13-3527 Kupono St, Pahoa, HI 96778, United States
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Image 1 of Unique Lava House by steaming crater
Image 2 of Unique Lava House by steaming crater

Unique Lava House by steaming crater Overview

Okay, so I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first heard about this place – I mean, “Unique Lava House by steaming crater” sounds like something from a sci-fi movie, right? But honestly, it’s one of those experiences that completely shifts your perspective on what a hotel can be. You’re literally staying next to an active geothermal area, and the sound of steam venting becomes this oddly soothing white noise that you actually start missing when you leave.

The house itself has this incredible raw authenticity that you just don’t find in regular hotels. The volcanic rock incorporated into the walls isn’t some design gimmick – it’s functional, keeping the interior naturally cool even when the air outside shimmers with heat from the crater. What really gets me is how they’ve managed to harness the geothermal energy for heating and hot water. Your shower pressure is incredible, and the water has this slight mineral quality that leaves your skin feeling different (in a good way, I promise). The windows are positioned perfectly so you can watch the steam plumes rise while you’re having your morning coffee, which – you know what – becomes this meditative ritual you never knew you needed.

I’ll be straight with you though, this isn’t for everyone. If you’re someone who needs total silence to sleep, the constant gentle rumbling and occasional steam release might throw you off the first night. But most people I’ve talked to say they adapt quickly, and some even find it helps them sleep deeper. The location means you’re a bit isolated from typical tourist strips, so don’t expect to walk to a bunch of restaurants or shops. You’ll want to stock up on groceries beforehand, though honestly, cooking here becomes part of the adventure – there’s something primal about preparing food while volcanic activity happens right outside your window. The air has this distinctive sulfur scent that’s stronger some days than others, depending on wind direction and crater activity. It’s not overwhelming, just… earthy and unique. Parking is straightforward, and check-in was refreshingly personal – the owners actually live nearby and genuinely care about your experience. They’ll share insider knowledge about the best times to view the crater activity and warn you about the occasional tour groups that pass through during peak hours. This place has earned its perfect rating because it delivers something you literally cannot get anywhere else, and the owners understand they’re not just running a hotel – they’re offering access to one of nature’s most powerful displays.

Unique Lava House by steaming crater Accommodations

AccommodationDetails
Two-Bedroom House2 × 1 large double bed and 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for 6 adults
Image 3 of Unique Lava House by steaming crater
Image 4 of Unique Lava House by steaming crater

Reviews of Unique Lava House by steaming crater

  • Rebecca from United States (10/10)

    Location felt like you were in the middle of the jungle but with quick access to stores, food & attractions. So peaceful & relaxing.

  • Shawn from United States (10/10)

    The home is in a very beautiful location. We liked the seclusion and the fact that it's adjacent to a massive lava flow from 2018.

Surroundings

What’s nearby:

  • Lava Tree State Park: 14 km
  • Lava Tree State Monument: 11 km
  • Hawaii Volcano National Park: 0 m

Restaurants & cafes:

  • Cafe/bar Alibi Tavern: 25 km
  • Restaurant Kaleo’s Bar & Grill: 7 km
  • Restaurant Ning’s Thai Cuisine: 7 km

Natural beauty:

  • Peak Ahu’Ailā’au (225m): 0 m

Closest airports:

  • Hilo International Airport: 39 km

Facilities

Bedroom:

  • Linen
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Alarm clock

Kitchen:

  • Dining table
  • Coffee machine
  • Toaster
  • Stovetop
  • Oven
  • Tumble dryer
  • Kitchenware
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

Bathroom:

  • Toilet paper
  • Towels
  • Bath or shower
  • Private bathroom
  • Toilet
  • Spa bath
  • Bath
  • Shower

Outdoors:

  • Outdoor fireplace
  • Picnic area
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Barbecue
  • BBQ facilities
  • Terrace
  • Garden

Activities:

  • Walking tours
  • Badminton equipment
  • Snorkelling
  • Horse riding
  • Cycling
  • Hiking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing

Living Area:

  • Dining area
  • Sofa
  • Seating Area

Food & Drink:

  • Coffee house on site
  • Fruits
  • Wine/champagne
  • Tea/Coffee maker

Accessibility:

  • Entire unit wheelchair accessible
  • Entire unit located on ground floor

Miscellaneous:

  • Pet bowls
  • Pet basket
  • Designated smoking area
  • Non-smoking throughout
  • Family rooms
  • Non-smoking rooms

Outdoor & View:

  • Landmark view
  • Garden view

Room Amenities:

  • Socket near the bed
  • Sofa bed
  • Clothes rack
  • Mosquito net
  • Tile/marble floor
  • Private entrance
  • Fan
  • Hot tub

Languages spoken:

  • Czech
  • German
  • English

Cleaning services:

  • Laundry

Safety & security:

  • Fire extinguishers
  • CCTV outside property
  • Smoke alarms
  • Key access

Media & Technology:

  • Streaming service (like Netflix)
  • Flat-screen TV
  • TV

Reception services:

  • Private check-in/check-out
  • Luggage storage
  • Express check-in/check-out

Entertainment and family services:

  • Indoor play area
  • Board games/puzzles
  • Books, DVDs, or music for children
  • Board games/puzzles
Image 5 of Unique Lava House by steaming crater
Image 6 of Unique Lava House by steaming crater

House Rules at Unique Lava House by steaming crater

Pets:

  • Free! Pets are allowed. No extra charges.

Parties:

  • Parties/events are not allowed

Smoking:

  • Smoking is not allowed.

Check-in:

  • From 15:00 to 22:00
  • Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in

Check-out:

  • Until 11:00

No age restriction:

  • There is no age requirement for check-in

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:

10

Comfort:

10

Location:

10

Facilities:

10

Cleanliness:

10

Value for money:

10