Gingerhill Farm Retreat

While the idea of a serene farm retreat in Hawaii sounds appealing, the reality was far less idyllic.

First and foremost, the property is poorly maintained and feels neglected. Random buckets, tools, and miscellaneous items were scattered around, giving the place a cluttered and unmaintained for appearance. This clear lack of care detracted significantly from any sense of relaxation or charm one might expect from a retreat.

Calling it a “farm stay” is also a stretch—there were no farm-related activities or food to speak of.

The location itself is another drawback. The retreat is behind an imposing gate abutting a public school; the property feels isolated in a way that’s more inconvenient than tranquil. A car is an absolute necessity to get around, as there are no nearby attractions, restaurants, or activities within walking distance. This makes it feel like you’re stuck unless you’re willing to drive.

While the accommodations might be acceptable for a quick one- or two-night stay, there’s little to justify lingering longer. For the price, there are plenty of better options that offer well-maintained grounds, engaging activities, and more convenient locations.

Overall, Ginger Hill Farm Retreat failed to deliver on its promise of a peaceful, farm-inspired getaway, and I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re desperate truly out of other options.

We stayed at the Kukui Cabin within Gingerhill farms and it was a great experience. The entire retreat is beautiful. We were able to pet goats, look at chickens, and have a massive community kitchen to cook some nice meals each night. Also, right outside of the community kitchen is one of the best sunset spots I’ve seen in a while. The shower was also really cool- mixed in with nature but no worries about a huge bug landing on you. We had our own stuff, but the retreat offered a lot of complimentary things like snorkels, etc.

I want to come back with a big group of friends and have us all rent different spots within the retreat. That would be cool.

There were friendly spiders and frogs here and there, but no cockroaches in sight which is all that matters.

This beautiful farm is right in the heart of Kealakekua. Very close to HiCO coffee and KTA Express grocery store. Beautiful, lush grounds and a communal kitchen with an ocean view. The accommodations are modest - very clean, safe, and well kept. It’s a lovely place to stay - and you are away from all the tourists. It’s the legit Big Island experience. You’ll hear the roosters in the morning and the coqui frogs at night. It’s awesome - we will return for sure!

Their Jungle Canopy tent is glamping at its best. Wonderful bed, indoor plumbing, covered patio kitchen and outdoor heated shower! (Other units share bathroom/showers.). Shared kitchen building has a great view of the ocean at sunset!

If you're the type of person who likes being in the middle of a jungle, taking a shower beneath a giant tree, and living off the beaten path, the Jungle Canopy at Gingerhill Farms might be a safari-esque romantic stay for you. If you're a couple, make sure you don't mind the intimacy of an open bathroom floorplan. The location is amazing- definitely better than Kailua-Kona.