I came here as a volunteer in March of 2012 knowing nothing about Hawaii or the Big Island. I…read moreintended to stay for only 2 weeks, but ended up living here for about 6 months. This place was the most amazing experience of my life. This is where I met lifelong friends, travelers and business contacts. Hedonisia attracts eccentric, interesting, talented hippie types and the like who all have something to contribute to the "community of individuals" that comprises Hedonisia. At Hedo, I learned how to do yoga, cook curry, tend tropical gardens, build structure from re-used and re-purposed materials, build trails, hula hoop, among many other fascinating hobbies that I would have ordinarily never have tried, all in one place, none the less! The most amazing aspect of this place is the people. Without them, Hedonisia would not be as enriching of an experience. Hedonisia is on roughly 4 acres of tropical rainforest and it's built in a whimsical play land sort of way. There are fun funky nooks and crannies to explore, lots of colorful art, cooky but functional structures, a converted hippie school bus, the works. One of my friends I met here described it perfectly once: This place feels like adult hippie summer camp. You work hard, you make friends, and most of all you have so much fun! In addition to all the property has to offer including fresh fruit, beautiful flowers, vegetables, it is located in an amazing spot in Lower Puna which is rich with folklore and culture, as it is in the wake of Kilauea (active volcano's) path. There are geothermal warm ponds just up the street, black sand beaches, amazing camping, cool farmer's markets and night markets and overall the most interesting mix of people you'd ever hope to meet. This place is somewhere to go if you have an open mind and an open heart, if you are eager and hungry to learn, explore, adventure and have fun. The owners are open, honest, fun, youthful and amazing people who I have become lifelong friends and business contacts with. They have an open door policy and often get their hands dirty themselves doing work, weeding around the property, getting to know all their volunteers, all their guests, and generally opening their little slice of paradise up for everyone to share and enjoy. Do yourself a favor and volunteer here. Now.

From the first moment I got to Hedonisia I felt at home. I came as a volunteer with no return date…read morein mind so far from home I was so glad to feel comfortable as soon as I arrived. Everything is rainbow colored and mostly open air, even the kitchen which was one of my favorite parts! The property has multiple levels and its own volcanic crater! I stayed in the Avocado Tent which to my surprise was a large tent with carpeting and a real bed inside! Over my time as a volunteer I got to meet lots of really great and interesting people. This is a great place to spend some time at getting to know people. You wouldn't really get a chance to appreciate this place if you only stay for a couple of nights. If you are looking for something truly unique I would highly recommend checking this place out!

What an awesome place! We spent two days in the volcano park and this was an amazing daily…read morelaunching point for our stay. Satoshi and My Huong Yabuki are fantastic and kind hosts! The initial drive-up might make you wonder what's going on w/ this place given that the garage is full of appliances and wires, but don't be fooled. The hostel rooms are great! Very clean rooms, comfy beds, clean bathrooms with good towels and hot showers. There's a large communal kitchen and sitting area w/ a TV. Their home/hostel is off the main drag and peaceful and quiet. One room--the one we had--had a private bathroom. I believe the rest of the rooms have shared baths, but not sure. Satoshi and My Huong Yabuki also have two lovely kids ours really enjoyed playing with both throughout the house and the large property. It was a great stay for all of us and we'd definitely go back!

Great place. Nice room. Comfortable bed. Very very clean. Other guests were very interesting and…read morefriendly. Great communal kitchen. Large TV room. Satoshi was very nice. Highly recommend.

I spent a week at Gay Hawaii B&B during Xmas holidays 2018. What a fantastic and wonderful…read moreexperience! The host is perfection, he is so knowledgeable about the island and the local sights and so helpful, sweet, friendly, and fun. The house is comfortable, clean, calm, and I met some other guests that have become forever friends. The area is amazing with the ocean so close you can walk and a black sand clothing optional beach a short drive away. Uncle Awa's bar is very close, also a little market there, and don't miss the Wed. nite food and arts festival. Also a short drive to Pahoa, a quaint sleepy town with wonderful hippie shops and great Thai food! Also a not too far ride to Volcano National Park, and also several waterfalls- very cool! We picked fresh passion-fruit and lemons in the tropical garden and made passion-fruit lemonade. The kitchen is fully stocked and we made fabulous meals. All in all it was the perfect vacation. I will definitely be returning and can not recommend Gay Hawaii B&B highly enough!!

This is my worst experience ever staying at a B&B. I've…read moretraveled all around the world. What was supposed to be a lovely getaway for a personal holiday, it was basically a nightmare. The owner over booked & offered a BALI HUT which is The NIGHTMARE. Rainstorm downpour 5 days. Dripping roof from rain, screens not secured & 2 inch opening under entry door for easy access from jungle critters. The door doesn't lock. If you're looking for numerous mosquito bites, critters & way too many ghekos trying to get out of rain. They live between the rafters. I tried to move back & reclaim my room main home. No one replied, owner got angry & accused me of coming all the way there & making this up not to pay. I also was accused of stalking because of trying to get moved or something? This is NONSENSE. I had to check out after 2 days with no sleep. Because of a holiday wee I paid triple the cost at a last minute hotel back in Hilo I've had nothing but contention & threats trying to be compensated for overbooking & my experience in Bali Hut. I have no reason to lie or make this up. Please Beware

Cute quaint space. They just finishing renovating when I stayed in Feb, so it wasn't fully booked…read more It's located pretty centrally, so it was easy for me to walk to a few places. Staff was so friendly, gave recommendations and even had a white board with local events happening some nights. The lotus (female) dorm doesn't not have outlets near all the beds. It wasn't a huge deal for me, but something to be aware of. Everything else was great, and so clean!

This Hostel is pretty cool, about the best choice when staying in the area. Is super clean, fully…read moresecured, has small parking space for the rental but also is close to many places we could walk to. We were able to use their lockers to store our stuff while we were out and about. They have your typical amenities like kitchenette, fridge, free coffee and tea and whatever one may need to prep a small meal. Showers have shampoo and conditioner available. The hostel did provided us with a towel each. The restrooms were very clean actually and you are able to lock the showers so that its at least private while you shower. Our room in the back had its own bathroom and shower, which was neat. The guests were super nice and it was a nice mix of guys and girls. I love hostels and I have actually stayed here before and made a few friends I stay in touch with. Overall I recommend this place, the employees will totally help out with whatever you could need while you stay.

This is my 2nd year that I'm visiting Open gate hostel and I feel like I home, couldn't say good…read moreenough words about this place. Very nice place to stay, well equipped and great hospitality. It's remote and made on last lava eruption in Kalapana Gardens.

Words can only scratch the surface when describing the beauty and elegance of this hostel. We…read moreaccidentally came upon this place in passing and its unique collision of architecture and artistry stood out to us. Although remote, the establishment is surprisingly accessible being just a couple left turns from town. We were struck by the owners' hospitality and our stay left us feeling fully restored. Our new favorite place to crash on a weekend in puna.

This is a great location and a cool old building. What kills it for me is the giant TV that is the…read morefocal point of the common area. Nobody talks to each other because the giant TV sucks everyone in. And you hear it everywhere. Oh, and cigarette smoke is constantly coming in because they have a smoking patio right outside. Ugh I come to Hilo often but will not want to come back to this place, sadly.

First off there is a massive rat and roach problem. I can hear the rats running along the wall but…read morethat does not phase me. What upset me is Linda's treatment of an African American patron. She was verbally abusive, accusatory and then kicked him out without cause. My phone was dead otherwise I would have included a recording. Why 2 stars, when I read reviews I tend to avoid the 1 stars and 5 star rating.

First of all, how am I the first to write a review of this place that has been here since 1990?…read more Owned and operated by the same family since its establishment. Yes I did my homework before arriving! Now that I'm here, wow! Just wow! Located close to ITO airport and the beautiful beach, this property has a little or a lot of everything for every traveler! From incredible house/lodge style accommodations (think barndominium - I live in Tennessee) to basic hotel style rooms and suites, even onsite camping for travelers! I was immediately greeted by concierge Lauren who took her time, walking me around the grounds even though I'm just here for the night. I arrived late, but just before sunset. Ok ok, let me go back.... I was flying in from HNL and as my flight departed at 5:00pm, I received a text from Arnotts confirming my arrival. This personal touch started my journey to this review. Being only 12 minutes from the ITO airport, a taxi ride is about $15.00. The drive is beautiful, scenic, and the view of the ocean pretty much the entire drive in reaching the resort. The atmosphere is green, lush, and quiet. Many common areas, so if you're traveling alone, not to worry, this Lodge makes you feel like you're among friends! Check in and be ready to be escorted around the property with a personal tour of all the amenities and your room! Although there are no TVs or phones in the rooms, WiFi is strong and the air conditioner is cold! What more do you need? You're in Hawaii! Go enjoy the sights! The Lodge has its own tour company, excursions! No need to leave your accommodation to find things to do, this place has its own all. 10/10 for sure! Listen, if you want the beach, close to the airport (without noise, I literally heard chirping birds only), excursions, friendly people, beautiful lush grounds, a clean room, and peace! This is your place! Thank you Lauren! You made my first visit to Hilo one I won't forget! ~ Kerry Kirchenberg K9comfortpaws.com

Finally had the chance to do a Mauna Kea Sunset Adventure tour in August 2023, and after doing a…read morelot of research and figuring things out, I am so thankful and glad I went with Arnott's Lodge & Hiking Adventures! Their staff is so awesome overall in experience, communication, and knowledge. The prices are very competitive and reasonable compared to other similar tour companies. And even though Arnott's Lodge & Hiking Adventures is based in Hilo, they are able to meet up with those of us who are staying in Kailua-Kona (or anywhere on the west coast) at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station (VIS). Andraes was our tour guide for this particular adventure I was a part of and he definitely shared a lot about the history behind Mauna Kea as well as other great stories! He also had our jackets as requested in our initial reservation bookings, and one thing to keep in mind that even during the summer months, it can and does get cold and freezing at the higher altitudes. I've been told that the summer months are much better in terms of making it to the summit of Mauna Kea than any other times of the year because of the weather conditions. And on that particular stretch, it was the best weather conditions they have had in a while. You do have to spend at least 30 minutes at the VIS to acclimate to the higher altitudes prior to going to the summit. Best to bring plenty of water and snacks along with a beanie cap and mittens. You don't want to be like some crazy hikers whom we saw at the summit with only shorts and a shirt on (and barely any hiking gear on them)! Anyways, it was very clear once we reached the summit and such beautiful views! And a very nice sunset to close out the day! At that high an altitude, you don't want to move around too quickly due to lower levels of oxygen, and you might feel light-headed and a bit dazed at times. Also loved the stargazing show after sunset. Even though I could not get photos, just seeing it with my own eyes was great enough! I don't have an iPhone, but from what others were telling me, it's easier to do it on those kinds of smartphones versus an Android. Overall, excellent Mauna Kea Sunset Tour by Arnott's Lodge & Hiking Adventures and I hope to be back for a daytime tour down the road!

First let me start by saying, I am extremely picky and I guess as my friends say, boujie , LOL…read more I just got back from my Hawaii trip.. first time ever in a hostel. I wanted to go out of my comfort zone and also save money at this time as I have some goals I am working on. I researched each hostel, read reviews and honestly cleanliness was my primary concern. I was pleasantly surprised.. First, it was easy to book. Second.. Adam... I have never felt more welcome ANYwhere. He greeted me so warmly, checked me in in 5 mins and took me for a tour of the place. Super cute, inviting, welcoming, and home-ee Now, please understand, it is Kona, it is Island, the hostel is open air in a way and it is somewhat humid in the bathrooms at times and a bit musty, but nothing awful...this is not the four Seasons... so if you are not willing to step out of YOUR comfort zone and have this kind of experience then don't book it and leave a bad review. The staff here work hard and talking to other visitors that have frequented hostels, they were all very happy and surprised actually here. It Is shared living quarters and you have people from all over the world so hygiene is different for some people... but.. the staff are constantly cleaning, sanitizing and making sure the place is in order. I loved the seating with umbrellas that have LED lights to enjoy a nice evening and grab a book and hot cup of tea or beer and enjoy it. There is a full kitchen with all utensils and machines for you to use. Fridge, where you mark your items and everyone is super respectful. Coffee and tea and provided and water. Bathrooms are available as shared or 2 private. BBQ is back for your own use. The staff can do laundry for you same day for $5. There is a bulletin board full of local information and coupons. The bed.. WOW.. the bed was SO comfortable.. sheets white and clean. Very well working AC in each room. There are lockers in the rooms for your personal items but not for luggage. Under the beds have plenty of room for that. Free hi speed WiFi. Nice location. Water pressure in the bathrooms are fabulous. Another cute lounge area in the kitchen with books and comfy chairs. In the evening most travelers are hanging out, Talking, eating and cooking, so it is a great place to meet people, or if you are an introvert that's cool too. Location: you are literally across the street from a beach with gorgeous sunsets. You are walking distance to a liquor/ convenience store & few small places. I myself rented a moped for $60 a day from Kona Mopeds and I HIGHLY suggest that as well to hit the main strip of restaurants, bars and shopping. There is also a local trolley called the Hele on which is $2 as well which is great and the stop is right in front of the hostel.. All in all, I really enjoyed my stay.. yes, I was a little uncomfortable at first because I am so nit picky but I just realized, hey, I am here to sleep and shower and then enjoy the Island. So, if you are trying to choose a hostel, choose this one. You won't be disappointed. P.S: Adam, I hope you get a bonus for your outstanding service and kindness. You made this gal's first time to Kona great!

The cleanliness and rules being abide. This did activated my sinuses because of the mold.read more

Nothing good to say about this place…read more We couldn't stay because it was bad from the moment we got there. Hot water would take 15-20 minutes to get to the shower. No ice machine, no internet, no TV, no place to set your luggage except the floor. The pictures must be old because when we got there it was more rundown. Stairs were sketchy and the place really needs some work all around. Unsure why anyone would give this place a 5 star review when I am giving it one star because you have to give something. Do not make a reservation unless you want to give your money away because they have it posted that if you have a complaint about this place built in 1911, it will not suffice to get a refund of your first day if you don't cancel 24 hours prior. I highly recommend asking to see your room and tour the property before choosing to stay there so you know what you are getting yourself in to.

if I could give it minus stars I would. I urge you not to stay here. Everything is rundown what…read morethey call a superior room is a dump. They will tell you your room will have a king bed, but they give you a queen there are no phones, TV or alarm clock in the room & the toilet wobbles. There are holes everywhere. Someone tried to enter my room, and suddenly the manager claims it was a room check. I don't understand it and she didn't seem to care about my safety or the fact that I got an anxiety and had to sleep with when I open I didn't even feel safe to leave the room with my belongings to go into town to get something to eat. It was a nightmare. I didn't trust to leave my belongings for fear that someone would enter my room to steal them by the way, the manager says her family sleeps at the hotel. It's more like a motel dump.