Owners access | Hotel information and booking website unofficial
Dolphin Bay Hotel Hilo, Hilo
Book on our site
Up to 10% cheaper
than Booking.com
Key details
About the Hotel
333 Iliahi Street,
Hilo,
Hawaii,
United States of America,
Hawaii
Dolphin Bay Hotel is situated in Hilo, Hawaii, just 6 miles from the active Kilauea Volcano. The hotel features beautifully landscaped grounds, showcasing a variety of tropical plants and exotic orchids. Guests can experience the charm of locally-operated accommodations while enjoying the natural beauty of the island. The hotel's setting provides a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for discovering the Hilo community and its surroundings.
Location
Located just 6 miles from Hilo, Dolphin Bay Hotel is conveniently situated near local attractions and the stunning Hawaiian coastline. Visitors can easily reach the hotel via Hilo Airport with a short drive. Public transportation and rental cars are available for exploring the area, and the hotel is within walking distance to downtown Hilo, where guests can find shops, museums, and dining options. Notably, the hotel is also close to Volcano National Park for those interested in exploring volcanic landscapes.
Rooms
The Dolphin Bay Hotel offers spacious accommodations with fully equipped kitchens in every room. The Two Bedroom Apartment can accommodate up to eight guests and includes a large tub with a shower and a lanai. Rooms are designed to be comfortable and clean, ensuring a relaxing experience for all visitors. The hotel is praised for its homely ambiance and attention to detail in room maintenance.
Eat & Drink
Although Dolphin Bay Hotel does not have an on-site restaurant, guests can prepare their meals in the well-equipped kitchen of their rooms. Fresh fruits, including papaya and bananas, are available on the property for guests to enjoy. The nearby area offers various dining options, with many restaurants within walking distance. Guests are encouraged to explore local eateries to experience authentic Hawaiian cuisine.
Leisure & Business
Dolphin Bay Hotel provides a serene environment for leisure activities, including beautifully landscaped gardens to explore. The hotel staff offers assistance in planning activities and tours around the Big Island, including tips for the best local attractions. While there is no pool or fitness center on the premises, the proximity to outdoor adventures allows guests to stay active during their stay. Business services may be limited, but free Wi-Fi and comfortable studio-like accommodations cater to lighter work needs.
View all
We are looking for rooms with better price.
Looks like there are no rooms available in this hotel for your dates.
You can check out other hotels available or try other dates.
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
City Center
Hilo400 ft
Airports
Hilo (ITO)
5.5
mi
Waimea-Kohala (MUE)
56.3
mi
Facilities
The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Spacious Comfort
“The room was incredibly spacious, making it easy to relax and feel at home during our stay.” view full review
Luxurious Shower
“The rainfall showerhead provided an indulgent experience with perfect water pressure, ensuring a refreshing start to the day.” view full review
Relaxing Spa
“The spa facilities were amazing, with a serene atmosphere that made it easy to unwind and escape.” view full review
Well-Equipped Kitchen
“The kitchen had all the necessary appliances and utensils, allowing us to prepare meals as we liked.” view full review
General
Non-smoking property
Free Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
Front desk
Baggage storage
Guest Parking
Kitchen
Services
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance
Newspaper service
Dining
Breakfast
Picnic area/ Tables
Free breakfast
Spa & Leisure
Garden area
Barbeque grills
Self-catering
Kitchen
Show more
Location
333 Iliahi Street,
Hilo,
Hawaii,
United States of America,
Hawaii
Map view
333 Iliahi Street,
Hilo,
Hawaii,
United States of America,
Hawaii
City landmarks
Market
Hilo Farmer's Market
3400 ft
Museums
Pacific Tsunami Museum
2300 ft
Waterfall
Rainbow Falls
1.4
mi
Parks
Liliuokalani Park and Gardens
1.5
mi
Gallery
East Hawai'i Cultural Center
2300 ft
State Route 200
2200 ft
Museums
Mokupapapa Discovery Center
2100 ft
Museums
Lyman Museum & Mission House
3900 ft
300 Waianuenue Ave
Naha Stone
2700 ft
Museums
Lyman House Memorial Museum
4000 ft
Gallery
Extreme Exposure Fine Art Gallery
2400 ft
Church
St. Joseph Catholic Church
2500 ft
Island
Coconut Island
1.4
mi
Gallery
One Gallery
3000 ft
Saddle Road
Mauna Kea State Recreation Area
2400 ft
136 Kalakaua St
Kalakaua Park
2300 ft
76 Kamehameha Ave
S. Hata Building
2300 ft
Church
Haili Church
2700 ft
Island
Reeds Island
2700 ft
Parks
Wailoa River State Park
1.2
mi
Gallery
The Makery
2000 ft
Gallery
The Exhibit
2000 ft
Store
Hana Hou
2100 ft
74 Kamehameha Ave
Kaipalaoa Landing
2300 ft
Church
St Joseph Church
2600 ft
266 Kamehameha Avenue
Dragon Mama
2600 ft
174 Kamehameha Ave
S.H. Kress Co. Building
2900 ft
2-198 Rainbow Dr
Wailuku River State Park
1.7
mi
Gallery
Wailoa Center
2.3
mi
Nearby
Hilo
Hawaii Arts & Crafts
300 ft
Restaurants
Hilo Shark's Coffee Shop
1900 ft
41 Waianuenue Ave
Puna Chocolate Company And Cafe
2100 ft
277 Keawe St
Yen's Cafe
2400 ft
235 Waianuenue Ave Ste 101
Surf Break Cafe
2700 ft
17 Haili Street
Hawaiian Licks
2800 ft
180 Kinoole St Suite 104
Amigos Taqueria
2600 ft
250 Keawe Street
McDonald's
3200 ft
255 Kinoole St
Saucy Dogs
3300 ft
14 Furneaux Ln
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback from previous guests about their experience.
84%
liked the hotel and would stay again
Delicious breakfast
Friendly staff
No air conditioning
Limited amenities
8.4/10
Great
Rooms
8.2
Location
8.8
Service
9.7
Dining
8.5
Guest reviews
8.4/10
based on 15 reviews
Sean
United States of America,
January
2025
7.0/10
I had a delightful experience at Dolphin Bay Hotel. The warm welcome and spacious, clean room really set the tone for my stay. I loved the peaceful, neighborhood atmosphere, but I could have used a bit more variety at breakfast. Overall, it's an excellent value for anyone looking to enjoy Hilo's charm.
Rooms
My room was generously sized and impeccably clean, allowing me to unwind comfortably. Rating: 10
Service
John, the owner, was incredibly knowledgeable and always available to share local tips. Rating: 9
Location
The hotel is conveniently located close to downtown, yet it resides in a peacefully quiet neighborhood. Rating: 9
Dining
I enjoyed the fresh coffee and delightful banana bread each morning, but I would have loved more breakfast options. Rating: 7
Facilities
The hotel grounds are beautifully maintained, with lovely gardens that enhance the tranquil atmosphere. Rating: 9
Rebecca
United States of America,
January
2025
7.2/10
We had a delightful stay at the Dolphin Bay Hotel. Our room was spacious and well-equipped, and we appreciated the friendly service. The breakfast offerings were lovely, especially the fresh papayas and coffee in the morning. While the Wi-Fi was sometimes slow, it was manageable. Overall, it was great value for the price, and we thoroughly enjoyed the local recommendations from the staff.
Rooms
The room was spacious with a full kitchen, clean linens, and a comfortable queen bed. Although it lacked A/C, the ceiling fans did the job. Rating: 9
Service
The staff were incredibly helpful and provided great local insights, which made our trip much better. Rating: 10
Location
The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of local attractions like the Tsunami Museum and the Farmers Market. Rating: 8
Dining
Breakfast included fresh coffee and seasonal papayas, which was a nice treat. However, it would have been great to have more variety. Rating: 7
Facilities
The amenities were functional, including the Wi-Fi and parking. While not luxurious, everything was adequate for our needs. Rating: 7
Charles
United States of America,
January
2025
7.8/10
I had a really enjoyable stay at this quaint hotel. It was quiet and relaxing, making it a perfect getaway. The unique breakfast experience of picking my own banana from the stalk was delightful, and the banana bread was absolutely delicious! However, I did wish for air conditioning in the room, as it was a bit warm at night.
Rooms
8.0
The rooms were clean and spacious, although they lacked air conditioning.
Service
9.0
The owners and staff were very accommodating and friendly. They even let us check out early without charge.
Location
9.0
The hotel is conveniently located just a short walk from downtown Hilo, which was really nice.
Dining
7.0
The breakfast was fantastic, especially the banana bread and fresh fruit, but I would have liked more variety.
Facilities
6.0
The facilities were decent, but they didn't have many amenities, which is expected in an economical hotel.
Delicious breakfast
No air conditioning
Henry
United States of America,
December
2024
9.6/10
I had such a wonderful stay! The hotel boasts a charming, laid-back vibe that perfectly matches Hilo’s atmosphere. My room was not only spacious but also came with a cozy kitchen and a little patio for my morning coffee. While it's not a quiet retreat—thanks to the beautiful sounds of nature—it was absolutely delightful. The proximity to local dining spots is a major plus, and overall, it was great value for money.
Rooms
10.0
The room was spacious, clean, and equipped with a kitchen, which made it feel like a nice little apartment.
Service
10.0
Staff were welcoming and accommodating, making my stay even more enjoyable.
Location
9.0
It’s within easy walking distance to downtown and numerous restaurants. Perfect for exploring the area!
Dining
10.0
Every morning started with delicious baked banana bread and fresh fruit—a lovely breakfast treat!
Facilities
9.0
The garden surrounding the hotel was beautiful and a lovely spot to hear the calming night sounds.
Larry
United States of America,
November
2024
8.4/10
I had a pleasant stay, enjoying the spacious room with a lovely balcony and the homemade breakfast was quite delightful. However, the decor felt a bit dated and could use some updating, and the limited dining options left something to be desired. Overall, it was a comfortable experience with friendly staff that made everything feel more welcoming.
Rooms
8.0
My room was spacious and featured a nice balcony, although the décor felt a bit outdated.
Service
10.0
The staff were exceptionally welcoming, personally escorting me to my room and ensuring I felt comfortable during my stay.
Location
9.0
The hotel is conveniently located just a short walk over the bridge to the main business area of Hilo, making it easy to explore.
Dining
8.0
Breakfast was modest but enjoyable, especially the homemade banana bread and fresh local fruit.
Facilities
7.0
The amenities worked well for me, but some facilities could benefit from modernization.
David
United States of America,
September
2024
9.4/10
This hotel is a hidden gem in Hilo, offering a quiet retreat surrounded by beautiful gardens and a relaxed atmosphere. The rooms are meticulously clean, and breakfast options are uniquely delightful with fresh fruit and delicious banana bread. While some may miss having direct water views, the hotel's close proximity to downtown more than makes up for it. The only downside is the absence of telephones in the rooms, which may not be ideal for everyone.
Rooms
10.0
The rooms are exceptionally clean and comfortable, featuring fully equipped kitchens. It's like staying in a cozy apartment.
Service
10.0
The proprietor is enthusiastic and provides fantastic recommendations for local sights and restaurants.
Location
9.0
The hotel is conveniently located just a short walk from downtown Hilo, with easy access to local markets and charming eateries.
Dining
10.0
Breakfast includes picking your own bananas and enjoying wonderfully fresh tropical fruits and pastries, creating a unique morning experience.
Facilities
8.0
The property's lush gardens and tranquil setting create a serene environment for relaxation, although there is no pool.
Henry
United States of America,
September
2024
9.0/10
This hotel is an absolute gem! The ambiance is cozy, and the staff goes above and beyond to make you feel at home. I loved that we could easily walk to lots of great restaurants and the historic downtown area. The lack of a pool might be a downside for some, but I didn't miss it at all with all the nature adventures available nearby. Overall, this place offers incredible value for money and the quietness really makes it a perfect getaway.
Rooms
9.0
The room was spacious and clean, with a lovely balcony that provided a nice view of the surrounding area.
Service
10.0
The service was outstanding! The staff personally walked us to our room and shared helpful tips about local attractions.
Location
10.0
I appreciated the convenient location just a short walk over the bridge to the energetic business section of Hilo, making it easy to explore.
Dining
8.0
Breakfast was delightful, featuring daily homemade banana bread, fresh fruit, and great coffee. It set us up nicely for our adventures!
Facilities
7.0
While there isn't a swimming pool, the garden and barbecue area made up for it with a serene atmosphere.
David
United States of America,
September
2024
8.6/10
I had a wonderful stay at the Dolphin Bay Hotel, which is tucked away in a peaceful residential neighborhood just a short walk from downtown Hilo and the harbor. The hotel isn’t luxurious but is truly clean and comfortable, and I loved the free morning treats like banana bread and fresh fruits. The staff made me feel incredibly welcome and at home, but the rooms did feel a bit dated, which might not be ideal for everyone.
Rooms
7.0
The rooms were spacious, clean, and exuded a charming old-world Hawaiian vibe.
Service
10.0
The service was exceptional, with staff like Kelly going out of their way to provide helpful local tips and even walking maps.
Location
9.0
The location was great, just a few blocks from downtown Hilo and the beach, making it easy to explore the area on foot.
Dining
9.0
Breakfast was a delightful experience with home-baked banana bread and fresh papayas available each morning.
Facilities
8.0
The facilities included a lovely garden area, parking, and laundry service which added a lot of convenience to my stay.
Matthew
United States of America,
September
2024
8.2/10
The Dolphin Bay Hotel in Hilo has a charming atmosphere and beautiful gardens, making it a delightful place to stay. The room was spacious and nicely decorated, and I truly appreciated the complimentary coffee and banana bread in the morning. However, loud guests on our floor disrupted our sleep, and outdoor seating was often occupied by smokers. Overall, it's a nice choice for those exploring Hilo, especially if you love local flavors.
Rooms
8.0
The room was spacious and nicely decorated, providing a comfortable stay.
Service
9.0
The staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful throughout our stay.
Location
9.0
The hotel is conveniently located near the volcano and beautiful waterfalls.
Dining
8.0
I really enjoyed the complimentary coffee and banana bread served each morning, which added a lovely touch.
Facilities
7.0
The garden area was outstanding and added to the hotel's charm, though outdoor seating was a bit limited.
Wesley
United States of America,
September
2024
9.8/10
Dolphin Bay Hotel is a delightful spot in Hilo, offering cleanliness and a welcoming atmosphere. The morning coffee, tropical fruits, and banana bread truly enhance the experience. While the lack of air conditioning can be a downside, the presence of charming coqui frogs adds to the local ambiance. It’s a nice, quiet place just a short walk to downtown, and having a cuddly hotel cat was an unexpected joy during our stay.
Rooms
9.0
The rooms are clean and spacious, providing a comfortable space to unwind.
Service
10.0
I was impressed by how personable the staff was; they genuinely made me feel at home during my stay.
Location
9.0
The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance to downtown Hilo, making it easy to explore the area.
Dining
9.0
I loved the breakfast options, especially the banana bread and fresh fruits provided each morning.
Facilities
7.0
While the hotel doesn't boast modern amenities, the on-site laundry and gardens were lovely add-ons.
Greg
United States of America,
September
2024
9.2/10
I had an absolutely wonderful stay! The hotel offered a lovely atmosphere with friendly staff and delicious breakfast options each morning. The rooms felt like a cozy apartment, clean and comfortable, although they could use a bit of modernization. The location was perfect for exploring nearby attractions, making it a convenient choice. However, some may miss the conveniences of modern amenities like air conditioning, but I personally enjoyed the natural setting. Overall, a great value for the experience!
Rooms
9.0
The room was clean, comfortable, and spacious, similar to an apartment with a kitchenette. The decor is a bit dated, but it adds to the charm.
Service
10.0
The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making sure I felt welcome during my stay.
Location
10.0
The hotel is perfectly situated for easy access to amazing sights like Wipea Valley and Volcano National Park.
Dining
9.0
I loved the breakfast with fresh banana bread and coffee each morning—it was a delightful way to start the day.
Facilities
8.0
The overall facilities were clean and well-maintained, including the gardens enhancing the natural feel.
Jim
United States of America,
September
2024
7.4/10
During my stay at this hotel, I found the staff to be incredibly kind and accommodating. The breakfast was a standout feature, especially the delicious banana bread! However, the rooms felt dated and lacked air conditioning, which made it a bit uncomfortable at times. Overall, it’s a decent option in a town with limited choices, but there’s definitely room for improvement.
Rooms
6.0
The rooms were a bit dated and lacked air conditioning, making them less comfortable than I expected.
Service
9.0
The staff were exceptionally nice and offered great assistance during our stay.
Location
7.0
The hotel is within walking distance of the town, although the streets can be quite dark at night.
Dining
9.0
Breakfast was a highlight, especially the fresh banana bread served each morning.
Facilities
6.0
Facilities were basic but clean, though nothing felt particularly modern or exceptional.
William
United States of America,
August
2024
6.6/10
I had an interesting stay at this hotel. While the staff were incredibly friendly and the morning coffee with banana bread was a lovely touch, I couldn't ignore the dated decor and uncomfortable beds. The hotel might suit some families with its various room arrangements, but I found the overall experience to be less than ideal given the prices.
Rooms
5.0
The rooms had a strange mix of decor and were quite underwhelming. I struggled with the uncomfortable beds and tiny kitchens.
Service
9.0
The owners and staff were really nice and accommodating. They even offered a refund for the nights we didn’t stay.
Location
7.0
It's in Hilo and not a lot of options appear to exist. It's reasonably close to attractions but not remarkable.
Dining
8.0
The complimentary coffee and banana bread in the morning were a definite highlight.
Facilities
5.0
Facilities were minimal, and the absence of A/C was troublesome for our comfort.
John
United States of America,
August
2024
8.8/10
My stay at Dolphin Bay was absolutely delightful with its charming gardens and extremely clean environment. The owner is a wealth of local knowledge, helping me discover incredible spots while exploring Hilo. However, the lack of air conditioning was a bit uncomfortable for sleeping, though the fans helped. Overall, it’s a wonderful place that offers great value for money and a unique Hawaiian experience.
Rooms
9.0
The rooms were spacious and exceptionally clean, with a cozy ambiance enhanced by fresh tropical flowers.
Service
10.0
The service was outstanding; John provided us with invaluable tips on avoiding crowds and finding hidden gems.
Location
9.0
Dolphin Bay is ideally located just a few blocks from quaint downtown Hilo, making it easy to explore local markets and restaurants.
Dining
7.0
The complimentary breakfast of fresh fruit and coffee each morning was a lovely touch, though some more variety would have been great.
Facilities
8.0
The hotel is equipped with fully furnished kitchens, perfect for those who love to cook. However, I missed having a pool or additional communal facilities.
William
United States of America,
July
2024
9.8/10
My stay was fantastic! The location on the Big Island was perfect for exploring, especially with Volcano National Park just a short drive away. The breakfast was delightful, especially the homemade banana bread and fresh papaya. However, the lack of air conditioning was a bit tough for me, and I wish I had known about it beforehand.
Rooms
8.0
The room was very clean and quite comfortable. I did feel a little warm at times without A/C, but the fans helped a lot.
Service
10.0
The staff was incredibly helpful, especially John who provided detailed suggestions on places to visit with annotated maps.
Location
9.0
The hotel is tucked away in a quiet area and is ideal for exploring the East side of the island.
Dining
9.0
Breakfast was a highlight, with delicious banana bread and fresh papaya that I looked forward to every morning.
Facilities
7.0
The overall facilities were good, though I wished for A/C during the hot afternoons.