Where to begin with this slice of heaven? My wife and I stayed here for a week for our honeymoon. Jeff’s place is in a quiet, lush part of the southern island. The location may be remote for some (about an hour from Kona and Hilo) but the drive is so peaceful and gorgeous that the sightseeing is worth it. It’s also a half-hour from a local market, South Point, and access to the trail to the green sand beach. Volcano National Park isn’t far away, either (Jeff worked there for over 20 years and will give you the best insider tips on what to see and when to go for the best views and least traffic.) Ask Jeff where to eat around Ocean View and Naalehu—we dined deliciously.
The space itself is wonderful. So charming, spacious, private, and nice to come home to after a day exploring the island. Follow Jeff’s instructions and you’ll get there just fine—there are a couple of short gravel roads that shouldn’t give you much trouble if you take it slow. Everything was so clean, and you can tell Jeff put a LOT of thought and care into making this place a special one for his guests. No complaints whatsoever about the space. It was perfect.
Jeff checked in every morning to ask when he should drop by with fresh coffee and his wife’s baked goods. Both were delicious—his wife is a baker by trade! You’ll look forward to sitting on the balcony area each morning with your fresh coffee and pastries listening to the wind rustle the trees and the birds singing. (Speaking of, the wildlife doesn’t quiet down at night. The birds (frogs?) aren’t deafening. I used earplugs every night and slept like a baby.)
The best advice I can give you for this place is to listen to Jeff’s advice! He was the best guide we could’ve asked for. Pick his brain, ask him for directions/destinations, and respect his Gray House Inn rules and your trip will be so fulfilling. Tl;dr: If you want a special place on the Big Island to get away from the crowds while you explore, you can't do any better than the Gray House Inn.