You’re not just looking for a place to stay—you’re looking for something special. Welcome to The Refuge, a beautifully designed sanctuary offering 3,500 sf of curated living space. With 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and sweeping views of the ocean, mountains, and sunsets, it’s a place where beauty and tranquility meet. Set above the iconic shores of Ke‘ei and the sacred Place of Refuge (Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau), our retreat invites you to slow down, reconnect, and renew in an unforgettable setting. Welcome to The Refuge—a rare gem where beauty, comfort, and nature come together in perfect harmony. Our spacious and uniquely designed living areas are thoughtfully appointed with modern décor, including Restoration Hardware couches and artistic, reclaimed furnishings that create a warm, relaxing atmosphere. Soaring ceilings and abundant natural light fill the home with uplifting energy, while the multi-level layout offers plenty of cozy nooks and open spaces for both connection and quiet retreat. There’s truly nothing like it. The stylish kitchen is a joy to cook in, with large windows that frame views of the garden and ocean. It features sparkling granite countertops, travertine floors, stainless steel appliances, and beautiful lighting that makes both cooking and gathering a pleasure. Your ’ohana will be on Cloud 9, resting on plush beds with high-quality linens and cozy pillows. We’ve also created several inviting spots for remote work or artistic expression, all supported by lightning-fast Wi-Fi. Step outside onto your private lanai and deck, where sweeping views stretch from the slopes of Mauna Loa to the coastline and the sacred Place of Refuge. Just minutes away, you’ll find some of Hawai‘i’s best swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The air is rich with the scents of tropical flowers, ripening fruit, and fresh Kona coffee. When the breeze is just right, the aroma of roasting coffee beans drifts through the air, while your skin soaks in the gentle winds and perfect temperatures of the cooler coffee belt lands. Right outside your door, you’ll find vibrant gardens filled with ginger, hibiscus, and a variety of blooming tropical plants. Depending on the season, you might discover ripe avocados, bananas, guavas, lychee, starfruit, and more—ready for you to enjoy. The Refuge is a truly special place, and we would be honored to host you in our little slice of paradise. Mahalo for considering a stay with us. Guests are welcome to enjoy the shared Palapa and BBQ areas—perfect for relaxing, cooking out, or gathering with friends. Don’t miss the new outdoor shower, a guest favorite! Feel free to wander the property and sample fruit from the trees near the lawn and parking area. While they’re not always in season, you might discover something sweet during your stay. We kindly ask that guests respect our neighbors’ privacy by avoiding their driveways, farms, and rock walls. Mahalo for helping us preserve the calm, respectful spirit of this place. Warm & Welcoming: We genuinely enjoy connecting with our guests and sharing the spirit of aloha. Whether it’s offering local tips or simply saying hello, we’re here to help you feel at home and make your stay memorable. Perhaps the most amazing feature of our neighborhood is the epic snorkeling and diving at Honauanau ( "Two Step") and Kealakekua Bay, considered by many as the best underwater wildlife in Hawaii. We are 10-15 minutes from great local beaches, such as Hookena, Manini and the sacred Place of Refuge. There is a Mom & Pop grocery store 2 blocks away that has the basics (Ohana Warehouse). There are 2 larger grocery stores within 10 minutes. There's many delicious restaurants in our neighborhood that serve Hawaiian, Mexican, Thai, Burgers, Pizza and Seafood. We've written a complimentary insiders' guide for our guests with our top recommendations. One of these is the best gelato shop you'll find, outside of Italy! We recommend a vehicle with clearance to enjoy the treasures of the Big Island and to easily navigate the County swale at the top of the driveway. Four wheel drive is NOT necessary. Uber is available but impractical if you are planning on exploring! There's great walking not far from the house, but you'll need a vehicle to get there. We don't recommend walking much along the highway. There’s nothing quite like The Refuge—a peaceful, one-of-a-kind retreat designed for comfort, connection, and calm. While it’s not a party spot, we welcome kind, respectful guests who appreciate a relaxing, aloha-filled atmosphere. Our lush one-acre property hosts a few other unique Airbnb rentals, thoughtfully spaced for privacy with the occasional friendly encounter—the best of both worlds. Traveling with a group? We’re happy to help coordinate multiple stays—just reach out!