Airbnb Management
Full-service Airbnb management for your short-term rental. Nationwide.
Hilo, Hawaii
In Hilo, Hawaii, guests can find a diverse range of Airbnb accommodations that cater to various preferences and budgets. Options include charming oceanfront cottages that offer stunning views of the Pacific, providing a serene and picturesque setting for relaxation. For those seeking a more immersive experience in nature, there are cozy rainforest retreats nestled amidst lush greenery, offering a tranquil escape. Additionally, visitors can choose from modern apartments and condos in the heart of Hilo, providing convenient access to local attractions, shops, and dining. For a unique stay, some hosts offer traditional Hawaiian-style homes or bungalows, allowing guests to experience authentic island living. Whether travelers are looking for a luxurious getaway or a budget-friendly option, Hilo's Airbnb offerings provide a wide array of choices to suit different tastes and needs.
In Hilo, Hawaii, short-term vacation rentals, including those listed on platforms like Airbnb, are subject to specific regulations. Hosts must register their properties with the County of Hawaii and obtain a Short-Term Vacation Rental (STVR) registration number, which must be displayed in all advertisements. These rentals are generally allowed in areas zoned for resort use, but restrictions apply in residential and agricultural zones unless the property was in operation before certain cutoff dates and has been grandfathered in. Additionally, hosts are required to pay the Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT) and the General Excise Tax (GET) on rental income. Compliance with these tax obligations is crucial, as failure to do so can result in penalties. The county also enforces rules regarding noise, parking, and occupancy to minimize the impact on local neighborhoods.
Managing an Airbnb in Hilo, Hawaii, involves several key tasks to ensure a successful operation. Hosts need to focus on maintaining the property to meet guest expectations, which includes regular cleaning, landscaping, and addressing any maintenance issues promptly. Given Hilo's tropical climate, pest control and weatherproofing are also essential. Effective communication with guests is crucial, from providing clear check-in instructions to being responsive to inquiries and concerns. Additionally, optimizing the listing with high-quality photos and accurate descriptions can enhance visibility and attract bookings. Hosts should also stay informed about local regulations and community guidelines to ensure compliance. Finally, leveraging local attractions and experiences in marketing efforts can help differentiate the property and enhance guest satisfaction.
Hilo, located on the lush eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, offers several appealing areas for an Airbnb stay. Downtown Hilo is a vibrant choice, providing easy access to local shops, restaurants, and the famous Hilo Farmers Market, all set against a backdrop of charming historic architecture. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, the neighborhoods around Banyan Drive offer picturesque views of Hilo Bay and proximity to Liliʻuokalani Park and Gardens. Alternatively, staying near the University of Hawaii at Hilo provides a youthful atmosphere and access to cultural events. Each area offers a unique taste of Hilo's natural beauty and local culture, making them excellent choices for visitors.
Hilo, Hawaii, presents a promising market for Airbnb investment due to its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and relatively lower property prices compared to other Hawaiian destinations. As the largest city on the Big Island, Hilo attracts tourists with its lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and proximity to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The city's appeal is further enhanced by its vibrant local culture, featuring traditional Hawaiian music, hula, and art, which draws visitors seeking an authentic Hawaiian experience. Additionally, Hilo's less commercialized atmosphere compared to other Hawaiian tourist hotspots offers a more laid-back and genuine experience, making it attractive to travelers looking for a more relaxed vacation. With a steady influx of tourists year-round and a growing interest in unique, local accommodations, investing in an Airbnb in Hilo could yield substantial returns, especially if properties are well-maintained and marketed effectively.
As of the latest data, the average Airbnb revenue in Hilo, Hawaii, reflects a dynamic market influenced by its unique location and tourist appeal. Hosts in Hilo typically see moderate to high occupancy rates, driven by the area's natural attractions such as waterfalls, rainforests, and proximity to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The average monthly revenue for Airbnb listings in Hilo can vary significantly based on factors like property type, location, amenities, and seasonality, with peak tourist seasons generally boosting earnings. While exact figures fluctuate, hosts often capitalize on the steady influx of visitors seeking a more authentic and local Hawaiian experience compared to traditional hotel stays.
Hilo, Hawaii, experiences a relatively high occupancy rate for Airbnbs, driven by its appeal as a gateway to the natural attractions of the Big Island, including Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and lush rainforests. The occupancy rate tends to peak during the winter months, from December to March, when tourists from colder climates flock to the island for its warm weather and unique cultural experiences. Additionally, summer months, particularly June through August, also see increased occupancy due to family vacations and favorable weather conditions. However, the shoulder seasons, such as late spring and early fall, may experience slightly lower occupancy rates, offering potential visitors more availability and often more competitive pricing. Overall, Hilo's Airbnb market benefits from a steady influx of tourists year-round, with distinct peaks aligning with traditional vacation periods.
Why Choose Checkmate Rentals?
![]() | Other Property Managers | |
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Cost | Starting at 15% fee | 25-40% fee |
Guest Communications | Guest response within 10 minutes, 24 hours a day | Sporadic guest communications |
Host Communications | Designated host call in phone line | Bot response assistants |
Insurance | Full damage protection for every reservation | Unreliable insurance coverage |
Contract | No annual agreements | Contract lock-ins |
Checkmate Rentals

Attract Guests
List on top booking sites
Optimize listings for SEO
Feature show-stopping photos
Competitive, dynamic pricing
Mangage Operations
Tailored pricing algorithms
24/7 guest service
Reliable, professional cleaning
Restocking & inventory management
Maintenance coordination


Host Care
Unlimited owner stays
Flexible contract options
East to use host portal
Set it and forget it billing
Exclusive insurance discounts via our partner network
Get in touch with us.

Checkmate Rentals is a full-service property manager. That means the Airbnb listing, the home, the guest and the work is our responsibility.
Local Team Support
Know that you have a friendly, accessible team right up the road to handle any property needs.
Guest Screenings
Book only the most qualified guests 25 and over who’ll enjoy your home the right way.
Unlimited Owner Use
Block off your vacation days with ease, and enjoy your home as often as you want.
Reliable Property Maintenance
Keep your home running smoothly around the clock with a fast, reliable maintenance team.
Transparent Finances
Transparent Finances Booking payouts get paid directly to you for full financial transparency. We never handle your money.
Fast 24/7 Guest Communication
Make every guest feel cared for with industry best response times of 1-15 minutes day and night.
Marketing
Target, attract & book qualified guests with photography, email marketing, and optimized listings.
Revenue Management
Get the competitive edge with dynamic pricing and rates optimized daily by your pricing manager.

Ready to make the jump?
Let's get started! Schedule a call today to learn more about Checkmate Rentals.