Experience Off-Grid Living in the Heart of Hawaii
Stay in our modern geodesic dome surrounded by lush rainforest just minutes from Volcano National Park. Combine your stay with unforgettable hiking and sightseeing adventures led by experienced local guides.
The Space
Jungle Dome Hawaii is a fully off-grid geodesic dome — solar-powered, rain-fed, and built to disappear into the canopy around it. Its mirrored exterior reflects the surrounding banana trees and ferns, so the dome itself becomes part of the landscape rather than sitting on top of it.
Originally built as an ohana unit for our own family, the dome is a quiet, private retreat for up to 2 guests.
Inside you'll find:
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A queen memory foam bed
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A built-in bathroom pod
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A full kitchenette — mini fridge/freezer, hot plate, water heater, and a French press for your morning coffee
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WiFi (no TV — this is a place to disconnect from screens, not signal)
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Outdoor seating
This isn't a resort stay — it's a real, working off-grid home. Water comes from rain catchment, power from solar, and the pace of life here is set by the island, not a schedule.
Wake up to birdsong, fresh rainforest air, and the peaceful sounds of nature.
Our off-grid geodesic dome offers a unique Hawaiian experience away from crowded resorts while keeping you close to some of the island's most incredible adventures.
Whether you're hiking volcanoes, chasing waterfalls, or simply looking to disconnect, this is your perfect basecamp.
What to Expect
Living off-grid in the jungle comes with a few things worth knowing before you book — all part of what makes this stay what it is.
⚡ Solar Power: This dome runs entirely on solar power stored in batteries, so electricity is finite rather than unlimited like a typical home. In practice, this rarely affects guests, but we ask that you avoid running high-draw appliances at the same time, especially on cloudy days. We don't provide a hairdryer, in keeping with our power setup.
🌡️ Cool Evenings Sitting at 1,400 feet elevation, the dome enjoys naturally cool evenings — expect the high 60s°F on summer nights and the low 60s to mid 50s°F in winter. There's no air conditioning, but a fan and dehumidifier keep the space comfortable. Bring a light layer.
☔ Jungle Rain: The Big Island's windward side sees frequent rain — it's part of what keeps this jungle so lush (and what fills our rain catchment system!). Showers tend to pass through quickly, often followed by clear skies again within the hour.
🐸 Coqui Frogs: From sunset to sunrise, you'll hear the coqui frogs — a nightly chorus that's become part of the soundtrack of the Big Island jungle. Some guests find it soothing, others find it surprisingly loud for the first night. We provide earplugs in the dome, just in case.
🌌 Dark Skies There are no streetlights on the drive in — this side of the island keeps light levels low to protect the dark skies used by the Mauna Kea observatories. It makes for one of the best stargazing spots on the island. We've added solar lights around the dome and along the stairs, so you'll have a clear, lit path from your car to the door after dark.
Location
Centrally located on the Big Island:
From the Dome Drive Time
Hilo International Airport 25 minutes
Downtown Hilo 30 minutes
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park 25 minutes
An ideal home base for travelers who want to experience the island's raw, natural side.
Book Your Stay
House Rules
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Max 2 guests
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Check-in: 3:00 PM / Check-out: 10:00 AM
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Quiet hours: 8:00 PM – 7:00 AM
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No smoking / No pets
Meet Your Host
My name is Nandor, the owner of Hungaro Explorer
After years of exploring every corner of Hawaii, I wanted to create a place where adventurous travelers could experience the island differently—not just as visitors, but immersed in nature.
Whether you stay for relaxation or adventure, I'm happy to help you discover the hidden side of the Big Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the dome off-grid?
Yes! Our dome is completely off-grid and designed to be both comfortable and sustainable. We collect fresh rainwater through our catchment system and generate electricity with a solar power system, allowing you to enjoy modern comforts while experiencing a unique off-grid stay.
Does the dome have Wi-Fi?
Yes! The dome has Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected during your visit if needed.
How close is the dome to Volcanoes National Park?
We're just a 25-minute drive from the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center, making it an ideal base for exploring the park.
Can I book tours during my stay?
Absolutely! Guests can book a variety of guided hiking and sightseeing tours with Hungaro Explorer, making it easy to experience some of the Big Island's most incredible places during their stay.
Is there parking?
Yes! We provide complimentary covered parking for all guests staying at the dome.
Is the dome suitable for families?
Our dome is best suited for two adults or solo travelers, providing a cozy and relaxing retreat surrounded by nature.
How far is Hilo?
The town of Hilo is about a 25-minute drive from the dome, where you'll find restaurants, grocery stores, shopping, and other services.
How far is the airport?
Hilo International Airport is approximately a 25-minute drive from the property.
Is the road to the dome paved?
Yes. The entire drive to the property is on paved roads, making it easily accessible with a standard vehicle.
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is anytime after 3:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:00 AM.
Does the dome have a private bathroom?
Yes! The dome features a private indoor bathroom with a shower, toilet, and sink. There's also a small kitchenette equipped for preparing simple meals during your stay.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not allowed at the dome.
Is the water safe to drink?
Yes. Our rainwater is filtered through a sediment filtration system and purified with a UV sterilization system, making it safe for drinking.
Is the dome air-conditioned?
No, the dome does not have air conditioning. Thanks to our elevation in Mountain View, temperatures typically cool down in the evenings, creating a comfortable environment for sleeping throughout the year.
What amenities are included?
The dome includes Wi-Fi, a comfortable queen-size bed, a private bathroom, a small kitchenette, covered parking, solar-powered electricity, hot water, and beautiful views of the surrounding forest—everything you need for a peaceful and comfortable off-grid getaway.
Ready for an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure?
Stay in our rainforest dome and discover the Big Island with us.