Unique Stays on the Big Island: 3 Places Worth Booking
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We’ve stayed in many lovely hotels around the Big Island, but sometimes resorts just don’t hit the spot. If you’re looking for seclusion, tranquility, or something a little less conventional, these are the most unique stays on the Big Island.
3 Unique Stays on the Big Island
1. The Yurt in Fern Forest
A yurt is a portable, circular shelter with origins in Central Asia dating back thousands of years. They have become popular because of their sturdy design, energy efficiency, unique look, and simplicity.
Unless you’re one of the few Americans living full-time in a yurt, this is bound to be a special experience, which I can attest to! We stayed in this yurt on a recent trip and had such a nice time.
It’s rustic, remote, and mostly quiet… just prepare to be serenaded by the coqui frogs throughout the night. Located in Fern Forest, it’s only a 15-minute drive from Volcanoes National Park, so if that is on your bucket list, this is a really convenient stay!
It has all the comforts of home, including a washer and dryer, so you can even settle in for a longer stay if that’s what your heart desires.
We departed from the Yurt on a day of exploring the South Point of the Big Island. See our 15 South Point Hawaii Things to Do for farm tours, Kahuku Unit, and the infamous cliff jumping spot.
2. Volcano House
If you’re making a visit to Volcanoes National Park (and you should!), consider staying in the park, on the rim of the Halema’uma’u Crater! Volcano House is a small, older hotel, with just 33 guest rooms. You get to enjoy the park when things are quiet — before visitors arrive and after they leave.
And if you’re really lucky, you’ll book a stay when Kilauea Volcano is active. We’ve not been lucky enough to see the glow of lava, but seeing the steam rise from the crater has been fun.
The rooms are very dated so don’t expect luxury. But it’s a special experience to enjoy for a night or two.
3. The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls
Sure, you can book a day pass at Kulaniapia Falls and call it a day. But since we know you won’t want the fun to end, stay at the Inn to keep it going until you’re ready to call it a night.
There’s a wide range of accommodation options available spread across 22 of the 42 acres of private land at Kulaniapia Farms. There are off-grid cabins, suites, and fully-equipped residences. Breakfast is provided every morning, and there’s plenty to see around the property if you tire of the Falls.
Check out our video of Kulaniapia Falls (and 6 other Big Island waterfalls):
