Within a 60-minute drive from the Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center.
Creature comforts
Enjoy the comforts of home at some sites—including flush toilets, showers, and a kitchen.
MUST LOVE CATS
(and fresh air)
Nestled in the foothills of Kilauea volcano, Flashtown is an undiscovered paradise boasting breathtaking views of the Big Island's major volcanoes. Perched at 1800ft elevation, our haven promises the freshest air and cool nights. As a small fruit farm and cat sanctuary atop the world's longest lava tube, Flashtown offers a truly unique experience.
Easily accessible via paved roads to our gated driveway from any airport, this retreat combines convenience with seclusion. Explore the surroundings effortlessly with our free shuttle bus operating six days a week.
Camp amid lush greenery or find the perfect hammock spot; our humble cabin, with a comfy bed and expansive windows, provides a cozy retreat. Enjoy modern amenities like a flushing toilet and hot shower while immersing yourself in nature.
Hosted by Jessie, an experienced camper and devoted animal lover, Flashtown is a labor of love. Wander along forest trails and embrace an authentic experience with our 12 resident cats. Wake up to the symphony of roosters, adding a touch of rustic charm to your morning.
A sprawling pond attracts dragonflies and butterflies, creating a natural haven that deters mosquitoes. Vibrant blooms dot the landscape, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast of fresh eggs and pancakes cooked on a two-burner stove in our barebones kitchen area. Embrace sustainability with solar power options while staying connected with decent cell signal. Flashtown invites you to a camping experience where nature, comfort, and genuine hospitality converge, offering an authentic forest experience with trails and the soothing sounds of roosters at dawn.
apprx20 minutes to Kilauea.
30 minutes to Hilo or Pahoa.
I can’t say enough wonderful things about our stay. Jessie made it truly unforgettable! He was incredibly warm and welcoming from the moment we arrived, making us feel right at home. It was clear that he genuinely loved sharing his space with us, which made our time all the more special.
Jessie took the time to show us around his property, introducing us to many beautiful plants he grows. It was like a private tour of Hawaiian flora and we learned so much with each step. Every moment there felt meaningful, thanks to Jessie. His company was just as wonderful as the setting, with great conversations and a truly welcoming energy. Of course, I can’t forget about his sweetest animals that brought so much joy and were so lovely to be around.
I honestly couldn’t wish for a better host. He went above and beyond in every way and I’m so grateful for our experience.
Jessie has created a unique spot out of a jungle lot - lots of fruit trees, water cachement pond, chickens, and of course, lots of cute cats and two very friendly dogs. He is very generous and shared the best lilikoi, offered eggs from the chickens, and shared tips on some cool places to visit.
The shelter kept us warm and dry from the rain. One of the cats, Cookie, was able to break in to snuggle us at night but tbh I found this to be a feature of the place. The bathroom is a short walk from the shelter and uses non-potable for the toilet, sink, and shower (which have hot water - a little quirky to use but a nice amenity). It is an open air bathroom and shower so not the most private but there's no one else around and considering the last place I stayed had a port a potty this was a huge upgrade.
Other things to note - you are in the jungle! Coqui frogs are loud at night and roosters crow in the morning, so bring earplugs if you are a light sleeper. There are some lights on the property but it was nice to have my headlamp to walk around at night. The location is great - close to Volcano National Park and Hilo.
What a magnificent piece of paradise! I highly recommend staying at FlashTown - everything about our visit was amazing. From the moment we got there, Jessie treated us like family. The yard is well thought out & filled with a number of beautifully cultivated areas to explore, bordered by wild forest. We loved getting to meet all the cats, chickens & dogs that call this haven home. Each element of this experience highlighted the love, dedication & forethought invested in the space by its caretaker. I can only see it becoming even more magical with time
Location
Mountain View, Hawaii, Hawaii, United StatesTraditional, ancestral territory of Nā moku ʻehā First Nations according to