This was my first time to any of the Hawaii islands. I try and treat my mother to a trip every year because I know that one day the opportunity to do so will pass.
John's place was perfectly located in the country and easy get around the entire island. It was a comfortable place to come back to at night and set back for a relaxing evening.
If you google breakfast places there is quite a few within minutes and not one disappointed. If you get a chance check out Times Coffee Shop for an awesome local style breakfast. I had the loco Moco one day then the fish, eggs with fried rice and a side of fresh Papaya. For goodness sake even the freaking 711 had good food!
If you keep traveling up the coast from John's place you'll pass the Polynesian Cultural Center. Me and mom spent the day there, I splurged on the super ambassador pass so we could have a private guide and go slow with my mom. Awesome shows, decent food but the culture is what you go for. Totally worth the money, love the mission of the PCC and that it's a nonprofit.
We also visit the Royal Palace and learned about the last Queen of the Kingdom of Hawaii. I've also watched some good documentaries on YouTube about her. It's a sad story but also shows her strength as leader and how much she cared about her people.
I could go on and on about this trip. So much to do and see. But the bottom line it was because John provided a nice, comfortable and reasonably priced place for me and mom to stay! If you get a chance to come to this island, stay with John! And a major plus is your money is going to a local family not a big faceless company! Thanks!