Staying at Barbara's cabin was fantastic. The space was well appointed, clean, with storage areas to keep it from looking cluttered after unpacking. There's plenty of kitchen gear to prepare, make or reheat any meals you might want while staying here. The windows look out onto a wrap-around deck and the rest of Barbara's wonderfully landscaped yard. Two of my favorite parts of my stay were being lulled to sleep by the ambient night songs from outside (there is a white-noise generator if you prefer); and waking up to sunrise and the lush tropical view. The cabin shower is an outdoor shower, but perfectly private, and did not give me any pause. If you're looking for a Westin, stay at a Westin. But if you are looking for some place unique, closer to the raw natural beauty that Hawai'i has to offer, then the shower location won't be a concern for you either.
Barbara's cabin is located remote from everything and everywhere, but that's exactly what I was looking for. Kehena Black Sand Beach is walking distance, and honestly it was one of my favorite beaches to sit on. I went there nearly every day. The weekends this beach gets a bit busy, but it was glorious in the mornings during the week.
As for Barbara herself, she is such a gracious host. Both super helpful, and also respectful of privacy, she was available when I had questions or sought recommendations, and left me to my own devices otherwise. When I wanted, we had great conversations that later helped her give me recommendations that were far better than any targeted algorithm. You won't get this kind of practical local knowledge from a concierge desk, you only get it from people doing the business of living and enjoying the place themselves.
Barbara, thank you so much. I hope to be back!