Oceanfront Cottage Near the Kalapana Lava Flows

Hotel Description

You know what? I’ve stayed at a lot of places along the Big Island’s coast, but this little oceanfront cottage near Kalapana really surprised me. When I first pulled up, I’ll be honest – it doesn’t look like much from the outside. It’s pretty basic, sort of like someone’s beach shack that got spruced up for guests. But then you step inside and realize the real magic is that view. The ocean is literally right there, and I mean *right there* – you can hear the waves constantly, which is either going to be your favorite thing ever or keep you up at night (it was definitely my favorite thing).

The location is actually incredible if you’re into the whole volcanic landscape experience. You’re basically sitting where lava used to flow into the ocean back in the day, and honestly, the energy of the place is just different. The coastline here is all black rock and dramatic cliffs – nothing like the sandy beaches up north. During the day, you can walk along these rugged lava formations, and at night… well, the stars are absolutely insane because there’s basically no light pollution out here. I spent way too much time just sitting on the little lanai with a beer, watching the waves crash against the rocks below. The cottage itself is pretty simple – I mean, it’s a 3-star place, so don’t expect luxury – but it’s clean and comfortable enough. The bed was fine, the little kitchenette had everything I needed to make coffee and heat up some malasadas from the town. What really matters is that big window facing the ocean and the covered outdoor area where you can just… exist.

Here’s the thing though – you’re pretty isolated out here. The nearest real town is Pahoa, which is about a 20-minute drive, and that’s where you’ll want to stock up on groceries and gas before settling in. The road can get a little rough in spots, nothing crazy, but maybe not the best for a tiny rental car. Also, cell service is spotty, which honestly ended up being a blessing. I came here right after the busy season in February, and having the place mostly to myself made it feel even more special. The owners were super chill during check-in – just gave me the key and some local tips about where to see the best tide pools. If you’re looking for resort amenities and room service, this definitely isn’t your spot. But if you want to feel like you’re living on the edge of the world, literally where the island meets the Pacific, and you don’t mind trading convenience for something genuinely unique… I mean, that 8.8 rating makes total sense once you’re here watching the sunrise over water that’s probably 1,000 feet deep just offshore.

Rooms

• Cottage with double bed, 1 double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 3 adults

Reviews

• Michaela from United States (8/10)

  Andre was very responsive and kind. The beach was directly across the street although we weren’t expecting rocks lol. Would stay here again

• Michael from United States (9/10)

  Proximity to Kehena Beach (didn’t even know how important this would be).

• Mizer from United States (9/10)

  Ocean view and location is amazing. Very peaceful ambiance. The 1 bedroom cottage is cute and has alot of character.

• Lukasz from Poland (9/10)

  Awesome location!

• Iulia from Canada (9/10)

  It’s like a heaven on a earth! The best location ever if you want to have a peaceful time. Close to the very beautiful black sand beach ( the best beach I saw in Big Island. Enjoy!!!

• Todd from United States (9/10)

  The location is perfect,close proximity to Pahoa for groceries and restaurants. The bed is comfortable and there is AC of you absolutely need it in the bedroom but we didn’t use it much at all. The kitchenette is all we really needed during our stay and has everything to make small meals.

• Constance from United States (9/10)

  It was extremely close to the beach. It’s in the middle of the rainforest it seems but very much felt like home. Very secluded and private but also a shared property so social interaction was optional. shared kitchen space but all essentials were available. Every morning we got to wake up to the sounds and sight of the ocean!

• Hotavio from United States (9/10)

  Host emailed list of sites in the area along with ways to reach or enjoy them. Felt like she knew us.

• Mendukoargento from Argentina (9/10)

  Everything was great!!! We liked it a lot!! 👍

• Andrea from United States (9/10)

  The cottage was very clean and close to the beach plus it was cute!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities