Hostels often have the image of being for young and wild budget travelers. But on Big Island, most hostels are quaint, cute and affordable. They're fit for couples, individuals and anyone looking for a nice place at a lower price. To take advantage of affordable accommodations that are off the beaten path, read this list of the best Big Island hostels.
Hilo Bay Hostel — Photo courtesy of Hilo Bay Hostel
Hilo Bay Hostel
Hilo Bay Hostel lies a few blocks inland from the ocean. The historical building, built in 1912, has been beautifully refurbished (Don't let the outside fool you.).
As expected, Hilo Bay Hostel has a shared kitchen, as well as free wireless Internet. They offer $70 private rooms and $25 dorm rooms. They also offer free coffee, tea and lockers as well as coin-operated washer and dryer services.
What's convenient about Hilo Bay Hostel is that it's right smack in the middle of shops, restaurants and other entertainment, so it's possible to stay here without a vehicle. Bus stops are also nearby. The buses can take guests around Hilo or across the island.
Hilo Bay Hostel
101 Waianuenue Ave.
808-933-2771
Holo Holo In
At Holo Holo In, a hostel and budget inn located in Volcano Village, guests have the option of a private room ($60), with a private or shared bathroom, or a dormitory bed ($24). The inn is just a short drive from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where outdoors lovers can hike, picnic and take in views of a steaming crater and wildlife.
Like most hostels, Holo Holo has a large communal kitchen and television room, as well as hot showers, a laundry room, free Internet and free drinks - coffee, tea and hot chocolate. The communal space also offers luxuries such as a library, computer and couches.
It's important to know that Holo Holo has a strict daily lockout due to their cleaning schedule from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. But with all the activities in the area, that's okay, right? Because of its location, it's a convenient spot when passing through between Kona and Hilo.
Holo Holo In
19-4036 Kalani Honua Rd.
808-967-7950
View from the balcony at Pineapple Park — Photo courtesy of Pineapple Park
Pineapple Park
In Kona, travelers into the hostel scene will like Pineapple Park. Pineapple Park has turned a classic plantation-era home into a hostel, and the place is known for being clean and cute.
The dorm rooms run $25 and are located in a transformed walk-out basement, which has its own television room and free wireless Internet. A private room with a shared bath rents for $65, while rooms with private bathrooms rent for $85.
A shared kitchen and laundry facilities take care of guests' basic needs, and snorkel gear and kayaks can be rented on site for low prices. Guests looking forward to extended stays are advised to inquire about discounts.
Pineapple Park isn't very close to town or to any bus stops, so this is a good place for travelers with rental cars to stay.
Pineapple Park
81-6363 Mamalahoa Hwy.
808-323-2224
