I surprised my best friend with a Hawaii trip for her birthday. Thankfully Mark & Mary's place was available and perfect for the occasion. The parking, location, layout, amenities, household supplies / appliances, cookware with utensils, beach supplies, toiletries, and other novelties were all perfect. Everything you may think you'll need for a Hawaii vacation, Mark & Mary had it. There were even 2 sets of house keys. The sun screens (spray and lotions) available to use if you forgot to bring some was another plus.
Our entire 9 day stay was fabulous. The only down part is that there was a very bad storm while there and the winds were blowing so hard I thought the windows were going to shatter. I'm a So-Cal girl who's not used to extreme weather like that. I thought it was a hurricane...My bestie said that was nothing (she's from Tennessee so she knows extreme weather). As a result of the high winds, a tree fell and knocked down power lines near by and caused a 2 hour or so blackout. Thank God for the emergency/safety equipment in the cabinet (batteries, heavy-duty flash lights, candles, matches, so on), we were prepared.
Anyway, Mark & Mary's condo is located in the village and is on the top floor. The upstairs bedroom/loft has a lanai with great mountain and ocean views. The upstairs shower is another oasis. It was great to shower after a long day of hiking and exploring.
The property has a heated pool and it is very clean, relaxing, and huge. There are 2 BBQ grills and one of the grills have the side cooking area so that you can use to prepare other dishes. The noise level on the property is respectful. You only hear noise from the traffic and other village patrons enjoying their time if the lanai doors are open. I loved it (Hawaiian vacation vibes).
There are plenty eateries, coffee shops, and bars just feet away so you have many food and libation options. The Farmers Market is less than a 10 minute walk which was another plus. You can get fresh fruit, vegetables, and coffee from local Kona growers.
If you're looking to get away from Kona, Hilo is about an hour and 30 minute drive. There, you can visit lava tubes, black sand beaches, and rainbow falls to name a few places. Oh and for some good grindz or authentic hawaiian cuisine, try Kaaloa Super J's family restaurant in Captain Cook (try the pork laulau).
Thank you Mark & Mary for hosting us and a special mahalo for checking on us during the storm. That was very kind.