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Grand Historic Hilo House

your current months are December, 2024 and January, 2025.
December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for Grand Historic Hilo House

Exterior
Terrace/patio
Interior
Interior
5 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Reviews

9.8 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

5 bedrooms7 bathroomsSleeps 14557 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Hot tub
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
  • Kitchen

Room options

Aerial view

Ocean Frt.-Best Hilo Swim Lagoons, Turtles @ Richardsons Beach

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (85)
Ocean Frt.-Best Hilo Swim Lagoons, Turtles @ Richardsons Beach
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About the area

Map
Hilo, HI

What's nearby

  • Hilo Farmers Market - 3 min drive - 1.8 km
  • Rainbow Falls - 4 min drive - 2.8 km
  • Hilo Shopping Center - 5 min drive - 3.4 km
  • University of Hawaii at Hilo - 5 min drive - 3.4 km
  • Port of Hilo - 11 min drive - 6.4 km

Getting around

  • Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Kozmic Cones - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪L & L Drive Inn - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪Puka Puka Kitchen - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪Antics Pizza - ‬3 min drive

About this property

Entire place

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

Grand Historic Hilo House

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

Property manager

Charlotte Dewar

Languages

Chinese (Mandarin), English

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach
  • Beach towels

Pool/Spa

  • Spa tub

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car recommended
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 5 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 6.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Office

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In the city centre
  • In the mountains
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • Near an outlet shopping centre
  • Near the sea
  • Next to a golf course
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Optional golf privileges
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Spelunking nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing 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

General

  • Garden
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Unit size: 6,000 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out

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

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
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 GE-167-057-4080-01, TA-167-057-4080-01

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

Property is also known as

Hilo House Exclusive Reeds Island Grand Historic Home
House Exclusive Reeds Island Grand Historic Home
Hilo Exclusive Reeds Island Grand Historic Home
Exclusive Reeds Island Grand Historic Home
Hilo House Exclusive Reeds Island Grand Historic Home
House Exclusive Reeds Island Grand Historic Home
Hilo Exclusive Reeds Island Grand Historic Home
Exclusive Reeds Island Grand Historic Home
House Exclusive Reeds Historic
The Hilo House An Exclusive Reeds Island Grand Historic Home

Frequently asked questions

Is Grand Historic Hilo House pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Grand Historic Hilo House?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Grand Historic Hilo House?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Grand Historic Hilo House located?

Located in Hilo, this beachfront holiday home is in the city centre and within a 15-minute walk of Hamakua Heritage Corridor, Kalakaua Park and Naha Stone. St. Joseph Catholic Church and Lyman Museum are also within 15 minutes.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 154 out of 162 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 162 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 162 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 162 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 162 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Marian S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Gracious large and spacious house
The Thomas Guard house made it a memorable stay in Hilo, where we came for a special family celebration. There are four large upstairs bedrooms, plus one off the dining room and two on the lower floor where the children in our group slept. The large, open living room with its picture window was a magnet for everyone to be together. The entire house is welcoming and gracious, the kitchen is well outfitted, and the dining room is large and comfortable. Everyone was happy to be together in this very special place.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

James Q.

Liked: Cleanliness
A relaxing family vacation.
Beautiful, roomy, well appointed, historical home. What a great dining room table to eat and talk with family.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jean P., Pennington, NJ, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Spectacular Histric Home
One cannot say enough about the beauty of this home and its setting. There was plenty of room for our family of 7 adults and 6 children. The enormous, well appointed kitchen had everything we needed to make meals, and the dining room was large enough to accommodate us all.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Esther L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful and Charming
This house is beautiful and Charlotte is a great host. The only thing we were confused by was the Jacuzzi amenity listed. Unless we missed something, it’s a Jacuzzi tub in one of the bedrooms. Each bedroom is beautifully set up and has its own bathroom. The outdoor deck is dreamy and the sound of the water is heavenly. I would highly recommend staying in this peaceful historic home in Hilo.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Timothy W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Convention
enjoyed the property very much. the location and historical value much appreciated
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Donna R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Idyllic classic Hilo home
We enjoyed every minute in this lovely, historic Hilo home in a quiet neighborhood close to town. The house is a step back in time. The rooms are spacious. The home is very well-outfitted with everything you might need from dishes to boogie boards. There is enough space for a three generation family to spread out and relax. Mahalo to Charlotte for the opportunity to stay in this treasure of a home.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely Hilo Getaway
Beautiful historic house in Hilo--out of the way of the bustle and next to a river, this home was really relaxing. Be aware that you experience the whole of Hilo weather as the house is not air conditioned. The owner provided lots of fans and the ceiling fans and windows provided lovely breezes.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deborah L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely home
A wonderful place for a large family gathering. You will find everything you need plus a very helpful host! We would return if in Hilo again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful and beautiful family getaway
This home is a beautiful and elegant place to spend time with family! Lots of space and many areas to congregate. The location by the river is truly special. Charlotte was a very communicative host and I would highly reccommend staying here.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Eric S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful historic home
We loved our stay here. The home is very well stocked with extra towels and beach gear as well as plenty of dishes for cooking and a great gas grill under an outdoor gazebo. It is well located to all of downtown Hilo. It was a great homebase for trips to volcanoes national Park, Mayna kea, and several of the nearby waterfalls. It was built in 1916 and has no air conditioning, so be prepared for lots of open windows and outdoor noise plus early sunrise! We loved the change of pace!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Billie B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Vacation
This property is amazing, the most beautiful home we have ever stayed in. We loved the antique and historical decor of the home. Everyone in my group of 9 couldn't stop commenting on how beautiful and serene this home is. It is convenient to many attractions and the sheer beauty is so peaceful and relaxing. We spent every morning just sitting outside and enjoying the scenery. The host is also very friendly and made sure we had everything we needed. We will definitely come back again! We all had our own room and bath, wonderful stay on the island.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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