My friends and I enjoyed our stay at Hale Pau'ole overall. It is a beautiful home located in a gorgeous patch of forest. The birdsongs are so peaceful and the colorful Ohia trees really highlight the beauty of the Volcano region on Big Island. The interior of the home is welcoming and nicely decorated. The kitchen is fully equipped with what you would need to suit your cooking style. It even had a crock pot and a rice cooker, which is great when you want to prepare your own meals and still be out and about during the day.
My only real problem with this rental is that the landlord watches guests via the surveillance cameras. The location of the cameras is disclosed to guests and they are listed as being used for security purposes. My understanding of this was that the security cameras would be used to protect guests from home invasion or robbery.
However, the morning of our first full day at Hale Pau'ole, we received notification from the local rental manager (she was very kind and we enjoyed working with her) that the property owner saw via surveillance cameras that we had brought two ducklings onto the property and that they needed to be removed. (Duck sitting plans had fallen through and the owner of the ducklings failed to notice the no pets policy). We complied and promptly resolved the issue. However, we were left wondering when and how often we were being watched? The question also arose, who has access to the footage of us? What measures are being taken to protect our privacy?
I understand that the home owner has a right to protect their property. I also think that the guests should have a right to privacy.
This rental would be great for a family or older couple coming to the Volcano region to see the local sights. This would also be a nice place to escape if you are looking for a quiet place to get some writing done.
I am not suggesting that you shouldn't stay here. It is a nice place to stay. Just, be informed that you will be watched.