Where to stay in Hilo?
 

Would love some recs on affordable but interesting places to stay in Hilo (B&Bs, etc). Doesn't need to be right at the Park necessarily - but that is our main focus there.

THANKS!

Take a look at Dolphin Bay Hotel
www.dolphinbayhilo.com

Affordable, quite, quaint, and friendly.
All units have kitchen. John Alexander [owner] will assist you in any sites you want to vist [maps/directions etc]

I stayed at the Hale Kai years ago and loved it. I understand it has new owners, so I don't know if it's still as nice. But if the park is your focus, you might consider staying in the village of Volcano. Hilo is 30 miles away from the park, while Volcano is just outside the gate.

If by "Park" you mean Volcano National Park, then I'd suggest looking at the Kileaua Lodge in Volcano Village. We stayed there in March and loved it. The restaurant is excellent.

http://www.kilauealodge.com/

I would also recommend the Kileaua Lodge. We stayed there last year. We loved our room and the restaurant was cozy and delicious. Great place.