Location

308 Kamehameha Ave. Suite 212
Hilo, HI

The Rainforest Retreat Oasis is nestled within the Historical S. Hata Building, situated along the renowned Bayfront, adjacent to the Ocean in downtown Hilo. Discover our studio on the second floor of the building, marked by clear signage directing you to the main entrance. As you spot the charming pink garden bench, rest assured you've arrived at your destination. Please overlook the neglected areas of the building. Being on “Island Time” often means delayed services as a result of limited access to resources. Making the Rainforest Retreat’s newly remodeled studio space a true Oasis.

Special Note: If this is your first time to Hilo, Hawaii please understand that this little town has been hit by several Hurricanes, which has left many of the downtown structures in a state of disrepair with many vacant buildings. However, despite these natural challenges, Hilo remains a resilient and vibrant community, offering visitors a unique blend of Hawaiian culture, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality. So while you may notice some remnants of past storms, rest assured that Hilo still holds countless treasures waiting to be discovered. It is also the rainiest side of the island, which makes for lush Rainforests which are found boarding the streets on your way out of town. In town you will discover the famous street "Banyan Drive." This picturesque avenue is lined with majestic banyan trees, that tower over the streets.

Hilo, Hawaii, is actually known for its lush greenery and beautiful parks. Some of the most famous parks in Hilo include:

1. Lili'uokalani Park and Gardens: This expansive Japanese-style garden is named after Queen Lili'uokalani and features traditional Japanese landscaping, ponds, bridges, pagodas, and walking paths.

2. Wailoa River State Recreation Area: Located along the Wailoa River, this park offers picnic areas, walking paths, a boat ramp, and cultural attractions such as the King Kamehameha statue and the Wailoa Center, which hosts art exhibits and cultural events.

3. Coconut Island: Also known as Moku Ola, Coconut Island is a small island located in Hilo Bay. It's a popular spot for picnics, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying views of Hilo Bay and the surrounding area.

4. Carlsmith Beach Park (also known as Kealoha Beach Park): This park features a picturesque black sand beach, calm waters for swimming and snorkeling, tide pools, and shady picnic areas.

5. Richardson Ocean Park: This oceanfront park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as picnic areas, pavilions, rocky shores, and a black sand beach.

These parks provide opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and appreciation of the natural beauty of Hilo and its surroundings.

You’ll also find the beaches in Hilo much different from other Hawaiian beaches. The following beaches are located in Hilo.

- Carlsmith Beach Park: 1815 Kalanianaole Street, Hilo, Hawaii

Protected white sand lagoon lined by black lava rocks.

- Richardson Ocean Park: 2355 Kalanianaole Street, Hilo, Hawaii

Black sand beach. Brackish water. Rocky entrance into the waters. Great for snorkeling.

- Honoli'i Beach Park: north of Hilo

Black sand beach with pebbles and lava rocks. Good for swimming, but be aware of strong currents and riptides. Popular spot for surfers, especially beginners.

- Reeds Bay Beach Park: 225 Banyan Drive, Hilo, Hawaii

This beach is mixed with white sand and coral shore. The waters are calm so this beach is ideal for kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing.

- Keaukaha Beach Park: 27 Apapane Road, Hilo, Hawaii

This beach park has a rocky shoreline and no sandy beach, but it does have a large grassy area that is perfect for picnics. There are also tide pools and small coves that are home to green sea turtles.

- Wai'olena Beach Park: 2151 Kalanianaole Street, Hilo, Hawaii

Is a popular spot for picnics and watching the sunset, but the beach itself is rocky with powerful waves and strong currents, making swimming difficult.

- Onekahakaha Beach Park: 74 Onekahakaha Road, Hilo, Hawaii

Popular family beach park that offers swimming, snorkeling, picnicking, and playground activities. It's a 13-acre park with shallow areas suitable for small children, a lifeguard on duty,

- Kealoha Beach Park: 1701 Kalanianaole Street, Hilo, Hawaii

The park has a rocky shoreline and is suitable for older kids and snorkelers. The western side of the park is calmer and more suitable for swimming, while the eastern side is open ocean and popular with local surfers.

The Bayfront Beach located directly across the street from the S. Hata Building is NOT SAFE for swimming.