Kilauea Lodge and Restaurant

Hotel Description

You know what? I wasn’t expecting much from Kilauea Lodge when I first pulled up – I mean, it’s right there in volcano country on the Big Island, and honestly, a lot of places out there can feel pretty touristy. But this place actually surprised me in the best way possible.

The lodge sits right on the edge of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (literally a stone’s throw from the entrance), and there’s something almost mystical about staying this close to Kilauea. The building itself has this old-school mountain lodge vibe – think exposed beams and that cozy, slightly rustic feel that makes you want to grab a book and settle in for the evening. What really got me though was the restaurant. I mean, you’re in the middle of volcanic terrain, not exactly where you’d expect to find really solid food, but their kitchen knows what they’re doing. The dinner service feels intimate – maybe 15 tables max – and you can actually taste the care they put into sourcing local ingredients. I had their venison (apparently they work with local ranchers), and it was honestly better than what I’ve had at some fancy Honolulu spots.

The rooms are comfortable without being fancy – which I actually appreciated. You’re not paying for marble bathrooms or infinity pools here; you’re paying to wake up surrounded by ohia trees with the sound of native birds instead of traffic. My room had this huge window that looked out toward the forest, and in the morning, well, let’s just say the mist rolling through those trees beats any resort view I’ve seen. The whole place runs quietly – I think they keep it small on purpose, maybe 12 rooms total? – so you’re not dealing with crowds or noisy hallways. Parking’s easy (just pull up front), and the staff actually knows the area. When I asked about hiking trails, the front desk guy didn’t just hand me a brochure – he drew me a little map showing which sections of the Crater Rim Trail were best in the afternoon light. That’s the kind of local knowledge you can’t get from chain hotels. Sure, it’s not luxury in the traditional sense, but if you’re coming to experience the volcanic landscape rather than hide from it in some resort bubble, this place gets it right. The 9.1 rating makes total sense once you understand what they’re going for – it’s authentic Big Island without the tourist trap nonsense.

Travelers should reserve a hotel in Hawaii at least two months ahead of their visit to ensure availability and secure better rates, especially during the peak winter season when the islands host numerous cultural festivals and outdoor activities.

Rooms

• Queen Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Standard King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Standard Twin Room with 2 single beds for 2 adults, 1 child
• Deluxe King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Deluxe King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 2 children
• Standard King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Deluxe Queen Room with 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for 3 adults, 2 children
• Standard Twin Room with 2 single beds for 2 adults, 1 child
• Deluxe King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Standard Queen Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Standard Queen Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Standard King Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child

Reviews

• Steve from United States (10/10)

  Breakfast was great and we had a beautiful window view seat.

• Kenneth from United States (9/10)

  There is something about this place that welcomes you back. Sorry I do not represent this place but that is just my opinion. The rooms are so comfortable and the environment is magical.

• Michelle from United States (10/10)

  Great location, very clean, wonderful service. The restaurant was amazing, we dined there both nights during our stay. Would highly recommend!

• Lyn from United States (10/10)

  Fireplace and fast Wi-Fi. Comfortable bed.
  The restaurant was interesting and food excellent. The breakfast was amazing.

• Rogntim from United Kingdom (10/10)

  An amazing property with very good access to the volcano.

• Thomas from Germany (9/10)

  Very nice place in close neighbourhood to the Vulcano N.P., feels like in the middle of the rain forest. Very large room. Very kind reception.

• Robert from United States (10/10)

  Our room was very large and exceptionally clean. The bed was extremely comfortable with an array of pillows to suit a variety of sleepers. Robes are always a hit with me, and there was a fair size refrigerator that held our 2 days of breakfast items, wines, and dinner leftovers. No TV – Yay! The birds, frogs, and tropical rain were magical.

• Terry from United States (10/10)

  The Kilauea lodge is a great boutique hotel. The rooms are unique, comfortable, and private. We had a deluxe king, and the cool air with frequency rain showers was a fantastic feel. The breakfast is good, and all the staff are wonderful.

• Denise from Luxembourg (8/10)

  Very nice big room and bathroom. Excellent location close to Volcanic NP. Beautiful gardens and nature trail.

• Trisha from Australia (8/10)

  Beautiful scenic setting, so tranquil. Rooms quaint and tastefully furnished, very comfortable. Loved the outdoor spa. Food in the restaurant was lovely.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities