Heartland of Parker Ranch/Kamuela. Minutes to Town & Beaches.

We loved staying at this great little cottage! We were 4 adults. There was plenty of room for us all. Anything you'd need is included. Loved the French press. It was great being able to just walk to the Saturday Market. Very nice having a BBQ grill, table and chairs on the Lanai. It's a very peaceful setting with sheep as neighbors.

Merriman's restaurant is awesome for a very nice dinner. This location is very convenient to go on day trips to Hawi, Botanical Gardens, Hilo or any of the Kohala beaches. Nice to come home in the evening to this comfy cottage.

Libby is the most gracious hostess! She bends over backwards to make your stay enjoyable.

Here are 10 reasons why you should stay at the Mana Upcountry Cottage on your next trip to the Big Island:

1) It's comfortable.

We had more than enough room for our family of three and I wouldn't hesitate to take a fourth. The layout makes it easy for kids to sleep and not be disturbed by adults who stay up later.

2) It's quiet.

The nearest traffic was out on the highway. At night, in particular, the stillness was fabulous.

3) The property is spacious.

Our daughter *loved* running around the big yard, chasing butterflies, and hunting for ladybugs. We loved the fact that it was nearly impossible for her to run out into the road.

4) It's got rural charm.

Our normal morning traffic noise at home was replaced with roosters crowing and birds chirping. When the nighttime skies cleared the stars were amazing. Sheep graze in a pasture next door.

5) It's in Waimea.

I've traveled a lot and I'm frankly smitten with Waimea. It's got every modern convenience, a big awesome playground, a great contrast between wet and dry, farmers markets, and a collection of restaurants that far exceeds what would be expected in such a place. Village Burger, in particular, is not to be missed!

6) It's close to three great beaches.

Spencer Beach Park (possibly the best beach on the island for kids), Mauna Kea, and Hapuna are all within 20-25 minutes. I only mention those three because we frequented them the most.

7) It's central to other parts of the island.

Hilo is about an hour away. Hawi is under an hour. The wonderful drives on Saddle Road and Kohala Mountain Road are just outside of town.

8) The evenings are nice and cool.

After an afternoon of sitting in the hot sun at the beach, this Washingtonian appreciated climbing the hill to the cool and showery 50s (8-14c) at night.

9) Mana Road.

You could walk (or run, or ride) for miles and miles on this quiet scenic byway. On our walk, we even met some friendly neighborhood horses who wandered across the pasture to visit us.

10) The hosts.

Libby was a fantastic hostess, and very accommodating. She made sure the cottage was sparkling and had everything we needed.

We're looking forward to being able to stay there again!

Thanks Libby for providing us with all the hospitality at your upcountry cottage. The location gave us good day trip access to many awesome parts of the Big Island that many visitors don't get to see or appreciate. Waimea is just down the road with good shopping and excellent restaurants. The cottage was squeaky clean and very relaxing at the end of our tour days. Hope to return!