For visitors like myself who had been fortunate to visit the iconic Volcano House Hotel, and had the opportunity to warm our hands in front of the stone hearth fireplace dedicated to Pele(that was reported to burn continuously for 133 years) I was saddened to learn that the fire was left to burn out on New Year’s Day 2010. As with with most contracts and agreements it was time for much needed improvements to the Hotel, Cabins, Campground, Dining Room and Gift Shop to be made and the search was on for a new partner to assist the National Park Service in bringing Hawaii’s oldest hotel( dating to 1846) to a fully resored new life.
Volcano House
I am so glad to report that Hawaii Island’s Volcano House Hotel is back and better than ever !
From its humble beginnings as a one-room grass shelter to the newly restored hotel today, visitors will be in for a treat much as they were from the very beginning. Officially reopened following a $4million retrofitting and safety upgrades by the National Park Service and an additional $3Million in renovations and refurbishments by concessioners/owners Ortega Family Enterprices.
Taking advantage of the incredible natural beauty of its unique location as the only hotel within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, hotel guest fortunate enough to book a room with a view of the crater might catch a glimpse of the spectacular glow of Kilauea’s Halema’uma’u Crater, others might have a view of the amazing rainforest that surrounds the property.
Book a room with a Volcano Crater View
Refurbished Guest Rooms: Gone are the dated colors and out dated rooms and replaced by in room touches such as Kohler fixtures,42 inch flat screen HDTVs, modern contemporary furniture with warm color palette for a relaxed and comfortable setting with views of the park, rainforest and crater available.
Namakanipaio Camper Cabins: are located about three miles from the hotel, are 200 square feet and sleep up to four people- refurbishments include new flooring – Bed linens and towels are provided – there is no electricity or electric outlets in the cabins – no bathrooms or running water in cabin but guest utilize he newly refurbished community bathroom located in the campground with hot showers & toilets(soap and toilet paper provided). Each cabin has an outside firepit and bbq grill.
Namakanipaio Campsites: Looking for a true camping experience within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, then pitch a tent at one of the 16 campsites- based upon a first come /first served basis , $15.00 per night – a 7 night maximum stay- and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park entrance fee applies- no showers at the campsites -only restrooms.
The Rim Restaurant buffet of old has been replaced by The Rim – newly refurbished restaurant at the Volcano House overlooking the rim of Kilauea caldera and the billowing Halema’uma’u Crater . Featuring the best of Hawaii Island fresh local ingredients the creative island cuisine boasts that at least 95% of the restaurant’s meat,seafood,fruit and vegetables are sourced from local ranchers,farmers and supplers.
Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner – when planning your trip to visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, if you aren’t able to stay at the hotel, at least stop by and visit The Rim or George’s Lounge for appetizers and a cocktail. Reservations (808)756-9625
Volcano House Hotel / Crater Rim Drive/Hawaii National Park, HI 96718 Reservations 808-441-7750 or 1-866-536-7972
Volcano House is once again proud to welcome visitors with a renewed commitment to Hawaiian hospitality with a number of sustainable initiatives including recycling program, local food sourcing, an Environmental Management System certification, Hawaii Green Business certification, and becoming a Waste Wise partner and Energy Star partner.
To get started booking your trip to Hawaii Island – Contact Linda Dancer Direct Line 931-337-0770 Toll Free 1-888-811-1888 ext 331 Email [email protected]
