Puna, Hawaii is one of those still " barely discovered" corners of the Big Island. A place which welcomed the children of the 60s and the drop outs and adventuresome of the 80s and 90s. The main town of Pahoa with it's wooden sidewalks and dilapidated store fronts is starting to perk up with new restaurants and shops, but still retaining the air of the sugar cane railroad town it once was. Kapoho which is about a 15 minute drive from Pahoa is the closest swimmer friendly area to the town.

Now imagine leaving Hilo airport and driving only 35 minutes through sugar cane fields and papaya plantations on roads completely canopied by Koa trees. You travel past an extinct volcano covered in a lush tropical rainforest and then arrive in the small community of cottages and vacation homes of Kapoho,Puna in what is called the sunny side of the East Coast of Hawaii. Here sits HONU KAI (translated from Hawaiian as Sea Turtle.

HONU KAI is a totally remodeled 3 bedroom/ 2 bath house across the narrow street from the famous Kapoho tide pools. The house has 3 large bedrooms and 2 baths on the main floor and an additional full bath as well as a washer/dryer downstairs. A fax machine and computer in an alcove off the kitchen will keep you in touch with the world when the need arises. A jacuzzi in the rear of the house will relax you in the evenings as you try to count the myriad stars and identify the constellations. Ceiling fans cool the house and the sound of the ocean waves will lull you to sleep.

The tide pools directly in front of the house contain an amazing number of species of fish and, of course, sea turtles. Thanks to the protection from the reef even the novice swimmer has a safe and inviting environment for snorkeling or just floating in crystal clear 80 degree water year round. The Queen's baths, Kahena Beach and the town of Pahoa are all within a 5 to 15 minute drive away.

Starting from $189.00 per night. 30% down to hold a reservation. Balance due 60 days before check-in. $300.00 security deposit. $145.00 cleaning fee. 4% processing fee. Listed rates do not include tax. Holiday and peak season rates and required length of stay may be different than quoted above. Credit cards, cash, checks and wire transfers accepted. Minimum night stay varies amongst the various rental units. Many rentals have 30-night minimums.