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Ocean and Lava View from 400 sq ft Off Grid House- Amazing sunrises & Sunsets

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Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 237 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Mountain view

Explore the area

Map
Kalapana, HI
  • Star of the Sea Painted Church
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Kehena Beach
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • SPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.)
    ‪47 min drive‬

Room options

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About the area

Pahoa

Located in Pahoa, this vacation home is by the ocean, within a 15-minute drive of Star of the Sea Painted Church and Kehena Beach. .This vacation home is 29.5 mi (47.6 km) from Port of Hilo and 7.7 mi (12.3 km) from The Point.

What's nearby

  • Star of the Sea Painted Church - 2 min drive - 1.6 km
  • Kehena Beach - 10 min drive - 8.8 km
  • The Point - 19 min drive - 12.4 km
  • SPACE Seaview Performing Arts Center - 20 min drive - 12.5 km
  • Volcano House - 65 min drive - 69.3 km

Getting around

  • Hilo Intl. Airport (ITO) - 47 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Kalapana uncle Roberts awa bar - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Karuna Foods - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Uncle's Kitchen - ‬10 min drive
  • Uncle's Kitchen

About this property

Entire place

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

Ocean and Lava View from 400 sq ft Off Grid House- Amazing sunrises & Sunsets


We call it the Octopus house - and sometimes Pulpo or Tako for short.
This is a tiny off grid house! Quaint and comfortable with power, hot and cold running water and a full bathroom, that s 1500 feet from the ocean cliffs, a short walk and great place to fish from or picnic. You are right by the ocean so it can be windy and get rain that seems to fall sideways! In the pictures we included things to check out that are less than an hour from the house and now have a very long list of things to do on this island. Let us know if you want a copy of the list. . From north of Hilo to Volcano National park there are plenty of things to keep one busy for over a week! Also note: the lava has shifted the direction its flow 3 times since we got the place in 2014 and like the whales we do not know the schedule of what will be happening when. But the area has amazing hiking and ocean views right from the front door... It feels like being on another planet and you get to explore some of the NEWEST ground to walk on! Just be careful because it can be sharp footing and bring plenty of water. The house has ALL the amenities of power, water and sewer. However it is a limited system with finite amounts of each so please be conscious when showering (5 to 10 minutes), cooking, and using resources. The stove is only a single burner at this time, but we do provide a french press for coffee. You cannot use things like a hair dryer, toaster or coffee maker. We do have a new fridge, new solar panels and new batteries... several cloudy days in a row does hamper the power for the fridge rarely, but there is a separate system for power to the rest of the house. Yet another note: you are in a very natural environment that we like to keep organic as possible (chemical free) if you leave food out critters WILL come and if you leave lights on at night and doors wide open flying insects will visit, which will bring the geckos - you can see them in the picture section, they are cute. What else can I tell you, cooking and heated water is by propane with an on demand hot water heater, it was purchased in October 2018. A fair amount of cooking and serving equipment, towels, sheets, blankets. Its rustic glamping in my opinion where you get to explore a tropical volcanic environment in the middle of the Pacific ocean... NOT many places like it in the world.
Make yourself comfortable in this vacation home, featuring a kitchen with a refrigerator and a stovetop. There's a private balcony. A kitchenette makes it easy to prepare your meals.
This smoke-free vacation home features ecotours nearby, snorkeling nearby, and surfing/body boarding nearby. Recreational activities include hiking/biking trails nearby, kayaking nearby, and scuba diving nearby.
Guests will find features like onsite parking.

Property manager

Jeanette Thompson

Languages

English

Property amenities

Parking and transport

  • On-site parking

Kitchen

  • Fridge
  • Stovetop
  • Spices
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Toaster
  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils

Bedrooms

  • 1 bedroom
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided
  • Hairdryer

Living spaces

  • Living room

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony

Laundry

  • Near a laundromat

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • Near the ocean
  • Near the sea
  • On the waterfront
  • Near a zoo

Things to do

  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Hiking nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Power boating nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 400 sq ft (37 sq m)
  • Property does not allow children

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

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

This property does not allow children

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
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher 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 TA-185-625-6512-01, GE-185-625-6512-01

Property is also known as

Ocean Lava View 400 sq ft Off Grid Amazing Sunrises Sunsets
Ocean Lava View 400 sq ft Off Grid Amazing Sunrises Sunsets

Ocean and Lava View from 400 sq ft Off Grid House- Amazing sunrises & Sunsets Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 31 out of 34 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 34 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 34 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 34 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 34 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

6.0/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

8/10 Good

Karen

Travelled with family, Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
The property was unique but As advertised.the house is cute and clean with cool location in lava field.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Andrea S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Truly magic!
We had such a special experience staying at the Lava House and are so happy we had the chance to spend a few days in this unique little corner of the planet. The Lava House was the perfect size for my husband and I, we cooked all of our meals and loved sitting on the porch watching the sunsets. We've never experienced a landscape as powerful as the lava field- it made for wonderful exploration. The Kalapana Gardens neighborhood has a spirit of independence and resiliency that we found incredibly inspiring. If you have an adventurous and curious spirit, you simply must find yourself here and experience the way this community lives in connection with nature.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Guryan T.

Liked: Cleanliness
A taste of magic
Being in this special home - created with intention and love (which was palpable) on the sacred land of Pele’s creation was majestic. Gracious and communicative hosts made it even more comfortable. We can’t wait to go back.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

MarRay B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Octupus House Getaway
We had the opportunity to rent out both the orchid house and the octopus house in the bundle package. This was a great way for us to experience two parts of the island and enjoy two very different aspects of Hawaii. Definitely an amazing getaway and respite it from the day to day, and couldn’t have asked for a better host. Definitely would recommend and will definitely be staying again!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Danielle E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique location
First, I want to make it known that owner Jeannette is fantastic. She was very accommodating when we had to reschedule our trip not once but twice because of Hawaii COVID protocol. Second, this house is such an unique opportunity. The location on the lava field is one that makes you appreciate the beauty and the power of Kilauea. I definitely recommend a four wheel drive vehicle to get to the property. We rented a wrangler and it was very useful. Google Kalapana Gardens to learn more about the location and the community. Third, the house itself is well kept and beautiful. The views from both balconies are beautiful with unobstructed views of the ocean. The stars at night are breathtaking. If we make it back to Big Island we would LOVE to stay in “Octopus House” again.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jason T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique
I believe that each person's standards are different. If your idea of 5-Star is a swanky resort then stick to the Hilton's. But if you're looking for something unique and off the beaten path...WAY OFF the beaten path...Actually there is no path beyond this point...then this is the place for you. Totally cool to think that you are staying volcanic rock that is still shifting. There is a smell in the area but we chalked that up to the hardened LAVA!!! LOL Seriously though! this is a cool place. The drive to and from the main road is rocky so you can only go 5-10 mph. and the next closest town is Pahoa which is maybe 20-30 min so grab what you need while you're out. Bed was comfy and bathroom and kitchen were more than enough and certainly better than any other price you'll find. Thank you!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Dan P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place to disconnect
A great base-camp for lava-rock hiking and star-gazing.

10/10 Excellent

Adrien B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stunning!
Nothing can prepare you for your first drive out to this place. But once you have done it, you are rewarded with amazing views and fantastic sunrises. Check in was easy and communication was stellar. The experience of staying out on the lava field was a definite MUST do. Just fantastic. Cute little comfortable house.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Peggy S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Experience of a Lifetime!
Wow! Wow! Wow! This is an experience of a lifetime. To stay on a Lava Flow was something we will never forget. We walked to the ocean and stood and marveled at the beauty of it all. The place had everything we needed! We did get there after dark and GPS took us past the place. Once we found the Kalapuna Garden entrance, it was worth the time it took to get here. I recommend this place to anyone who wants to feel like they are walking on the moon or another planet! Thank you for sharing your place with us! Lee & Peggy
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Fernanda Z.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome and unique experience in a self-sufficient home on a lava field only steps to the ocean!
I can't say enough good things about this place. What a unique experience!! You can hear the ocean waves crash on the cliffs that are a short walk through the easily traversed volcano field. Absolutely amazing place to see the sunrise. The house itself feels brand new. We slept with the upstairs door open and enjoyed the ocean breeze while listening to the waves crash.

10/10 Excellent

Jenn L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very relaxing and friendly neighborhood.
Very great experience. Do your best to arrive in the daylight makes the bumpy road and finding the place alot easier! I'll be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Guy B.

Liked: Cleanliness
It was a great experience. Thank you so much!
It was like being on another planet. A privilege that we will never forget about it!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jason B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great price, great location
The condo was very comfortable had everything we needed. No problems at all.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Vikash G.

Liked: Cleanliness
A great off-grid getaway
We had a really nice stay at Octopus House! It's remote enough to feel like a retreat but it's easy to get into town. The landscape is beautiful and the house has all the basics, including running water with hot showers and a toilet. The only shortcoming was that the mattress was worn out. But that said the house was a great home base, with just enough kitchenette for 2 peoples' needs, gorgeous views, and creature comforts. I'm already thinking about when I can come back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Rob R., Edmonton

Liked: Cleanliness
one off
There are no words for this 1 off property built on the newest place on earth please pay attension on how you look after this place
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2019

2/10 Terrible

Jane C., Portland, Oregon

Property listing is inaccurate and host communication and problem resolution was unacceptable
The amenities listed for this property are wildly inaccurate. There is no grill or stove. Before I traveled to the property I sent a text message to the host confirming a grill, because I didn't see the grill in the photos, yet it was listed as an amenity. I received no response. I even sent a message to the chat help who confirmed the grill. I went ahead and purchased two pieces of fish $30. to prepare as a meal. When we arrived to the property we couldn't find the grill. I texted the host and asked where it was - no response. At the end of the stay I left the fish in the freezer and texted that information to the host and asked for a refund for the amount I had paid for the fish. Finally, I heard back and she refused. She denied that the grill was in the listing. I sent back a text telling her that it is listed as an amenity. I haven't received a response. Poor communication, poor problem resolution and clearly unaware of the property amenities listed. I've been a Homeaway member since 2016 and this is the first time I've ever encountered an unreasonable host.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2019

10/10 Excellent

Nicole C.

Liked: Cleanliness
A wonderful place to stay
The Octopus House and surrounding area of Kalapana were a favorite part of our time spent in Hawaii. Laying on the lava fields and looking at the starts at night is something I will never forget. The home is well appointed and comfortable for 2. The nightly breeze helped keep bedroom cool.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Mark B., Cambridge, Ontario, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness
Truly Unique and Special
Stay in a lava flow? In a fantastic clean and neat off the grid little house? View the ocean over a lava field and being able to feel alone and isolated with people around? View a developing culture and community in a wild, severe, yet strangely beautiful setting? Ease of access and good communication? All of these and more. Just make sure you have done all shopping before arrival and you use gps settings on google maps. Would go.back in a heartbeat.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Darren H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Off the Grid
Very peaceful , we loved the rain and warm tropical breeze.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jill N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very interesting location
Spend some time on what looks like another planet. Off the beaten path, but still accessible. Follow End of the Road to Kalapana Gardens.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Darren H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Off the Grid
What an amazing place. We absolutely loved it. The place is as advertise its small but gorgeous and the view is Great. One thing I highly recommend is @ sunset walk out into the Lave field and wait until is completely dark a watch the sky. We stayed there for at least an hour after dark. Make sure you have a flash light or head lamp. Make sure you prepared there is only a single burner to cook on but as a hole we Loved it. The bed was super comfortable and the rain squall in the middle of the night was beautiful music . We only stayed one night so, Can't wait to go back and stay longer.
Stayed 1 night in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Kelley G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Black Rock Get-away
Awesome place, stunning location.

8/10 Good

Marissa R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Nice place
Beautiful area, nice place, quiet except for the birds and wind. Short walk to the ocean is really nice.

10/10 Excellent

Jörg B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Hideaway on the Vulcano
Beautiful and romantic little hideaway close to the vulcano with amazing view. Very much recommended.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Cedric W.

Awesome experience
This is definitely a once in a lifetime experience. Such a magical place. This house is just lovely with an exceptional view. Would definitely recommend to stay here. Smooth check in, very clean, we will come back!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2019