Exterior

Reviews of Grand Historic Hilo House


Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 143 out of 151 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 151 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 151 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 151 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 151 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Daniel K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing history and yet so peaceful.
In Hawaii we speak of Mana, to outsiders that can be felt in something that raises the hair on the back of your neck. You feel it in the air, something mysterious but not so silly as ghosts. No, this house is filled with a spirit of its own where you can feel the life of all those that have passed through these doors. If the walls could speak it would tell you the stories of some great writer who sat where you are now staring out to the stream below. If there was one word to describe this house and our stay it would be "magical" but really that wouldn't do it justice. We started our trip with a week in `Oahu with the rush and go. So, ending with just a few days here for some much-needed down time was the right decision. Mahalo Charlotte for opening your hale to us, for bringing such peace and joy. Looking forward to another stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 May 2024
Aloha Daniel Your message touched my heart deeply! We have been in love with the magic of this historic property for almost two decades. From the very moment we walked into the grand living room, gazing out the large picture window into the tropical Hilo jungle over the Wailuku River, our heart has been taken... Thank you for loving this home! You are aware and in tune with her mana. You are the most gracious guests we love to host. Mahalo nui loa! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

tom D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Historic Hilo Vacation Home
Great location, very spacious historic home; excellent accommodations with a complete kitchen and more; well maintained; very quiet except for those noisy and interesting frogs at night; and certainly a home a family would enjoy especially being close to Hilo for shopping, etc.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 May 2023
Thank you Tom for loving our property! It was a joy hosting you and your group! Aloha Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Edwin F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Thomas Guard House in Hilo
We enjoyed the historic 1916 National Register Thomas Guard House, which has a breathtaking views of the Wailuku River and large tree canopy. The neighborhood is beautful and calm and a short, pleasant walk into the town center of Hilo.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Mar 2024
Thank you for your good feedbacks on your stay Erwin. We appreciate you as wonderful guests. Aloha Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Linda R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Hilo History
Everyone in our family was awed by our stay in this wonderful house. The location is quiet & the grounds are beautiful. The views from the back of the house are over a river gorge & the sound of the water can be heard in the background along with the songs of the birds. The rooms are spacious & very comfortably furnished. This stay was the highlight of our trip to the big island.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Feb 2024
Thank you Linda for your kind review! It was a pleasure hosting your families! I am so glad you enjoyed our home, gardens and the Waikiki volcano river running through the back of our property! You are the first guests enjoying our new carport overlooking the waterfalls! Mahalo Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Sheila M., Springfield, MO

Liked: Cleanliness
Hilo’s Finest
The house is fabulous and the location is perfect. Our group of eight enjoyed our week so much. The front porch was our favorite gathering place and the grounds are so peaceful and tranquil. We walked to the farmers market, restaurant and the grocery store not because we didn’t have a car but because the location was so lovely. Thank you for sharing your grand home with us.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Feb 2024
Aloha Sheila It was such a pleasure to host you and your families! You are so respectful of our beautiful and historic property. You left it in such a good condition that my house keeper was pleased and impressed. Thank you for being such wonderful guests! Mahalo Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Ronnie T L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Hilo Getaway
We had a great time celebrating my mother’s 60th at this gorgeous property. It is within walking distance of downtown Hilo itself and an easy drive to the islands best sites. We would definitely stay again if we ever find ourself in Hilo!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jan 2024
Thank you Ronnie for your kind review. You are a wonderful guest truly caring for our historic property. You left it in great condition, clean and tidy! We would love to host you again! Aloha Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Karen C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Week long family stay
15 adults and teens stayed in the house. We had a great time.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Dec 2023
Thank you Karen for your kind review. Unfortunately my cleaners were quite disturbed at how you left the house. They sent me photos. In her words the house was left in messy and filthy condition. The towels were so dirty that she had to soak them in the bleach for 6 hours. She spent twice as much cleaning after your party. I told her you had a large group with young kids. I apologized on your behalf and paid her extra for her extra hours and stress. They had to get the house ready for the next group so quickly. It is hard to manage a large family/friends group in a big house like mine. I wish people were more respectful living in other’s home. We love our home and have given it so much care and attention. It saddens me when our guests don’t treat our home like their own. Happy new year! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Annette S.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Perfect Place
We are a team that works throughout North America and New Zealand. The general consensus is that this home has been the best so far. Peaceful private beautiful. Perfect place to unwind. We are grateful to the wonderful host for opening its doors to travelers and caring very much about their experience. Highly recommended.
Stayed 15 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Nov 2023
What a beautiful review you put in for us! I heard from George how much they loved their stay at my house. I am so pleased! Hope you will get to travel with the team in the spring and stay at this magical place with your husband! We will visit Imiloa soon and check out the upgraded facility your team just worked on. So exciting! We will tell our future guests to visit our beloved Imiloa Astronomy Center at the University, so close to my house too! Aloha with gratitude! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Kendele K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Hilo House
The property is even more beautiful than the pictures describe. We were glad for the fans in the closets since the AC unit is only in the basement and the upstairs rooms can get pretty warm. Great location. I was worried from the long list of detailed house rules and contract that the host might be overbearing but she was not. We had a good stay overall and it was nice that all 14 family members could be together under one roof.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Nov 2023
Aloha Kendele for your kind review. I am pleased you all enjoyed your stay at my grand property. You also left the house in good condition despite you had a large group of 14 guests. Mahalo Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

karen p.

Liked: Cleanliness
Hilo stay
Perfect location. Home was beautiful grounds were beautiful. We had everything that we needed. Enjoyed all the information that was provided.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kuana T., Honolulu, Hawaii

Liked: Cleanliness
Historic Estate in Hilo
Amazing property. Over 100 years old but very well maintained. Excellent kitchen equipment and beach supplies, if needed. Quiet neighborhood close to Hilotown and beaches.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Sept 2023
Thank you for your kind review, Kuana. You left the house in beautiful condition as you found it. I am grateful for your appreciation of our historic property! Lots of aloha and mahalo Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Rob B.

Liked: Cleanliness
An extraordinary house
If you are looking for a special place, you have found it. The pictures can't really do it justice.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Sept 2023
Thank you Rob for your kind words. It was a pleasure hosting you and your family. I am pleased you loved your stay with us! Aloha Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Taekil O.

good
good location for Hilo
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Craig A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Remarkable stay for large group in Hilo
Nine adults stayed nine nights in this gorgeous historic and updated home. A true oasis surrounded by lush vegetation. The large property is in a very quiet area. Outstanding features were the numerous comfortable areas inside the home and the versatile covered front lanai. The internet is fast and reliable for multiple devices using a mesh wifi system providing full coverage. The house is fully stocked in every way. The owner has thought of every detail to making the stay enjoyable for everyone. The house is beautifully furnished in a relaxed, tasteful and fully functional manner. There is plenty of parking. Walking to town is possible, though driving is recommended. Contrary to what you may read, parking is not difficult in the city. The owner’s communication was always excellent. She provided information on the area and quickly answered all inquiries. I’d encourage anyone going to read and watch the plethora of information on the Hilo area. It is slower paced, less crowded and offers a different experience than the resort areas on the island. You can launch your island adventures and explorations from here and return to this tranquil and beautiful oasis of vegetation, birds and geckos scurrying around the property. You may think from the photos and description it is “too good to be true.” It truly is just that nice, inviting and an excellent relaxed home for a larger group.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Aug 2023
Aloha Craig, Not only you are the most gracious and appreciative guest, your writing is eloquence and stylish. I almost suspect you are an outstanding writer too. We are grateful for your beautiful review. It takes a whole crew to maintain this magic historic property. I will share your review with our wonderful house keeper and cleaners Maiva and her 3 daughters; my gardening crew, father and son, Maverick and junior; my handyman Adam, and my flowers watering lady Faith. Hilo is amazing because of her people. I am blessed I could be the guardian of this piece of paradise in Hilo! Mahalo nui loa! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Lori B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Postcard worthy view!
We've had family in Hilo for years and make numerous trips over. On this 5 night trip, we had 6 adults/2 children (2yrs and 1yrs). Property is perfect for families and large groups. The rooms are large and perfectly furnished. The grounds are beautiful and well maintained. Loved the huge, well furnished front lanai. The view out the back picture window is postcard worthy. Charlotte responded quickly to all queries before and during our stay. Some observations future guests might find helpful. The property is on a ravine. There is a low rock wall across part of it but any child old enough to walk could climb over it. Not a complaint from our group, just a consideration if you have young children. Basement BRs probably best for teens/adults. Cleaning supplies are on open shelves and there is no way to close the utility area; wouldn't plan on having small children staying in those rooms. Best covered parking was taken up by the owner's two vehicles. Not a major issue but would liked to have taken advantage of the covered parking. One of the upstairs bathroom doors locked/jammed and required a maintenance call to get opened, safety issue if one of the kids had been in there. Suggestion to the owner - add screens to the few upstairs windows that didn't have them. Overall, a fantastic property. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would definitely book again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Jul 2023
Aloha Lori Thank you for your kind review. I particularly appreciate your good observation and suggestion of how to improve our property. I left my car in the side carport on purpose. In two occasions, the past guests run into the stone walls on both sides of the porch when they made that narrow turn at night. You could still see the damage on the pillars after we repaired it. I didn’t want that happening again to this old historic house. I will take your good advice of parents supervising young children over the rock wall by the river side. Thank you for loving this magical place that has been treasured by us and our community. We would love to have you return in the future. Mahalo Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Ipo T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Historical Experience
We loved everything about this place. thankyou for sharing your house with us
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jane W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful home, location and lovely host
We had a wonderful family vacation here. The property is beautiful inside and out. So many homey and artistic touches at this historic location. The host is very helpful and communicative.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Jul 2023
Thank you Jane. You are a wonderful guest and we loved hosting you and your family! Aloha! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Crystal C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Nabors
Great house and location
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Thomas V.

Liked: Cleanliness
One of a Kind
Older property that takes you back in time. Yet, everything functions, lots lots of amenities, clean, and give you the old fancy vibe.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Jun 2023
Thank you Thomas for loving our home. We are continuously charmed and delighted by the beauty and magic energy of this 110 years old historic mansion! Thank you for leaving our house in clean and good condition! Aloha Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn W., United States

Liked: Cleanliness
Family vacation
This was the perfect house for the 8 adults and one child. There is lots of room to spread out and relax. The bedrooms all have their own bathrooms and were huge with plenty of room. We all used the large lanai all the time and dined outside most meals. There are rules but this is a residential area and is very quiet. We enjoyed our stay here very much. It is only about 5 minutes into Hilo, some of the waterfalls are close by, and the Lavaloha chocolate tour was great and close by.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 May 2023
Aloha Carolyn, You are wonderful guests! Not only you communicated with me prior and throughout your stay, you left the house in such a clean and good condition. We so appreciate your fondness of our property. Mahalo! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Bob W., Newington, Connecticut

Liked: Cleanliness
Spectacular Home
We were a group of six close friends staying here for four days. This home easily entertains up to ten or more. The bedrooms were spacious and the attached bathrooms lend added privacy. The common areas were large with plenty of seating for our group. The kitchen provided all of the necessary tools for meal preparation. But the spectacular lanai was our favorite spot in the house for morning coffee and breakfast. The sound of the waterfall, river and nesting birds were wonderful. The house got a bit warm during the day but cooled off nicely in the evening with the windows open and the ceiling fans on. Sleeping was comfortable. Communication with Charlotte was prompt and easy and her recommendations for dining were spot on! Don’t hesitate staying at The Thomas Guard House. This was one of the most spectacular VRBO rentals we have stayed at in our travels through the U.S. and Western Europe.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Apr 2023
Aloha Bob I am so pleased you had such a wonderful time at our historic property. You are one the most gracious guest I have hosted in our 10 years of VRBO. People like you bring so much joy to us as you love this beautiful property like we do dearly! Mahalo nui loa! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

David N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Hilo treasure.
Fabulous house. Correct that; it was a mansion. Gorgeous grounds and setting by the river. Spacious! We all had a wonderful time. Charlotte was a fantastic hostess. Mahalo nui loa.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2023

2/10 Terrible

William L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Too good to be true
Let me be upfront by saying this host recorded my family inside of this house without our knowledge, in violation of VRBO policy. The lack of respect for our privacy was shocking and upsetting. Cannot recommend this property or host, and I am reconsidering VRBO. This is an interesting historical house in a verdant location that you probably would not be able to stay at otherwise. However, the listing is loaded with fees that makes the listed price a total fantasy (we paid 3 times the advertised avg/night cost). The house also came with a ton of rules and chores that are not communicated up front. Some of these seemed normal (be quiet after 9pm) and some just nagging (don't wash your face/hands/feet with towels) , but the end result is that it was very hard to feel welcome in this house. We weren't told about chores regarding the beds and laundry until the night before checkout! A steep ravine in the back of the house that is separated from the narrow backyard by a VERY low wall (below knee height). At the bottom of the ravine is the beautiful and dangerous Wailuku River. “Wailuku” translates as “water of destruction” and the river is known for drowning those who fall in or are daring enough to swim. Don’t let kids play unsupervised outdoors and keep a hand on any little ones tempted to have a look.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2023
Aloha William, I am sorry your experience at my house is a negative one. We put in a security camera in the kitchen for good reasons: 1. The kitchen door is where you first enter the house. As soon as i see your checking in. I turned off the camera. 2. We had guests who left the stove on in the past. Having a camera over the stove helps us to monitor the safety of the house. 3. We had a flood in the kitchen 4 years ago. The freezer ice maker line broke and flooded the kitchen. The house was not occupied for a few days. When the house keeper came to clean and get the house ready for the next guests checking in, the plaster ceiling in the basement fell down as the kitchen flood penetrated into the whole basement ceiling. For these reasons, I decided to put in a security camera in the kitchen. After you filed a complaint to VRBO, I talked to them and was told no security cameras can be installed inside the house. Even though I disagree with this rule, I have removed the kitchen camera since. You might know when you check into a hotel, security cameras are installed in the lobby, in the elevator, in each hall way and in all public space for security. When Covid started, our house cleaning crew requested that the guests remove the bed sheets and leave them in the washing machine before checking out. Not only every party washed the laundry, they made time to fold the sheet and towels and left them on the dining table for the house cleaners to put away. Such a gracious and kind gesture has been greatly appreciate greatly by our house keeping crew. A few days prior to your checking in, I sent you a message with detailed checking in information. I mentioned about the security camera. I also asked you how many people would check in, you said you added one guest. All other parties would volunteer that information whether they have additional guests or fewer guests. I am surprised you didn't until I asked for it. I charged you for this additional guest. This is an important issue for all home owners. Without an honest communication, how can we trust our beloved home to strangers. All the rental fees we have on VRBO are transparent. You saw them clearly before you made your decision to book my house. I am sorry your whole experience turned out so negative. People love the volcano river with little water falls behind our property. We have never had children falling into the river. Mahalo Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Kim L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Family getaway for a wedding
Outstanding !!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Harendra P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Overall Experience
The location was outstanding and very close to all shops, restaurants and the famous farmers market. I enjoyed a morning walk close to the property. Very quite and beautiful surroundings.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

David R., Clemmons, NC, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Spacious and comfortable house enables slowing down and enjoying each others company
This house is very special. Our group of 11 adults sat and talked to each other in every downstairs room, and on the amazing front porch - who does that anymore? I'm glad there was no TV and the internet was a bit spotty - we bonded as a group and loved it. Sleeping with the windows open and the river cascading through the valley behind was unexpectedly wonderful - I haven't slept so soundly on any vacation. It seemed a little stuffy when we arrived mid-afternoon, but the nights were cool and the temperature inside was perfect. Air conditioning was not missed. We felt very safe in the neighborhood - only a single lane entrance over a bridge, surrounded by the river which flows around all sides - an island within the island of Hawaii. Some minor issues were experienced - the icemaker was out, the gas stove a little tricky to operate, and the single door key was a challenge with 11 people coming and going in 2 vehicles . But the house was comfortable and secluded and we had a good time. Charlotte is a great host. Definitely recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Jan 2023
Aloha David, So grateful to your kind and thoughtful review. It pleases me so much to have guests like you who are sensitive to the nuances of our home and our magic "island within island". The ice maker was out as we had a flood last year from the ice maker valve connected to the kitchen water line. No one was home when this happened. When we found it, the whole underground basement units were flooded. The ceiling plaster fell. We were horrified to say the least. Our gracious guests slept in the futons in the sun room where our crew were drying and repairing the basement units... I decided to disconnect the ice maker since. I apologize for the inconvenience. I will put in more ice cube making boxes so guests can have ice. Aloha & Mahalo! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

James W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful house and location. Easy to deal with property manager. Would stay here again.
Could not have been better.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Jan 2023
Thank you James for your good feedback. It was nice to host you! Aloha Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Leila M.

Liked: Cleanliness
So beautiful
This is the most beautiful property! The lawns and foliage around the property are stunning! You can’t get a better view of Wailuku river with waterfalls and they lull you to sleep at night. The house itself is enormous with en suite for everyone. Kitchen well stocked for whatever you need. Thank you! We hope to return!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Dec 2022
Aloha Leila, It has been wonderful to host you and your families. You are such respectful and kind guests. I so appreciate our communications. Mostly I am so pleased your families loved their stay! My house keeper and cleaning crew just gave you a 5 star rating as you left the house so nice and clean! We would love to host you again in the future! Aloha and Mahalo and Happy New Year! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Jaime M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful property
We were a family of 9 staying at Charlottes property. Fun for all ages our youngest being 4 oldest almost 80. We loved being able to pick the fresh fruit and listening to the waterfall! The house is beautiful!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Whitney D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Hilo Heaven
We loved this property. The sounds of the river in the background alone were a memory maker. Well stocked kitchen and plenty of room. Thank you for sharing.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Nov 2022
Thank you for your kind words Whitney. I read your "Guest Book" note and your dear daughter's writing. So pleased you had a good time at this magical property! Aloha & Mahalo! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Annette L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Special home
I am so happy that we got to stay in a beautiful historic house. The rooms are huge and each of the bedrooms upstairs and on the ground floor are ensuite. The location is great - very private but close to town. The house is very clean and the kitchen is well supplied with plates, cutlery, etc. The grounds are beautiful too. Charlotte was very responsive and helpful. Highly recommend this special home.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Nov 2022
You are such wonderful guests! You left the house so clean and neat. I was delighted reading your kind words in the Guest Book. We truly enjoyed hosting you and your families! Aloha and mahalo! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing property
The 4 of my family stayed at this gem of a rental and had a lovely time! It is a treasure of a place and such a privilege to stay at a place on the historic registry. It’s close to town for walking, well appointed and very comfortable. Highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Nov 2022
Thank you Jennifer for being such a wonderful guest! I enjoyed hosting you and I am so happy you had a good time here! Aloha Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Joe M., San Jose, CA

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely
The pictures do not do justice to how nice this house is.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Nov 2022
Aloha Joe I am so glad you loved my house! Mahalo Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Donna L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect location and an amazing property
We had a family of six adults staying at the Hilo House. We had ample room to have quiet time and together time. Easy to get to restaurants and activities. A lovely quiet neighborhood. The sound of the river was the best part!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Nov 2022
Thank you Donna for your good review! It has been a pleasure to host you! I am so pleased you enjoyed your stay. The name of the Volcano River running behind our house is Wailuku River. It means “roaring”. It is the largest volcano river on our island! We love waking up with the river sound, particularly when it rains a lot! Aloha and Mahalo! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Terri D.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Rare Opportunity
It is not often you will get a chance to stay in a historic plantation style home. And this is in a beautiful quiet neighborhood on a river and only minutes from downtown Hilo surrounded with incredible private grounds. House was well equipped, wi fi worked great, and there’s plenty of room for large groups. We really enjoyed our stay and look foreword to returning.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Oct 2022
Thank you for being such gracious and loving guests! WE would love to have you back! Aloha and Mahalo! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Marina B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect!
Beautiful house and location. Would love to come back.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Paul B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic Place to Stay in Hilo
We rented for 6 night with our 1 year old, 4 grandparents, and 4 aunts and uncles. Absolutely fantastic place to stay, close to everything in Hilo. We would happily stay again. Communication from host was great. Only very minor issue is that the basement is a bit musty for those sleeping downstairs, and that may be unavoidable in a humid climate. If your group has 10 that can all sleep on ground floor or upstairs this is not a problem. Really beautiful house that felt like home.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tiff T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Only thing needed was coffee
Great place--stunning. Though no coffee and condiments left us wanting while there.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ray G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Hilo Estate
Such a magical place, beautiful property
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

John R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect
Everything about this place is wonderful Magical!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Deborah H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful property
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this historic home. It had all the amenities we needed & more. Our family made great memories here. We hope to return someday.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Jul 2022
Thank you Deborah for your kind review. You are wonderful guests and we would love to host you again! Aloha Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

adriane t., Honolulu, HI

Liked: Cleanliness
Gracious home for a relaxing stay
The Hilo House was just perfect in every way for our stay (a week-long reunion of old friends). The house itself is lovely and historic, immaculately maintained, and spacious enough for everyone to have some privacy and also to accommodate small or large gatherings in the common spaces. The kitchen is very well furnished with everything we needed to prepare a celebratory dinner for the group. The wide front lanai was ideal for a leisurely morning coffee together. The grounds are lush and manicured, in a verdant and quiet neighborhood with the only noises at night the rushing river and chirping frogs. Charlotte is a very responsive and friendly hostess who helped us make the stay a relaxing and fun success. Mahalo nui!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Jul 2022
Thank you Adriane for being such wonderful guests. We would love to have you back in the future! Gratefully! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Juan

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Hilo Gem!
I absolutely love this property!!! We had a large party and it fit us all very comfortably. There is an amazing porch that we spent most of our time using. There also is an amazing window that Frames the Hawaiian landscape so beautifully. Can’t wait to come back again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bill M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely peaceful home in stunning location
We had a wonderful family gathering in Hilo after a couple of years of postponement. The home was perfect for our needs, old elegance in a gorgeous location with all of the needed amenities. The front porch was perfect for meals and conversation and the greeting of the evening’s coqui concert. We couldn’t have been more pleased and look forward to returning to this perfect setting. Mahalo nui loa!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2022

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely Old House
Really enjoyed our time in Hilo: cooking with food from the farmer’s market, poking around the pools at local swimming holes, and enjoying restful evenings listening to the waterfalls adjacent to the house.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ik Whi K., Seoul, South Korea

Liked: Cleanliness
Good historic house for big family or group
We've been stay just three days, but the house is perfect for my family which are 4 couples with two children.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Anna H.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Hawaiian Oasis
This house is is exceptional. The property was incredibly clean and had everything we would possibly need to enjoy our stay. The owner had wonderful communication with us and provided excellent recommendations for the area. The design of the house and the fact that each room has its own bathroom, makes it a wonderful way to stay with multiple families at once or with people wanting some additional privacy. If you're looking for a place to stay on the Hilo side of the Big Island, I highly recommend you stay here!
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 26 May 2022
You are so kind and gracious, Anna! We loved hosting you! You treated the house like your own! Thank you so much! Aloha and Mahalo! Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Rachel N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Breathtaking
This is a truly beautiful house. Lots of space for everyone. You have to see it to believe it. Really nice river to enjoy at the back of the house. We highly recommend staying here. Love to come back.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 28 May 2022
Thank you Rachel for your kind review! We would love to host you again! You are wonderful guests! Aloha Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Angie B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful historic home in Hilo!
6 adults for a 40th wedding anniversary trip. Lots of space and ample amenities. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay! Communication with Charlotte was flawless. Couldn't have asked for a better experience! Thank you, Charlotte!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 19 May 2022
Thank you Angie for being such a good guest! We would love to host you again! Aloha Charlotte

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey Y.

Liked: Cleanliness
What a treasure!
Staying in the Hilo House lets you believe that you are now a part of that classical world that you only read about. The dining area invites you to lingering conversations, and as you take in a magical view of the river from the the main sitting area, you cannot but help be led into a wonderful state of peace. Thank you Charlotte for sharing your tasteful, well equipped abode!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar 2022
Thank you Jeff for appreciating our magic home! We loved hosting you and your families. The house could feel your love and kindness! Aloha and mahalo Charlotte