Benjamin and Lee (the owners) of The Wild Ginger Inn in Hilo, HI are some of the friendliest people I met while on the Big Island. They made me feel like I was a part of their family (in fact, at the end of my stay they referred themselves as Uncle Ben and Auntie Lee!) and were as courteous and helpful as they could have been. The inn, while not the luxurious resort was perfect for my fiancee and I as we would rather support local businesses than large corporations. The property itself is beautiful, with a large lani that opens out to their lush garden. Ben is full of stories and helpful information. If you get the chance to have breakfast with them, try one of Ben's sticky rice packets! yummy! We'll definitely be staying there again!

I traveled on my own and made one mistake.
For the time frame I was staying, I booked Hostel side. I've never had a bad experience in a Hostel...until I stayed in an amerikan hostel. This was the ONLY down side to my stay here. Now that I know better, I'd happily return and stay in my own room.

If you are looking for luxury, this is not the right place for you. If you like down to earth, "real" and good people with hospitality+, it is wonderful place to stay.
This is more suitable for the nature lover, so for me...it was fabulous.

The kiko Frogs are quite loud but pleasant to listen to during the cool evenings in the yard. When it came time for sleep, silicone earplugs worked like a charm.

The other thing I was not aware of was the need for a car. There are buses that run on the big Island, but you are truly at their mercy.

I enjoyed just sitting in the yard talking to other travelers, guests and residents. The owners are wonderful. I grew very fond of Ben, Lee, Arthur and Erma...and of course
a couple of the locals.

The Wild Ginger is located close enough to shopping, if you are staying for a few days, i suggest getting a shopper card at the Sack and Save, and getting produce at the farmers market.
You can get use of the kitchen to prepare your own food. I found a few restaurants I really liked just a few short blocks away.

The Inn may not be for everyone, especially High maintenance Americans, but for myself and those who visit every year, its a special place.

Breakfast is the only meal served to guests, yet it is a treat. You can't beat the price for Hawaii!

~kmw

Don't expect a fancy hotel here, but very clean and convenient. Great place to base for hikes and sightseeing.

although the town of Hilo is not fun at all, the Wild Ginger was decently priced and we could walk to some restaurants nearby to get a bite to eat (no good restaurants in Hilo BTW...is seemed to me that meth has decimated the town). would stay there again for sure. staff were nice enough. certainly no frills, but a very good place to crash for not too much cash. perfect place to sleep in between hiking and snorkeling on that side of the island. the hiking and snorkeling over there are fabulous!