This serene cottage is the perfect destination for those who desire to truly get away and literally unplug, as it is in an isolated location and off-the-grid. If that's what appeals to you, you won't be disappointed. Connie, the host, tolerated our unexpected late arrival graciously and gave us a helpful and proper orientation. With the propane-fueled stove and refrigerator and basic cookware and utensils provided, we had everything necessary to prepare our simple meals. You may be able to use some items - spices, dressings, small cooler, coffee filters, etc - provided by Connie or left by previous guests, so don't go crazy buying groceries and supplies until you've taken inventory at the cottage.

From the cottage, it's only a 13 mile (21 km) drive to Ka Lae, the southern-most tip of the Big Island (and of the USA!). From a nearby parking area, the rare, green (olivine) sand beach at Papakolea is a relatively easy 2.5 mi (4 km) hike. If you venture further east down highway 11, perhaps en route to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, be sure to also check out the stunning black sand beach at Punaluu, which also has resident sea turtles, picturesque coconut palms, and kapok trees with their huge buttressed roots.

Our stay was all too short, and I regret that we could not set aside at least a half-day to examine and fully appreciate the vegetation around the cottage itself. This is a complex, verdant landscape of native and introduced flora, interspersed with Connie's subtle yet wonderful garden plantings.

If you're comfortable forsaking the Internet and TV; if you're more interested in experiencing the Big Island's unique geology and biology than its restaurants and shopping; if you're curious about off-the-grid technology and a simpler lifestyle, then I highly recommend Connie's cottage.