Koa Kea

Tucked away in a semi circle to make the most of the ocean views and spilling out on to spacious lawns, perfect for sunbathing, Koa Kea offers a relaxed and tranquil experience in this pretty area of the South Coast of Kauai.

Although not set directly on the beach, this boutique hotel offers direct ocean views and is often a prime spot for whale watching from its ocean front balconies during the winter months. A short climb across the rocks on the Western side of the hotel brings you to Poipu Beach, one of the most swimmable and popular beaches on Kauai and a prime spot for keen surfers and water sports enthusiasts.

Within the gardens, a pleasant freeform pool is perfect for a refreshing dip and the pool bar is a welcome meeting spot for guests to socialize and enjoy sundown cocktails or lunchtime snacks.

Set back behind the pool, the stylish and modern lounge is a tranquil space to relax in the evening and the superb Red Salt Restaurant offers imaginative and tempting cuisine next door. It's considered to be one of the best restaurants on the island with it's tantalising flavors.

For guests looking for a more intimate environment who don't require the full facilities of a resort hotel, the Koa Kea is a little gem of a hotel, with modern comforts and a home from home feel, right on the ocean's edge.