Ko’a Kea Resort on Po’ipu Beach

A romantic Kauai paradise
VERIFIED LUXURY

Nuzzled along the soft white sands of Poipu Beach is Ko’a Kea Resort on Po’ipu Beach. This upscale home-away-from-home has an understated elegance that maintains a modern tropical style.

The boutique hotel sits in the heart of Kauai’s sunny south shore. Formerly called the Poipu Beach Hotel, the resort underwent a massive renovation in 2008 from damage caused by Hurricane Iniki in 1992. Aside from the building’s original location and some outdoor décor, its quietly contemporary atmosphere is true to authentic Hawaiian décor but with a modern twist. It’s become an attractive spot for couples who crave romance and seclusion.

Only 121 recently renovated guest rooms are offered at this small-scale seaside resort, which is one of the many elements that make this exceptional oceanfront nook stand out. Concierge services, a spa, a pool bar with craft cocktails and a fine-dining restaurant are among the many other qualities that cause this prized lodging to be a sought-after destination in the Hawaiian Islands.
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Our Inspector's Highlights

  • You could easily spend your entire vacation relaxing at this Kauai hotel. Lounge, surf or snorkel at a nationally acclaimed beach right at your doorstep; treat your taste buds to local cuisine on property or within walking distance; slip into the saltwater pool or hot tub during the day and relax with a loved one by the fire pits at night.
  • Ko’a Kea’s Red Salt is the perfect locale for sunset viewing and palate pleasing. The menu serves fresh, regional cuisine and the innovative meals are created with quality ingredients by executive chef and Kauai native Noelani Planas, who infuses flavors from her Hawaiian heritage with French and international techniques.
  • Mai tais at Ko’a Kea Pool Bar & Grill are an exceptional way to end each day. Sipping tantalizing drinks crafted with finesse while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean and watching the sun dip below the horizon is heaven on earth.
  • The Spa at Ko’a Kea carries a variety of natural services conducted either oceanside in an exclusive cabana or in a tranquil treatment room. Experience the ancient Hawaiian technique of lomi lomi, where massage therapists use their hands and forearms to ease out any kinks using smooth, flowing strokes.
  • Staying at the centrally located Ko’a Kea makes it easy to explore any area of the island. Hiking the red gorges of Waimea Canyon, embarking on a boat tour to view the verdant Napali Coast or kayaking along Hanalei River are among the many activities that are equally accessible.

Things to Know

  • For a tranquil escape, avoid booking travel at the luxury hotel during the busy summer months. Winter also provides favorable ocean conditions on the south shore, granting safer opportunities to dip into the water.
  • There’s no need to leave the resort to rent equipment. The onsite Hoku Watersports hut has everything from bikes to beach chairs and stand-up paddleboards — the crew even doles out surf lessons.
  • Make sure to let the reservationist at Red Salt know if you’re celebrating a special occasion and you’ll receive a fun, surprise dessert at the end of your meal. Ask for a table by the window so you can watch the sun dip below the horizon.
  • If you want to explore the island, rent a Tesla by the hour, day or week at Ko’a Kea.

The Rooms

  • All rooms are on the shoreline, but not all have ocean views. Each accommodation has a lanai or balcony, however, with scenery that includes beautiful natural foliage.
  • The bathrooms boast marble showers with dual showerheads and are stocked with fragrant Fresh-branded products.
  • Warm, soothing tones and décor that subtly reflect beachside living are displayed in every room.
  • While the garden-facing rooms are particularly peaceful at the beachfront hotel, the ocean-view accommodations are certainly worth the splurge.

The Restaurants

  • Red Salt, named after traditional pink-tinted Hawaiian alaea salt, is adorned with calming white hues, sleek wooden enhancements and romantic lighting. Expansive windows allow you to gaze upon a lovely scene with lush grounds and the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean.
  • The lounge doesn’t require reservations and is just as charming as the dining area with a minimalist flair. Chat with the bartender and order refreshing cocktails, including the blueberry acai martini.
  • The menu features dishes like specialties like lemon-pineapple soufflé pancakes, vanilla-bean-seared mahi and ahi tartare. Most of the offerings highlight seafood, but there are diverse options for those with restricted diets.

Amenities
24-hour room service
Bar
Fitness classes
Gym
Meeting rooms
Outdoor pool
Pet friendly
Restaurants
Spa
Getting There
2251 Poipu Road, Koloa, Hawaii 96756
TEL877-276-0768
TEL808-828-8888
NEARBY AIRPORT(S)
LIH (26 min)  
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