SCP Hilo Hotel
Overview
SCP Hilo Hotel is the Big Island's most eco-conscious hotel — a 128-room property on historic Banyan Drive in Hilo that proves sustainable hospitality doesn't mean sacrificing comfort or character. SCP stands for Soul Community Planet, and the brand walks the talk: this was the first hotel in Hawaii to earn EarthCheck certification, it has eliminated all single-use plastics, installed a solar array, and every guest stay funds marine debris removal from local beaches and tree planting in deforested areas.
But sustainability is just one reason to stay here. Hilo itself is the reason. The Big Island's eastern capital is the gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (45 minutes), a town of spectacular waterfalls, tropical botanical gardens, and the best farmers market in the state. While the Kona/Kohala Coast side of the island is dry, sunny, and resort-focused, Hilo is lush, rainy, and authentically Hawaiian — the kind of place where the culture hasn't been polished for tourists.
The hotel occupies the former Hilo Seaside Hotel, a local institution founded in 1956 by the Kimi family and operated for 65 years before SCP acquired and renovated it for $4.6 million in 2021. A fourth-generation Kimi family member still serves as general manager, maintaining the property's deep community roots. Complimentary bikes, stand-up paddleboards, lei-making workshops, and a 24/7 provisions market with locally roasted coffee round out an experience that's refreshingly different from the resort-corridor hotels on the other side of the island.
Accommodation Options
SCP Hilo's 128 rooms are spread across several wings, each with a distinct character. The standout is the Peaceful Room in the Fern Wing — a wellness-focused retreat equipped with a yoga mat, air purifier, sound machine, Himalayan salt lamp, and essential oil diffuser. It's designed as a digital-detox experience, with minimalist décor and LED-backlit mirrors creating a serene atmosphere that encourages genuine rest.
Bay View rooms offer balconies overlooking Hilo Bay or Reeds Bay with views of the koi pond, while Pool View rooms provide easy access to the pool and fitness area. All rooms feature refrigerators, ceiling fans, air conditioning, flat-panel TVs, free WiFi, and private bathrooms with all-natural Further brand toiletries — no individually wrapped plastic bottles in sight.
The rooms are comfortable without pretending to be luxury — clean lines, practical furnishings, and the kind of eco-conscious design that appeals to travelers who care about where their vacation dollars go. Cribs and infant beds are available on request, and kids 12 and under stay free with existing bedding.
Pools, Beaches & Activities
The single outdoor swimming pool was renovated along with the property in 2021, featuring a refreshed pool deck surrounded by tropical landscaping. It's a simple, relaxing pool — no waterslides or swim-up bars, just a clean place to cool off and unwind.
Hilo isn't a beach destination in the traditional sense — you won't find white-sand resort beaches here. But Reeds Bay is a 13-minute walk from the hotel, and the waterfront is just across the street. The hotel's complimentary stand-up paddleboards let you explore Hilo Bay at your own pace, and the town's best swimming spots — Richardson Ocean Park with its black sand beach and sea turtles, and Onekahakaha Beach Park's protected tide pools — are short drives away.
Dining
The Coconut Grill, a family-owned restaurant operating within the hotel complex since 2005, serves as the on-site dining option with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a popular happy hour. The menu leans into island-inspired American fare — hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, creative eggs benedict variations, and coconut banana pancakes with macadamia nuts at breakfast. With over 400 Yelp reviews, it has its own dedicated following beyond hotel guests.
SCP Provisions Market is open 24/7 with locally sourced, plant-forward snacks, beverages, and healthy grab-and-go options. Every morning brings complimentary locally roasted coffee from Hawaii Coffee Company — a small but meaningful touch.
For dining variety, Hilo town offers some of the Big Island's most authentic eating experiences. The Hilo Farmers Market (Wednesday and Saturday) is legendary for its tropical produce, prepared foods, and local flavors. Cafe Pesto, Hilo Bay Cafe, and Ken's House of Pancakes are local institutions worth exploring.
Nearby Attractions
SCP Hilo's location is its strategic advantage. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — the Big Island's must-see attraction — is 45 minutes south, making this the closest quality hotel to Kilauea's volcanic landscape. You can do a sunset visit to the crater and be back at the hotel for a late dinner.
Hilo itself rewards exploration. Rainbow Falls, a stunning 80-foot waterfall, is four miles from the hotel. Akaka Falls State Park's 442-foot cascade is a short drive north. Liliuokalani Park and Gardens — a Japanese-style garden on Hilo Bay — is within walking distance. The Panaewa Rainforest Zoo, home to the only white tiger in Hawaii, is a family-friendly detour.
The Hilo Farmers Market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings is one of Hawaii's best, with tropical fruits, prepared foods, crafts, and flowers that reflect the town's multicultural roots. For stargazing, Mauna Kea's summit visitor station is about an hour's drive — the clearest skies in Hawaii.
Tips & Good to Know
Pack a rain jacket. Hilo is the wettest city in America, and afternoon showers are common. The upside: this rainfall creates the lush, tropical landscape and spectacular waterfalls that make the east side of the Big Island so beautiful. Mornings are typically clear and sunny.
A rental car is essential — Hilo is a town, not a resort, and attractions are spread across the surrounding area. The hotel is well-positioned for both Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (south) and Akaka Falls (north). Plan your volcano visit for late afternoon when the glow of Kilauea's crater is visible at sunset.
The complimentary bikes are a great way to explore Banyan Drive and Liliuokalani Gardens. Ask about sustainable farm tour experiences — understanding the hotel's zero-waste journey adds depth to your stay. Some guests report early-morning aircraft noise due to proximity to Hilo Airport — light sleepers may want to request a Peaceful Room with its sound machine.
Location
126 Banyan Way, Hilo, HI 96720
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