Belle Vue Waimea B&B Corporation - Big Island of Hawaii

The best thing about this place is the view, which is spectacular, from Mauna Kea to the ocean. The BnB sits above the town, though very close to the main drag. We stayed in the Penthouse unit, which is huge, with kitchen, eating area, lounge area, bed, all in the same room, with enormous bathroom separate. Windows are all around. Downside was the cleanliness and general condition of the unit. There was a distinct mildew smell, and the curtains all appear to be mildewed. It helped to open everything up. The kitchen is basic. Breakfast included dry cereal, bread, butter, jam, milk - all in the fridge. We got eggs and fruit from the store. To his credit, Christian supplied some necessities when asked: paper towels, soap and shampoo for the shower, and even some bananas. But these should be standard. This place would be awesome with a little attention.

Our “penthouse” suite was enormous! It’s just like the photos: indoors has separate sitting and dining areas, king bed facing the view and twin in a nook; outdoors two sitting areas on your private, 270-degree lanai. Could sleep 4 easily (there is a long sofa that could sleep 1). Tons of glass (sliding doors) for the views, and screen doors for breezes. Big closet, portable fan, all toiletries and stocked kitchen with 2 fridges. Breakfast for your stay is in one fridge: regular and soy milk, cereal and fresh local fruit. Very private and quiet. Parking in shared driveway. Good WiFi. This would be an ideal honeymoon spot. Host Vivienne thought of everything. I found the view of Parker Ranch (giant grassy hill, literally across the street; horses and egrets walked across) mesmerizing. Town (including restaurants, grocery and Waimea Nature Park) walking distance - pretty gardens everywhere. Kona 20 minutes away; Hilo 60 minutes. This is a gorgeous area - the lush, rolling green hills, with volcanoes and ocean peekaboos, is stunning. Warning: as in most of Big Island, tiny sugar ants will find any food you leave out.