Our stay on the Big Island was filled with Big Magic, and this home made it all possible. Jack and Diana were the best hosts our family could have asked for. Their warmth and attention to detail set this rental apart. If you're looking for a home base in Hilo, you've found it.
This home is about 7-8 minutes away from downtown Hilo, but it feels more remote. Apart from occasional noise from neighbors across the street, the only sound you'll hear are the coqui frogs.
About them: coqui frogs are an invasive species, and a loud one. That being said, we loved them! They sang us to sleep every night, and would come back to life if it rained hard enough. Our server at Pineapples, a terrific local restaurant, said she needs coqui frog recordings to fall asleep when she visits the mainland.
While the frogs are not unique to Jack and Diane's, they have chosen a spectacular home in their beautifully cultivated tropical garden. It is lovely at any time of day, but is particularly tranquil in the morning. We had coffee out there most mornings, and dreamed of living in a place like Hilo permanently.
Besides the garden, Jack and Diana have gone to great lengths to curate a space that meets the needs of their guests with quirkiness and style. We delighted in their choices of art and furniture, and were never left wanting for a kitchen utensil or gadget, or anything else that a traveling family might need. The grill was clean and well maintained, the bedroom was spacious and comfortable (great bed), and despite the humidity and warmth we were actually glad for a break from air conditioning. The house captured the breezes with perfectly placed windows, and only felt stuffy when we came home from a day out and about.
That reminds me, we highly recommend renting a vehicle with a backup camera! The driveway is on a blind curve, so we backed in when the coast was clear to make for safer exits. You can also turn around in the driveway itself, but it's a little tight.
I could go on and on about this home (I know I have already), but it's just that good. Give Jack and Diana our regards if you stay here, and I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.