiences.

I’m also a lover of movies, fashion, art, architecture, and history—each passion adding layers to my appreciation of the world around us. As an LGBTQ-friendly host, I welcome everyone with open arms and a warm heart.

There’s always something exciting happening on the island, from cultural events to outdoor adventures. Let me know your interest and I will ensure you discover the Hawaii to suit your desires. Depending on my work schedule, I may have the chance to connect with you during your visit, sharing stories and recommendations.

Welcome once again, and may your time here be filled with exploration, relaxation, and the beauty of this incredible place!

Why they chose this property

Welcome to our property in the heart of Puna, perfectly situated for exploring the breathtaking attractions of East Hawaii on the Big Island. You’ll find yourself centrally located near Kehena Black Sand Beach, the awe-inspiring Volcanoes National Park, and the recent eruption in Leilani Estates. Just a short drive will take you to Hilo and the stunning Hamakua Coast, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and lush waterfalls.

Our home in Hawaiian Paradise Park, Keaau, sits on a spacious 1-acre lot with two homes nestled in tropical foliage at opposite ends, providing privacy and tranquility. An up and coming neighborhood of many unspoiled native forests, old Hawaiian plantation vernacular homes, and a mix of new architecture, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The property is conveniently located just 12 miles from Hilo Airport and 86 miles from Kona Airport, making your arrival and departure a breeze.

The climate in Keaau is warm to muggy, with temperatures typically ranging from 63°F to 83°F, rarely dipping below 60°F or exceeding 85°F. Expect occasional nightly rain, as Keaau receives an average of 122 inches of rainfall per year, creating a lush and vibrant landscape. A Mini-Split air conditioning or heating to make your days cool or warm up the night. You may choose to keep the windows open and enjoy the abundant tropical breezing as Hawaiians have for centuries.

For your comfort, please message me when booking if you are sensitive to detergents or perfumes, allowing adequate time to modify cleaning and maintenance practices.

Additionally, HawaiiIsland is home to a diverse spiritual communities to ground and renew, providing a peaceful space for reflection and community.

Exploring the Big Island requires a car, as its vast beauty is best experienced on your own terms. From the volcanic landscapes to charming towns, there’s so much to discover. I look forward to helping you create unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise!

Languages:

English

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