Of the four places we stayed between Maui and the Big Island this house was unquestionably the best.
When we got to David and Yuriko’s house and Yuriko began showing us around, we were immediately struck by the incredible view from the large lanai. Sliding doors open up to a large porch facing the ocean and the sunset. There is also a small hot tub on the porch, along with a grill. It is a truly spectacular setting to prepare hot dogs, eat French onion dip, and discuss important topics like which states are least densely populated.
The location was nice as well. Less than ten minutes into the main part of Kona, with all the shops and restaurants, another ten up to the airport, and pretty easy access to the entire coastline on that side of the island and the excellent beaches, snorkeling, and casual dining available there.
David and Yuriko were good hosts during our stay. The house had everything we needed, except a roll of paper towels, which they provided immediately when we asked. David dropped by on our last night and we discussed his artistic career, the gourds he decorated in authentic fashion (which could be used as instruments), the yoga class he leads, our plans for the remainder of our trip, the dangers of driving at night in Hawaii, the dangers of volcanic lava, his personal history as it related to moving to Hawaii, a group of tennis players who had previously stayed at their home, the artwork in and around the house, the design and expansion of the house, Airbnb, Yuriko’s previous employment, kayaking, cycling, idiosyncrasies of the Hawaiian language, and motorcycles.