Hawaiian Sanctuary

I spent September as a guest at The Sanctuary, my first time in Hawaii, and the month felt deeply personal and spiritual. It's a lush property near the little village of Pahoa, yet it feels like its own world. The people who live and work there, the land, and all they're creating gave the place a fun, flowing energy. The owners set the tone and help it flourish. There was plenty to do. I didn't take the hula class, but heard its beautiful music. There was breathwork, sound healing, daily yoga, fun celebrations, and a weekly "bee dance," a bit like ecstatic dance. I also went to a festival for a Hindu goddess. I'm grateful for the connections I made with the full-time staff, farm interns, other workers, and people from nearby who came for yoga, parties, and events. Go with openness, kindness, consideration, and respect, and have fun 😄

Cabin 7 was clean, with a bathroom and shower, and the beds were comfortable. Internet was sketchy, but you don't really need it here. The lush surroundings, peaceful feel, pleasant staff, and all the offerings made this one of my favorite new places. Tammy and Anita know their stuff. There's massage, yoga, sound bath, fresh fruit, and a hot tub. Definitely worth the trip, and I'll be back.

The setting itself is lovely, especially if you want birds, greenery, warm outdoor showers, and wonderfully fluffy beds. But our honeymoon stay left me very disappointed. The staff felt cold and unwelcoming, and events were often canceled without any way to know until you arrived. We'd expected classes, the bee dance, food, and spa experiences. A major storm disrupted much of our other plans, so we were counting on the indoor offerings and assumed they'd go ahead. I went to a class and found two staff members chatting in the dark. They didn't acknowledge us, and after 15 minutes of being ignored, we left. The next morning the elixir bar staff were occupied with a large group, possibly a workshop, and couldn't help other guests. Even after signing up for the spa, other people were often using it. When I texted for help with a gate that wasn't working and later with schedule questions, nobody replied. Cones were eventually put at the entrance with no sign or message saying how else to get in. There's no front desk, and it was hard to find anyone to ask, especially since calls to the numbers on the signs went unanswered. I suspect the person who checked us in, who said she rarely did check-ins and had never done one before, missed showing us some amenities. Other reviewers mention a pool, gym, and hot tub, none of which we saw or knew about. The bee dances were advertised on Instagram and the website, but had ended the week before our stay. Then, on Friday night, three staff members played loud music and turned on fun lights past the posted quiet hours, while sitting in chairs looking at their phones. When I raised my concerns with management, I got a sharp response: “I’m doing 4 things right now, what do you need?” A man approached with his arms crossed and an angry expression. I left to cry after trying to explain everything. It felt clear that we weren't wanted or welcome, which was a horrible feeling on our honeymoon. If all you need is a room in a beautiful setting, it may be well worth it, but don't come for anything else. I wish I'd managed my expectations or chosen somewhere else.

The grounds are lush and lovely, and the staff were warm and helpful. If you need something, just ask. The elixir bar was great, and breakfast for health-conscious guests was delicious. I made friends here and could honestly live at this lovely weekend getaway. I'll definitely return and recommend it.