Entire apartment

Cozy, quiet Hawaiian retreat--near volcano, black sand beaches, w/d available

Photo gallery for Cozy, quiet Hawaiian retreat--near volcano, black sand beaches, w/d available

Beach nearby, sun loungers, beach towels
Property grounds
Exterior
Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Smart TV
Reviews
10

Exceptional

Entire apartment

1 bathroomSleeps 2400 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFiFree WiFiFree WiFi
  • KitchenKitchenKitchen
  • WasherWasherWasher
  • DryerDryerDryer
  • Outdoor SpaceOutdoor SpaceOutdoor Space
The price is $65
$157 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 23 - Jun 24

Explore the area

Map
Keaau, HI
  • Popular LocationHobby Garden Hawaii19 min drive
  • AirportHilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.)32 min drive
  • Popular LocationUniversity of Hawaii at Hilo36 min drive
  • Popular LocationPort of Hilo37 min drive

Most relevant reviews

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire apartment to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Cozy, quiet Hawaiian retreat--near volcano, black sand beaches, w/d available

The Laughing Gecko, a 100% smoke free property, is located on a one acre lot, on the east side of Hawaii island, in a more quiet, remote area, in close proximity to the cliffs and black sand beaches.

The studio features furnishings (queen bed) with its own private entrance, kitchenette, bath & lanai.

Carport has washer & dryer for your use as well as a variety of other amenities such as coolers, beach towels, and more. The property has a rooster, chickens, and dogs (mostly inside).

The studio features a queen bed, kitchenette, bathroom, and a little living area, along with a lanai that will make you feel so welcome and relaxed. You will absolutely enjoy the private lanai which is great for relaxing, drinking your morning coffee, having cocktails and/or eating your meal. This is a little piece of paradise not far from so much to do!

The kitchenette has a mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker, electric skillet, sink, dishes, and all you need for quick meals. Most people eat out but if you really want to do more on property, we have a big bbq that we can bring out for you.

For those who need a place to work or just relax in the studio, we have a desk, chair, couch, smart TV with Chromecast device and high speed internet for your usage as well.

Guests have their own private entrance and access to common areas like the carport, laundry, and yard. When you arrive there is a lockbox at the gate (we will provide a code for you to access) where the keys are located.

We are here for you! I can recommend things to do, places to go, eat, etc. We also want to make sure your trip is special so if you need groceries, food service, etc. just let us know.

We are in a rural community so there will be chickens, rabbits, dogs, and yes geckos on the property. All are friendly and enjoyable but if you have any concerns about dogs, please let us know.

In general, we will not bother you during your stay but please let us know if you need anything.

We are 30 minutes south of Hilo, 10-15 minutes from shops, restaurants, grocery store and historic sites in Pahoa and Keaau. We are approximately 1/2 mile from the ocean cliffs where the sunrise and whale watching are tourist favorite activities (depending on time of year). Isaac Hale beach park, Volcanoes National Park, Kehena Black Sand Beach, and Uncle Robert's farmer's market as well as the huge Sunday Maku'u market are some of the more local favorite sites, scenes, and activities in the area.

We are also centrally located for side trips to all other parts of the Big Island.

No smoking in the unit, on the lanai or on property. No animals allowed.

Relaxed friendly atmosphere--tell us how we can help make your stay more enjoyable and we will do all we can to accommodate.

Property manager

Chris Holland

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Internet

  • Available in the apartment: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchenette

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Microwave
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Washing machine

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • Near the bay
  • Near the marina
  • Near the ocean
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • 1 unit
  • Garden
  • Unit size: 400 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: Little ones always welcome

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
Note from host: Negotiable--just let us know what you are doing
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 there is a 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
Property Registration Number 150561400000, TA-138-007-1936-01, GE-138-007-1936-01

Property is also known as

Hawaiian Luxury Vacation Studio

About the neighborhood

Keaau

Located in Keaau, this apartment is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Port of Hilo and Hilo Municipal Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Prince Kuhio Plaza and Hilo Shopping Center. Traveling with kids? Consider Hobby Garden Hawaii and Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

What's nearby

  • Hobby Garden Hawaii - 19 min drive
  • Ha'ena Beach - 32 min drive
  • University of Hawaii at Hilo - 36 min drive
  • Port of Hilo - 37 min drive
  • Carlsmith Beach Park - 42 min drive

Getting around

  • Hilo Intl. Airport (ITO) - 32 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Kaleo's Bar and Grill - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪No. 1 Chinese Barbecue - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Pahoa Fresh Fish - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪I Want Ice Cream - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Mighty Sushi - ‬20 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Cozy, quiet Hawaiian retreat--near volcano, black sand beaches, w/d available pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Cozy, quiet Hawaiian retreat--near volcano, black sand beaches, w/d available?

As of Jun 7, 2024, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Cozy, quiet Hawaiian retreat--near volcano, black sand beaches, w/d available on Jun 23, 2024 start from $65.0, excluding 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.

What time is check-in at Cozy, quiet Hawaiian retreat--near volcano, black sand beaches, w/d available?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Cozy, quiet Hawaiian retreat--near volcano, black sand beaches, w/d available?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Cozy, quiet Hawaiian retreat--near volcano, black sand beaches, w/d available located?

This family-friendly Keaau apartment building is located on the waterfront, 1.9 mi (3.1 km) from Hobby Garden Hawaii, and within 12 mi (20 km) of Lava Tree State Monument and Pahoa Museum. Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden and Ha'ena Beach are also within 16 mi (25 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 119 out of 127 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 127 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 127 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 127 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 127 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

6.0/10

Amenities

7.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Julie s.

Liked: Cleanliness
Volcano National Park Stay
Close to location we were visiting .. Property was clean and quiet.Parking space a little tight but doable.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Neal H.

Liked: Cleanliness
clean quiet practical
nice location away from condos and urban areas, practical for trips around big Island especially to Volcano Nat'l Park. Easy access to good restaurants.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Doug R.

Liked: Cleanliness
East side stay
We enjoyed our stay. The patio was quite pleasant and host responded quickly to any questions. Some "adult" plates and bowls would be a small improvement. A bit more counter space in kitchen area would also be good.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

lucie h., Lyon

Liked: Cleanliness
Nice !
The owner is very nice and easy to talk with ! The location is nice if you want to visit the volcanoes national park, but otherwise it’s not the right place because it’s far from restaurants and shopping. The condo was clean and comfortable. I highly recommend if you want to enjoy the volcanoes !!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

2/10 Terrible

Julie

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
disappointing! this unit is over 15 miles and a 30 minute drive from Hilo, totally in the middle of no where. *it has no view. there is no air conditioning. the unit is dusty due to being located on a dirt road and the windows being open for whatever relief from the extreme humidity. there is a rooster that crows like crazy. the property is extremely difficult to find. no tv service unless you hooked your cell phone to their unit (wierd) we booked for 2 night stay, but could only tolerate it for one night, and had to go somewhere else. a total disaster
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Happy Hawaiian stay
Clean, small and well equipprd.
Stayed 24 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing start to our retirement!!!
After years of hard work, we chose to start our retirement exploring and decompressing on the Big Island. The Laughing Gecko could not have been a more perfect choice for us.
Stayed 14 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Shelia F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful, comfortable setting
The neighborhood is very aloha. The studio ohana is sufficient and comfortable; perfect for a couple. The owners allow for privacy, but are friendly and helpful. We were able to come and go easily to explore the island. The property is well lit with sensor lights for evening arrival, and the access to washer and dryer very handy for travelers.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Todd M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very Nice & Great Value
Extremely nice hosts who cared about the guests. Will stay again when we come back to the Big Island!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michelle F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely Restful and Relaxing Spot
We stayed just two nights in this very cute cottage. And though we were very busy, off property, during that time, we did take time in the morning to walk the 4 blocks down to the ocean, it was a lovely walk where we were able to enjoy the sights and sounds of the rainforest surrounding us, we highly recommend you do the same. We made it a loop which was 2.5-2.7 miles. The view from the water's edge is beautiful in the early morning and the contrasting colors of the black lava, lush green scenery, red dirt, turquoise water and blue sky, make for stunning photos! The bed was very comfortable, water pressure great, we did not use the kitchenette but it seemed appropriate for the basics. There is a nice deck where you can sit and enjoy the Koki frogs at night and the chorus of tropical birds in the morning. We were visiting in November and the two circulating fans were enough to keep us comfortable at night. It's an easy drive to Hilo and to Volcano Natl Park. We recommend Jackie Rays in Hilo, Ola Brewing in Hilo, Rim Restaurant in the national park. We hope to be back for a longer visit in the future, if we do get back we would definitely consider staying here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

8/10 Good

Ceva K., Redmond, OR

Liked: Cleanliness
Good for a quick stay
The unit was clean, bed was comfortable, fans worked well to keep airflow, lanai was private and pleasant and the grounds were very pretty. The owner provided beach accessories- everything was in good condition. The kitchenette for us was limiting as it is designed for just heating up but for a short stay it was nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Julia W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Nice stay!
We liked the location. It‘s near Hilo and not so far away from Volcano National Park.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Valerie B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful
So clean! Cute decor and comfortable. Listening to the birds was so nice. We recommend going to watch the sunrise. Coast is 4 blocks away. We brought two chairs and sat on the lave cliff.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cecilia M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Quite private get away
The place is very cozy and quiet, everything you need to rest up after a day of adventure. The hosts are the best available to take care of any concerns you might have, very friendly, but never bother you. Definitely stay here again, thanks Chris and Cole for the wonderful stay..
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bob D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beyond expectations
Very nice place, remote location, super clean, so much light with all the windows. The balcony was great to have a drink at night and a coffee in the morning. Be aware that the rooster is your alarm clock, but it comes with the place. We would recommend in a heart beat this place, the best one so far on big island
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mary V.

Liked: Cleanliness
Clean and beautiful!
So cute! It’s cool since it is close to the ocean and you get the breezes from there. Tall bed. Large room and bathroom. Kitchen has everything you need. There is a lanai with table and chairs. It is very quiet here. Owners are helpful and very nice.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mary V.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful and comfortable!
Very cute! Very clean! All directions of how to get to the home and how to get in were accurate and helpful. It is quiet. It is close to the ocean so you get the ocean breezes. There is everything you need like kitchen items, towels, pillows and more. I highly recommend this home for your travels!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2022

8/10 Good

Nihal E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect spot to hit volcanoes park before sunrise
It was the perfect spot to hit the park before sunrise. They had everything I needed and then some there. My only complaint was it was too hot in the room during the day since there no AC but with the windows open and the fans on it eventually cooled enough at night.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer K., Olean, NY

Liked: Cleanliness
Quiet & comfortable
We had a wonderful stay at the Laughing Gecko! It was the quiet break we needed during a long trip. The studio is very well-appointed and one of the cleanest VRBOs we've ever rented. We had everything we needed. Chris was a perfect host, easy to reach with questions and clearly concerned with making sure guests are comfortable. The country location is beautiful--we loved watching and listening to all the birds. We'd absolutely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Julia G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely place
Sweet studio in a peaceful garden with kind and communicative host. Note that it’s not near anything so bring your dinner or breakfast with you 😊
Stayed 1 night in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

John G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful
Hosts very accommodating. Had beach chairs, blanket, boogie boards, umbrella, snorkeling equipment (all the things you would have difficulty bringing on an airplane) available for your use. Close to the ocean. Wonderful stay.
Stayed 29 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ralene F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Exactly what we needed!
We loved the ease in finding the place on a rainy day. The accommodations were simple and complete. We had everything we needed for this one night stay. We enjoyed the peaceful setting for our morning coffee on the deck. Highly recommend.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brenda G.

Liked: Cleanliness
A little distance from VNP, but totally worth it
All aspects of our short stay at this property were fantastic. Chris, the owner, was great at communicating, and was very informative as well. We loved being able to have our breakfast on the deck/lanai, while enjoying the view of their landscaping, and listening to the birds. At night it felt like we were staying in a rainforest/jungle with all the bird and insect noises. That was very unusual for us, but not unpleasant. The property had all the amenities you could need and was very clean. Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Donna E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Sweet Stay to Vacay
Cutest dang place to stay! Very clean and comfortable. It had what two people would need. And YES I would come back again in a heartbeat. Donna
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Courtney F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay near Hilo
We had everything we needed and more at the Laughing Gecko Cottage. Our hosts were respectful of our privacy but readily available as needed. Lots of amenities were available for our use to include laundry, beach gear, and kitchen supplies. We enjoyed the private lanai and the property is lovely and lush. We would absolutely return to this location iin the future.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2022