It’s basic, a bit spartan. But clean. Decent. And it’s a locally owned chain.

Our room is on the second floor. I didn’t try for the cheapest rooms. This is a “deluxe” room on the kamaaina rate. We do see the ocean and the Superferry and cruise ship docks from our window. Room is small. Mattress is too soft for comfort, but okay. There’s a small desk, two chairs, television, a small in-room refrigerator, small bathroom.

They dumped the formerly charming little restaurant and replaced it with something called the Coconut Grill. Same thing as in Hilo, so I suspect it’s happened in all their hotels. The menu at this new Coconut Grill is way overpriced. We’re avoiding it. We had takeout from a Thai restaurant across the street last night, with wine from the Foodland just up the block. High living.

In any case, if you want resort, stay elsewhere. If you want basic accomodations, the Seaside hotels are nice and friendly. Lots of local families here.

Of course, the last time we stayed at the Seaside in Hilo, I later made a complaint to the fire inspector about the many low quality extension cords running around the room. It seemed like a fire waiting to happen.

-Ian