Fodor's Expert Review The Palms Cliff House Inn

This handsome Victorian-style mansion, 15 minutes north of downtown Hilo and a few minutes from Akaka Falls, is perched on the sea cliffs 100 feet above the crashing surf of the tropical coast. You can pick fruit and macadamia nuts from the gardens of the 3½-acre estate. Individually decorated rooms have private lanai. Suites include oversize hot tubs (all four suites have a Jacuzzi by the window with a stunning view of the coast). A husband-and-wife team serves breakfast with pride on the lanai overlooking the cliffs; meals generally include fresh-baked muffins, locally grown fruit, a warm egg or meat dish (they always ask about food allergies or dietary restrictions ahead of time), and, of course, fantastic local coffee. They can help you plan activities, including hula lessons and massage.

room

Well decorated with island style and carpeting throughout, the rooms are warm and have just a touch of the regal in their décor (though they are just a bit outdated). The welcoming environment makes you want to slip off your shoes and stay a while. All of the rooms have views of the expansive Pacific Ocean that’s just a cliff line away.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Check out time is 10 a.m., one of the earliest times on the island.

bathroom

A few of the rooms have en suite jacuzzi tubs, if you really don’t feel like walking all the way to the bathroom to lounge in a bath. Otherwise, the bathrooms are all just a bit different, but still offer nice bathrooms in each room.

lobby

You’ll get the full Hawaiian vibe of this Victorian mansion as soon as you walk in and start your check in process. There are artifacts, artwork, and a variety of décor everywhere you turn. Running late? Your hosts can leave your key in the mailbox so that you can go straight to your room to rest.

Your hosts provide beach towels, umbrellas, coolers, and other beach gear that you won’t want to buy on your trip, so be sure to take advantage of those. And if it happens to be a rainy Hilo day you can use the free wifi or extensive movie library.

pool

none

spa

none

gym

none

dining

There is no on-site dining, but your hosts provide a lovely full hot island breakfast that is included with your stay from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Not only is it delicious, but it comes with stunning ocean views, and maybe a few whale or dolphin sightings with your local coffee. They also take into account late risers and those adjusting from other time zones by offering an in-room continental breakfast from 9 to 9:30 a.m. There is also a grill and dishes available for guests who want to prepare meals on their own.

drinking

none