This home is aptly named, "cottage by the sea" as it is within walking distance of a public shoreline access. Managed to go there in the dark (with some moonlight) as my jet-lagged body wasn't going to let me sleep after 3AM. Nothing like sitting by the cliff, watching and listening to the waves by moonlight, then wait until a beautiful sunrise drinking my Mate tea.
Location is great as it is equidistant to the volcano, Akaka falls, Botanical Garden and some beaches around Hilo, which are tricky to get into the water around the rocks, but the snorkeling is absolutely mesmerizing, even just off the beach. Lots to do, but we were also perfectly happy just resting and reading on the porch surrounded by the lush vegetation and nature sounds (mostly). The house and porch are very private with fences, trees, etc. Cistern water tasted great and we had no issues drinking it straight or using it for coffee and tea. The house does not have AC, but with windows open and fans going, it was perfectly fine during an 87 degree day, and at night, we were still under the sheets by morning as it cooled down quickly.
The house had all we needed to make some simple meals and more complicated ones had we wanted to. Didn't try out many restaurants, but did prepare some local fish with just salt and pepper and freshly grated coconut. Delish. Had a delicious fresh papaya from a nice supermarket that is right on the road to Hilo , though we shopped first at Costco since we landed in Kailua-Kona (no Costco on the east side of the island).