YOU GUYS.
If you are on this side of the island, this is the spot. Not only is Joy a wonderful, kind soul (Michael was out when we were visiting), not only is the lanai a beautiful, unique spot, but the space is so perfect.
THE SPACE
There are two bedrooms with AC units as well as a portable rotating fan. The common space within the space is the kitchen. The portable TV was also really nice as we were able to move it into the one room that had the couch (and conveniently sitting next to one of the AC units).
Though the kitchen is little, she is fierce. Amenities such as spices and oil were provided (and a bag of coffee!) in addition to the standard items, like utensils, plates, cups, etc. Welcoming chocolates met us at the kitchen table. We ended up cooking a few meals and cutting up some mangoes during our stay. Don't miss out on the compost bucket like I did!
The bathroom was a fun space, with shells and gems outlining the shower along the wall (note: there is a screened window high on the wall, so if you're trying to keep the space cool, keep the bathroom door closed).
The lanai is quite large and lovely. So many interesting items are placed throughout the lanai and the guest space. Oh! There is also a hammock on the front - my partner and I both got to enjoy relaxing and swinging in it one of the nights we stayed.
THE LOCATION
Close to Pahoa! Not too far, but just enough out of the way to feel like you're out of the thick of any kind of busyness. A relaxing spot, entering the property through the gate. Driving to this location was comfortable - not too far from everything, but also not too close to so many other people.
THE HOST
Joy is so, so, so very accommodating. We booked pretty close to when we were going to stay and she let us have an earlier check-in time, even with another guest leaving and cleaner coming in. She greeted us and introduced us to the space. There are notes in the space with a list of items available to borrow and her contact info so when we messaged to ask about borrowing a cooler. Joy messaged us back the instructions on where to locate it and then came all the way over to us to make sure we found it and then offered us extra ice and some snorkeling gear as well.
I can go on about how great of a stay this was (and we were only there two nights) but I'll go ahead and end it here: If you're looking to stay on this side of the island, this is the spot.