Hale Kai was perfect for our first visit to Hawaii. It’s like a comfy rustic cabin in the trees, but not really rustic because all the amenities are there. A big bathroom, full kitchen, TV, books, beach gear. Road noises are very muffled by trees, but lovely nature noises abound. We fell asleep to the sounds of frogs and crickets (I think crickets?) and woke up to ducks and wild birds. Kai was very hospitable and responsive. The location is great, walking distance to Manini and Keei beaches, Hikiau Heiau, and a little fruit stand selling papaya, coconuts, macadamia nuts, avocados, homemade banana nut bread. (Manini is great for picnicking, because it’s a beautiful little park with a beach and short hiking trail.) Kealakekua Bay also has an amazing coral reef, so if you go book a snorkeling tour! There’s also an amazing farmers market nearby on Sundays, where we tried soursop and lychee fruits, and sampled cocao nuts. From there, one could easily drive south two hours to Volcano National Park or north a couple hours to the waterfalls.