This used to be the best hotel on Banyan Drive, but it’s got new competition over at the Grand Naniloa Hotel. It’s hard keeping things pristine in moist Hilo, and the interior of the hotel feels significantly more luxe than the outside does on your drive up. Their location overlooking Coconut Island affords them nice views.
The rooms and bathrooms are fresh and modern, still keeping the feel of Hawai‘i. All the photographs in the rooms were taken on property, and when you come in, you’ll find cards that share stories about the islands. These little details are welcoming, but the A/C does have some quirks—the most annoying being that it’s motion sensitive and will shut off at night unless you get up and walk around. Good for sleepwalkers and those of us who have small bladders, but the rest of us will sweat it out.
Overall, the building is well-maintained for its age with updated restaurants. The top floor is the smoking floor (but only on the lanais). There are some small shops on property (not run by the hotel), such as a beauty salon, massage spa and a convenience store. No room safes, but free safety deposit boxes at front desk. Rooms are 347–376 sq. ft., suites are 542–748 sq. ft. Check for discounts online.
71 Banyan Dr, Hilo