The most detail oriented Airbnb. Every little detail tied back to the nautical theme (even the strainer in the sink had a whale). This made the stay feel more tied together than anything else. The welcome basket with coffee, cookies, and honey was a nice touch.
Simone&Steve were very good with communication in providing lots of details at appropriate times, so you always knew what to expect without feeling bombarded. The entrance to the house is a page wooden gate and street parking was pretty much always available (left and arrived back at various times). There was no air conditioning, but with windows open and all the ceiling fans with additional fans provided optimal air circulation. We went to sleep with the sound of frogs and were woken up by birds. Beds were quite comfy and none of us had trouble sleeping. Additional amenities included 2 snorkeling sets, sand toys, and even pool noodles. With the washer and dryer, this house provided a comfortable place to stay in exploring Hilo and a good home base for Bug Island overall.
The house is within walking distance to supermarkets (Sack n Save/Foodland and KTA superstores), multiple lunch spots (recommend Hilo Lunch Spot, Pho 99, Kula Shave Ice, Ding Tea, and Papa'a Palaoa Bakery (vegan cinnamon rolls n.n)), downtown shopping (including little farmers market for fresh fruit), a tennis court and park with playground, and the ocean. Most places shut down at 4-430pm or even earlier if business felt slow, so be cognizant of time. We were eating shaved ice and wanted to go to shop across the street. They closed at 415pm as we crossed the street, even though their sign said 430pm. Whoops. >.<
Even with a 5 mile radius out from the house, there was access to Rainbow Falls (Wai’ale Falls has a swimming lagoon) and a little Coconut Island by their Japanese Gardens (lots of little crabs). North about 15 minutes is a Hawaiian Botanical Garden with their version of the scenic drive they compare to Maui’s, but there’s a side hike down to see picturesque ocean views (viewable from gardens too). About a 40 minute drive to Volcano National Park and black sand beaches are also highlights semi-nearby.
Between the location and very thought out setup, we would not hesitate staying here again. When we decide to come back to Hawaii, we’ll look this house up again without hesitation.