S W.
December 2023
absolutely fantasy puuurhfect for a final week 3 on the big island after circumnavigation week 1 Have 2 Waipio aloha
one idea ... doorway and porthole curtains for eve privacy
Ryan B.
September 2023
This listing is pretty misleading, in the following ways:
- The property is only the top floor of a house and this is not indicated anywhere in the listing details
- The location is pretty remote with not many options for food or otherwise nearby
- The unit itself is a fair distance from the water, so the "160 Degree Ocean Views" description is quite an embellishment
- The property is very close to neighbors who, when we arrived, were playing music loud enough to hear inside on the unit
We discovered these aspects only upon arrival for what was to be a romantic getaway and it left us scrambling to find other accommodations. Hands down this is the worst rental experience that I've ever had.
Buyer beware.
Nelson J.
August 2023
In this harmonious abode, one is greeted by an aura of pristine serenity that resonates deeply with the meticulous care poured into each facet of its existence. The custodian of this sanctuary, imbued with an ardent spirit, reverently crafts an offering that emanates not only tangible goods but an intangible essence, a testament to her reverence for the holistic experience. As one ventures beyond the confines of this haven, they are embraced by the gentle embrace of nature's embrace, a symphony of tranquility that dances in tandem with the heart's rhythm. The external vista, a kaleidoscope of undulating beauty, mirrors the inner sanctum's ethos of mindful harmony, forging an immersive tapestry where the senses and soul are interwoven in a sublime ballet.
Jenny M.
May 2023
The property was beautiful! Bed, super comfy. We had so much fun every morning exploring the lava field before heading out for a new adventure. Loved the location!
Scott H.
May 2023
This is perhaps the nicest short-term rental we’ve ever stayed in, & we’d book it again in a heartbeat! It was clean, spacious, & beautifully decorated. The towels & other amenities are high quality. Someone commented on dealing w/ a portable A/C and fans, so the ductless mini-splits (a/k/a heat pumps) must be recent. They work quickly to make temps perfectly comfortable; no need to be worried about climate control. The views were unbeatable & the location spectacular! Some mentioned that it’s a little more remote, which is true. That was a plus for us, but if you’re looking to walk to restaurants or swimmable beaches, this wouldn’t be the location for you. Some had issues w/directions to get there, but we didn't. The directions provided are very precise & detailed; if you follow them you'll find it just fine. Others have also mentioned that the bed is high to get into–also true. If you have agility/balance issues, this might be an issue for you, especially if you’re on the shorter side. But it’s a very cool bed, & very comfortable! Our sole criticism of Bali Temple is the trash situation. You’re instructed to take it to a transfer station, which isn’t open every day (& wasn’t the day we left.) This doesn’t seem like something you should have to do in a short-term rental. OTOH we were happy to see instructions for putting your compost in a compost pile. We compost at home & always regret putting veggie scraps in the trash while on vacation. We stayed 3 days in early May 2023.
brant b.
May 2023
The location and property were gorgeous. The views were once in a lifetime, but the directions were vague and the surrounding area is NOT a tourist location. Do not book this VRBO without doing a little research on the climate reguarding tourists on the big island, but over all a beautiful landscape.
Stephen B.
April 2023
The flat was very comfortable and well appointed. There are more close neighbors than the photos would lead you to believe, but the lava field between the house and the ocean is truly amazing and like nothing else we had ever seen.
Jeannine C.
April 2023
This is a fabulous house in an extremely quiet location. My husband and I loved it.
Pat M.
March 2023
One of the best Vrbo’s we’ve every stayed at! Magical, quite and peaceful! The view is amazing and the seclusion just enough.
So much to do on this island! National Park is a must. We went slightly north of Hilo and visited the botanical gardens a must as well, went to Kona for the day. Did the Abalone farm tour cool! The city of Pahoa has many good restaurants to select from.
Rachaelle’s home was well stocked and we enjoyed many dinners with a gorgeous lava/ocean view! The bed was very comfortable as were the many daybeds. Rachaelle was quick in communication.
We highly recommend Bali Temple…you won’t be disappointed!
eileen j.
February 2023
The house is very clean and Rachaelle responded very quickly for the questions
Todd B.
February 2023
Wonderful place to retreat from the world and refresh in God's awesome creation. Very clean and comfortable home with all we needed. LOVED IT!
Joe R.
January 2023
There were no issues or problems at all. The experience made me wonder when we could return.
Suzanne S.
January 2023
Bali Temple exceeded our expectations. Beautifully decorated, comfortable, and clean with amazing views over a lava field and the ocean. We had a hard time leaving we loved it so much!
Rachel H.
January 2023
The views from the deck were great and this house is very close to a well known black sand beach (though be aware it is a nude beach). Only issues that we encountered were 1) actually locating the house - directions were given in advance but the Google pin did not work for us, although our GPS did work fine in the remote location. 2) The bathroom towels smelled as though they were used on a dog. 3) The water pressure in the shower was minimal.
Otherwise, the stay was great! Bed was luxurious and the sound of waves were wonderful!
Christine H.
November 2022
The property is well-loved as evidenced by its pristine condition. The house and grounds could not have been any cleaner. The location was unbeatable for a quiet escape, only a short walk to the shore and a view of the ocean from the lanai. The house is located in an isolated neighborhood but not eerily alone. Some noise from the downstairs unit was heard in the early morning (voices and the moving of furniture) but not enough to be irksome. I truly loved the space and the zen-like feel. The calm quiet environment was soothing. I hope to return again and will definitely rebook this exact unit!
Kirk M.
November 2022
enjoyed the starry sky and fantastic view of the contrasting black lava and blue ocean. interesting area that allows for lots of exploring.
Peter W.
October 2022
Very nice house with great oceanview. The home has big windows what gives the impression to live in nature. Nee air condition works well but we opened the windows and used ceiling fans most of the time (better feeling and more environmental friendly).
100% recommendation
Nancy m.
October 2022
Our family stayed at this amazing place for 2 days Aug. 31-Sept 2. We enjoyed a fire on the lava at night, running to the lava leasing to the beach near Robert’s market, swimming at the black sand beach, visiting fissure 8 and any 2018 lava eruption destruction, watching the best sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, the sunsets and sipping our coffee on the lanai. This is a place we would definitely stay at again. The host is knowledgeable and super friendly. Thank you!
Kirsten S.
June 2022
Loved the second story and beautiful quiet spot. My husband felt bad for the people downstairs because I walk loud and it annoys him.
Amy K.
June 2022
Really enjoyed this rental. Location is stunning and home has a relaxed island vibe. Many mornings were spent walking on the lava in front of the house. Very comfortable bed. We stayed in the upstairs unit. Would definitely stay here again.
Lew B.
April 2022
It is very attractive, wonderfully decorated, and the balcony views to the ocean are amazing. There is lots of space to move around, flop on one of several couches for an afternoon nap, and the bed was very comfortable. Also, the Bluetooth speaker was very nice. There is no grill.
The owner sent very detailed directions and information about the unit and surrounding area. We enjoyed our time in it.
Dian S.
April 2022
Bali Temple exceeded our hopes and expectations. Location was stellar for a much needed quiet, peaceful R&R. Architectural design and furnishings were charming and high quality. My favorite place to stay out of over a dozen visits to the Islands. Hope to be able to stay again.
Jenny S.
March 2022
Beautiful property, we had the upstairs unit, and loved the views of the lava flows. Loved walking on the flows and seeing the various lava patterns.
Noreen D.
February 2022
Gorgeous, sunny locale - windows all around and big, open house. Definitely hot though (not to be a broken record, as most reviews mention this), as the morning sun comes right up and beats into all those windows. The portable a/c def works decently though in combo with the fan to blow around the air. We found that if we left the sliding glass doors open all day (there’s screen doors on them) while we were away that it wasn’t so hot when we got back later in the day. You can walk right on the lava fields out to the ocean and watch the waves crash in. Saw all kinds of crabs on the rocks too. We had the luxury of a bright full moon almost all the nights we stayed, and it shined right overhead. Loved the shower and double sinks. So many options for lighting too in the evening - all kinds of switches to turn on different options. Hope you love geckos - super fun to see so many, and they were quite entertaining on the balcony. Sometimes they were found in the house! Others mentioned the stove/cooking situation too - there’s nothing over the stove, like an exhaust fan, and you will smoke up the place if you’re not careful. Use the standing fan (seriously we moved the fan around a lot) to propel any smoke or heat right out the nearest window. The sounds of the night are incredible - idk how to describe it. All in all it was magical. Can’t believe we got to stay here. The bed IS high (but oh so comfy!) - I’m short and had to climb the bed frame to get into it! Pillows are super soft. Host also has beach chairs and a cooler in the closet (didn’t realize this til last day). There’s also games inside in some of the many drawers/decor. Huge book shelf of books and trinkets. Very well-appointed in every way. There is no DVD player as listed, nor did we find the grill (not sure if listing is updated to reflect this). Sad to leave this once-in-a-lifetime spot. Perfect for a couple.
Richard Z.
February 2022
Very nice property, tastefully appointed and with a fantastic view of the lava fields and the ocean beyond. Easy and well worth It to walk out to the cliffs. Very quiet, not really near anything but that’s the point. Note the bed is about four feet off the floor but it is very comfy. Only caveat—no coffee, which despite the clear advice to buy groceries on the way in still surprised us.
Kim H.
February 2022
We had a wonderful stay at the Bali Temple. Beautifully appointed and everything we needed, comfortable, and big sliding windows on all sides to take in the beauty of this place on earth.
Rachelle sent her contact info with very detailed instructions on how to get there (pay attention : ) and information on things to do in the area prior to our stay however no one was there upon check in (or at any other time during our stay) which happened to work out ok for us because we had no problems whatsoever.
Kacey H.
August 2021
Great view. Comfy bed. Just be aware it is far away from food or shops.
Ben C.
May 2019
Loved this place!
Chris H.
April 2019
This place is an unbelievable paradise.
The view and surroundings are spectacular. The backyard opens into a new lava field that is perfect to explore and enjoy the endless private oceanfront.
The house is setup in a beautiful Bali theme with a brand new kitchen and a lanai that is priceless to sit on and enjoy from sunrise to sunset.
The home manager is very friendly and helpful!
Highly recommend! 🤗🌺
Stan G.
March 2019
The perfect honeymoon experience. To avoid sounding like a broken record we'll just confirm all the previous positive reviews. Off the beaten path, this place is perfect for those with a sense of adventure that are willing to explore one of the most beautiful places on the planet. The owner Rachaelle is quick to respond to any questions and is a wealth of knowledge on anything "Big Island". We will be back and will spend more than a week. It's just not enough time........
Cindy U.
January 2019
Beautiful little cottage away from everything and perched on some beautiful volcanic rock. Perfect getaway.
Kirpal K.
December 2018
Loved the lava and the ocean....magical mix! House was nicely appointed and the location was great! Would gladly stay again!!
Nicholas M.
October 2018
Thank you for a great time! We loved the view and chance to explore the lava rocks. Bali temple was exceptional lodging and we hope we can return someday!
John B.
September 2018
Imagine waking to the sound of surf crashing onto the shore line. Walking over lava flows from twenty years or so ago. Sit on the open deck and watch the sun rise in the morning. The moon rise in the evening. Windows all around opened to the splendor of nature. You are surrounded by calming woods that make up the space you are in. Outside open windows crickets, birds and other tropical creatures sing their tune morning day and night. Solitude Is easily found not only in Bali Temple, but in all the surrounding landscape. Walk upon earth that is younger than you are. Build stone structures out of the earth that surrounds you. Retire to a large four poster bed and drift off into a well deserved slumber to the song of the ocean and tropics. Wake to first light. Listen to the falling rain. Find yourself in a whole different place.
Make Bali Temple your home away from home. Enjoy the comfort of serenity. Let nature cool you and hug you in its warm grasp away from civilization. Take a vacation like no other. Relax. Explore. Walk on new earth.
Ethan T.
May 2018
We loved staying at Bali Temple. We walked over the lava rock every evening and watched the waves crash in and admired the new creation of land around us! We explored the whole island while we were there and had an amazing honeymoon.
Shirley D.
March 2018
Every now and then, we stay at a place where the first words as we enter are ones of awe. Every room in Bali Temple is beautifully decorated in peaceful tones, eclectic art work, and clean, open spaces. I could have spent days just wandering the lava flow between the house and ocean, taking photos and enjoying the various forms of lava.
I hadn't realized from the description that we were upstairs and there was another rental below, but that was okay. Everyone was quiet and respectful. Rachaelle was very helpful, even helping me find an acupuncturist for my back.
It's a short drive to Pahoa where there's a market, a natural food store and a few good restaurants. Kilauea Crater/Volcano National Park is less than an hour away. Be sure and stay for the nighttime viewing as the crater lights up red (bring a warm jacket!). I'd definitely return.
Ashleigh & Brian D.
March 2018
We stayed at Bali Temple for the second half of our honeymoon on the big island. We met Rachaelle once, she was friendly. She doesn't live downstairs anymore and was renting the space to a nice couple that was staying for about 2 weeks. There was another rental property on the fairly small Bali temple lot and it was occupied by 2 different tenets over the course of our stay, a couple and a young family of 3. There was construction going on next door but this was fine by us and didn't interfere in our vacation in the slightest. Everyone was kind and friendly....
I'll start with the things that could be improved:
- My biggest disappointment was the jetted tub, not only did the jets not work the drain plug was not tight so it took forever to fill with water and once it did you could hear the water escaping from the tub during my bath. I love a good bath and was less than impressed.
- We accidentally used the neighbors fire pit to grill which was embarrassing and should be marked better , we followed the trail from the back yard as described and were very embarrassed when the neighbors said that it was not ours to use. luckily we were using our own charcoal.
-The kitchen was lacking things like extra trash bags, baking sheets, & aluminum foil. There were sharp knives (though half of them were hidden in a drawer for the first half of our stay), pot holders, plenty of dishes, a full size dish washer, a coffee maker that could be set on a timer and a corkscrew.
- Some tourists in the area expressed some concern over the 'locals'. In the Kalapana/Pahoa area there is a very hippie vibe and a lot of hitch hikers which we were fine with but seemed to make some people staying in the area uncomfortable.
- the strange guy who wandered through the property said he knows the owner. He was not friendly and seemed mentally unstable. We would see him lurking and those were the only times I felt uncomfortable during our stay.
- p.s. for other shorties out there look in the closet for the step stool because the bed is nearly as tall as I am 5'.
The highlights:
- double sink / vanity
- laundry room (needed softener)
- the view from the porch when it was not raining
- the lava 'park' area near the shoreline that is walking distance out the back door.
- walking out onto the lava field at night and looking at the lava running down kilauea
- uncle roberts wednesday night market (and saturday morning - it is much smaller but very fun for breakfast)
- the geckos
Gary C.
February 2016
Expansive views of dramatic oceanfront landscape, solitude, distinctive decor and furnishings; Bali Temple has everything you seek in a vacation rental. Unfortunately, it is also in need of a thorough cleaning and some updating.
Upon our arrival we encountered a number of housekeeping and maintenance issues. The owner, Rachaelle, responded immediately and was able to resolve several issues the very same day but others lingered for the remainder of our two week stay. From reading previous reviews we got the impression that Rachaelle occupied the lower floor of Bali Temple as a permanent resident. This is no longer the case and we can only speculate that the condition of the property was better managed while she lived there.
Also, those that prefer to prepare their own meals like we do may find the assortment of mismatched pots and pans and kitchen utensils lacking.
In terms of location Bali Temple is ideally situated for those that prefer to be off the beaten path and are willing to sacrifice easy access to some of the major tourist attractions and other parts of the island.
All in all a wonderful rental that is just in need of a little TLC.
Debbie B.
September 2015
This beautiful place cannot be accurately described in words. It must be experienced to truly understand the glory of it's surroundings. Upon entering Bali Temple for the first time, it took my breath away. The owner, Rachaelle, who is a beautiful, peaceful soul herself, had the windows open letting the soothing ocean breeze circulate through the home. The views through the multitude of spacious windows welcome you to paradise. The amenities and décor were simple luxury. I knew right away I had made the perfect choice. The location is perfect. Just far away enough to feel secluded and safe, yet close enough in all directions to find whatever it is you're looking for. I adventured out everyday, and am blessed to have experienced places and people I will never forget. This home was the perfect sanctuary to come back to after a long hot day of visiting volcano trails, waterfall trails, glorious beaches, even a visit to a local winery. I assure you. You won't regret making the decision to visit this hidden treasure.
Chad C.
August 2015
The bali temple was definitely an experience to remember. My wife and I really enjoyed our time here during our honeymoon. It was very clean and neatly decorated. We felt very comfortable staying here. If you are looking to get away from it all and be in a very secluded area, than this is the place for you. It is in the thick of the some forest adjoining the lava flow, so be prepared for some bugs to sneak in at night if you have the lights on.
Crystal F.
August 2015
We've been home three days and I miss this home already... what a treat to find such a wonderful place to stay on our first visit to Hawaii. This home had everything I was looking for - peace, quiet, beautiful surroundings, nicely appointed comforts of home, great living spaces, and awesome outdoor views. Plus the ocean is just a short walk away. Nothing blocking your view from taking in total paradise at it's best. 6 days was just not enough - I could have used a few more!
A great retreat that is secluded enough but a short drive to many of the local amenities. You CANNOT miss the Wed. night market/music or the geothermal ponds - they are something you will never find in a "resort" town. Come visit the real Hawaii that I dreamed about not a row of commercial hotels. This home was our home base for exploring Hilo, tropical botanical gardens, amazing waterfalls, volcano national park, a day trip to Kona (coffee farm and sea horse farm), amazing ocean view drives and so much more.
I can't recommend it enough and hope to be lucky enough to visit again. Be advised you are in a tropical area so you may see the occasional gecko, bug, etc. There is no air conditioning, just fans, so the humidity and tropical environment can take some getting used to if you're not prepared for it.
Rachaelle is a wonderful host and has really created a beautiful place to enjoy your time in paradise.
Beth W.
October 2014
Everything we hoped for. Very nicely liveable, well stocked with all the comforts of home. Tremendous views, wonderful host, great location close to tons of adventures. Great value for the price.
September 2014
8 days in this paradise was not nearly enough. Great place to stay and relax. The views are spectacular and the sounds of the waves makes for a peaceful stay. Loved not having the distraction of TV or radio. Would definitely recommend this to anyone going to Hawaii.
Peg H.
August 2014
If you are looking for a peaceful and romantic getaway this is your place. Loved the location, the view and the unit itself is spectacular. It is your private paradise. Easy to work with owner, very nice. Everything about this stay was perfect.
August 2014
Ok, if you're in a soulful place and have $155 per night to spend, look no further. The accommodations and the location are an unstoppable pairing on the "Hilo" side of the Big Island. The house (you get the entire second floor) nestles up to the lava field that borders a spectacular ocean front. To walk the lava field and spend time at the water's edge is some of the most profound meditative time one can spend in nature. It's simply spectacular. The duplex is luxurious, private and offers an inviting lap for personal growth ... from the deep and wide library of teachers to the awesome art and talisman objects. As others have stated, it is conveniently close to many sites, restaurants and activities. The only caution I would offer is to those who have difficulty walking stairs as there are 15 steps leading to the apartment. Also, the king size bed stands about 4 feet off the floor and commands a kind of climbing, jumping or shimmying up onto it. No kidding. Once you're in it, it's very comfortable but it takes a certain kind of "spry-ness" to negotiate. For our tastes we found Bali Temple an ideal fit.
Peg H.
June 2014
Stunning private location, spectacular view and sumptuous living space. A no hassle rental that will give you the peace and quiet you crave. Beautifully appointed living space with all the necessary kitchen and creature comforts. I highly recommend.
Sara H.
May 2014
This rental is beautiful. There is a black sand oasis just a few minutes walk from the back deck we always had to ourselves. The area is mostly secluded but Pahoa is just a 10 minute drive away with some great restruants. Well worth it to get out of town. Owner is very accomidating with our toddler.
Use the "Visit Owner's Website" link to read more reviews from the reservation site, including the latest reviews submitted by recent guests.