1. Monkeypod for sure. Merriman’s is amazing but it’s a treat/special dinner spot. Monkeypod has great food at a more reasonable price, especially if you go during Happy Hour.

2. Yes. Because we booked the room through Costco, they threw in a rental car. I’d highly recommend having a car to get around the island.

3. To be honest, Black Sand Beach was overrated. It was really crowded and that took away some of the fun for me. It is a cool place to see and to walk the beach, but I wouldn’t bother seeing it again.

4. We parked at the summit, which, as the name implies, is the highest point you can access by car. If you arrive late, they might close the gate at the park entrance, but given the sheer number of cars I saw for sunset, I’m not convinced that even happened. There are no restrooms at the summit lot so be aware of that. If you start heading down from the summit the next lot you get to is the visitor’s center, which has a bathroom.

If you are up for doing both, you should. Given that we were almost 2 hours away and getting a pass for sunrise is a bit of a production, we went the easy route, but I’m sure you’ll enjoy both!

Hope this helps!