This family-operated hotel is located across the Hilo Bay on historic Banyan Drive. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and a spring pond filled with Japanese carp, this hotel isn't fancy, but it's great for those on a budget. The rooms were updated and repainted in 2006. The location is terrific for exploring East Hawaii: a 45-minute scenic drive to Hawaii's Volcano National Park, a few minutes by car to downtown, and close to a 9-hole golf course and tennis courts.