This Tiki 'hut', cottage really, is one of a kind. Super tropical, you'll feel like you've been transported to a wonderful movie set where adventure, inspiration, and even some fantasy abound. It's comfortable, arty, and definitely Hawaiian. Recently restored (finished November 2010) top to bottom, it's first life was a weekend house, built in 1964. We all know that the first people get the best locations. And, this small, and yet spacious, house was built on this huge warm pond when the land was first subdivided. The pond runs between 86 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Ahhhhhh, and it's all yours. Well you'll have to share with some of the resident fish. You can float around in here for hours!
Many people tell us they are surprised how much there is to do around here. The friendly, walking neighborhood is great. Warm ponds are super fun. Snorkelling, of course, is wonderful. Then down the wild-jungle road to the lava flow. Wai O Pele, also known as Green Lake, is a truly historic site--where Hawaiians went when afflicted with the new white-man's diseases like small pox -- in the late 1700s and early 1800s. We know you will discover your favorite spots and activities somewhere close-by; there are just so many to choose from!
Also, in case you're wondering, the tidal ponds that are in this area are brackish water. They have fresh warm water springs mixed with ocean water so they change with the tides, just like the ocean, and have reef-fish living in them.
The cottage is over 600 square feet of house and at least that much again of the outside deck. So, it's cozy and charming; not cramped at all.
The lanai provides a view of the living entertainment. We think watching the fish swimming is better than TV, though there's one of those too. The tropical landscaping includes a little bridge over the pond to the grassy, coconut palmed sunning area with two lounge chairs.
The Living Room sports comfortable vintage Hawaiiana rattan furniture, as well as the extensive use of bamboo trim. There's indirect lighting in the valances over the sliding glass doors that go out to the large wrap-around lanai. This means the Living room and Bed Room glow at night -- it's magical. The bedroom has a comfortable queen bed, with nice and soft linens.
The kitchen is super functional, with concrete counter-tops, stainless pots/pans, dishes and glasses, and a full sized refrigerator and stove. There's also a microwave oven, toaster, blender, rice cooker, propane barbeque on the deck, electric coffee maker, and a French Press coffee maker. Basically there's plenty of the extras that make it easy to cook.
The bathroom, with tiled shower stall and wacky Tiki carving, has a dual-flush toilet, and a sink.
And for those of you who want to look your best there is a hair dryer, ironing board, and iron. If you don't need them, they just sit, patiently, in case you get crazy or (for example) accept an invitation to a fancy wedding.
There is also an indoor laundry area with washer and dryer.
Satellite TV and wireless internet are also provided.
And, with all this, it's a miniscule walk to the marine sanctuary called Wai O Pae. This is the premier snorkeling spot in East Hawai`i.
