Ma'ukele Lodge

The breakfast was spectacular, and the nearby Wednesday night music was superb, don’t miss it. There are great places to visit along the very local coastal road connected to the lodge. The area is steeped in history, from recent volcanic eruptions to Native Hawaiian history. My wife and I had a wonderful stay at off-the-beaten-path Maukele Lodge. Raven and Mark were great hosts, informative without being intrusive, and seemed personally interested in making sure we spent each day and evening well. This isn’t a place for luxury accommodations and beaches. We plan to stay again next time we’re on the Big Island.

The breakfast was unforgettable, especially the stuffed papaya and omelet, and the geckos were fun company. The suite was clean, comfortable, and carefully decorated, with an outdoor shower so lovely I could have stood there all night. The room seemed to blend right into nature. Ma'ukele Lodge really is a local Hawaii experience. We loved every minute of our stay. Raven and her partner Mark were thoughtful and made us feel at home, sharing stories and information. Thanks to Mark for answering all our questions. I’d love to be one of Raven’s cats and live there. Do yourself a favor and stay a few days, it’s a place that clears your head and soul.

The waves crashing ashore and frogs singing at night made it feel like paradise. Their home sits in front of a lava bed overlooking the ocean, tucked into foliage and fruit trees. We were delighted to find delicious mangoes, and their three lovely cats, Pharoah, Sabrina and Emerson?, were a treat. Our visit was unplanned and on short notice, but Mark and Raven were gracious and accommodating. Mark knows so much about the island, and Raven was warm and friendly. Thank you both for sharing your home with us.

When our rental car wouldn’t start as we were heading to the airport, Raven found a helpful neighbor to give us a jumpstart. He wouldn’t take payment, and we made our flight on time. The cats were friendly too, and this would be a great place for events, reunions, or families with kids. Raven and Mark went out of their way to make us feel welcome and help us out. Raven even did my boyfriend’s laundry. Our upgraded room had its own garden with flowers, birds, singing frogs, an outdoor tub and shower, and lots of thoughtful extras, including snorkel gear, sunscreen, skin-soothing lotion, toothpaste, and snacks, juice, fruit, and flavored water in the fridge. We could hear waves on the beach about three minutes away all night. The beds were the most comfortable I’ve ever slept in, with soft, supportive mattresses, fluffy pillows, quality bedding, bedside tables, reading lamps, and outlets. Breakfast had the best tropical fruit and French toast, and the geckos made fun dining companions. I stayed with my boyfriend, but we thought of all the kinds of groups that could enjoy the place.