This is a great place for folks who are already familiar with Hawaii and don’t need a resort vibe. Met up with a friend from another island, have friends in Kona and we used to be kamaaina so priorities were convenience, space and economy. No resort fees, park in front of your apartment, supermarkets and restaurants nearby, laundry if you need it. Make your own breakfast and sit on lanai watching golfers while figuring out who and where to meet up with folks. Kid made friends at the pool right away. Perfect for a week or longer stay.
Easy to get to both Kona side and Hilo side with new roads (although you can also easily end up on “interesting” roads heading to Hilo)
Not luxurious, but just perfect.
Checking in with late flight arrival is old school (meet security who checks your name on list) but was easy.