Do you provide towels & toiletries?

We provide absorbent and quick drying Turkish towels, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Our camp has biodegradable plant-based H2O bath products. We recommend that you bring any other necessary toiletries as we do not have any for sale, but you can purchase some at any of the general stores in Volcano.

What is the camp bathroom like?                                                                                                                  

The lua is a two-room en suite designed just for this particular purpose.  On one side is the shower space with drainage, ventilation, and a toiletries organizer.  Stepping through the door to the other side is the dry flush toilet and a separate dry changing room, with a window and venting.

Do you provide bedding?

We have provided a queen-size gel and memory foam mattress with fluffy pillows and luxurious linens.  Nightstands each hold a battery-operated light, with additional lighting throughout the tent and the site. Need additional blankets on a chilly night? No problem! A cozy tropical quilt or a super-warm wool blanket to add to the bed will keep you toasty warm.

Are meals included?

Breakfast will be delivered to you each morning between 8 AM and 9 AM.  You can make arrangements to have the ingredients to make your own breakfast put in your cooler the day before or we can provide a precooked breakfast and you can reheat it in the morning.  Coffee, tea and juice will be provided at your camp site in the camp kitchen.  We offer non-dairy creamer, but milk can be purchased at any of the general stores.

What time is check-in & out?

Check-in: Anytime after 4 PM.

There are no streetlights in Volcano and finding the ranch and glamping tent after dark can be difficult, so we recommend you arrive prior to sunset the first day of your stay.  

Check-out: 11 AM.

Check-out is by 11 AM. We cannot accommodate late check-outs for the tent.

Is there electricity in the tent?

Just like camping, there is no electricity. However, there are battery powered fans & lanterns, solar charged USB chargers so you can charge at least 2 cell phones.  Don’t forget to bring your charging cords!  If you forget to put the charger in the sun during the day, you may not have enough juice to charge your phone in the evening.

Is the camp lit at night?

Yes, we use a mix of solar lighting and battery lights around your camp but try to limit light pollution which allows you to take in the billions of stars from your little piece of paradise! The view of the Milky Way Galaxy is the thing vacations are made of! The solar lights will stay lit throughout the night but do ask you to turn off any battery operated lights when not in use.

Can I lock the tent?

The tent does not have locks. However, it does zip up with both an inner mesh netting, and an additional canvas exterior shell. We do suggest keeping all valuables such as cash, jewelry, cameras, passports, etc. with you whenever possible.

What is your cancellation policy?

Please see Policies page for cancellation policy information.

Is there a fire pit outside the tent?

We provide a firepit for either campfire cooking with the camping grate or as a place to sit and enjoy your favorite libation in the evening.  Wood can be purchased from us for $20.00 a tub which includes starter, kindling, and wood to last up to 3-4 hours.  You can also purchase firewood by the bundle at any of the General stores in Volcano.

Is there WIFI?

WIFI is included in the form of a Verizon Hot Spot.  This has a 12 hour battery life so the more your stream, the faster it dies. For stays of three days or more we will charge it every third day.  If you have chosen to Glamp we feel this is the time to unplug from the everyday noise and reconnect with yourself, your partner or just a great book.

Will my cell phone work?

The quality of coverage can vary based on location and service provider. We suggest checking the coverage map of your service provider. There is the hotspot for making WIFI enabled calls if necessary.

What should I pack?

Be sure to check the weather before arriving and pack accordingly for all weather conditions. You may want to bring quality hiking shoes, backpacks, water bottles and a USB cell phone charging cord to use with the USB battery packs in your tent. Rain jackets are also advised, just in case! But not to worry, our tent is fully weatherized and is capable of handling common rainstorms.  If you want a full packing list for the location you are visiting, just let us know.

Where do we park?

There is a reserved parking space for Glamping guests next to the parking space for guests who stay in the renovated barn.  We provide a pull wagon for you to assist in taking your essentials to the camping area.

How do we heat the tent?

A wood-burning stove is included in the tent with a fire starter, kindling, and wood. The stove does help heat the tent quite a bit, but if you are traveling during the colder months, you may want to pack some warm clothes to ensure maximum comfort. If you have any trouble getting the fire started, we do provide detailed directions in the in-room binder, or feel free to reach out to us for assistance.

Does the tent have air conditioning?

Our tent does not have air conditioning.  We do have the opening of the tent facing the direction the trade winds usually blow.  There are (4) windows at the bottom of the tent that can be unzipped for additional airflow. If you are visiting in the summer, please keep this in mind. We do have two battery-operated fans to help as well.

Is there a minimum stay?

There is a two-night minimum stay, however, a one-night minimum stay may be available with a $50 cleaning surcharge.  Please contact us directly if you are requesting a one-night stay.

Are kids allowed?

Currently, we are not allowing children at the campsite younger than 15. We do have family rooms available at the B&B on the property.

Do you have quiet hours?

Quiet hours are from 9 PM to 8 AM daily.  Given our remote location, noise travels far in the rainforest so we ask all our guests to be considerate of each other and our neighbors.

What is the weather like?

Volcano features a subtropical highland climate. Being located in a rainforest means we get an abundance of…you guessed it, rain! It will usually rain in the early morning and in the evenings with a break in the afternoon. While we experience relatively uniform temperatures (68-76ish) and abundant rainfall throughout the year. Most of the rainfall is concentrated during the months of November through April.


GLAMPING CHECKLIST

What to Wear?

If you are coming to the Big Island chances are good you have already packed clothes for dressing in layers.  We have 10 different eco systems just on this one island!  Even in the park you can go from 4000 ft to sea level in a matter of 20 miles.  The difference is usually between 10 and 15 degrees which is quite considerable. Sturdy hiking shoes with a good sole is important when hiking across the glass like lava trails.  If you have water shoes or shower shoes you may want to bring those as well.  A rain jacket is always a good idea when coming to Hawaii, especially when visiting the rain forest.

Tech or no?

While we don’t provide electricity at the glamping site, we do provide a few things to help the disconnect from technology a little easier.  We provide a variety of solar chargers and battery based chargers for your cell phones or a small tablet, but you need to remember to bring your charging cord.  We have a hot spot for WIFI to help with cell service or to check email. You’ll also want to bring a camera or a go pro to capture all those awesome moments at HVNP and around the island.  Don’t forget extra batteries!

Outdoor Gear

While we provide flashlights and umbrellas for your use, please remember to bring sunscreen (A MUST in Hawaii, we are super close to the equator so burning happens easily and fast!) mosquito repellent (we do not usually have mosquitos, but some parts of the island do) water bottle, day pack, hats and sunglasses.

Snacks and Libations

Here in Volcano, we have three General Stores with extremely limited supplies.  Stop off in Hilo or Kona and get any snacks, beer, wine, sparkling water etc. that you may want to have.  If you want to make a meal at the campsite, to bring the ingredients you will need and do not forget the ice for the cooler!

Daily Essentials

If you have prescriptions or vitamins that you take every day, you will want to ensure you pack them to bring with you.  Pain relievers, antacids, allergy medications etc.  We do provide eco-friendly shampoo, conditioner and soap to use and ask that you only use these during your stay.  A basic first aid kit is also provided.

What is the difference between a hotel and a Bed & Breakfast?
A Bed and Breakfast is defined as a small property, offering 5 guest rooms or less. It may also have small cabins in addition to the main house. Typically the owner or host is the one who will welcome you personally and prepare your morning breakfast. A B&B is a fun and different place to stay; it's a home away from home.

Your lodging experience will be more personalized with the host sharing the common areas of their home and information about the local area you might not get in a hotel. A B&B provides a breakfast included in the room price that usually incorporates local specialties you would not normally receive from a hotel kitchen.

Concierge services, activity planning, drinks & snacks, or internet which are usually an extra charge in a resort hotel are often included free. However please remember we are a small operation and do not have a 24 hour desk to attend to your needs or lift your bags. At a B&B your host does all the work with little or no staff.

Why do B&B's have specific check-in times?
Most B&B's have specific check-in and check-out times, and do not operate around the clock like a hotel. The owner or host of the property will personally greet you and show you what the property offers in the way of amenities. Some B&B personnel have other jobs, or will be the ones cleaning and preparing the rooms for your stay, which is why specific check-in times are requested. If  you are unable to meet the check in time, due to a late arriving plane, let your host know so arrangements can be made well in advance to be there to let you in. 

At Volcano Acres Ranch we have implemented  a  self check in procedure to assist with social distancing guidelines.  Communication via email or text will provide pertinent check in information.  You can arrive anytime after 4 PM, but keep in mind it does get very dark and there is no ambient lighting so we recommend arriving before dark your first time to the property. 

What are the rooms like in a B&B?
Guest rooms in a B&B are typically delightful. The owner has usually put lots of care into choosing the atmosphere, furniture and décor of the rooms. You will find them more comfortable and cozy than a hotel room, and equally, if not more, private.

At Volcano Acres Ranch we have taken care to choose high quality beds and bedding you would not find except at the most luxurious class of hotels. Rooms feature custom made artisan beds, comfortable mattresses, and luxurious linens.

Will I have to share a bathroom down the hall?
Some B&B's offer shared baths and others offer private baths. It's is always a good question to ask when choosing a B&B.

At Volcano Acres Ranch, ALL our bedrooms have private baths. In addition you will find the spa amenities you usually find in a better hotel such as fluffy towels, quality soaps, shampoo, hair dryers. Our master suite features a whirlpool tub with aromatherapy amenities and towel warmer. 

How do we obtain drinks or snacks, are there vending machines?
Most B&B's do not have vending machines but do offer free or honor system non-alcoholic drinks and snacks. Some B&Bs (outside of Hawaii) allow access to the refrigerator, and others have a separate guest refrigerator. Always ask the host before putting anything into the kitchen refrigerator or taking something from the kitchen. Some B&Bs allow you to bring your own liquor, beer or wine- but always ask if that is allowed.

At Volcano Acres Ranch we have a small tea and coffee station in each guest room along with a small refrigerator microwave and toaster oven.  While you are welcome to bring your own wine, beer or liquor, we do ask that you drink responsibly and respect the other guests in the house.  Hawaii B&B licensing prohibits guests from using the kitchen facilities (oven, range, refrigerator, and microwave). 

Are there TV's, Telephone and Internet access at a B&B?
This varies greatly from property to property and if these are important to you it is wise to ask.

At Volcano Acres Ranch TV sets with DVD players and basic cable are included in each room.  Internet access is available for checking email or posting to social media, but due to our location in the rainforest we don’t get enough bandwidth to stream movies or shows.  

What is breakfast like in a B&B and when is it served?
All B&B's provide breakfast but this can vary greatly among properties from a light continental to a hot, sit down breakfast. County regulations dictate that only licensed restaurants are permitted to serve hot breakfast. 

At Volcano Acres Ranch you will be treated to a hearty farm to table Continental Breakfast of cold cheeses and meats, hard-boiled eggs, tropical fruit, fresh baked muffins and breads and make-your-own island style waffles. Our chickens lay all of our eggs so you know they can’t get much fresher than that! We purchase all of our fruits and breads from local artisans and at the farmers market. Enjoy a variety of freshly ground Hawaiian coffee drink or  gourmet Hawaiian teas. To assist with social distancing guidelines breakfast will be dropped off in your room either the night before or between 8 am and 9 am each morning.  Menus are in your room, fill  one out per person and we will collect them each evening. Because we are 30 miles away from major supermarkets, you are encouraged to bring your own specialty foods (rice or soy milk, gluten-free baked goods, etc).

How can I find out about area attractions and activities?
 In each room you will find a book containing activity brochures, restaurant menus and a calendar of local events.
                                                                                                            
Your host is able to recommend include guided culture and nature hikes, tours of lava tubes, or helicopter rides to see the active volcano. In addition she can recommend places for a picnic, beaches, day hikes, art, fun country markets or island wide options based on your preference.

Does a B&B serve breakfast, lunch and dinner?
Depending on the state you live in a B&B may or may not serve other meals. In Hawaii a Bed and Breakfast may ONLY serve breakfast.

A complete listing of area restaurants,  is included in a directory in each room. Everything from pizza and sandwiches to Thai food or fine dining is available in Volcano, although most places do not serve past 9:00 pm. Some suggest reservations which your host is happy to make for you, while you go enjoy the park. Area restaurants are only 5 minute drive away. The town of Hilo, about 45 minutes away, also has a large selection of restaurants. 

Am I expected to tip at a B&B?
At a B&B, like any quality accommodation, the staff works hard to provide for your comfort. Tipping is not expected, but is always appreciated. We strive to provide great service and welcome your feedback.

What else should I know about customs unique to Hawaii?
Hawaiian custom asks that you remove your shoes while in someone's home. It is a sign of respect and keeps the house cleaner too, as there is often plenty of sand, mud or red dirt in Hawaii. Shoes are left at the door.
In a basket, just inside the door we provide slippers or clean slipper socks that may be worn in the house. You may wish to bring a pair of your own house slippers. Or you are welcome to go barefoot, island style, as we do.

Give a Lei! 
This is one of our favorite customs! Lei-making in Hawaii is an art form and an expression of aloha. They are made of plants, flowers, nuts or shells. Lei are given to welcome friends, as gifts at important ceremonies like birthdays or graduation, to a presenter at a lecture or just anytime as a gesture to make someone feel special.

If you are celebrating a special occasion I can arrange a lei greeting made of exotic flowers from one of our skilled island lei makers. Please contact me at least 72 hours prior to arrival.

FAQ