I'm not sure I can imagine a more perfect experience than the one we had staying at Hale Pono, just outside of Hilo.

I can't say enough good things about this house, and Zoe, the owner. Where to begin? The house first (since that's probably what you're most interest in!). Whenever my family and I stay in a vacation rental, I drive my husband crazy with my "If this were my house. . . ." statements. I didn't have a single complaint about Hale Pono and the accommodations. Zoe has thought of everything. There are nice knives for cutting up the amazing Hawaiian fruit. There is ample silverware, glasses, plates, food storage containers, etc. There are beautiful linens on the bed, a good stock of games and DVDs in the hall closet, and shampoo and conditioner in the bathrooms. This was as close to staying in a well appointed hotel as it is possible to get in a private vacation rental, but with all of the room of a spacious and beautiful home!

The location was perfect. The property is beautiful, with flowers (wild orchids!) everywhere. It is secluded and devoid of city noises, though nature's symphony plays all night long--quite possibly one of my favorite things about this house! We are an adventuring family, and the physical location was perfect for us as well. The house is closer to Hilo, but still close enough to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that we could easily go there for all or part of a day. In addition to the National Park, we also drove out to Akaka Falls as well as Kaimu Beach Park to hike over the lava beds to see active lava flows. On our return to Kona for our flight home we stopped at Punaluu black sand beach and South Point, both of which would make a lovely, but longer-distance day trip from Hale Pono.

Finally, our interactions with Zoe, the owner of Hale Pono were most pleasant. She was helpful before our arrival and easy to communicate with. She was warm and welcoming upon our arrival and very solicitous of our needs. She's really the kind of person you feel comfortable with immediately and wish you could spend an afternoon chatting with.

Without exception, our stay at Hale Pono was the single best experience our family has had staying at a vacation rental home. We will be back, and I would recommend this house to anyone! Thanks for the amazing stay!