Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort

The only boutique, high-end hotel in Kauai offers an intimate experience with limited offerings, but a convenient location for exploring the South Shore beaches.

• The personal feel of a small hotel and friendly staff
• Location near a lovely white sand beach, which is also one of the best beginner surf spots in Kauai.
• Sleek, understated decor

When Hurricane Iniki hit Kauai over two decades ago, it spelled the end of the Poipu Beach Hotel. Fifteen years later, the establishment reopened as the Ko’a Kea, the island’s newest luxury resort. The multimillion-dollar reconstruction features contemporary design by designer Anita Brooks (who designed the Four Seasons in Las Vegas), a small spa with five treatment rooms and the Red Salt restaurant.

The newly renamed Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort used to sit on what was one of the prettiest white sand beaches on the island, until the sand was sadly washed away by a storm. The hotel is currently looking at plans to rebuild the beach, but for now there are other gorgeous beaches within a short walk or drive from the hotel's location. With only 130 rooms, including nine suites, the property is positioning itself as a four star boutique hotel. The décor is sleek, drawing inspiration from the color palette represented in the flora and fauna of Hawaii, with details like sheer curtains that allow in as much sun and surf as possible. For more space and the best views, we recommend booking a suite.

This hotel is best for adults on a romantic getaway.**