We loved our stay at the Pu'u Moi Country Cottage. The location is just perfect for all the east side Big Island activities. It's just under an hour away from Volcano, and much closer to things nearer Hilo, such as Akaka Falls, Hawai'i Tropical Botanical Garden (right around the corner!), Hilo Farmers Market, Rainbow Falls, and the Hilo Airport. Also would be quick to get to Mauna Kea. The cottage itself is beautiful inside and out, with very nice finishes and fixtures. The shower in particular was lovely stone tile, and having the washer and dryer in the bathroom was great. There's plenty of room to stretch out in this cabin, with lots of seating, including two comfortable arm chairs, dining table for four, wicker couch, and chairs on the front porch. The four post queen bed was comfortable. The loft was bonus space that we didn't use, but would be ok for heat loving kids. We were visited numerous times by the owner's very friendly small dogs, Zippy and Spud. The only thing we had a problem with in the cabin was the satellite TV. Most of the time it didn't work - we could bring up the guide, but it would not tune any channels. Occasionally we would happen upon one that did work - but no way to tell which ones would work without trying them all, a slow laborious process. Granted, one doesn't come to Hawai'i to watch TV generally, but as we don't have cable or satellite TV at home, we like to indulge a little when it's available on vacation. :) We felt the wicker couch was fairly uncomfortable, but might be ok for more spry and lightweight folk.

The property on which the cottage sits is amazing. The grounds are landscaped beautifully, but not in an overwhelming fashion (ie full-on jungle), allowing one to easily take in the magnificent views of the ocean to the east, from just about anywhere. The pool and hot tub at the main house are spectacular, about the nicest I've ever seen. The tile work on the pool walls and floor are beautiful, and the fact that it's a saltwater pool (but nowhere near as salty as the ocean) is wonderful - love having no chlorine! Speaking of fresh water, the private waterfall just a short walk from the cottage is equally breathtaking. Steve clearly keeps the path well mown and easy to access. The waterfall was a little more refreshing than the pool, being shaded and therefore cooler.

Would write more, but looks like I'm about out of space. We'll definitely stay here again when we come back to the Big Island! Thanks!