Grand Historic Hilo House
About this house rental
Situated in Hilo, this attractive house for $584 per night is a great choice for your next vacation. This grand Victorian is located on prestigious Reeds Island -- a hidden jewel of Hawaii's Big Island! Situated on the Wailuku River, Reed's Island was once home to royal Hawaiian families and is only minutes from Hilo's historic downtown, Bay Front and the popular Famers Market. Built in 1916 by the British banker Thomas Guard, the property is grand and elegant, and on the National Registry of Historic Places. The gracious living room has large sliding picture windows framing the magnificent canopy of nature across the river. A spacious dining room and family room are perfect for family gatherings. The enclosed veranda has large French windows and doors with a desk area and dining table, perfect for creative work and relaxing. The house has 4 spacious bedrooms, one office with day bed, one activity room with large screen TV, game table and day bed, and one children's room with two day beds. We have an open balcony on the second floor overlooking Hilo Bay. The kitchen is large and updated. Two washers and two dryers are in the roomy basement level. The refined landscape garden ground has been meticulously cared for by our gardeners. Every direction offers lush green and tropical colors. With the Wailuku River flowing in the backyard and the tropical rain forest setting covering the grounds, the Hilo House is a beautiful place for relaxation and tranquility! Enjoy the view from our newly added cabana and deck area right over the roaring river and water falls. We are 3 minutes to historic downtown with fine dining and famous Hilo Farmers’ Market; 8 minutes to the Coconut Island and Japanese Zen Garden with ancient Hawaiian fish ponds; 12 minutes to Carlsmith and Richardson Beach with tons of fish and giant turtles for swimming and snorkeling ; 15 minutes to Hilo Airport; 20 minutes to the Akaka Falls; 4 minutes to the Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pots; 40 minutes to National Volcano Park; walking distance to Waianuenue Avenue where local museums, churches, shops and a library reside. 3 surveillance cameras are installed around the exterior of the house. One camera is located over the front entrance, one over the sun-room door and the 3rd one over the driveway. For additional guests over 2 people there is a $40 additional charge per person per night. Undeclared additional guest fee is $100 per guest per night. Merrie Monarch rates are higher. Cleaning fee is $400 Tax totaling 17.962% Event booking $500 Security deposit $2000
Amenities
Kitchen / Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony / Patio
Dishwasher
Hot Tub / Spa
TV
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Hilo, HI
Reviews
4.9/5.0
Outstanding(147 Reviews)
10.0
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.
5.0
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!
5.0
15 adults and teens stayed in the house. We had a great time.
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
Perfect location. Home was beautiful grounds were beautiful. We had everything that we needed. Enjoyed all the information that was provided.
5.0
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.
5.0
If you are looking for a special place, you have found it. The pictures can't really do it justice.
5.0
good location for Hilo
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
We loved everything about this place. thankyou for sharing your house with us
5.0
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.
5.0
Great house and location
5.0
Older property that takes you back in time. Yet, everything functions, lots lots of amenities, clean, and give you the old fancy vibe.
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
1.0
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.
5.0
Outstanding !!!!
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
Could not have been better.
5.0
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!
5.0
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!
5.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
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!
5.0
The pictures do not do justice to how nice this house is.
5.0
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!
5.0
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.
2.0
Overall the house from the outside looks historically elegant. However, the owner left her car parked right in front of the house which blocked enjoyable views/photos of the the property. She never moved it.
Additionally, one of the bathrooms had a shattered sink with plastic wrapped around it and that bathroom was unusable for the couple staying in that bedroom. I asked for a discount and the owner refused.
Stinky, dingy basement. There are 3 beds in the basement; however, I would never let someone I care about sleep down there. It’s gross and sticky.
The worse part are the overcharges. While the house seems like an affordable price, it’s only for 2 people (and why would only 2 people stay in the gigantic house)? The owner adds a daily fee per person. This misleading fee tacked on extra money per night to our stay.
The house it located over a river with a waterfall, which is beautiful, but not ideal for young kids who could fall off of the wall down a cliff. We had to monitor the little ones closely the whole time.
5.0
Beautiful house and location.
Would love to come back.
5.0
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.
5.0
Great place--stunning. Though no coffee and condiments left us wanting while there.
5.0
Such a magical place, beautiful property
5.0
Everything about this place is wonderful
Magical!
5.0
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.
5.0
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!
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Hilo?
The average price for a rental in Hilo is $154 per night. This rental is $430 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Grand Historic Hilo House. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Grand Historic Hilo House pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Grand Historic Hilo House?
We found 11 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen / kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, parking, and laundry.
Explore similar vacation rentals in Hilo
Explore all rentals in HiloHilo travel inspiration
Read our blogGuides
Ski Trip Packing List: What to Bring Skiing or Snowboarding
Trends
VacationRenter Holiday Travel Trends 2023
Featured Rentals
Architectural Vacation Rentals: Experience the Beauty of Unique Properties
Featured Rentals
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Vacation Rentals Around the World
Featured Rentals
Our Favorite Vacation Rentals With Unique Experiences
Featured Rentals
Amazing Cabin Rentals Across the Globe
Featured Rentals
Have You Ever Wanted to Stay in a Dome Rental? Now You Can
Featured Rentals
Jaw Dropping Treehouse Rentals All Over the World
Keep exploring
- Lake Tahoe Cabins
- Ruidoso Cabins
- Blue Ridge Cabins
- Estes Park Cabins
- Lake George Cabins
- Eureka Springs Cabins
- Branson Cabins
- Lake of the Ozarks Cabins
- Lake Arrowhead Cabins
- Lake Texoma Cabins
- Canyon Lake Cabins
- Sevierville Cabins
- Flagstaff Cabins
- Colorado Springs Cabins
- Hot Springs Cabins
- Bass Lake Cabins
- Buffalo River Cabins
- Possum Kingdom Lake Cabins
- Chattanooga Cabins
- Nashville Cabins
- Wears Valley Cabins
- Cloudcroft Cabins
- Deep Creek Lake Cabins
- Mammoth Lakes Cabins
- Anna Maria Islands Rentals
- Outer Banks Vacation Rentals
- Rosemary Beach Rentals
- Holden Beach Rentals
- Hilton Head Vacation Rentals
- Topsail Beach Rentals
- Kiawah Island Rentals
- Panama City Beach Rentals
- Ocean Isle Beach Rentals
- Folly Beach Rentals
- Dauphin Island Rentals
- Rehoboth Beach Rentals
- Bethany Beach Rentals
- Cape Cod Rentals
- 30A Rentals
- Seaside Florida Rentals
- Edisto Beach Rentals
- Fort Myers Beach Rentals
- Miramar Beach Rentals
- Port Aransas Rentals
- Emerald Isle Rentals
- Orange Beach Rentals
- Surfside Beach Rentals
- Hampton Beach Rentals
- Assateague Island Rentals
- Jacksonville Beach Vacation Rentals
- North Shore Vacation Rentals
- Ogunquit Vacation Rentals
- North Redington Beach Rentals
- Lido Key Vacation Rentals
- Sea Colony Rentals
- Pass A Grille Vacation Rentals
- Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals
- Vail Lodging
- Jackson Hole Lodging
- Winter Park Lodging
- Telluride Lodging
- Big Sky Rentals
- Aspen Lodging
- Park City Rentals
- Steamboat Springs Lodging
- Breckenridge Rentals
- Lake Tahoe Rentals
- Copper Mountain Lodging
- Mammoth Mountain Lodging
- Beech Mountain Rentals
- Crested Butte Rentals
- Sun Valley Lodging
- Keystone Lodging
- Taos Lodging
- Sugar Mountain Cabins
- Beaver Creek Lodging
- Deep Creek Lake Rentals
- Smith Mountain Lake Rentals
- Ocean Lakes Rentals
- Lake Anna Rentals
- Torch Lake Rentals
- Lake Winnipesaukee Rentals
- Norris Lake Rentals
- Lake Gaston Rentals
- Canyon Lake Rentals
- Lake Oconee Rentals
- Lake Wallenpaupack Rentals
- Lake Martin Rentals
- Lake Havasu Rentals
- Lake of the Ozarks Rentals
- Lake Michigan Vacation Rentals
- Lake Chelan Rentals
- Finger Lakes Rentals
- Lake Keowee Vacation Rentals
- Lake Conroe Rentals
- Lake Erie Vacation Rentals
- Lake Austin Vacation Rentals
- Sebago Lake Rentals
- Lake Tillery Rentals
- Keuka Lake Rentals