The vibe you find at Open Gate Hostel is hard to explain and find somewhere else. Staying here was one of the best decisions I have made throughout my two weeks in Hawaii. Staff is truly super (helpful, friendly, welcoming, helpful) and the people you meet there are just amazing. My private room was large, comfortable, and clean. Bathrooms and kitchen were very clean, too. Location is incredible.

Stayed in January 2024

It's a dead-end location with no restaurants, shops, beach, whatsoever. 30-40 minutes drive to Hilo, >60 min. to the Volcanoes park entrance. In the future, an inhouse bar would be great!

Very special place and probably the best value-for-money on Big Island.

Stayed in January 2024

I really loved this hostel. The staff were so friendly and went out of their way to make sure the guests had a nice experience. The hostel itself is a very unique structure built on lava fields. Definitely one of the most interesting hostels I’ve ever stayed at.

Stayed in January 2024

The temperature of the water of the shower was rather cold, for me that’s fine, but it might be uncomfortable for some people.

The location is great in the middle of the old lava. Plus there is a gym and the people at the hostel were kind and friendly.

Stayed in September 2023

This hostel is amazing, the staff are amazing, everything perfect!!!

Stayed in September 2023

Cool location on old lava flows! Appreciated how clean the rooms and the bathrooms were!

Stayed in August 2023

Hot water shower…

So peaceful. So beautiful.

Stayed in September 2023

I liked everything, I only recommend that a car is necessary because it is a bit far from the main road.

The atmosphere that is breathed is one of complete relaxation, ideal to rest and disconnect from everything, the staff is very attentive and helps with everything you need.

Stayed in August 2023

The road to get there is a bit sketchy, but we were able to get there fine with our Kia Soul rental.

One of the coolest hostels I've ever been at. It was fascinating to be staying right on top of a lava field. The owners were extremely friendly, and the beach they suggested we go to had dolphins we were able to swim with. Our room was very clean, as were the shared spaces.

Stayed in July 2023

Helpful staf that picked and dropped me in Pahoa. Pretty good wifi. I had to make a video call (which I usually don't do and hate) and it worked fine. Room was comfortable. The road is in bad condition but regular cars can definitely make it. Clean. Very remote. Again, I liked it, but maybe not for everyone.

Stayed in August 2023

Travel distance to stores and restaurants.

Staff and location.

Stayed in June 2023

The structure is made of wood and shakes anytime anyone walks on it. There were people watching tv until late and the noise flew into our room, so it depends on your luck what you get. There is little to no food in common stock at the hostel (which generally is), we had to go out late in a very dark area to get some basics.

The location is actually on top of a volcano. It's unlike any other place you have lived at.

Stayed in May 2023

There's not much to dis like honestly. It's definitely a choice to be there and I have no regrets.

The personalities of all members was fantastic 😊 hospitality and the warm welcome you get is exceptional

Stayed in May 2023

unique hostel away from the bustle of town and busier beaches! loved the breeze through the common areas and the stargazing tower. would stay here again!

Stayed in April 2023

the property was great! they could definitely invest in some comfier beds as they get more popular ! but for a hostel style it was great

quite possibly one of the coolest locations we’ve had the pleasure of staying at. environmentally friendly, easy check in. close to some cool trails

Stayed in April 2023

Everything was great!

everything was great! Location far away from everything, hard without a car, but there is always people there to take you somewhere and enjoy the island together! I only stayed there for 3 nights but it felt like home! 10/10 would recommend!!!!

Stayed in March 2023

You will need a car to get around but the friendly staff will help you in case you need anything. It is not easy to reach the hostel by public transport or taxi or uber.

Unique and absolutely amazing location. It would be hard to imagine another hostel built on lava. You definitely need a car though otherwise you will be stuck and bring all your food too!

Stayed in February 2023

the driving directions on map take you a little behind on the actual hotel and unless you really know the roads out there it will be hard to find and almost impossible to find at night. Also the potholes are especially bad right now on the road and you need to take special care

loved the energy and feel of the place. you need to understand about Kalapana and the lava flow to really appreciate this place. it was suuuuper clean, well organized, very comfortable rooms, very fast WiFi and the best cell service in the neighborhood. Also had exceptional espresso, which is unheard of in Puna.

Stayed in February 2023

Everyone was very nice and accommodating. Location is off grid down a dirt road, rural country.

Stayed in January 2023

fun and well organized

Stayed in December 2022

The cleanest most welcoming place I had stayed in Hawaii! They make you feel like family.

Stayed in November 2022

The owner is manipulative and i didnt feel safe

I initially thought this place is cute. However…

Stayed in December 2023

Very remote & staff was distant

The hostel was very nicely decorated and the beds were comfortable

Stayed in May 2023

weird desperate vibe of hostel, there are much better places to stay. the walls were so thin you could hear people breathing in the room over. do not stay here, it's kinda cool but all and all not worth being close to the beaches around there. you can get much better cheaper stays in Pahoa

nothing really. cute kitten outside

Stayed in February 2023