Two things:
1.) I hate looking for Airbnbs because of the sheer number of options. You’re a million miles away from a place and in many ways, the entire vacation rests on one clickable decision based upon a stranger’s review and carefully crafted host pictures. My favorites list had about 12 stays that took me about a month to sift through.
2.) I hate writing reviews. I hardly ever say much outside of providing the number of stars appropriate for the stay, even if I had a good time.
With that being said, if there’s anything about this place that appeals to you, BOOK THIS PLACE RIGHT NOW. It is hands down THE BEST Airbnb/Vrbo I’ve ever stayed in.
First, I was apprehensive about the proximity to the owners - it’s completely private - what little interaction we had with the hosts was friendly and helpful. I ran into Ryan and he told me about the fruit trees (yes, you can pick from them) and gave me some big island first-timer advice (try the poke from the nearby sack-n-save! It’s where the locals go and it’s so good!)
Second, I was apprehensive about it not being close to a beach. We went to Kua Bay on one of the last days (about 25 min drive) and although it was breathtaking, I hardly missed it the first three days because we were so intoxicated by the beauty that is the big island framed by the experience in this house.
The hot tub is great. The outdoor shower is life-changing, and the place comes fully equipped with everything you need. Fully stocked kitchen, towels, shampoo, laundry detergent, conditioner, body wash, etc. The hosts even went to the trouble of supplying Kona coffee beans and a grinder for morning coffee.
I spent most days with a blanket in the backyard enjoying the afternoon sun.
This place is about 15 mins from downtown. I had no trouble finding parking each time.
Leah was very communicative throughout the whole process. During our stay, pest control came by the property and a furniture drop for the nearby studio, both times she reached out beforehand to alert me so there were no surprises.
My family of 4 had the time of our lives on the big island. This Airbnb was a big part of the reason why. If I could give more than 5 stars I would. If you’re anything like I was and you’ve got a bunch of seemingly beautiful options in your wishlist right now, clear them all and choose this place.