House Crush: Off-the-grid Hawaiian treehouse

Airbnb treehouse in Hawaii’s Fern Forest. (Airbnb)

Maybe our 9-year-old selves had it right: All you really need for a happy existence is a little backyard treehouse. You can test that fantasy in this real-life (adult-size) Airbnb rental in the rain forest of the Big Island. (You even enter the dwelling through a trap door!)

The bedroom looks out to the wraparound lanai. (Airbnb)

Built by minimalism enthusiast Kristie Wolfe and her mother, this dreamy tropical treehouse resides 15 feet up in the canopy of local flora and features a wraparound lanai (with, yes, 360-degree jungle views).

And just like your childhood play structure (though much more modern), this treehouse is entirely off-the-grid: the space features solar power, a rainwater-catchment system, and optimized natural light through windows and sliding glass doors.

With elegant bamboo accents, hanging lights, tropical views and total seclusion, it’s no wonder 90% of guests are honeymooners.

There’s a hanging bed suspended beneath the living quarters. (Airbnb)

Learn more about the building of this treehouse here. And keep an eye on Kristie’s Airbnb profile to get a first look at her next project: The Lord of the Rings–style Hobbit Holes in the Northwest.