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Grand Historic Hilo House

Enjoy the free WiFi at this beachfront Hilo vacation home

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Photo gallery for Grand Historic Hilo House

Exterior
Terrace/patio
Interior
Smart TV, fireplace, DVD player, books
Dining

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

7 bedrooms7 bathroomsSleeps 146000 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Ocean view
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Gym

Explore the area

View in a map
Hilo, HI
  • Place, Kalakaua Park
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Place, Hilo Farmers Market
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Rainbow Falls
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Hilo, HI (ITO-Hilo Intl.)
    ‪9 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Hilo

On the beach.Within a 15-minute walk of the vacation home, you'll find Hamakua Heritage Corridor and Naha Stone. Also, St. Joseph Catholic Church is within half a mile (1 km) and Lyman Museum is within 2 miles (3 km).
View more Vacation Homes in HiloOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Kalakaua Park - 15 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • Hilo Farmers Market - 2 min drive - 1.0 mile
  • Wailoa River State Park Hawaii - 2 min drive - 1.0 mile
  • Rainbow Falls - 3 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • University of Hawaii at Hilo - 4 min drive - 2.4 miles

Getting around

  • Hilo Intl. Airport (ITO) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Kozmic Cones - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪L & L Drive-Inn - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪The Temple Bar - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Hilo Axe Lounge - ‬16 min walk

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

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Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach
  • Beach towels

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

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

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 7 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

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Office

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

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

Location highlights

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

Things to do

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

Safety features

  • No carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property but there are gas appliances; 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 available

Check-out

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

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights, lock the doors, and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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 no carbon monoxide detector on the property but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit in each accommodation.

Property Registration Number GE-167-057-4080-01, TA-167-057-4080-01

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

How close is Grand Historic Hilo House to the airport?

This vacation home is 5.4 mi (12-min drive) away from the Hilo Intl. Airport (ITO) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Grand Historic Hilo House have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.

How close is Grand Historic Hilo House to the beach?

This vacation home is on the beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Grand Historic Hilo House offer free breakfast?

This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Grand Historic Hilo House?

No, there is no casino at this vacation home.

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

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Grand Historic Hilo House?

Free parking is not available at this vacation home.

Does Grand Historic Hilo House have a pool?

This vacation home does not have a pool.

Does Grand Historic Hilo House have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this vacation home.

How close is Grand Historic Hilo House to downtown Hilo?

This vacation home is 1.3 mi away from Hilo.

Grand Historic Hilo House Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 180 out of 190 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 190 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 190 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 190 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 190 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mignon L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2026

10/10 Excellent

Jenny M.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had a lovely but too short stay at your beautiful historic home. The location was perfect and the views and seating areas overlooking the ravine and waterfall are unparalleled. There were a few uninvited creepy crawlers in the lower level that spooked some of our group and caused us to use only the upper level bedrooms but nothing unexpected in a historic home in this climate. Mahalo!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026

10/10 Excellent

James H.

Liked: Cleanliness
We would have given all 5s except that when we arrived we were not met by a host. We were able to let ourselves in using the lock box key. We discovered the beds not made, trash in the rooms and on the floors, linen in piles and in the washing machine. After checking to make sure we had the correct day and time, we called Charlotte and got an immediate response. She apologized for a missed communication, and arranged for 3 housekeepers to make the beds and provide clean towels. The next day the housekeeper returned to finish cleaning. In spite of our initial dismay and confusion, it was clearly evident to us that even in its dishelved state, this property was/is unique, loved (well maintained), and worth waiting for. So we did, and we are glad that we did!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026

10/10 Excellent

Bettina W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Our stay in Hilo was amazing! Charlotte was a gracious host. The home is a beautiful gem. We had our adult children with us, and we were able to spread out and spend time together without being on top of each other.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Sheila M., Springfield, MO

Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Terri D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful place and the host was helpful and accessible.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Tim G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Nice big house for my family of 10. Lots of comfort both inside and outside. Close to downtown Hilo.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karen L.

Liked: Cleanliness
This house was the dream home for our family of 8 vacation! Beautifully maintained, everything we needed for family dinners, and gorgeous spots to just relax and talk. It was a joy sleeping to the sound of the river and chirping frogs. We loved gathering on the wide veranda for coffee every morning before heading out to explore Hilo!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrea D., orland park, Illinois, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful home and well maintained. Lovely environs and quick trip into downtown Hilo
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rebekah K., Sacramento, CA

Liked: Cleanliness
The Thomas Guard house is a very special place! The setting is spectacular, with waterfall and jungle views from multiple lanais. There was plenty of space for our group of seven to spread out (including three kids and two grandmas) - everyone had their own bedroom and bathroom, which was ideal for our family. The house is beautifully and lovingly restored and well-maintained. There is no air conditioning, but each bedroom has a ceiling fan and a floor fan, so we all slept in relative comfort. It does get hot so be prepared if you have folks sensitive to heat, but the trade winds do help cool everything down. For guests with young kids, adult supervision is a must if they are outside. The beautiful river setting comes with a steep drop-off along the banks.We arrived the day of a tsunami warning. Charlotte was very kind and was very quick to answer our questions about safety and our ability to check in, which we very much appreciated.Lastly - if you are a light sleeper (or sensitive to noise) - bring ear plugs or white noise. There are lots of lovely jungle critters that are active at night. One in particular (a frog?) made a repetitive sound that kept only one of our party up (me!). Thank you to Charlotte for sharing her one-of-kind home with our family for a special Hilo vacation.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Renee L.

Liked: Cleanliness
This house had a lot of details that made it pretty amazing. The view was fantastic. It was like living at a botanical garden with private waterfalls. I loved falling asleep to frogs and waking to birds that would sweep across the canyon throughout your stay. The house had lovely art and most rooms had their own bathroom which is pretty rare. The art in the house was really nice and you did feel like you were staying in your own mansion. We had most everything we needed and the outdoor spaces were great.For us though there were some things that kept us from fully feeling at home. You are in an older house in a tropical enviroment. The house was clean, but we were greeted by some significant bugs that come with the package. We had a group of cockroaches in the kitchen and one toilet that would come out at night and would freak out my kids. Also lots of ants. We visited in August and no AC made it hot and humid except at night and am. We spent a good portion of the day managing the heat by opening and closing windows and sometimes felt the need to leave the house to escape the heat. Also the house had more rules then typical ( like a 500 dollar fine for moving the furniture) that I am sure had reasons for them but did not have a super welcoming spirit. Of note, two of the bedrooms were in the basement which was a bit dark and musty and might not be ideal for some. Overall the place was fantastic for most... but more tropical than our family preferred.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Donna R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic old Hawaii charm! A beautiful home with room for the whole family to spread out and relax. A great yard, a view of the river and waterfall, a sprawling lanai for meals and playing games. We love this house for our family trips to Hilo. Close to everything but in a quiet neighborhood. Mahalo piha Charlotte
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

allen h.

Liked: Cleanliness
This is a spectacular historic house complete with historic furnishings. The host was very easy to work with, excellent communication. I would ask all guests to please respect this very special home and take extra care when you stay, you will not be disappointed. Mahalo!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karen S.

Liked: Cleanliness
It is a beautiful and stunning home. Property is immaculate. View of the river is awesome. So many places to sit with family members, inside (huge dining table, living room, sun room) and outside (front porch, deck, bbq area). Bedrooms and bathrooms are huge and very comfortable.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jenny H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Magical

I can't say enough about Charlotte and her magical house. Charlotte was a lovely host. She was very quick to respond to questions. We were two families of 4. Every single member of our group adults and teenagers alike fell instantly in love with this beautiful home. The house was amazing and the waterfall on the property provided the most amazing background and natural sleeping sounds that can ever be imagined. Every room, including kitchen and bathrooms were impeccably clean. Even with a party of 8, we were all able to find our personal space and do work, relax, sleep or just get in touch with ourselves. We would all stay here again...In fact, my husband has already been talking about another family trip. And extra extra bonus...we were close enough to Volcanoes National Park to make the several trips it took to witness an eruption of Kilauea!!! Thank you again Charlotte!!!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sandra J.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Grand Historic Hili House was absolutely beautiful. The waterfalls in the backyard were stunning. I would love to stat there again someday.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Holly C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Graduation Gathering

The property was simply amazing. Plenty of room and plenty of everything else we could possibly want or need.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christina

Traveled with group, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything about this property is wonderful, but the view is beyond spectacular!!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cynthia S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Historic Hilo House

Our group of 8 had a fantastic stay at this beautiful house. We were in Hilo for Merrie Monarch for the 3 days. Had a great time!!Charlotte’s home is unbelievably beautiful and very well maintained. I have nothing but great things to say about it.Mahalo Nui!!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer B., San Diego

Liked: Cleanliness

It was an honor to stay in a Hawaiian house on the National Register of Historic Places; fabulous!

When we first got there, we just had to look at all the amazing rooms and views and artwork; I felt it was the best place that I’ve ever stayed in Hilo. Better than any other rental and better than the Naniloa, even its highest rooms with the most ocean visibility because this place is so peaceful and no stress. It is completely private, plus it is beautiful with a view of the Wailuku River and the sound is heavenly. The living room is stunning, but the large outside balcony is where we hung out most of the time. It seemed every bedroom had a bathroom (perhaps not in the downstairs kid area; we did not have children with us, but my husband did watch TV down there). It is a 16 minute walk to Temple Bar, which has great food and drinks. Because it is so close to downtown Hilo, the location is very walkable and the walk is beautiful. I cannot recommend this house enough for people who love art and style. It also felt very comfortable. The kitchen is huge. There are so many fascinating things like the ancient sink and the servant stairway, which is right next to the main stairway. The original servant’s quarters is a beautiful day room with many-paned windows. There is only one room with a king bed, notably, the shadiest room in the house and therefore the coolest: upper north west. Upper southwest has a Jacuzzi tub that we did not use but looked inviting. This room had a better closet and a nice sitting area. It was just a joy to be in the house and on the grounds.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janalee W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Spring Break

The Thomas Guard house is a gem in Hilo. The location is perfect - not in the middle of the city but close enough to walk to local restaurants. The beautiful grounds, the waterfall, the river running through the backyard, they all added to the charm. The house is beautifully decorated and immaculately clean. Charlotte has thought of all the details to make this a wonderful place to stay. It was a perfect way to unwind from an otherwise busy life.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Doug S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Hilo Family Trip

The historic home and setting is absolutely beautiful. We especially appreciated the well equipped kitchen as well as the 4 large bedrooms upstairs each with their own private bathroom and shower. The home is immaculate and the grounds well maintained. An added bonus is the view into the Wailuku Gorge and upstream to one of several waterfalls.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ruth K., Wausau, WI USA

Liked: Cleanliness

Absolutely wonderful

This Historic home is very spacious, well kept and well supplied with everything you may neeI highly recommend staying d. Plenty of dishes, utensils and even 2 washers and dryers.The view of the waterfall in back was amazing.I highly recommend staying at the Historic Hilo House.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Valerie S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Spacious Beautiful Heritage House

Beautiful house on gorgeous grounds. Lots of space for our family holiday and super well equipped. We loved it!
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2025