Naniloa Volcanoes Resort - Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii - ``Hotspot'' Accommodations in Hilo

Just a 40-minute drive from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the nine-story hotel known as Naniloa Volcanoes Resort has positioned itself as "the hotspot'' for adventures on the Big Island of Hawaii. In contrast to this hyperbole, the management says the atmosphere they strive for can best be described as the "Hawaii of 50 years ago.'' In truth, everything about the resort is unpretentious, from the local people who work there and know how to relax and enjoy life to the tasteful accommodations.

The Naniloa Volcanoes Resort has 325 air conditioned rooms and suites, many of which have undergone recent remodeling, such as the Deluxe Ocean Front Rooms on the top floor. Each of these comes with a private lanai offering spectacular views of Hilo Bay and the Hamakua Coast. Inside, they now feature original artwork by local artist Kristie Fujiyama Kosmides and newly marble-tiled bathrooms. Some have a king bed and a twin, while others come with two double beds.

On the lower levels, three other types of room configurations are available: Partial Harbor View Rooms, Garden View Rooms and Ocean Front Rooms. All rooms are wired for free Internet access. Among standard amenities are a coffee maker, refrigerator, hair dryer, flat screen TV with cable, and clock radio. Rooms on all floors are non-smoking.

When it comes to providing on-site facilities for guests' enjoyment, the Naniloa Volcanoes Resort has all bases covered. Its 72 lushly landscaped acres feature not one, but two outdoor freshwater swimming pools. There is a challenging nine-hole golf course adjacent to and operated by the resort, and a spa and fitness center is available for guest use. For dining, the Ting Hao Seafood Restaurant serves steaks as well as delicious seafood dishes with an Asian flair.

Other amenities on the premises include meeting rooms and convention space, banquet facilities, business support services, a beauty salon, and a gift shop. There is a lovely outdoor gazebo for weddings, and open-air spaces can be used for cocktails and entertainment. All areas are handicapped accessible.

The convivial members of the resort staff are more than happy to assist guests by arranging volcano tours, private camping locations, and romantic day trips to white sand, black sand and green sand beaches. They can make travel arrangements and dining reservations, set up sightseeing excursions, give tips on shopping, and book local services ranging from helicopter rides to stargazing tours.

The resort is just a short walk from Liliuokalani Park and Gardens, as well as Coconut Island, where snorkeling and swimming can be enjoyed. Other nearby recreational opportunities include mountain and rock climbing, fishing, surfing, paddling, scuba diving, biking, hiking, horseback riding, golfing, museum visits, and theater outings.

Naniloa Volcanoes Resort is just minutes from Hilo International Airport. To get there, take State Highway 11 (Kanoelehua) north until it becomes Banyan Drive. The address is 93 Banyan Drive, Hilo, Hawaii 96720, and free parking is provided to guests. The resort also offers complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport for those who do not have their own transportation.