Koa Kea, Kaui, Hawaii

Location

Set on the sunny southern shores of Kauia, the hotel enjoys an enviable location on Poipu Beach, famed as a premier destination for diving, surfing and snorkelling. But Kaui is more than just white sands and crystal clear waters. Its green valleys and craggy cliffs, spotted with verdant flora, have hosted Hollywood film crews for decades. Try your hand at river kayaking, zip line tours and ranging hikes to sample the unique topography for yourself. Back on the waters, there’s also catamaran sailing, sport fishing and seasonal whale watching. On top of this, there are 12 golf courses, all of which are among the most spectacular in Hawaii.

Accommodation

Rooms feature fresh, crisp colours inspired by the hotel’s natural surrounds. Everything is geared towards the fantastic views with each room’s private lanai, or balcony, overlooking the ocean or manicured gardens. Oversize windows are draped in sheer fabric and invite the sun and sea breeze in for lazy mornings spent with a good book. In terms of technology, there are flat screen HD televisions, Nespresso coffee machines, on demand movies and high speed wireless internet.

Dining

The hotel’s signature offering, Red Salt, combines international favourites with Hawaiian sensibilities. Fresh seafood and locally sourced produce are served to views through large picture windows out to the ocean beyond. Start your day with a breakfast buffet of traditional American fare complemented by fresh tropical juices, an omelette station and a selection of freshly baked bakery morsels. Lunch is served poolside and in room dining is available round the clock.

Facilities

The hotel is probably best known for its spa where five treatment rooms offer guests an extensive menu of massages, facials and body treatments. There’s also an adjoined fitness centre. And, what Hawaiian hotel would be complete without a swimming pool, complete with whirlpool facilities and a bar – the perfect complement to the island’s sun. Outside of the hotel’s beach activities, there’s also excellent hiking and biking, with trails ranging from easy to challenging. Remember, only ten percent of the island is accessible by road.