We know that Polynesian Pop Culture was a unique culture almost exclusive the mainland United States. However, there are a few exceptions of tiki architecture that could be found in the Hawaiian islands, including the Orchid Island Hotel in Hilo, Hawaii.
The Hotel was located on Hilo Bay next to Coconut Island. The City of Hilo is on the wet side of the Big Island and can receive up to 200 inches of rain per year. All that rain produces incredible foliage, including the Banyan Tress that line Banyan Drive on the way to the hotel.
The hotel itself was a standard multi-story structure. But with the addition of the gorgeous ornamental 6 story A-frame entrance, the hotel took on an exotic flavor. The concept rendering shows exposed beams as part of the A-frame cover. I like the fact that the roof is not entirely covered.
However, once the entrance was constructed, it was not quite as elaborate as it was depicted in the original concept.
Spent a few days at the Orchid Isle in July 1975 for my brother’s wedding to a Hilo born and raised girl. As a high school senior I enjoyed it. Sad to hear it was only open for a decade.
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