Honomu Inn

Hotel Description

You know what? I wasn’t expecting much when I first pulled up to the Honomu Inn – honestly, three stars in a tiny town like Honomu doesn’t usually scream “hidden gem.” But this place actually surprised me in the best way possible. It’s one of those spots where you realize the star rating system doesn’t capture everything that matters.

The inn sits right in the heart of this sleepy little plantation town on the Big Island’s Hamakua Coast, and I mean heart in the most literal sense – you’re basically on the main drag (though calling it a “drag” is generous since Honomu’s got maybe three streets total). What makes this location brilliant is that you’re just four minutes from Akaka Falls, which most tourists rush to see and then leave. But staying here? You get to experience the falls in the early morning when the light hits just right and there’s hardly anyone around. The owner mentioned that most guests stumble out of bed around 7 AM and walk over before the tour buses arrive – honestly some of the best advice I got during my entire Big Island trip.

The rooms are clean and comfortable in that unpretentious way that actually works better than fancy resort accommodations sometimes. I mean, you’re not getting marble bathrooms or 400-thread-count sheets, but everything feels well-maintained and thoughtfully arranged. The bed was surprisingly good – firm enough that I didn’t wake up with a sore back, which is more than I can say for some four-star places I’ve stayed. My room faced the main street, and while that might sound concerning, Honomu basically rolls up the sidewalks at sunset, so noise wasn’t an issue at all. Actually, the most exciting thing that happened was watching the local cats have their evening territorial disputes around 9 PM.

What really won me over was how the staff – and I use that term loosely since it’s more like a family operation – genuinely cared about helping guests explore the area properly. They steered me toward the back road to Waipio Valley that cuts through all these tiny communities you’d never find otherwise, and suggested hitting up Mr. Ed’s Bakery in Ninole for malasadas (which, trust me, are worth the 15-minute detour). These aren’t things you’ll find in guidebooks, but they’re exactly the kind of local knowledge that makes a trip memorable. The 8.9 rating makes complete sense once you understand that this place delivers exactly what it promises – no more, no less – but does it with genuine aloha spirit that’s getting harder to find as Hawaii gets more commercialized.

Rooms

• Queen Room with Balcony with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Queen Room with Balcony with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Queen Room with Balcony with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Queen Room with Balcony with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Queen Room with Balcony with 1 large double bed for 2 adults

Reviews

• Thea from United States (9/10)

  Plenty of options to choose from

• Jeffrey from United States (9/10)

  Beautifully decorated in an ‘old hawaii’ fashion and a large room. Situated in a quiet community just north of Hilo, so accessible to those areas without the hustle and bustle. Free street parking was readily available.

• Emerson from United States (9/10)

  This is a super cute botique hotel with really elegant and local decor. I loved hearing the coqui frogs at night, and the view from our room looked out to lush rainforest. It was very peaceful and not too remote– Hilo is only about a 20 minute drive down the Hawaii belt– though you feel like you’re in the middle of nature. The breakfast is simple but well thought out. Very close to ‘Akaka Falls.

• Kim from Canada (9/10)

  There is a common kitchenette well supplied with continental breakfast items. Best thing was available coffee, made with fresh ground beans and pour-over pots not Keurig disposables.

• Benjamin from United States (9/10)

  Self service items in communal fridge – easy to access

• F from United States (8/10)

  Location in small town near Hilo but off the beaten path. Sound of frogs at night. Generous food in the shared fridge. Chance to interact with other inn guests in the communal space. Lush, pretty views out the windows. Beautiful waterfalls a few minutes’ drive away. Friendly post office down the street; friendly shop owners and coffee shop a few doors down.

• Elizabeth from United Kingdom (9/10)

  This is a beautiful old building and the spacious room and deck were ideal for a few days. The breakfast items, including excellent coffee, provided in the kitchen were great and we had everything we needed to enjoy our stay and explore the North and East side of the island.

• Mark from United States (9/10)

  I was just looking for somewhere to stay close to my property in Laupahoehoe that I am working on and intend to build on in a couple of years. I just needed a shower and bed plus food close by and this property met all of my expectations. There is a good Pizza place close by with a Smooth / Acai bowl place right next door. Also don’t forget Mister Ed’s Bakery and Shave Ice up the street, very Iconic. The room is in a Historic old building that has been renovated very tastefully. Nice updated bathroom. Bed was a Queen size and very comfortable. I’d stay here again and probably will.

• Joy from Austria (9/10)

  Very clean. Good location. Big room.

• Dakota from United States (9/10)

  Certainly on the fancier side of things, given the area. Very responsive and helpful staff nearby. Food and drink included in the stay. Balcony and room were very private.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities