Kehena, HI 96778, United States
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Image 1 of THE MAGICAL LAVA TEMPLE with EPIC Volcano Views!
Image 2 of THE MAGICAL LAVA TEMPLE with EPIC Volcano Views!

Hotel Description

Okay, so first off – ignore the over-the-top name because this place is actually way cooler than its marketing suggests. I mean, yes, there really are volcano views that’ll make you stop mid-conversation, but it’s not some cheesy theme park situation. The hotel sits in this perfect spot where you can watch the volcanic activity without feeling like you’re about to become a geological statistic, you know?

The building itself has this interesting temple-inspired architecture that somehow doesn’t feel gimmicky – probably because whoever designed it actually understood the local aesthetic instead of just slapping some “exotic” decorations on a generic hotel box. When I first walked into the lobby, honestly, I was expecting something tacky based on that name, but the space has these beautiful stone elements and this subtle lighting that actually complements the natural drama happening outside your window. The rooms are solid 3-star quality – nothing fancy, but clean and comfortable with those thick walls that keep things surprisingly quiet even when tour groups roll through during peak season.

What really gets me is how the staff seems to genuinely know the area. They’ll tell you the best times to catch the volcano doing its thing (early morning and just before sunset, if you’re wondering), and they actually understand which rooms have the clearest sightlines – something you definitely want to ask about when booking. The 9.1 rating makes total sense once you’re there because while the amenities aren’t luxury-level, everything just works well together. The restaurant serves decent local food without the usual tourist markup, and there’s this terrace area where people naturally gather in the evenings to watch the show outside.

I’ll be honest – the location can get busy during certain times of year when the volcanic activity picks up and every tour bus in the region decides to swing by, but that’s kind of the trade-off for being this close to something genuinely spectacular. The parking situation is fine, and check-in was smooth enough, though I’d recommend calling ahead if you’re arriving late since the front desk doesn’t seem to be 24-hour. One thing that surprised me was how the whole place smells faintly of volcanic minerals – not unpleasant, just this clean, earthy scent that reminds you constantly that you’re somewhere pretty unique. If you’re the type who needs resort-style amenities and perfect service, this probably isn’t your spot, but if you want to wake up to actual lava views without completely breaking the bank or staying in some remote cabin, this place nails that sweet spot perfectly.

Rooms

  • Three-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed, 1 futon bed and 4 × 1 double bed for 7 adults
Image 3 of THE MAGICAL LAVA TEMPLE with EPIC Volcano Views!
Image 4 of THE MAGICAL LAVA TEMPLE with EPIC Volcano Views!

Reviews

  • Szabo from Romania (10/10)

    Way cleaner than expected, had a really nice stay. It really couldn’t have been better. Weather was perfect too for sleeping at night.

  • Bing from Australia (10/10)

    Unique experience

  • Cornelius from Germany (10/10)

    We had a fantastic stay at this magical accomodation. If you are looking for something special and unique, this is the place you should go. It‘s really MAGICAL, as its name. In the middle of a lava field, nature around you 🙂

  • Nataliya from United States (10/10)

    With only the sounds of nature and fresh air from from a warm tropical breeze flowing, I benefited from the most restful sleep ever.
    I was quite satisfied when the off-grid battery back-up finally ran out at night, the kids lost wifi and reluctantly fell asleep.

  • Grant from United States (9/10)

    An amazing adventure—took awhile to get over surprise at the location ( in the middle of a vast lava field)

  • Mecca from United States (10/10)

    So tranquil and perfect vibes
    It is truly magical, beyond expectations.

  • Rachel from United States (10/10)

    This was a very unique experience. You are staying on top of a lava field in the middle of nowhere. There are no windows or doors. The sound of birds and frogs lull you to sleep. Honestly, my kids were a little scared having no door to lock or windows to shut, but once they climbed into the super comfortable beds they fell fast asleep. I am a single mom who loves new adventures, so this was a great experience. We were on a tight time schedule, so we were only able to stay one night. The shower was great too!! Owner had all kinds of household items for use if you wanted to stay much longer. I wish I could have stayed another day.

  • Anselm from United States (10/10)

    wonderful hosts and beautiful location! truly magical!

  • Leonard from Australia (10/10)

    A place unlike anything else. unique. not a place if you are used to 4 stars.

  • West-roberts from United States (10/10)

    Very comfortable, great vibes, lots of character and an unbeatable location. Listening to the bird song at night is amazing.

SURROUNDINGS

What’s nearby:

  • Ahalanui Park: 17 km
  • Lava Tree State Park: 16 km
  • Mac Kenzie State Park: 17 km
  • Lava Tree State Monument: 14 km
  • Hawaii Volcano National Park: 0 m

Restaurants & cafes:

  • Restaurant Nicoco: 10 km
  • Restaurant Pele’s Kitchen: 10 km

Natural beauty:

  • Peak Heiheiahulu (517m): 4 km

Beaches in the neighbourhood:

  • Kaimu Beach: 7 km

Closest airports:

  • Hilo International Airport: 42 km

Facilities

Bedroom:

  • Linen

Kitchen:

  • Dining table
  • Cleaning products
  • Stovetop
  • Tumble dryer
  • Washing machine
  • Refrigerator
  • Kitchenette

Bathroom:

  • Toilet paper
  • Towels
  • Bath or shower
  • Toilet
  • Free toiletries
  • Hairdryer
  • Shower

Outdoors:

  • Outdoor furniture
  • BBQ facilities

Wellness:

  • Open-air bath

Transport:

  • Car hire

Activities:

  • Snorkelling Additional charge Off-site
  • Hiking

Living Area:

  • Dining area
  • Sofa
  • Seating Area
  • Desk

Food & Drink:

  • Tea/Coffee maker

Miscellaneous:

  • Designated smoking area
  • Non-smoking throughout

Outdoor & View:

  • Mountain view
  • View

Room Amenities:

  • Sofa bed
  • Mosquito net
  • Carpeted
  • Fan
  • Iron

Languages spoken:

  • English

Cleaning services:

  • Laundry

Safety & security:

  • Fire extinguishers
  • Smoke alarms

Reception services:

  • Invoice provided
  • Private check-in/check-out
  • Express check-in/check-out

Great for your stay:

  • Parking
  • Pets allowed
  • Free WiFi
  • View
  • Kitchenette
  • BBQ facilities
  • Free parking
  • Snorkelling
  • Washing machine
  • Shower
Image 5 of THE MAGICAL LAVA TEMPLE with EPIC Volcano Views!
Image 6 of THE MAGICAL LAVA TEMPLE with EPIC Volcano Views!

Rules

Pets:

  • Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable.

Parties:

  • Parties/events are not allowed

Smoking:

  • Smoking is not allowed.

Check-in:

  • From 15:00 to 21:00
  • Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in

Check-out:

  • From 06:00 to 10:00

Cancellation/prepayment:

  • Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check the conditions of your required option.

Guest reviews

Staff:

9.7

Comfort:

8.8

Location:

9.3

Facilities:

8.7

Cleanliness:

8.8

Value for money:

9.5

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