The rise of Airbnb and similar sites has led to a change in vacation habits. Rather than stay in hotels, people are more likely to rent rooms in people’s homes. They may also rent the entire house.
The “Lave Rock Hale” is a case in point. It’s a “tiny home” located in Pahoa, Hawaii, and it sits between three volcanic craters that hold a fresh water spring called “Wai o Pele.” It is also near the Vacationland tide pools, which are famous among snorklers. “Lava Rock Hale” is about eight miles away from East Hawaii, whose rich and diverse culture attracts adventurers, artists and writers.
The cottage, which sits on three acres of land, has a base made of volcanic rock, and the rest is made of wood. It can accommodate one or two guests and contains a kitchen, bathroom, living area, queen-size bed and TV set. Everything in the house runs on solar power. In addition to the TV, “everything” includes a ceiling fan, refrigerator, lights and burner stove. The TV comes with a DVD player and a large selection of movies.
Guests have enjoyed the cottage. One, Elizabeth, wrote in the guestbook, “The Lava Rock Hale is situated in a gorgeous, natural setting. The cottage is very comfortable with a small kitchen that includes everything you need.” She added that the adjoining outdoor facilities are not as crude as the usual outhouse. The outdoor bathroom is a free-standing room in its own right, and the shower is “luxurious.” Like the cottage, the stand-alone shower is made of wood and volcanic rock, and it is also fueled by solar power.
There is also an herb garden and a covered pavilion for barbecues and picnics. Guests may use the herbs from the garden for cooking.
Guests may check in at noon and are expected to check out by 11 a.m. Two nights is the minimum stay allowed. Pets are permitted. The owners, Eric and Diane, are apparently quite easy-going. The only “house rule” they’ve listed is “Do as you please, but be respectful, that’s all we ask.”
