Built as an artists’ retreat in 2004, the five romantic cottages in this leafy, 2-acre oasis offer gleaming hardwood floors and paneled walls, vaulted ceilings, fireplaces, kitchenettes, and endless walls of windows—the lush rainforest envelops the oh-so-peaceful lodge in privacy. Fixings for a full breakfast are left in your room each night. Enjoy the communal hot tub in the gardens after a day of hiking in the national park. For true sumptuousness or extra guests, book the two-room Mauna Loa cottage ($375), which includes a “meditation” loft under the eaves.

Note: Families should also consider the lodge’s 5th Street Ohana (www.5thstohana.com; [tel] 808/985-9500). On the other side of Highway 11, this modern vacation rental offers a two-bedroom suite ($225) and a studio ($150), both with full kitchens, which can be combined as one unit ($375).