To reach the Hanalei Colony Resort, I drove the narrow Kuhio Highway west as it pinched between exquisite beaches and deep green mountains on its way to the legendary cliffs of Na Pali. The resort’s condominium buildings jut toward a picturesque bay, filling the rooms with cooling breezes and the soundtrack of crashing surf. I feel utterly transported.

Kauai is a bucket-list destination for adventure seekers, with a network of trails traversing scenic cliffs and canyons, offering views of waterfalls and rainbow-streaked skies. The resort’s spot near the end of the highway and its relaxing vibe lend a sense of retreat, and it makes a great base for adventures.

Hanalei Colony Resort’s location puts you within easy reach of major attractions along the north shore, including the famed Kalalau Trail through the Na Pali coast wilderness. Nearby, Tunnels Beach is a prime and supremely scenic snorkeling spot. While the parking area for these spots is often overrun, the resort offers a free shuttle that runs from 8:15 a.m. to sunset, providing stress-free transportation to points of interest. An evening shuttle that runs 5–9 p.m. ferries visitors to bars and restaurants in nearby Hanalei.

The property doesn’t ooze amenities and entertainment options, but that’s part of the draw. Hanalei Colony lets the environment do the talking, contributing to a memorable experience. The resort offers a handful of activities, including complimentary pizza nights, Mai Tai parties with pupus (appetizers), live music and a weekly continental breakfast.

The property’s acclaimed Mediterranean Gourmet restaurant offers oceanfront views with lunch and dinner, and the adjacent coffee shop has you covered with espresso and grab-and-go breakfasts.  Should you be in the mood for even more self-indulgence, the Hanalei Day Spa offers a range of treatments in private rooms or at an outdoor, beachside hut.

Unlike Kauai’s abundance of large resorts filled with boisterous families splashing at the pool, Hanalei Colony Resort has a quiet, retreat-like atmosphere that feels welcoming and relaxing. There’s a small pool area surrounded by lounge chairs and gardens, perfect for reading a book or napping in the sun.

The resort’s suites offer views of the ocean or mountains and well-kept gardens, with their orchids and plumeria. All guests have access to the secluded beach along the shore, which is often empty and great for long walks. Rooms offer two-bedroom configurations and are tastefully decorated with modern, tropical-themed décor.

Each unit offers a balcony and full kitchen, ideal given the location, which is a bit removed from quick access to services. Suites lack televisions or telephones to encourage guests to unplug, though there is internet access. With the views outside your windows, you won’t miss the television.

In my room, I sipped coffee and ate fresh fruit while savoring sunrises that seemed to fill the entire space with orange and yellow light. Behind the palm trees outside, Kauai’s jungle-covered mountains arched into the sky. A few hundred yards in the distance, humpback whales frolicked in the surf, leaping and slapping their tails as I watched in awe.

Hanalei Colony Resort

5 7130 Kuhio Highway
Hanalei, HI 96714
tel 808 826 6235