Hawai’i Island Retreat – Boutique Eco-Lodge in North Kohala

Hawai’i Island Retreat is a boutique eco-lodge set on dramatic oceanfront cliffs in North Kohala on Hawai’i Island. Designed to honor and work with the land, this property has been on the leading edge of sustainable, culturally sensitive, wellness-oriented hospitality since its opening in 2008.

Over the years the Retreat has acquired a devoted clientele of workshop and corporate leaders who book the entire resort for their groups. In between group bookings, rooms are available to individual travelers. Guest value the privacy, natural setting, and location in the historic Kohala area.

14.5 Oceanfront Acres With Coastline and Maui Views

This oceanfront parcel is agricultural zoned. Special permits allow for five acres of the 14.5-acre parcel to be used for the hotel and spa facilities, with the remainder of the land in orchards, gardens, and tropical and indigenous landscaping. Guests are welcome to enjoy the entire property, and a shoreline access trail allows guests to hike in both directions.

Diverse Accommodations

A variety of room types include individual bungalows, lodge guest rooms with luxurious baths and private balconies, and yurts nestled into the tropical foliage. The main building has eight guest rooms, dining room, commercial kitchen, reception office, ocean view yoga/dance studio, library/media room. There are three (3) single-story individual oceanfront guest hale, five (5) yurts with individual bathrooms and a shared bathhouse. A special permit amendments was approved in 2024 which allows expansion to 36 rooms.

Fully Equipped and Well-Designed Facilities

The structures were built with attention to their unique setting, and are tucked in among tropical and indigenous landscaping, orchards, and gardens. The Retreat sits lightly on the land, with County water supply and an off-grid solar-powered electrical system (solar with backup generator). 

The main lodge has a commercial kitchen, dining room, yoga/dance studio, library/media room, treatment room and reception/office. The on site wellness and spa facilities include a saltwater swimming pool, whirlpool, exercise/yoga hale, and outdoor spa treatment platforms.

Rich Cultural and Historical Significance

Located in Kohala, the birthplace of Kamehameha I, the retreat offers a unique cultural and historical context. Local cultural practitioners are available to provide guests with a place-based experience. With Hawaiʻi shifting to a Regenerative Tourism Model, this Retreat is perfectly positioned with respect to new legislation promoting a regenerative tourism model that benefits the environment, local economy, and culture.

Ready for the Next Steward 

A family-run business since its inception, Hawai’i Island Retreat is looking for its next steward to continue to the tradition of hospitality. As one recent guest review says “This place has no equal.” This offering is for both the real property and the assets of the business including future bookings.

Reach out to me or Matt Beall if you would like to visit the property. More photos and details are available at MLS 658858.