Lodging: Paradise for less

The Hilo and Volcano areas offer some surprisingly good values for those not in the market for a large resort hotel. Here’s a look at some of the most interesting lodges and B&Bs in the volcano region.

The historic Volcano House dates back to 1846. It boasts a famed fireplace that’s been lit for more than 125 years. Of course there are plenty of hot spots outside the lodge — it sits on the crater rim of Kilauea.

The Volcano House is the only lodge within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and provides its only public dining facility.

The rooms of choice are those with views of the Halema’uma’u crater. These are in the Deluxe Wing and the main building. There are 42 guest rooms plus 10 cabins for the park’s many hikers and campers. (The Namakani Paio Cabins are about three miles away.)

There is an upscale-dining restaurant with outstanding views of the volcano and crater. The Ka Ohelo Dining Room’s fare is a blend of Pacific Rim, continental and American chop house. The restaurant serves a breakfast buffet as well as dinner and lunch.

There’s also a snack bar that’s open all day. The lodge lounge, Uncle George’s, also has the killer views. It serves up Hawaiian specialties such as Pele’s Fire and Mai Tai’s. Word to the wise: The lounge closes at 9.

As you’d expect, the scenic lodge does a brisk business with those dreaming of a Big Island wedding. “Let your love burn bright like molten lava,” the lodge’s wedding planners advise. Whoa.

The Nani Mau Gardens, owned by the same local family, provides an Eden-like alternative for the exchange of vows. Lucky couples who get married in the Gardens get a deal on rooms at the Volcano House.

From Hilo, the lodge is about 40 minutes southwest on Highway 11. After entering the Volcanoes National Park ($10 per vehicle), you’ll find it opposite the park’s visitors center and museum.

Volcano House reservations can be made online. (808) 967-7321

Here are some other lodges and B&Bs that may appeal to those seeking alternatives to the big hotels.

The Bay House (B&B) — High marks for the home and the location. Staff gets mixed reviews. Toll-free: (888) 235-8195. Local: (808) 961-6311. $$

The Inn at Kilaniapia Falls (B&B) — Lodgings located right next to the falls. Staff gets mixed reviews. Toll-free: (866) 935-6789. Local: (808) 935-6789. $$

Shipman House (B&B) — A historic Victorian house that’s been restored. Run by a descendant of the Shipman family. Guests praise the breakfasts and the tropical setting. Toll-free: (800) 627-8447. Local: (808) 934-8002. $$$

Hilo Honu Inn (B&B) — A house located in neighborhood overlooking Bay. Downtown is several blocks away. Praise for the hosts and the breakfasts. Local: (808) 935-4325. $$$

Volcano Tree House — Toll-free: (877) 208-2199. Local: (808) 985-9592. $$$

Volcano Village Lodge — Local: (808) 985-9500. $$

Volcano Places — Toll-free: (877) 967-7990. Local: (808) 967-7990. $$$.

Mahalo Hawaiian Retreat (B&B) — Toll-free: (877) 703-7453. Hotel local: (808) 985-9069. $$-$$$.

View Hilo hotel reservations page.