Aloha! My family and I are from O'ahu and we were looking for a "winter" getaway experience. We stayed at the hale for two days and honestly couldn't be any more pleased. We chose to stay in Volcano due to it's higher elevation (sits at 3,500ft), cooler temperatures, and proximity to the National Park (2 1/2 min drive). As soon as we entered we knew we made the right choice. You at greeted by the warmth of the hale as soon as you cross the threshold. You could easily house four adults in its spacious yet cozy space. The hale had every amenity that we had hoped for and then some, truly exceeding our expectations. Volcano is more of a remote location on the island, so we had already purchased groceries in the nearest sizable town ( Kea'au, aprox. 18mi) to cook most of our meals. There are but a few eateries in near-by Volcano Village (across the highway) and in the park, so we didn't bet on that. The lanai is really the jewel of the hale. It is completely covered and large enough to host a sizable party. It comes completely equipped with enough seating for all of your guests and a magnificent grill (which my husband put to good use!). Our keiki loved the fireplace the most (or possibly the fresh baked cookies they had waiting upon arrival!). It added wonderful ambiance and provided much needed warmth for our tropical bones. Mark and Lucretia maintain a well manicured lawn that was perfect for walking through with that morning coffee. Word of warning: if you can't sleep through perfect silence at night, this is not the place for you....we slept like the dead. My husband and I are already planning our next stay at the hale!