Buck's place is truly a piece of paradise - secluded, lush, and well-appointed. It is immediately clear upon arrival how much thought and love has gone into making the place a home. From the landscaping and outdoor seating areas to the volcanic rocks in the shower and the linens on the bed, Buck has paid attention to every detail. The frogs and the rain at night are simply gorgeous, and if you can lay under the stars even better!
Across the street and to the south about five minutes is a black sand beach. These form near where lava flows enter the ocean, causing the rock to cool and separate quickly, and are geologically short-lived. It is treated as clothing-optional so if that kind of thing offends you visit another beach. It is accessible down a short, rocky path that is best for those with healthy knees :)
As mentioned in the description, a rental car is a must. Buck's home is almost at the "end of the road," and so your ability to explore the island and get into town requires a vehicle. Wednesday nights are essentially a community party down the road in Kalapana, with live music, art and food vendors, and Uncle's bar. There is kava (or ava) across the way for the adventurous! Wifi there is limited, so it is pretty much cash only. An ATM is available in the neighborhood grocery next door. There is also a farmer's market on Saturday mornings. Come here for awesome plate lunch, kombucha, smoothies, ice cream, lilikoi mochi, and all other kinds of deliciousness. You can also bring your own food and drinks to the Wednesday shindig if you want.
Up the road in the other direction (to the north) are pocket beaches, a yoga center (with meals), and a recreational area with some very old mango trees.
Nearby Pahoa is not a large town, yet there are plenty of good eats to be had, including gluten-free, vegan, and other options for those with food sensitivities.
Thank you for a lovely respite, Buck! Mele kalikimaka :)