The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls

100 Kulaniapia Dr, Hilo, HI 96720, Hilo, United States

4-star hotel

Guest rating: 4.6 / 5

Overview

The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls is a four-star bed-and-breakfast on a secluded 22-acre property beside the Waiau River, about 4.3 miles from Hilo. Its setting combines river and waterfall scenery with bamboo gardens, ponds, and walking trails.

Rooms

Rooms are individually decorated and include free Wi-Fi, marble bathrooms, and balconies with orchard, ocean, or waterfall views. Some rooms have flat-screen TVs and custom hand-carved furnishings; the source does not specify that these features are in every room.

Grounds & Recreation

The grounds include two miles of hiking trails and three-tiered waterfalls. Guest accounts describe hiking down to the water and swimming or kayaking there; specific equipment availability is not documented.

Dining & Spa

A complimentary island-style breakfast is included, and the property has an on-site spa specializing in massage, with services available for a surcharge. Guest comments praise the food, though one account describes dinner plans falling through after the private chef was injured.

Nearby

The inn is close to Peepee Falls (935 m), Rainbow Falls (2,711 m), and Wailuku River State Park (2,810 m). Other listed points of interest include Kaūmana Caves (4,098 m), Hilo Farmer's Market (5,247 m), and Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden (10,530 m).

Best for

This property suits travelers looking for a quiet, nature-centered stay near Hilo, especially those drawn to waterfalls, gardens, and on-site trails. Its waterfall-side setting, balconies with varied views, and massage spa also appeal to guests seeking a distinctive retreat rather than a conventional city hotel.

Travel tips

The inn is about 4.3 miles from Hilo, and complimentary parking is documented; plan transportation around that distance, as local transit details are not provided. Nearby points of interest include Peepee Falls at 935 m and Rainbow Falls at 2,711 m. Breakfast is included, while spa treatments cost extra; confirm any dinner arrangements directly because one guest reported a last-minute change to dinner plans.

What guests say

Guests describe a peaceful, distinctive setting, with the sound of the waterfall and access to the grounds standing out. Comments also praise comfortable beds, breakfast and other food, and helpful staff. One guest reported that planned dinner was disrupted when the private chef was injured, so dinner availability may not be assured in every circumstance.

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