It is all about the Toilet paper.

If you don't read anything else in this review, understand that the toilet paper provided at the Makai Hideaway is really good quality paper, it exemplifies the attention to detail that Cheryl put into her home, and the hospitality in the small details that makes a big difference between just a rental and an amazing home.
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We loved our stay at Cheryl's place! We felt incredibly privileged that she shares her wonderful home.

First, the location: One of the things that the Big Island is known for is its volcanoes and lava. Other than seeing actual flowing lava (which wasn't possible during our stay), one can pretty much experience the same at the seaside house. The house is on actual lava flow and one can see and experience the lava field the community is built upon. In addition, one can see and hear the ocean and the beautiful coastline from the house. There is a small black sand beach less than 20 minutes away as well as another swimming/snorkeling location less than 5 minutes (walking!) away. In short, the location is beautiful!

Hospitality: It is the little things that count: an up-to-date 2014 travel guide for the Big Island that we brought with us on our daily excursions, Hawaiian music CDs, DVDs, wifi, kitchen utensils, bowls and everything else you'd need to cook, laundry room, game room, water fun activity stuff...we really couldn't have asked for anything more during our stay.

The process: Cheryl was very responsive to our request to book, even though we contacted her last minute. She is very friendly and answered all of our questions promptly. Her directions were excellent, we had no problem finding the house at night. Daniel the local caretaker is a fount of local information, providing tips on what is worth the time and money and what is just a tourist trap.

Other miscellaneous thoughts: the house is a ways away from the main tourist area of Kona, which is great because you can enjoy your stay away from tourists. Also, the house is great value to share with some friends as there are plenty of sleeping places.