Puna Furnished Rentals
Lush, affordable, and full of character, from Keaʻau and Pāhoa to the rainforest village of Volcano.
Puna in brief: the fast-growing southeast corner of the island, between Hilo and Kīlauea. Rents are among the lowest in the state, the landscape is green rainforest and young lava, and Hilo is a short drive for work and health care. Expect rain, catchment water in many homes, and lava hazard zones to understand before you sign.
Last reviewed November 2026 · By the Hawaii Monthly Rental team
Puna at a Glance
| Good fit for | Budget-minded renters, people building or relocating, nature lovers, and commuters to Hilo |
|---|---|
| Main areas | Keaʻau, Pāhoa, Mountain View, Kurtistown, Volcano, and large subdivisions such as Hawaiian Paradise Park |
| Climate | Warm and wet in most of Puna; cool and misty in Volcano village |
| Getting around | A car is essential; Hele-On buses run limited routes to Hilo |
| Airport | Hilo International (ITO), about 20 to 45 minutes away |
| Health care | Hilo Benioff Medical Center in Hilo; clinics in Keaʻau and Pāhoa |
| Everyday shopping | Grocery stores in Keaʻau and Pāhoa; Hilo for big runs |
| Internet | Varies widely by subdivision; some homes rely on satellite, so ask for a speed test |
| Rental terms | Listings start at 30 days, and each owner sets their minimum. See rental rules by island . |
Living in Puna
Puna is where many people land when they want space, a garden, and rent they can afford. Most homes are in large subdivisions carved out of rainforest, with big lots, fruit trees, and a lot of birdsong.
It’s also an active volcanic landscape. Parts of Puna sit in the highest lava hazard zones, and the 2018 eruption reshaped the lower district. Before you sign, check the address on the USGS lava flow hazard zone map and ask about insurance and evacuation routes.
Neighborhoods
- Keaʻau: the commercial hub closest to Hilo, with groceries, schools, and services.
- Pāhoa: an eclectic old town with cafés, a farmers market, and a creative community.
- Hawaiian Paradise Park and nearby subdivisions: large lots, lower rents, and mixed roads.
- Mountain View, Kurtistown, and Volcano: cooler, wetter, and greener upslope toward the national park.
Worth your time
Highlights
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park , minutes from Volcano village
- The Pāhoa farmers market and village shops
- Rainforest walks and anthurium and orchid farms
- Pohoiki’s black sand beach at Isaac Hale Beach Park, formed by the 2018 eruption
- Easy access to Hilo for dining, shopping, and the university
Before you sign
Good to Know
- Check lava hazard zones on the USGS map ; they affect insurance and peace of mind.
- Many homes use rainwater catchment. Ask how water is filtered and treated.
- Expect a lot of rain. Mold, mildew, and road conditions are part of life.
- Watch volcanic updates from the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory during eruptions.
- Ask which utilities are included. Electricity costs far more here than on the mainland.
Puna Listings
We’re welcoming our first Puna owners and property managers now. Furnished homes and condos will appear here with the monthly rate, the owner’s minimum stay, and availability up front.
Own a furnished rental in Puna? List it at no cost during our launch .
Puna FAQ
Is Puna a good base for a month or more?
Yes, if you want affordable space close to Hilo and don’t mind rain. It’s popular with people building homes, starting jobs in Hilo, or trying out island life before buying.
How long are rentals here?
Our listings start at 30 days, and each owner sets their own minimum. County rules shape how long many homes in residential areas can rent for, so see our rental rules by island for the general picture.
How far is the airport?
Hilo International Airport is about 20 minutes from Keaʻau and 45 minutes from lower Puna.
Where is the nearest hospital?
Hilo Benioff Medical Center in Hilo, about 20 to 45 minutes from most of Puna. Clinics in Keaʻau and Pāhoa handle everyday needs.
Is it safe to live near the volcano?
Thousands of people do. Know your lava hazard zone, sign up for county alerts, and follow the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory during eruptions. Vog (volcanic haze) can affect sensitive people.
Keep Exploring
See all nine Big Island regions , compare the islands , or read Extended Stays in Hawaiʻi: Benefits, Costs & Tradeoffs .