Thanks everyone for all the help and info. We have decided to fly into and stay on the Hilo side and then head to the volcano from there, along with possibly a few other stops if time/energy allows.

We just decided to stay at the Doubletree in oceanfront rooms, since we are only there 2 nights.

We are checking out the self guided tours and trying to find something that fits our needs.

Your ideas and input was so helpful!