Base camp Pakalana was perfect for our first trip to Big Island. Vanessa provided excellent snorkeling equipment that we used many times in the nearby reef. The full kitchen was decently equipped for our week long stay. (Bring your own spices as purchasing anything of that sort is pricey.) The cottage is very nicely modernized and comfortable. And cat people will love the very chilled out cats-we counted four. Look up to the outside gutter to spot the house geckos.
The volcano is spouting. We had no problem getting a parking spot at the park for a predawn look, leaving Kona at 4. Then we headed to Hilo for amazing fruits at the farmers market and snorkeled among the curious and welcoming tortoises at Carlsmith beach in the tidal pools.
Wish we could have stayed longer! Hope it won’t be long before we can return.