Really exceeded expectations! I am a beach-lover and normally wouldn't stay off the beach but now I will never stay anywhere else when I come to the Big Island! It's a quiet, charming retreat with amazing views, surrounded by lush gardens, and feels completely retreat-like, but is also super close to good restaurants and marvelous beaches and snorkeling. The teahouse feels like its own little nest up on the hill, above the main house. The skylight over the bed is an amazing touch because you can see the stars! The Wi-Fi, which I have to have for my work, was very reliable.
I enjoyed using it as a base to explore Ho'okena Beach, and Two-Step and Manini for snorkeling--both are mind-blowing snorkeling that I never would have known about if not for staying here. I also drove North to White Sand Beach for body surfing and visited fun antique stores on the way. Silvana was wonderful about prompt communication and local tips for beaches and food.
The toilet and shower are outside, so be prepared for that--but I found it to be no problem at all, and it all added to the "being in nature" feel of the whole experience. Also be prepared for adorable gecko visitors just like in any Hawaiian household; I really enjoyed having them around. As with any real-life lodging in Hawaii (ie, not an antiseptic resort) don't leave food out--I came home to a gecko licking a slice of pineapple I had left out, which I found extremely cute. All in all it was a truly distinctive experience that I can't wait to return to.