I am so happy I stumbled on Laura & Mike's Rainforest Bungalow!
We had a bit of a stop/start due to Covid and subsequent health issues, but my family was fortunate enough to spend the last 5 days in this amazing home. The bungalow is adjacent to Laura & Mike's home. While they were in shouting distance of our space, they struck the perfect balance of communicating and keeping in touch without infringing on our time.
This is such an amazing space. You truly feel the rainforest vibe. Palm trees, orchids, bromeliads, lime trees, avocados and countless other plants and trees I couldn't begin to name. Add to that geckos and frogs and all kinds of other wildlife just wandering the property or its environs and you really get the feeling that you're deep in the forest.
But, good news! You're 10 minutes from downtown Hilo. Roughly 10 minutes from the most gorgeous snorkeling I've ever experienced. You're about a half hour from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. We also made two trips across the Saddle Road to the windward side of the island for excursions. That is about a 90 minute drive, but it's a fascinating trip between Mauna Loa & Mauna Kea so we didn't mind the length of the trip.
Laura & Mike are great communicators starting from the very beginning when we unfortunately had to cancel our original trip due to Covid travel restrictions. When we were finally able to make the trip, we were so excited to find that the bungalow was still available. Laura & Mike checked in at regular intervals as the trip approached. There were weather challenges while we were there, Laura sent us regular updates about flood warnings, etc. In addition, she recommended restaurants for us, and in general was just super friendly and helpful.
The bungalow is wonderfully appointed. Beautiful matching linens throughout the space. The kitchen is spare, but as promised - fridge, hot plate, coffee, microwave, etc. Laura & Mike stocked coffee and all the accoutrements, which was a really lovely touch. The constant little touches were so appreciated - a notebook full of suggested day trips, activities, etc. All kinds of beach equipment - chairs, towels, snorkels & masks, a cooler. And, because it's Hilo and rain is a thing, parkas & umbrellas for when Mother Nature does her thing.
Truly, my family is trying to figure out how quickly we can get back to spend more time in the Rainforest Bungalow. If you're coming to Hilo, this is a great balance of Hawaii rainforest and urban convenience.