Marlene has set up a wonderful place close to everything in downtown Hilo. It was easy to walk to anything we wanted: farmers market, restaurants, stores, beach. There is a KTA grocery store 1 block away with many other larger stores fairly close. Eating our meals on the stairs/ deck while watching the activities at the farmers market, streets, and view of the ocean was quite pleasant. This rental is in downtown Hilo so there is a fair amount of noise but it wasn't a big deal for us. We heard more noise in the mornings than at night: starting around 7am with little noise after 9pm except for the Coqui frogs.
Having a full kitchen was great - we picked up amazing fresh produce at the farmers market, bread and pastries at the bakery around the corner, then anything else needed at the KTA. Adding fresh fish from the fish market, an early morning 20 minute walk, gave us delicious meals. Staying in an older and newly renovated unit gave us a feeling of downtown Hilo while having all the amenities we needed for our fantastic experience. We look forward to staying here again.