Things to do / Travel Guide
Of the Hawaiian Islands, Kauai is considered to be among the most beautiful of all. It's known as the “Garden Isle” for good reason as lush, tropical surroundings embrace white sand beaches, spectacular mountains and countless waterfalls. If it's romance you're looking for in the Pacific, look no further than Kauai. You will be traveling in the footsteps of romantic greats. Elvis Presley in Blue Hawaii and Mitzi Gaynor in South Pacific had their romantic characters filmed in Kauai, and don't forget Gilligan and Mary Ann.
Romantic Accommodations in Kauai
Kauai is a small island with big choices. Your decision on romantic lodging goes a long way in determining the success of your vacation, so we'll chip in with our suggestions. Let's start with the Princeville Resort Kauai. Really, it's “a can't-miss” with its décor of palatial green marble and gleaming crystal chandeliers. The location is among the most beautiful in the world, on a cliff above the clear blue waters of Hanalei Bay and lush, green mountains above. The rooms are tastefully opulent and include magnificent views. The service is impeccable and seamless. It's easy to see why it's rated one of the top hotels in Kauai.
In Lihue, the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club is situated among stunning white beaches and clear sapphire lagoons. The spirit of Hawaii is alive and well here. With discreet luxury, an emphasis on comfort and excellent service, the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club offers seekers of romance a perfect place to share intimate moments in the best tradition of Hawaiian hospitality. Be sure to try Café Portofino, which offers Northern Italian cuisine. American cuisine is served at Duke's Canoe Club and Kalapaki Grill for lunch and dinner. Honeymooners receive two complimentary drinks and a one room category complimentary upgrade (if available).
The Sheraton Kauai Resort, at Poipu Beach is another fantastic place to plant the seeds of romance. Kauai's sunny South Shore provides the backdrop for over 20 acres of prime oceanfront. No building is higher than the coconut trees that surround it, allowing the resort to naturally blend into its lush surroundings. This resort offers three tennis courts, a shopping arcade, and a fun sunset Mai Tai party includes a torch-lighting ceremony and Hawaiian music. Guests can enjoy a full menu of activities including water sports, and there are two championship golf courses located nearby. All the guest rooms are furnished Hawaiian style, with fine woods and understated upholstery, and they offer a great lanai with an ocean or garden view. For dining, the resort offers a unique experience with the “Galleria of Oceanfront Dining & Entertainment,” a choice of four restaurants and surf-view lounge.
Last but certainly not least is the Grand Hyatt Kauai, located on Keoneloa Bay. This is really the quintessential Hawaiian getaway resort. The décor is classic Hawaiian, and it resides on 50 spectacular oceanfront acres. Guest can enjoy two freshwater outdoor swimming pools, a 25,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor health and fitness spa, whirlpools, and lava rock showers. Golfers will enjoy a fantastic 1- hole Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed golf course right next door. The resort overlooks a beautiful stretch of white, sandy beach and a huge saltwater lagoon. Guestrooms include private lanais, as well as first class amenities. There are six onsite restaurants to choose from, and the service is top notch all the way.
Romantic Dining in Kauai
Travelers looking for less-expensive options will find smaller inns, cabins, and B&B's located throughout the island. These are often described as “serene,” “intimate,” “secluded,” “small,” and “authentically Hawaiian.” Check carefully, though - the location, condition of the property, and the owners' attitude are critical to a romantic getaway. Highly-recommended options include the Kauai Country Inn, the Hale Lani B&B, and the Aloha Sunrise Inn.
There's nothing like a romantic dining experience to share with the object of your affections. Kauai has an interesting mix of places that can assist you in this effort. Sit down for a special evening at the Bali Hi Restaurant in Hanalei Bay Resort in Princeville, and become immersed in pure Hawaiian décor as gentle strains of music play in the background. Servers cater to your every whim, and the food is outstanding. Afterward, take a nice stroll through lush pathways that lead to a gorgeous ocean view.
Another hotbed of romantic dining is La Cascata, in the beautiful Princeville Resort. Situated downstairs in the resort, La Cascata overlooks spectacular Hanalei Bay and the Na Pali Coast. The dining room is also beautiful, with unusual floral arrangements and a romantic, comfortable atmosphere. The menu consists of innovative Mediterranean cuisine, but makes good use of local ingredients. For dessert, we suggest the tiramisu - it's divine!
On the South Shore, Beach House Restaurant at Spouting Horn is the place to go for a romantic dinner. A stone's throw from the shore, the setting is elegant, with a two-tiered dining room offering panoramic ocean views. Just as important, the food is wonderful, with a showcase of Regional Hawaiian Cuisine. We suggest the grilled fresh Ono and the crab cakes. Delightful!
Romantic Excursions in Kauai
In terms of Kauai nightlife, most of the bigger resorts have a nightclub to take advantage of. If you want to explore a bit, Duke's Barefoot Bar is a good dance club. Located at the Kauai Marriott, this open-air establishment is a lot of fun. Hawaiian music plays until late, and the drinks are beautifully-made.
The Lizard Lounge in Kapa'a is a lot of fun as well. Very laid-back and easygoing, the Lizard Lounge is pure Hawaiian. Kick off your shoes and dance all night. Keoki's Paradise in Poipu is another great place for romance. Dance to the latest beat, gaze into your loved one's eyes, and order a flaming volcano! Lots of fun here.
Another sure bet for a romantic adventure is beach hopping. Hop from Lumahai Beach (of “South Pacific” fame) on the North Shore to Mahaulepu Beach on the South Shore, for an unspoiled and quite deserted beach. Pick your favorite spot (try Haena Beach or Salt Pond Beach) for a view of the sunset and the accompanying “green flash” or return a bit later for a moonlight walk. Think a full moon on a tropical beach evening is romantic? Well, if the conditions are just right you might even get to see a “moonbow!”
For something a little on the traditional side, perhaps a luau is in order. Really, if you haven't been to one, you don't know what you're missing. Immerse yourself in the Hawaiian culture with hula dancers, fire dancers, folk songs, drums, and a great Hawaiian meal. There are a number of good luau choices to consider, such as Drums of Paradise at the Hyatt Regency Kauai Poipu, the award-winning Kauai Coconut Beach Luau, and Pa'ina O'Hanalei at Princeville Resort. Book early, because they tend to fill up, and they are not necessarily run daily.
One last suggestion for a romantic activity is the ever-popular sunset dinner cruise. There are many to choose from, and most include light cocktails, live music, and a good meal - all served while cruising around the beautiful sights of Kauai.
So as you can see, for a small, tropical island, Kauai has many options for the seeker of romance. The important thing to remember is that the natural beauty of this place has almost magical powers, so it's easy to enhance it with a romantically-themed vacation. You really can't go wrong! Aloha and Mahalo!
Romantic Vacation Ideas in Hawaiian Island of Kauai
Romantic-Vacations-Getaways
Lawa'I Beach - Kauai, Hawaii
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