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The Most Secluded Beach in Kauai
With Valentine’s Day only few months away, Travel Agent breaks down the best spots for Hawaii-bound lovebirds looking to celebrate romance on Kauai.
Poipu Beach Park is often considered Kauai’s most popular beach. But since it draws a big family population because of its natural wading pool for young swimmers, it may not be the best setting for some quiet, alone time with your loved one. Instead, we recommend the much more secluded and lesser-known Kauapea Beach, commonly referred to as “Secret Beach.”
This practically empty, half-mile stretch of beach is not easy to get to as there are no public roads that lead to it. But that’s why it’s so unpopulated.
Instead, clients should take the Kuhio Highway past Kilauea and turn right on Kalihiwai Road. Follow the road for less than a mile, turn right onto an unmarked road and look for the footpath at the end of the park. This leads to the west end of the beach. With enough seclusion to enjoy some privacy with your loved one, this is the best spot for a romantic picnic for two.
The Most Romantic Resort(s)
The Lodge at Kukui‘ula in Koloa is an ultra-luxurious establishment that includes a collection of island-style cottages, bungalows and villas. Even though kids are welcomed and encouraged at the lodge, the Kukui‘ula environment remains calm and tranquil. We suggest guests take advantage of the relaxing atmosphere and visit one of the three pools or ask the staff to prepare a traditional Hawaiian pig roast in the authentic imu pit.
Not interested in the pig roast? Dine on the deck of the open-air plantation house, complete with views of the ocean (think fresh mango smoothies, fresh fish and sunsets).
The Spa at Kukuiula has a meditation garden, relaxation pool and six treatment rooms. The “Wet Ritual” is a must before any treatment. First, a steam will open the pores then your hair will be conditioned in a deluge shower, followed by another steam complete with a Kukui nut oil scrub. The last step will get your heart racing as you step into the cold plunge and hot dip. After your massage, take advantage of the posh spa products provided, including the sunscreen, which kept us protected from the sun the rest of the day.
Romantics will also want to stay at the St. Regis Princeville, a stunning resort that overlooks Hanalei Bay. The large, opulent lobby is complete with a chandelier that reminded us of a floating jellyfish, and it set the mood for the rest of the resort (which was just as memorable). The Hanalei Bay is the focal point of this resort — as it should be with its bright blue waters and bobbing sailboats.
Romantic Overlooks
Set on Kauai's West Side, Waimea Canyon is often described as “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The canyon stretches about 14 miles and is the setting for some of Hawaii’s best views. Clients can snuggle up as they lookout at some incredible deep valley gorges or they can travel a little further down Waimea Canyon Drive for the main Waimea Canyon Overlook, which offers views of Kauai's interior.
Spread over 4,345 acres on a plateau 3,200 to 4,200 feet above sea level, Kokee State Park is covered in forest, wildflowers and hiking trails, making it an excellent spot to see native plants and colorful Hawaiian forest birds. The park also offers roughly 45 miles of the state's finest hiking trails. Some trails lead to views of Waimea Canyon, while others wind through wet forests with sweeping views of valleys opening up to the North Shore.
Dining Options
Clients looking for a low-key, casual dining option should hit the town as there is a strip of about five small budget-friendly eateries all within walking distance of each other. Romantics looking to go all out, however, should dine at the St. Regis Princeville’s Kauai Grill. Kauai Grill’s cuisine is created by acclaimed Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, using fresh ingredients in dishes like the nut and seed crusted mahimahi and grilled Makaweli tenderloin. Clients should also check out The Makana Terrace at St. Regis Princeville. It offers casual all-day dining, and the menu is created with Asian influences, but the view is why you come here.