This place is absolutely magical! I really don't think I can express in words how incredible the Volcano Eco Retreat was, and I truly don't think we'll ever find something as magnificent again. My wife and I came here to celebrate our 1 year anniversary/late honeymoon, and we could not have DREAMED of a better experience! Emily and Court were such gracious hosts and you can immediately tell how much love they put into this place. The cottages were absolutely PERFECT, equipped with a mini fridge, WiFi and a smart TV, and a ceiling fan for temperature control. The shower was fantastic, and the bed was like sleeping on a cloud! The resort itself was STUNNING, with beautiful lush greenery as far as the eye can see. We found ourselves easily able to fall asleep to the sounds of nature every night. It was so wonderful to be able to unplug and just enjoy the sounds of the forest around us, and the rain falling. Unbelievably relaxing! If you've never been to Hawaii before, the weather changes pretty frequently. It rained every day we were there, but only for about 30 minutes or so. Definitely don't worry about getting rained out on vacation, because if you drive even just a few minutes down the road it'll be clear skies and sunshine! All of Emily's recommendations were spot on! She really knows her stuff and I felt like we had an inside source to all the best spots on the island - the ones only known to locals. The handmade breakfasts every morning were to die for, Court is an exceptionally talented chef - seriously Michelin star quality food that was breathtaking to look at and some of the most delicious food I've ever tasted! Not to mention everything comes from their own garden! I myself am not vegan but every meal we had was filling and absolutely DELICIOUS. A VERY special shout-out to Naomi the massage therapist! If you get a chance to do Naomi's retreat I HIGHLY recommend it! She really gave us such an amazing experience and we came away from it feeling relaxed and rejuvenated! Plus being able to see all the great work they're doing for the land is truly incredible. Whether you're vegan or not this place should be at the absolute top of your list. We can't thank Emily and Court (and Will!) enough for making our honeymoon a truly unforgettable experience! We will DEFINITELY be back! read more

See all

I can't express enough how amazing our stay here was. The property itself was well kept, beautiful and extremely clean! The owners Gabby, Tony and their fashion forward dog Sushi were welcoming, accommodating and kind! My favorite part was brunch! They brought out an amazing spread of pineapple pancakes, spinach bubble waffles and a papaya filled with overnight oats-a straight up chefs kiss! It's the perfect place to relax, unplug and enjoy yourself! read more

See all

This place is amazing. We stayed for 3 nights and bought an hour massage for additional charge. We got to enjoy the hot tub for a bit. Breakfast is amazing and a burst of flavor that we were not expecting. Loved the peace and nature that you can't get anywhere else. Definitely worth it and wished we stayed longer. read more

See all

This spot was beautiful and relaxing. Wonderful shower and amenities. Breakfast was so amazing. I wish we had been able to stay longer.

If you're looking for a relaxing, luxurious Hawaiian getaway . . . this is the place. It's rare that I take the time to review places, but this eco-friendly retreat truly deserves the utmost praise. It was our first time in Hawaii, so my partner and I were unsure of where to go and what to do. We were greeted with exceptional warmth and welcome upon our arrival, which made us feel very comfortable! Within the first couple minutes of checking in, strolling the grounds, admiring the garden and the gorgeous vegetation everywhere, I knew that we'd chosen the right place to stay. . Shout out to Emily for making us feel so welcome, and frankly, like we'd arrived at our second home :D The Bungalow itself was even more spacious than I'd imagined from the pictures, and I don't know how they made it so adorable and fancy at the same time. The fluffy king bed cozily snuggled in the middle of the bungalow was an obvious pleasure, and so was the rain shower. The decoration was very well done, and then there were other details that just complimented the whole experience for me, like the provided yoga mats, soft and cozy robes, indoor slippers, the electric fireplace, the TV (which had Netflix on it!), and more of such things. THE FOOD was just unbelievable. Being plant-based, my partner and I sometimes struggle finding places to eat. Here, we were able to fuel up each day on the most exquisite, nutritious, fully plant-based breakfasts! From the taste, to the colorful, elegant presentation of it, the food was just perfect. From what I understand, you will be well-accommodated even if you have intolerance to certain foods, but we didn't make any special request in that regard - we just let them surprise us each morning. Having just left a Waikoloa resort with a "continental breakfast" of severely limited options for us, we were elated to enjoy such lavish brunches. We had the best ube pancakes, fantastic loco moco, avocado toast, crepes suzette, and more. Five nights, five fantastic meals which came with delicious, fresh coffee and a variety of tropical fruits! We met and thanked the incredibly talented Chef Court, who also works very hard on the garden and on the upkeep of the grounds. These guys plant their own foods, collect and purify rainwater on-site, use and provide products that support small-businesses, and manage this LEED-certified retreat in such a green way that I didn't feel the usual guilt I experience from consuming at other hotels or resorts. We discovered Avatar-ish looking plants that I'd never heard of before - apparently certain species of ginger can be used as sanitizer/shampoo!? Waking up to the green Eden nestled into the hilly, Hilo - side of the island, to fresh coffee and Court's food, to Emily's friendly service and smiles, to the lovable doggo Will, and to a day full of both excitement and rest, was by far the most rejuvenating experience I've ever had. Emily gave us fantastic recommendations on places to visit and things to do for our first time in Hawaii, which we did indulge in, but ended up spending more time than we had planned just kicking back by our bungalow! There was a hammock, a very nice hot tub, lounge chairs, tables, and even a christmas-themed area so we were just fine where we were! I highly, highly recommend this place for everyone, and we'll definitely be coming back. An enormous thank you to the beautiful couple, Court and Emily, who not only made our stay so enjoyable and healing, but also introduced us to a more environmentally sustainable way of life (and vacationing!), and are making this world a kinder, safer place to live for all. Mahalo :D read more

See all

We stayed at VOlcano Eco Retreat Oct 24 - Nov 1 2020 and can't say enough great things about it. The property was recently sold and was reopened with new owners, name, and branding. We were the first guests since the change and Hawaii's recent relaxation of visitation rules after seven months during the pandemic. The property is gorgeous, tropical, and secluded. With four individual bungalows for guests it's an ideal place for couples. There are also group dining and socializing gazebos as well as a covered outdoor hot tub for guests to use. The owners, Tony and Gaby (and their small dog Sushi) were ideal hosts - helpful, friendly, and accommodating. The idea is that the property is environmentally self-sustaining and the elaborate, delicious breakfasts are plant-based with entirely local ingredients. The food was delicious and presentation was superb. Although we aren't vegans, the food was nothing short of amazing. The property is ideally located for exploring the nearby Volcanoes National Park and the many sites and activities in Hilo and the south side of the big island. Kona is also under two hours away by car and the drive itself is one of the joys of the trip. This was an amazing vacation and VER was a big part of making it that way. If you're looking to stay somewhere that isn't a cookie cutter Hawaii beach resort, that advocates for more responsible tourism, and offers privacy in a relaxed tropical setting this is where you need to go. Highly recommended. read more

See all

Epic oasis in a literal rainforest. What an experience. The property has new ownership and the couple in charge are great. The location is very remote which is fantastic. Even though you "are off the grid", the internet works, there is a TV in your room with all of the streaming services you would look for. Hot tub is amazing. The yurts are so cool. The sound of bird and roosters is super cool. Cant wait to come back. read more

Volcano Eco Retreat - Welcome to the Jungle! - Bed & Breakfast Near Me - Mountain View, Hawaii

See all

We spent three wonderful nights at Volcano Eco Retreat and it was such an amazing experience. It feels like you're staying in a magical hidden garden oasis. It is hard to put in to words how lovely everything was, but we did not want to leave. The plant based breakfasts every morning were so delicious as was the coffee. I do think what truly makes this place stand out is the true feeling of being welcome. We loved every minute of our stay! read more

We spent three wonderful, peaceful, nights at Volcano Eco Retreat for our 30th wedding anniversary. The Retreat is beautiful, the location in the rainforest is lovely, the vegan food was delicious (and, full disclosure, we are not even remotely vegan), and the hosts were welcoming and accommodating. All this, plus a delightful little dog to welcome you when you visit! Thank you so much to Tony and Gabby for helping make our anniversary special. read more

We LOVED everything about staying here. Emily was an incredible host and gave us amazing recommendations of things to do in Hilo. The breakfasts each morning were some of the best meals we've ever eaten. The property is gorgeous and relaxing. My wife and I had the most wonderful vacation and can't imagine staying anywhere else whenever we return to the Big Island. read more

I just returned from a five-day stay on the Big Island at VMR. My trip exceeded my expectations across the board. I'm going to divide this review into two sections: first is it safe to visit the Big Island now, and then my stay at VMR. The volcanic eruption is isolated to a remote part of the island, the Puna District. The only indication that something is going on, driving the Saddle Road at night as you approach Hilo you can see an orange glow in the clouds in the distance and you sometimes get a slight sulpher smell near the Pahoa turnoff on Highway 11. Volcanos National Park remains closed; however, the Kahuku Unit of the park (just about half a mile west of the Highway 11 turnoff for South Point) is open five days a week. I spent a day there and took two incredible hikes. You may also hear about the explosive steam events and earthquakes at the Kilauea Summit Crater. There was one on Friday morning, 6/29, I was sitting outside at VMR at the time it occurred and heard, felt, nor saw anything. The national media breathlessly reported on the current event for the first two weeks, listening to them, you would think lava was flowing down the streets of Kailua. Nothing could be further from the truth. I don't want to minimize the huge effect this event had on the lives of people who lived in the impacted communities that have lost their homes, and in many cases, their livelihoods, the area is very rural, and many people raised crops and / or tropical flowers, so not only did they lose their homes, but many lost their source of income. There isn't a vantage point to see the fissure 8 eruption or the ocean entry. I decided to book a helicopter tour before I left home, assumed that we would see the lava off in the distance, but would at least have a chance to see it. I couldn't have been more surprised when we spent about 20 minutes over and in the vicinity of fissure 8 and about 10 minutes over the ocean entry. I used Paradise Helicopters and they were excellent. If you want a once in a lifetime opportunity to see a major volcanic eruption, this is the time to go to the Big Island. Plus, due the sensationalized coverage, bookings at many places are off by 40 to 60 percent so there are fewer people. Now, VMR. The reviews are great, even to the point where you wonder if VMR can be that good. I can unequivocally say that they are true and yes, VMR is that good. My stay at VMR was wonderful. Robert and Scott are the perfect hosts and will do whatever they can to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. VMR provides luxury accommodations in the middle of tropical tranquility. The bungalows have everything you need. Probably the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in with super soft bedding and left the windows open at night to hear the rain and coqui frogs lull me to sleep. Beautiful décor, a fantastic shower with incredible water pressure and almost instantaneous hot water. The porch is a wonderful place to sit and enjoy the tranquility. You have WiFi as well as satellite television with the full range of channels and most of the premium services. The spa was wonderful after a day of hiking. I would get up in the morning and sit on my porch to catch up on my e-mail and social media. Scott would bring me my first coffee and delicious breakfast bread or muffins. We would then decide when I would have breakfast. Other reviewers have noted, and I strongly concur, that Scott provides gourmet breakfasts every morning. I couldn't wait to see what creation he would provide each morning. The breakfast was so big that I often skipped lunch since I was still full. Robert and Scott have created a tropical paradise with their landscaping. If you want a luxury, secluded tropical oasis, then VMR will meet all of your expectations. I also got a massage from Gabriel, their on-call massage therapist. It was one of the best massages I have ever had. I strongly recommend using Gabriel's services. During my stay, I was the only guest, two others had cancelled their reservations. That allowed me to really get to know Scott and Robert. I was fascinated to find out the engineering and planning that went into the creation of VMR and its services. To conclude, this IS the time to visit the Big Island and if you want to stay in a secluded tropical oasis with personalized service then you can do no better than VMR. read more

See all

One of the cleanest rooms I have ever stayed in. The breakfast spread put on was delicious and the hosts were super friendly/helpful. We were greeted with guava margaritas and breakfast included a fruit smoothie inside a pineapple, fresh pressed Kona coffee and pineapple pancakes. Also a short drive to Volcano National Park. read more

Can't say enough good thing about this place! Off the bat, it's now a Heart Core retreat and not the volcano men's retreat. The owners, Tony and Gabby, are very thoughtful and accommodating. The property is well kept, and with 4 bungalows you're guaranteed to never have a crowd. Would recommend this highly to anyone who's looking for a spot not too far from the volcano and wants to get away and hear lots of birds! read more

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!! Small, quiet, and stunningly beautiful couples retreat in the middle of a forest. Only 4 rooms, each with a comfy bed, bathroom, and fridge with free drinks. No crowds. Friendly and personable environment. The hotel is run by a young couple and their adorable friendly dog. They're very welcoming and attentive. They make an amazing vegan breakfast every morning. Even if you love meat, the vegan breakfast tastes incredible. And they make everything from scratch. They're also mindful of allergies. They also occasionally bring out cocktails. It was an amazing and rare experience and I will stay here again next time I visit. read more

I'm a fan of properties that can be a stand-alone destination in and of themselves, and VMR has been added to my list. Robert and Scott are truly interested in providing a relaxing, ultra-comfortable oasis atmosphere on their land. They are seasoned travelers themselves, and this is communicated through their property. Arriving, you can immediately sense the amount of work and detailing that went into creating this space; placement of buildings that allows for privacy as well as socializing, outdoor speakers and tasteful lighting, a wonderful central hot tub and beautiful landscaping. The experience is something of a hybrid of staying at a resort, a B&B and a friends house. They are very attentive, but not overbearing. They check in about what works for you upon arrival, and they are quite flexible in terms of when you'd like your morning coffee and breakfast service (the best breakfast service I've experienced - different every morning, with lots of fresh fruit). I'll definitely be back, and I'd like to bring a group next time around! Thanks, guys, for assisting with a wonderful vacation. Forrest read more

After spending a few days at a hotel on the Kona side, we spent the rest of the week here on the Hilo side. This was the best part of our vacation. The bungalows were meticulously maintained. The bed was super comfortable and everything felt very clean. Although we had a flat screen tv with tons of channels, we much more enjoyed sitting on the lanai looking at the lush greenery. The pictures are definitely not photoshopped, it really is that beautiful. We were provided coffee and freshly baked bread each morning before we made our way over to breakfast. The fresh fruit was great, along with the food. It is located off the beaten path, but that made it all the better. With only 4 bungalows, it's not loud at all. It was the peaceful time we needed away. The location also makes it not to far of a drive into Hilo, or to get to Volcanoes National Park. Also, it's far enough away from Kilauea and at an elevation where you never would have to worry about that. The guys did a great job of making us feel welcome and comfortable, we highly recommend. read more

Very adorable place. Modern upscale retreat, secure, quiet and very intimate. Hosts were very nice guys. I slept so well with the sound of rain falling. I enjoyed my visit and would definitely visit again next time I am back. read more

Outstanding! This is an exceptional place to stay for the best in rest and relaxation!! Scott and Robert are excellent hosts. They have thought of every detail to make sure their guests have a great experience. The bungalows and common areas are exceptionally maintained. My husband and I slept great on one of the most comfortable beds we have slept on. Sitting on the porch enjoying our daily hand delivered coffee service (with a different amazing baked treat every day) was a so nice. As was the great homemade freshly baked breakfast. Great location to visit the Volcano National Park and Hilo - both a short drives way. This is an exceptional resort and a great value for the experience! read more

See all

My husband and I stayed here for a couple nights during our vacation this year. Robert and Scott were great, as was everything else at their property. Very clean and upscale cabanas with amazing king size bed. We also had the chance to get a massage by Gabriel while we were there. If you have the opportunity, I would highly recommend him, incredible professional massage. read more

My boyfriend Mike and I had the absolute BEST stay at this beautiful property. The rooms are so beautiful with every amenity you could need. It was the perfect blend of gorgeous rainforest vibes with luxury accommodations (and the MOST comfortable bed & sheets). The plant based breakfast spread was out of this world - made with love each morning by the most incredible hosts. It was my favorite place on Big Island (perfect location between Hilo and Volcano allowing you to easily explore both!) The hosts also have the sweetest puppy named Sushi who always kept us smiling. I will absolutely be back and I hope you get to experience this magical place too :) read more

A must stay! Owners Scott and Robert are friendly and accommodating. The breakfasts are a visual feast as well as a treat for the palate. The property is secluded and amazingly beautiful. The 4 cabanas are perfectly appointed for the environment. Don't forget the outdoor dining area, large covered seating area,hot tub and broad porches to relax and take in the day. read more

I highly recommend staying at this gay men's retreat. Robert and Scott are excellent hosts and the retreat is impeccable. Our group rented 3 of the cabanas and everyone enjoyed their stay. I highly recommend this retreat. We are looking forward to returning. read more

Gotta tell you my stay here at the VMR was soooo wonderful! I live on Oahu and just needed a nice quite short getaway from the city life I'm so glad I selected this retreat the property is very well done & such a paradise! Love the morning coffee and breakfast goodies outside my cabana each morning. My cabana was very clean & cozy I love hearing the rain upon the roof top, I didn't wanna leave. Mahalo Robert & Scott for being such great host!... I'll be back with my BF someday soon! read more

Scott and Robert are such thoughtful and generous hosts. I was welcomed with a glass of wine and a tour through the facilities (which includes a spiffy clean outdoor hot tub strategically located in the middle of the compound). The rooms include brand-new, high-end appointments, a very comfy bed, and a waterfall shower. Home cooked breakfast in the morning is great way to start the day. If you are looking for a quiet, romantic, luxurious get away, this is your place. It located about halfway between Hilo and the Volcano National Park. Strongly recommended! read more