Hilo Val-Hala Apartments

Pros

• The housing complex is awesome for seniors and families.
• The management crew is awesome.
• Conditions have greatly improved.
• Exterior and interior renovations have taken place.
• Compared to the mainland, these public housing apartments are almost luxurious.
• The location is unbeatable.
• The community exudes a welcoming Aloha vibe.

Cons

• The illegal activity still exists at the complex, even though it has greatly improved over the years.

Review

This housing complex is painted as a standout option for both seniors and families, a place that has earned strong praise from people who know it well. It's described as a community where many residents already have friends or relatives living there, and the overall sentiment is that the living experience is genuinely positive. The tone throughout emphasizes warmth, connection, and a sense of belonging, making it feel less like a simple address and more like a supported, welcoming neighborhood.

Central to the favorable view is the management team, which is repeatedly singled out as excellent. Phrases like "Awesome Management Crew!!!" pop up as a clear stamp of approval, underscoring how residents feel seen and supported by the people who run the property. The management's impact is framed as a major driver of the improved conditions residents now enjoy, suggesting that responsive leadership and proactive oversight have helped elevate daily life for people living there.

Another key thread in the testimonials is the physical transformation of the property. The exterior has undergone renovations, and the interiors have also seen upgrades, signaling a comprehensive modernization that residents notice and appreciate. This combination of curb appeal and updated, more comfortable living spaces contributes to the overall impression that the complex has moved beyond basic public housing into a more polished, cared-for environment.

The reviews don't shy away from acknowledging ongoing challenges, but they do emphasize progress. Specifically, illegal activity is still present in some form, but the sentiment is that it has diminished over the years. Residents seem to view this as a historical issue that is steadily being managed more effectively, rather than as a current, defining characteristic of life there. This nuance suggests a complex reality where safety concerns exist but are outweighed by improvements and positive experiences in daily living.

A notable comparison offered is with public housing on the mainland, where the complex is described as being nearly luxurious by contrast. This perspective highlights the sense of value and quality residents feel they receive, especially when paired with a desirable location. The location is praised as a standout feature, contributing to the sense that this isn't just affordable housing but a well-situated community with real advantages for daily life, access, and convenience.

At the heart of the praise is a motto that seems to capture the spirit of residency: "Live with Aloha and you will get it there." This line encapsulates the overall vibe residents attribute to the place - a welcoming, warm, and uplifting atmosphere where kindness and a sense of community are palpable. The affectionate language - "Awesome ? ? ?" - reaffirms a deep sense of satisfaction and pride in the community, suggesting that many residents feel lucky to call this housing complex home.

Taken together, the reviews present a robust, multi-faceted portrait of a housing complex that has earned strong affection from its residents. The combination of supportive, effective management; visible renovations and modernization; a cautiously optimistic stance on safety amid ongoing challenges; and a standout location all contribute to a narrative of improvement and sustained value. The sentiment is unmistakably positive, centering on the idea that this is more than a place to live - it's a community where residents can feel cared for, connected, and uplifted.

Physicians

• Hawaii Community Mental Health Center (0.2 miles)
• Hawaii Family Health (0.3 miles)
• Island Pediatrics (0.7 miles)
• Aloha Nui Family Practice (0.8 miles)
• Family Medicine Center (0.9 miles)
• Randall Dr - Hirata Randall H Hirata MD (1.1 miles)
• Hra Womens Imaging Cen (1.1 miles)

Parks

• Mo’oheau Park (0.3 miles)
• Isles Beach Park (1.2 miles)
• Lili‘uokalani Park And Gardens (1.3 miles)
• Rainbow Falls Park (1.5 miles)
• Ho'olulu Park (1.5 miles)
• University Heights Park (1.7 miles)
• Wailoa State Park (1.8 miles)

Restaurants

• Jackie Rey's Ohana Grill Hilo (0.3 miles)
• The Temple Bar (0.3 miles)
• Papajac's Cafe (0.3 miles)
• Hilo Town Tavern (0.4 miles)
• Kozmic Cones (0.4 miles)
• McDonald's (0.5 miles)
• Hilo Bay Sugar Shack (0.5 miles)

Cafes

• Nector Cafe (0.4 miles)
• Starbucks (0.8 miles)
• Just Cruisin Coffee (1.2 miles)
• Big Island Pearl Tea (1.8 miles)
• VIBE Cafe & Health Bar (2.2 miles)
• Popover (2.3 miles)
• Starbucks (2.8 miles)

Pharmacies

• Kta Super Stores (0.5 miles)
• Shiigi Drug Co. (0.7 miles)
• Pharmerica (0.9 miles)
• Longs Drugs (0.9 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (1.2 miles)
• Walmart Pharmacy (2.7 miles)
• Kta Super Stores (2.9 miles)

Transportation

• AA Marshall's Taxi (1.1 miles)
• U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (2.2 miles)
• U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (2.4 miles)
• Aiona U-Rent Car (2.5 miles)

Places of Worship

• Crossnet Ministries (1.2 miles)
• Southern Baptist Convention (1.9 miles)
• Kaumana Drive Baptist Church (2 miles)

Hospitals

• Hilo Medical Center (1.7 miles)

Theaters

• Regal Prince Kuhio (2.8 miles)