Chalet Kilauea

Hotel Description

You know what surprised me most about Chalet Kilauea? It’s one of those places that doesn’t try to be fancy, but somehow nails exactly what you need when you’re exploring the Big Island. I mean, with a name like that, you’re expecting something pretty specific – and honestly, it delivers on that cozy mountain lodge vibe without feeling like someone’s forcing a theme on you.

The first thing that hits you is how quiet it gets here at night. I’m talking about that deep, volcanic silence that only happens when you’re far enough from the coast to escape the constant sound of waves, but close enough to Kilauea that you feel like you’re part of something bigger. The rooms have this lived-in comfort – nothing Instagram-perfect, but the kind of place where you actually sleep well because the mattress is decent and the windows open wide enough to let in that crisp highland air. Check-in was refreshingly straightforward too, none of that resort rigmarole where they try to upsell you on everything.

What really makes this place work is the location, though locals probably already know this. You’re positioned perfectly for those early morning drives to catch sunrise at the crater – and trust me, you want to be on the road by 5 AM to beat the crowds and parking nightmare. But here’s the thing most people don’t realize: you’re also ideally placed for exploring some of the less touristy lava tube formations and hiking trails that branch off Crater Rim Drive. The staff actually knows which trails are open on any given day (the park service changes things constantly based on volcanic activity), and they’re not just reading from some generic printout. I had one guy draw me a little map showing exactly where to park for the Thurston Lava Tube alternative entrance that most visitors miss entirely. The property itself has this worn-but-welcoming feel – think sturdy wooden furniture that’s seen plenty of muddy hiking boots, and communal areas where you end up chatting with other travelers about trail conditions and whether that glow on the horizon is actually lava or just your imagination. Parking’s never an issue, which is honestly a huge relief after dealing with the chaos down in Hilo or Kona. Sure, it’s not going to win any design awards, and the WiFi can be spotty when the weather gets rough, but that almost adds to the charm. You’re here for the volcano, not to livestream your breakfast.

Rooms

• Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed (Chalet Kilauea Hotel) with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child

Reviews

• Linda from United States (9/10)

  Check in was easy, we arrived at night and had no trouble reaching the property. The room was amazing, very spacious with even a small kitchen, and wonderful bathroom with a cave-style double shower. In the middle of the lush green surroundings, it was the best stay of our whole trip.

• Liko from United States (9/10)

  The interior design was beyond original and creative! The cavernous shower and bathroom was insane!!🙌🏾🔥

• Lynne from United States (8/10)

  Very quiet location away from the tourist crowds. Cool volcano themed decour. Very comfy bed!

• Thomas from United States (9/10)

  almost everything! we were siblings & thought we were getting 2 beds (as the photo showed) but ended up with a king. couldn’t change due to booking with booking.com. the only disappointment. loved everything else!

• Gloria from United States (8/10)

  Garden views. Proximity to Volcano National Park.

• Jordan from United States (9/10)

  Very cute garden. Good location for visiting Volcanoes National Park. Our room was amazing—I think we may have been upgraded—with a separate parking spot, and thematic bathroom. Really special place to stay that felt fancy but not in a sterile, resort-y way that I don’t like. Hope to be back in the future!

• Toni from United States (8/10)

  Unique fun getaway enhanced our vacation. Spacious.

• Suzanne from United States (9/10)

  Gorgeous setting, no complications at all

• Haida from Canada (9/10)

  I loved the decor and ambience. I loved the cavelike feel of the shower.

• Reg from Canada (9/10)

  The decor
  We felt we were in a lava cave
  In a great way😀

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities