Lava Tree Tropic Inn, Pahoa

It has been two years (Aug 2005) since my wife and I flew into Hilo, rented a car and made the 30 minute drive to Lava Tree Topic Inn. We can't wait to go back! You open the main gate onto a plantation-like tropical atmosphere, drive up the tree lined entrance, take off your shoes as you enter the inn. We had rented the largest bed and sitting room (with bath) for four nites and found the isolated experience quite enjoyable using the day to explore by car nearby waterfalls, volcano national park, and Hilo. Wonderful tropical botanical garden is just outside of Hilo...if you like tropical flowers, trees & birds this is an excellent location. There are a variety of animals (cats, chickens, frogs, birds, etc.) on the property but all seem to know their places and didn't get in our way...after all we wanted to be far away from typical tourist spots so we enjoyed the company of these critters. Breakfast on the lanai was a delightful mix of fruits, breads, juices, local coffee or tea, and good company from both the hostess and one other couple. The biggest thrill was the wonderfully warm (almost hot) morning swim (hostess showed us the way) in the nearby (4-5 mile drive) volcano heated natural pool that you have to experience to believe. Beautiful fish and you (all your's if you show up around 6am, before tourists get there...perhaps a few locals too), and just float on the half natural stream-fed, half salt water-fed pond, about 25 yards across and perhaps a nine iron long, with the ocean waves occasionally splashing their way into this once in a lifetime naturally heated sauna bath! Evenings are quiet except for the tropical jungle sounds which helped us drift off to sleep...traditional tropical breezes and a ceiling fan kept us cool. Water in the room and bath was not potable...you can wash and bathe in it but must remember to bring a bottle of water or two back to your room from the kitchen supply for drinking and brushing teeth. Plenty of entertainment available in the Inn's tv/stereo room, or relax in the meditation room, or piddle around on the large lanai after picking some macademia nuts. If you must stay connected there is wireless anywhere on the property...but you really ought to give yourself a break and stay disconnected in this isolated, off the beaten track paradise! You probably want to check with the hostess re access to some of the attractions, including the lava pool, as I understand the 2006 quake and recent volcanic activities can make a difference in what is open to outsiders.