This was my second time visiting The Big Island. I had fallen in love the first go ‘round and had a calling to return ever since. I am a field scout for Hipcamp so every accommodation was provided by them! Check the links under each section to see more pictures and book a stay! Let’s get right into this magical week, shall we? :)

You can find this place of enchantment on Hipcamp under Jungle House. After getting off the plane and picking up my rental car I headed here. When I pulled up I think I was in a state of shock. “Am I actually staying here?…..This is where I get to stay?!” I was on this trip solo dolo so these thoughts were screaming in my mind. Could not believe it. The property alone was absolutely beautiful but it’s location was perfect. I was in a state of absolute bliss walking through the house. My first solo trip to my favorite place and I had a perfect house to scout. I thought the rest of the trip could only go downhill from this incredible spot, but each one had it’s own magic :) 

https://www.hipcamp.com/hawaii/pua-lani-jungle-house/jungle-house#

This spot was for the glampers. If you want to camp glamorously….well you know what glamping means. I had the cutest little A-frame I ever did see. And it was cozy! After I scouted the property and got all the photos I needed, I headed out to explore! Champagne Ponds was the closest place. I parked and started walking in the direction my Maps was telling me. It was through a residential neighborhood so I was a bit confused. There was a couple a short distance behind me the whole time so I stopped and asked them. Turns out, they weren’t a couple at all! They were both solo travelers who met on the plane that day! So there we were, three solo travelers who ended up going to a bar and playing pool that night! 

https://www.hipcamp.com/hawaii/kapoho-beach-glamping/glamping-in-beautiful-kapoho-1

This incredible spot was called the Nature Cottage but I don’t see the listing on Hipcamp anymore. I followed the directions through the jungle and made my way to the farm. The instructions said to walk up to the main house to get acquainted with them so that’s what I did! I journeyed up a long, tree-lined driveway and laid my eyes on a beautiful dreaded Tarzan man. He turned around and we exchanged pleasantries, he introduced me to another farm helper and they showed me around. I eventually invited him to partake in my photo shoot, pretending to be on our honeymoon. We explored a hidden waterfall I couldn’t bring my camera to because we had to wade through water to get there, but you just have to trust that it was the coolest thing.

Hammock Cabana! This spot was awesome. It’s location was great, just a short drive to Hilo and many places to explore. You also have use of the main house where you can use the kitchen and living room. Play board games in the dining room or just relax! The shower is amazing! The walls are not completely closed so it has an outdoor feel. Go check out Akaka Falls for a little getaway.

https://www.hipcamp.com/hawaii/hamakua-camping-cabanas/deluxe-glamping-hammock-cabana

This incredible spot is James Cottage. It sits on a private ranch with many other places to rent. An incredible view and all around magical place. It has it’s own private hot tub! There is a shared pool you are welcome to use as well! The hosts are super friendly and accommodating. I really wish I had someone with me to share this place with!

https://www.hipcamp.com/hawaii/james-cottage/james-cottage-ocean-view

I went into this trip with no expectations. I knew I had work to do, some locations to scout, but I did not know I would meet such incredible human beings. I didn’t know they would take me on amazing adventures and make me feel at home. I can only hope this is how all of my future solo trips turn out. So much gratitude for Hipcamp giving field scouts the opportunity to stay at such amazing places!