Howzit Hostels

Hilo, HI

The Vibe:

Rain-kissed mornings, barefoot afternoons, and backyard chats.

Howzit Hostel in Hilo is the Big Island’s east-side basecamp for volcano chasers, waterfall seekers, and travelers who crave a deeper connection to the land. With a funky, tropical vibe and a come-as-you-are welcome, this hostel is rooted in community, curiosity, and the slow beauty of Hilo life.

What Makes It Different:
This place was built for farmers’ market wanderers and lava field explorers.

🌺 Walkable to downtown Hilo’s shops, markets, and ocean views
🌋 Easy launch point for Volcanoes National Park and waterfall day trips
🛏️ Colorful dorms and private rooms with island flair and budget comfort
🌴 Outdoor lounge, community kitchen, and tropical garden hangouts
🌧️ Embraces the rain, the rhythm, and the real Hawaiʻi
🌈 A mellow, multicultural traveler hub with good vibes on tap

Why Travelers Book Here:
Because the east side of the Big Island isn’t about five-star resorts — it’s about real magic. Howzit Hostel Hilo is where you swap stories under banyan trees, chase waterfalls with new friends, and fall in love with the raw, wild heartbeat of Hawaiʻi.

You love meeting new friends and travelers from all over the world

You’re ready to explore and take advantage of free tours

You want to save money but still be near local attractions

You definitely want free pancakes in the morning

You’ll love this hostel if:

Hostel Policies

  • Check in/Check-out: Check-in begins at 2 PM and Check-out is at 11 AM.

    Access to the hostel: Upon your arrival, please ring the doorbell, and our reception staff will let you in. Once checked in, you will be given a personal code for use to enter the hostel and to access your room.

    Directions to the hostel: We are located in the heart of charming downtown Wailuku, about a 10-15 minute Uber from the Kahului airport. Address is 2080 W. Vineyard Street, Wailuku, HI 96793

    Guests must vacate their room(s) or dorm bed(s) and remove all belongings. Extensions are subject to availability and management discretion. Guest can be charged an additional night at the prevailing rate for failure to check-out on time.

    Reception hours: We offer 24-hour reception. So no matter what time you arrive, someone will be available to assist you. 

  • Deposits charged: Standard reservations require a deposit equal to the first night's stay and will be charged upon booking. The balance is due in full at check-in. We accept payment with credit card or cash. Personal checks are not accepted.

  • This property has a 5 day cancellation policy

    Deposits charged:Standard reservations require a deposit equal to the first night's stay and will be charged upon booking. The balance is due in full at check-in. We accept payment with credit card or cash. Personal checks are not accepted.

  • Deposits charged: Standard reservations require a deposit equal to the first night's stay and will be charged upon booking. The balance is due in full at check-in. We accept payment with credit card or cash. Personal checks are not accepted.

    Reception hours: We offer 24-hour reception. So no matter what time you arrive, someone will be available to assist you. 

    Identification required: This hostel is for travelers only. We require all guests to present a valid photo ID issued from a government authority and proof of onward travel (an itinerary that shows you have a flight departing Maui). Guest's identification must match the name(s) on the reservation.

    Age Restrictions: Children under the age of 12 are not permitted to stay at the hostel. You must be a minimum of 18 years old to stay in a dorm bed. Minors may stay in a private room if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Guests checking in with children under the age of 12 will unfortunately be turned away and forfeit their deposit. 

    FREE GUIDED EXCURSIONS: Available on a first come first serve basis. We do not take reservations, you must be an in-house guest to sign up. Destinations are subject to change. Please remember that our staff tour guides and volunteers work hard to show you a good time; a tip of $5- $20 is appreciated and appropriate. Mahalo :)

    Taxes: All room rates are subject to an additional tax of 17.962%

    Groups:  Groups of more than 6 people require different terms and conditions, including but not limited to refund eligibility and deposit amounts. Please contact us directly for more information if you are interested in making a group booking. 

    Please note: If you have made a group reservation for a shared dorm room, we will make every effort to accommodate your request and place all members of your party in the same room. However, please be aware that this may be subject to availability, and we cannot guarantee it. We recommend booking a private room to guarantee all guests of your party will stay in the same room.


    Smoking: No smoking anything or vaping, no incendiary devices - matches or open flame. No incense, candles burning etc. in or within 20 feet (7 meters) of the building by Hawaii Statute. Guest will be charged a $250 cleaning fee if the property detects the odor of any "smoke" in the rooms.

    Food in Rooms: Guests are not permitted to consume or store any open food items in their rooms. This includes, but is not limited to, meals, snacks, fruits, and any unpackaged food items. Sealed, non-perishable snacks and bottled beverages are allowed, but must be kept sealed when not in use. Please enjoy our designated dining areas and kitchen to prevent pest-related issues. Thank you for your cooperation.

    Pets: We have a strict no pets policy. Only legally documented service animals on a leash are permitted.

    Accessibility: The building is not wheelchair/handicap accessible. Hostel is located on second floor - 22 steps. No elevator.

    Additional Person Fee: Private room rates are for 1- 2 guests. Parties of 3 or more guests are charged additional fee/night/person + tax.

    Visitors:  Registered guests only - no visitors. Strictly enforced.

    Storage: Free storage is available to current guests. Space is limited and we cannot guarantee availability. Hostel is not responsible for loss/theft/damage to stored items.

    Please note: Effective 4/15/2024 Howzit Hostels now requires all guests over the age of 55+ to book a private room accommodation. Guests aged 55+ will not be allowed to book a shared dorm accommodation (This policy includes mixed dorms and female-only dorms).

  • Paid municipal parking located nearby is available 24/7 subject to limits. Plus, free street parking around the neighborhood is also an option. The Hostel is not responsible for damage or theft of vehicles.

 
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