Beautiful, peaceful setting with accommodating hosts.
That we had to leave.
Hawaii is divided into two camps for the visitor: could-be-anywhere-tropical-resort Hawaii; and real Hawaii. Resort Hawaii is well designed to package up the 'tropical vacation experience' and place it in your lap with all the convenience of ordering fast food. If a good time on your vacation is umbrella drinks with the crowd at the pool, then resort Hawaii will deliver everything you want and need. Real Hawaii is surf, wild beaches, mountains, dirt, rock, and vegetation in abundance. Hawaii's true charm reveals itself in ways large and small, but only to those who seek it. If your heart wants the fundamental, unique, and ultimately compelling Big Island, then you must get into the country. A drive-by from resort-land is no where near like being there. A stay at Kahuku Ahupua'a Farm and Retreat is the heart of country. The accommodations are comfortable. The 'Hale Nui' at the top of the hill is as luxe as one finds. The view to South Point is staggering. The cabin in the gardens has just the right touch of privacy for two and charming funkiness. Walking the gardens - real gardens, not landscaping - is a delight. The loving hand of the farm's Master Gardner is evident at every turn. (If you are interested in the Island's flora, you will have come to the right spot.) Ka'u (kah-OOH) is far from the madding crowd. It's far from any kind of crowd. If peace, tranquility, and the charming quirkiness of the Island's natural world are what you seek. Kahuku Ahupua'a Farm and Retreat will give it to you with ease, Aloha, and Island Style.
