This is a great place for people wanting to spend some relaxed time on the eastern, more adventure-y, side of the Big Island. It’s a quiet, peaceful, and lush location, but you’ll have neighbors in the same unit so you won’t feel completely isolated. It’s 50 minutes from the Volcanoes National Park, 20 minutes from Akaka Falls (popular waterfall), and 6 minutes from downtown Hilo. Guy is a very thoughtful and accommodating host and wants you to have a good time. The apartment had everything I needed. The bed was very comfortable, I liked the feel of the carpet, I had a nice little desk for the work I was doing on my laptop, and I had my own porch where I could sit outside and enjoy the environment, rain or shine. You get used to the coqui frogs by night 3 and once you’re gone, you’ll miss them. One of the reasons I booked here was because Guy had bikes, which I was planning on using to go into town instead of renting a car. If you’re thinking the same thing, just rent a car. The island has so many things to do and see that you’re going to want to rent a car to get around places and get a full island experience. The gorge in the “backyard” is an added bonus if you’re looking for a local swimming hole.
Not much to do in the town of Papaikou, which is another reason why a car is nice to have to get around to other places.