Overall, my wife, two adult sons, and I had a fantastic trip. We were in HI for the Hawaii 70.3 Ironman triathlon (my son and I were racing).
This condo was in a super quiet, secluded neighborhood with easy and close access across the street to Puako Bay and awesome snorkeling, hanging out on a beach, and wading.
It is definitely NOT in a development that makes you feel like you are back in the hustle and bustle of daily living and that was special to us. If crowds and easy access to restaurants is your thing - this isn't the place for you. But if you like the laid back, quiet world and don't mind a reasonably short drive to restaurants in Waimea and Waikaloa - this is your place.
There were a few minor maintenance things that can be improved - ceiling fans in the two smaller rooms that work well at higher speeds without making lots of noise, a kitchen light that doesn't blink like a strobe, etc. But these were easily adapted to and didn't alter our experience too much. If you are looking for central air - not here - just a window unit in the family room. Like most of Hawaii - A/C isn't a standard thing. We enjoyed the almost constant breezes and cross flow on this end unit and only got hot when the air became still on a couple of the days of our stay.
Also, there were beach chairs and a beach umbrella too - invaluable!!
Next to the Condo is a cute store: Puako General Store - with just about anything you need - very quaint and friendly!!
The location is perfect for accessing Waimea, Hawi, Waikaloa and as a base for excursions with Blue Hawaiian Helicoptors, to Moana Kea with Hawaii Forest and Trail tours, and to Hilo on the other side of the island with gorgeous waterfalls and a return through Volcano National Park.
Thanks for a great vacation!