Trip Advisor & Google Reviews
Our guests are enjoying their adventures here in Volcano and on the Hilo side of the island, visiting the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the waterfalls and botanical gardens on the Hilo coast.
Please see our recent Trip Advisor & Google guest reviews.
Mar 14, 2019, Reviewed by KTravelsAllAbout
Gorgeous, rustic luxury
The Volcano Rainforest Retreat is tucked away in the rainforest in the little town of Volcano, Hawaii on the big 
island. We were there for 2 nights. Kathleen and Peter are very helpful and treated us like we were guests in their
own home. We stayed in the guest cottage which is lovely and quaint. Loved the fresh flowers, breakfast in the room, and the general feel of the place. It’s very peaceful!
Mar 13, 2019, Aaron Reding
Amazing Hawaii
This is by far the best place we stayed at in Hawaii! If I did it over again I would have skipped all the other hotels and stayed here the whole time. The Sanctuary Cottage is amazing for two people. Lots of great little details like the really nice bathrobes, perfect breakfast (with good coffee), and the Japanese-style soaking tub and outdoor shower. Thank you Peter and Kathleen!
Mar 6, 2019, Reviewed by Michael A
Paradise Found…
The online description and photos are what convinced us to book our time here…but once we arrived we were blown away. You really do feel like you have been swept away to a magical kingdom. Peter and Katherine have gone to great lengths to create a sacred space to escape to and be refreshed. We had two of the accommodations: the Guest House and the Sanctuary. Both places embrace you with peace and comfort. The Guest House has a full kitchen/living room, attached bath, and loft bedroom. The Sanctuary is a hexagonal structure with windows all around looking out on the rainforest. There is an outdoor shower and Japanese style soaking tub here…and not far away a hot tub for relaxing at the end of the day. Each place is provide with fresh fruit and assorted pastries for breakfast. We all felt renewed when we left (and only wish we could have said our farewells in person).
March 4, 2019, Jessica Popp
Gorgeous!
We loved our stay. Gorgeous setting. Total privacy and completely quiet. The hosts are extremely thoughtful and the little things (like pre stamped postcards to use) made it even more special. Several good restaurants in the area made for a great mix of remote and accessibility.
Mar 4, 2019, Reviewed by DavidS336
A little slice of heaven
Nothing earthly compares to VRR. You are totally transported to a heavenly green jungle and spiritual space. Everything is though of for your comfort and peace. What a beautiful beautiful place. Thank you so much for taking such good care of us.
Feb 26, 2019, Reviewed by Innatravels
Incredible gem
This is an incredible place in the middle of a rainforest that’s just a short distance from the national park. We stayed in the sanctuary cottage and it was so lovely. The pictures of the cottage and grounds don’t do it justice. It’s such an experience. The owners gave us so much information on where to visit and eat. They were just the best.
Feb 23, 2019, Reviewed by outdoorsymama
Perfectly done
We were SO glad we stayed at the rainforest retreat…. and wished we could have stayed more than just 2 nights while visiting the national park (less than 5 min to the entrance). from the moment we pulled up and was greeted by the staff and host peter, to the moment we left with a note on our car warning of us of potential severe weather and a wish for safe travels – we felt welcomed with kindness and surrounded by peace and beauty.
My husband, infant son, and I stayed in the forest house and it was just perfect. It has everything you need and felt very much like a retreat with a small gas stove, 2 lounge chairs, a small kitchen table/chairs, meditation pillows, an almost outdoor bathroom, and skylights giving view to the forest canopy and full moon. It felt very private. The breakfast basket had great tasting baked goods and the fridge was stocked with everything else you might want for breakfast – in addition to local mac nut granola, coffee, tea, and honey. I loved how all the dish ware and decor was all from local artists! The grounds are just beautiful and you can feel the effort and energy of the owners in making you feel welcome.
Truly a great place to stay – I hope to return and try a different cottage sometime in the future and would recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful place to stay.
Feb 14, 2019, Reviewed by swisschardfan
Serene and soothing. Skillfully designed.
My husband and I spent 3 nights here in late January. It was the perfect way to begin our 2 week trip to Hawaii. We arrived, exhausted after an all day flight from the East Coast, and the stresses of the trip just washed away. The gas fireplace was much appreciated that evening as it was chilly. That night we fell asleep quickly, listening to the lull of rain hitting the trees.
The cottage is so thoughtfully designed, every amenity we needed was close at hand. Comfortable places to relax were abundant. The kitchen and the basket of breakfast treats were the best; some of the favorite meals of our entire trip were the breakfasts we made ourselves. It was a beautiful place to come back to after a day of sightseeing, it truly felt like home.
It was difficult to leave on our last day, and we found ourselves often thinking about it during our 2 weeks in Hawaii.This is a place where everything falls into place, from the attentive but private service, to the amenities in the cottages, all surrounded by lush rain forest.
Feb 12, 2019, Reviewed by emmatrainor
Incredible space of transformation
Upon arrival to the Volcano Rainforest Retreat, I expected to be treated to a luxurious spot to rest and enjoy near the Volcano National Park for a night. My expectations were far surpassed. Although we only spent one night at Peter and Kathleen’s retreat, we set the intention to fully use the space and time that we did have to be one of healing and transformation, and it was exactly that. The mindfulness, wisdom, and compassion that Peter and Kathleen embody is evident in the architecture, landscaping, and art they have curated that allows people who are fortunate enough to find this magical place the space to relax, contemplate, and evolve. Upon our arrival, we were 
given a thorough tour of both the property as well as a run down of activities and sites we never would have known about had we not been presented with a guidebook with an extensive amount of information about local restaurants, tours, hikes, and events. While we were there the hot tub was undergoing maintenance, and Peter graciously offered us the Japanese bath that was available in the empty neighboring Bamboo House. We thoroughly enjoyed our late night soak in this cozy spot while gazing at the moon shining through the giant fern trees, admiring the incredible architecture, and mindfully walking the paths while listening to wind chimes and night critters. The gas fireplace, mirrors, and natural lighting via the skylights and floor to ceiling windows in our octagonal forest cottage created a container that felt safe, warm, and immensely beautiful.
The energy of this space is truly magical and offers the opportunity of transformation for those who are open to it. Kathleen, Peter, and the staff that work to keep the retreat space ticking are wonderful people who we thoroughly enjoyed talking with during our stay and can’t wait to visit again. They thought of everything that we could have needed or wished for. Before our departure we enjoyed fresh and local fruit, granola, and coffee in the morning before sharing our gratitude and saying goodbye. I left the Volcano Rainforest Retreat with more insight and inspiration than I had upon arrival in the span of less than 24 hours. If you have the chance to visit this place, do it, you will not be disappointed!”
Feb 11, 2019, Reviewed by Carla K
Magical
This Japanese-inspired retreat delivered a perfect experience on so many levels. The design and architectural details, along with the lovely furnishings, created a one-of-a-kind visit. The soaker hot tub provided a relaxing end to each day’s adventures. The multi-angle walls, windows and mirrors created the illusion of staying in a tree house, 
especially as we enjoyed watching the kalij pheasants wander around.
The staff greeted us enthustiacally and gave very detailed introduction as to how all of the ammenities worked.
The location is extremely convenient to the Volcanoes National Park and the village of Volcano. Some of the park is restricted due to last year’s eruptions, but this area is very much open for business and welcomes you with open arms.
Highly recommend.
Feb 2, 2019, Reviewed by Julie N
Travel
It was beyond our expectations. The Guest House has been prepared for nothing. Fresh flowers decorate each room. The beauty and tranquility of the place is soothing. What about the breakfast garnished with all kinds of attention. Thanks to Jenny for all the recommendations. We will definitely come back :))
Jan 28, 2019, Reviewed by passerines
Tranquil magic
What a wonderful one-night stay at Volcano Rainforest Retreat. We stayed in the Sanctuary Cottage and loved the lush rainforest setting and the quiet privacy. The outdoor shower and Japanese soaking tub were lovely—so deeply relaxing to soak in hot, hot water, listening to the breeze rustling through the leaves above. The cottage was sparkling clean, and cozy despite the chilly night, thanks to the little electric fireplace and comfy duvet. The owners and staff have considered every little detail. I loved the thoughtfully presented breakfast basket with pastries,
papaya, bananas and limes alongside Peter’s delectable papaya recipe to good Kona coffee and addictive granola to fresh hard-boiled eggs and both dairy and non-dairy milks in the fridge. The property grounds are dark, but the rooms have plenty of small flashlights to guide your path. And speaking of guides, Lisa’s friendly welcome tour of the property provided us with tons of great ideas for things to see and do nearby. Can’t wait to return to this little tranquil haven. A real gem.
Jan 21, 2019, Reviewed by Ernshkin
Treehouse feeling
Nestled in a thick tropical garden with windows all around including from the upstairs loft this place has a real 
peaceful hideaway in the treehouse feeling. Spotless comfy with everything you need for a relaxing nights sleep and energizing breakfast before a day of volcano visiting. Perfect location near volcano village and park. Lots of advice, maps and written guides provided.
Jan 20, 2019, Reviewed by AbbeyGLA
Magical Volcano Rainforest Retreat
As part of our Hawaiian Honeymoon, we stayed 3 magical nights at the Volcano Rainforest Retreat. We spent 1 night in the Guest Cottage and 2 nights in the Bamboo Guest House. We loved both rooms! The Guest Cottage was warm and felt like home. Climbing up the ladder to the bed had a luxury tree house feel, but in the middle of the night made going to the bathroom a slight challenge. There’s also access to the outdoor jacuzzi from this room. The Bamboo Guest House was huge, had so much natural light, amazingly soft carpet, gorgeous wood and a private delightful Japanese soaking tub. Both rooms had a kitchen, private bathroom, plenty of space and dreamy flower arrangements. The breakfast in our room was a nice touch. Kathleen, Peter and Jenny were so hospitable and kind. They gave us great ideas of what to do and eat, complete with maps and notes. There is plenty to do in the area even though there is no lava on the island and the government is currently partially shutdown. We spent about a 1/2 day in Volcano National Park, went to the black sand beach (saw hono), went to the green sand beach, saw sunset at Mauna Kea and spent time in Volcano Village and Hilo. Seeing all of these sights wouldn’t have been possible if we were staying in Kona. We were so happy to make our “home base” for this side of the island the very charming Volcano Rainforest Retreat!
Jan 16, 2019, Reviewed by Wanderingnomad81
Pure bliss!
Stayed in the bamboo guest house. One of the most beautiful and peaceful properties I have ever stayed in, a full nature immersion. Kathleen and Peter have created heaven on earth with their retreat. The attention to detail is astounding – great furnishings, accessories, well-stocked kitchen with breakfast items and delicious local fruits. The outside bath is stunning. I extended my stay by one night and would have stayed even longer if I could. Thank you Kathleen and Peter for gifting the world this wonderful property and inviting us into your rainforest home!
Jan 5, 2019, Reviewed by Ben V
Unbelievably great stay at this boutique property
Met Peter the day we checked in Volcano and he showed us around the property he has been working on for 30 years. The location in Volcano is incredible and the grounds are manicured, full of beautiful plants and animals (and wild chickens!) Our small cabin had glass walls on all sides with a beautiful outdoor shower and Japanese style hot tub. We were gobsmacked by how nice the location was. A true hidden gem. Highly recommend!
Dec 27, 2018,Reviewed by SammyJ826
An amazing retreat
From the moment we pulled up, VRR exuded hospitality. Peter met us immediately and showed us to our cabin. He spent a great deal of time showing us around the cabin, and talking with us about the area (Big Island in general, not just Volcanoes).
The cabin itself is immaculate. Peter and his staff pay an incredible amount of attention to every little detail. It was one of the most impressive stays I’ve ever had. We stayed in the Bamboo House, which, again, is truly amazing. It’s really well appointed, everything you could ever need, and has lots of great art from local artists (you can find much of their work in town).The house itself had a full kitchen, spacious bath, living area, bedroom and closet. Honestly, it felt like renting a 1 bedroom house, instead of just a simple cabin. There is also a private Japanese style soaking tub in the back, for exclusive use if you’re staying in Bamboo.
There were lots of other little things too, Peter and his staff listen for when you leave so they can come in and tidy up. Honestly, it’s the level of service you’d expect from a 5 star, fancy hotel. Breakfast was great — fresh fruit, breads, eggs provided the night before. We loved being able to get up, prepare a quick breakfast together, and get a start to the day, rather than waiting for breakfast to be served. We loved the simplicity, enjoying Papayas using Peter’s recipe. It’s a really great way to start the day.
The property is well located near Volcano Village, and VNP. Lots to do, even if the park has foggy weather (spend as much time on Chain of Craters road as you can, trust me). Also close to Hilo, and right off of 11, which is the major road around the Island, so easy to get to. It was about a 2 hour drive to the Kona coffee plantations, 45 min drive to the Black Sand beach, and 45 minutes to various other Hilo side beaches. About 3 min from the Volcano Village, with some nice restaurants and shops, and about 7 minutes to the park. We were actually really glad to stay away from the crazy tourist traps of Kona, and the city atmosphere of Hilo. This place truly felt like a retreat.
