Hawaiian Sanctuary Eco Retreat Center

Not close to Volcanoes The staff was so friendly. There were lots of animals: peacocks, cats, frogs, geese. We loved it! We booked it to be closer to Volcanoes National Park, without realizing there was no road that cuts across. We had to go amidst to Hilo in order to go back down to the Volcanoes, so it wasn't the most convenient, but we loved the vibe!

Wonderful experience So welcoming from day one. Beautiful property and we had a private cabin. My little daughter was amazed by all the property had to offer and wanted to come back early from our volcano adventures everyday.

Not just a hotel - a community. I felt so relaxed the second I arrived. The place is beautiful and well kept, and it houses folks staying monthly for courses and internships and what not, so lots of people to talk to. Felt like staying in a social hostel, with the comfort of a hotel. Some other reviews described it as dirty - you have to realize that a space so tucked away in the jungle will naturally have bugs and whatnot. Plus it's a nonprofit doing it's best, so you're not going to get the perfect cleanliness of some luxury hotel in Waikiki. However, I live in the jungle myself and was wildly impressed by how clean everything was. The spa room especially was pristine - and how lovely that you can reserve it all for yourself (do know there's a limit of 1 hour a day, but that's plenty). The yoga class I took (from Sydney I think?) was so lovely, and the Bee Dance on Friday was fantastic. If you're a young backpacker type, this is the place to be. Lots of locals come from the dance, and it's a great way to meet people (fire going in the back with goodies to eat and drink). Or if you don't love electronic music, it's far enough away from the main building for it not to trouble you - you'll hear some music in the distance. I'll certainly be back!