Really enjoyed my stay. The hosts Sarah, James and Alex were super friendly and welcoming. They were very available if needed. Loved the location nestled upslope in Captain Cook in a off the beaten path location. I appreciated the cooler temps. at that elevation ( 2,000 feet? ), often with a nice breeze. Beautiful sweeping view of the ocean and sunsets from the lanai and windows in living area and bedroom. There is a very friendly gecko that would beg for a little piece of banana when I was sitting at the lanai table - too cute!.
Perfect for one or two guests that are looking for an affordable option with basic amenities and furnishings, clean and tidy, with a great location in South Kona. As the hosts mention, there is natural sounds of nature, even at night ( frogs and roosters and dogs at times ) but I was able to sleep just fine and quite enjoyed the sound of the frogs. A couple of the nights I popped in some ear plugs that I brought when the roosters were more active. The roosters are all over the island, so it's not just here you would encounter them. Another thing to note that this space is above a space that is used as an office and work area / common area during the day with light to moderate use, with some use at dinner time. When the downstairs is being used, I can hear folks talking, etc. while upstairs in the unit. It did not bother me at all, but for someone that wants complete privacy and do not want to hear others ( or have others hear you ), this may not be a good fit for you.
A bowl of fresh picked fruit from their farm, fresh flowers, lots of up to date activity guides, and local magazines, and a tide calendar were nice touches. I didn't cook much except for oatmeal for breakfast on the hot plate. Nice to have a full size fridge for fruit and prepared food I picked up at Island Naturals in Kona before heading down. If you go, try the vegan coconut or lilikoi tapioca pudding - it's so yummy! There's also a grocery store ( Choice Mart ) and a farmer's market just a few minutes down the road.
A lovely twenty five minute drive to the best snorkeling at Two Step or Kealakekua Bay! I went down to Two Step every morning around 7 or 8 am to get there before the crowds during busy time of the year ( the fish are more active in morning as well ). Tip: it's called Two Step because there is a natural lava ledge or step down into the water. When you arrive ask someone where it is. Otherwise, it's tricky to get into the water here without risking hurting the coral or yourself on the lava rock, coral or urchins. And please use "reef safe" sunscreen. If you see the dolphins, just float and wait for them - please don't chase them - they are often resting in the bay.
I will be coming back to stay. It fit all my needs and within my budget.