The owners of Hawaii’s Hamakua Hotel are introducing an exciting option for Big Island visitors seeking a luxurious getaway.
This newly renovated boutique property aims to provide high-end accommodations and a delightful culinary experience along the stunning Hamakua Coast.
Eric Lochtefeld, who purchased the eight-room hotel with his wife, Lori, in 2020, shared that many guests express a desire to enjoy this beautiful side of the island while indulging in luxury.
Lochtefeld noted, “One of the most common things I hear from guests is, ‘We love the idea of experiencing this side of the island but still staying in luxury.’ And I just don’t think that has been available in the past.”
After completing a $2.5 million renovation, the Hamakua Hotel celebrated its grand opening last July, transforming its offerings to meet the growing demand for upscale accommodations on the eastern coast of Hawaii Island.
While luxury properties abound on the western Kona coast, options on the lush eastern Hilo side have been limited.
Lochtefeld explained that the adults-only Hamakua Hotel caters to couples seeking an upscale experience while exploring local attractions like Akaka Falls, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
He highlighted, “If they’re coming to the Big Island for seven nights, they’re staying maybe four nights at one of the resorts on the Kohala coast, like the Four Seasons or Mauna Lani. Then, they’re giving us a try, and we’re getting them with our three-night minimum to come here. We seem to be a really good fit.”
The transformation of the Hamakua Hotel has been remarkable, and longtime visitors may recall the property when it was known as The Palms Cliff House Inn, a celebrated bed-and-breakfast that operated successfully for 25 years.
Despite the changes, the 25-acre property retains the stunning ocean views that guests have cherished for years.
During a recent visit, the elegant redesign of the guestroom stood out, featuring a spacious oceanfront lanai and a luxurious indoor soaking tub with an ocean view.
New amenities include Nespresso coffee machines, personal fridges, oversized walk-in showers, air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, and flat-screen smart televisions in all the guest rooms.
Lochtefeld remarked, “We didn’t replace any electrical or plumbing, but ‘completely redesigned’ would be the expression I would use.”
The extensive renovations also brought an array of new features, including an infinity pool and a hot tub, along with a spa facility equipped for massage treatments, a cold plunge pool, and an infrared sauna.
The pricing for accommodations starts at $699 per night for the four, 375-square-foot Oceanfront Standard rooms and $799 per night for the four, 500-square-foot Oceanfront Suites.
Travel advisors can earn a 10% commission on all bookings, with a three-night minimum stay required for guests.
Beyond the luxurious rooms, the Hamakua Hotel has enhanced its culinary offerings, delivering a unique dining experience.
A complimentary six-course tasting menu dinner is available exclusively to hotel guests every Tuesday and Friday night.
Lochtefeld proudly stated, “We’re the only ones on this island — I can’t speak for the other islands — doing French-style cuisine with Hawaiian ingredients.”
The hotel has engaged renowned English chef Edward Delling-Williams, known for his Michelin mentions and his successful Parisian eateries, to develop menus utilizing local ingredients.
Chef Delling-Williams visits Hawaii Island quarterly to create unique dining experiences, making the Hamakua Hotel a standout culinary destination.
In addition to the Tuesday and Friday dinners, guests can enjoy handcrafted island-infused cocktails during the popular happy hour held on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.
On Saturday nights, there is a gourmet cookout experience where executive chef Joseph Martinez showcases his skills on the outdoor grill.
Room rates also include a selection of complimentary coffee, specialty teas, tropical fruits, and fresh pastries served in the dining room beginning at 6 a.m. daily.
Lochtefeld emphasized the value of the hotel’s offerings, saying, “We include our happy hours and our meals in the price of the room, so if you come for three nights and you happen to come on a Friday and Saturday, you are getting two pretty incredible meals and happy hours those nights.”
With these attributes, the Hamakua Hotel strives to provide guests with an experience that comes as close to an all-inclusive luxury getaway as possible on the island.
Overall, the Hamakua Hotel is redefining luxury travel on Hawaii Island’s eastern coast, making it an attractive option for travelers seeking both comfort and outstanding culinary experiences.
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