This was my first trip to Kaua'i (I'd only been to Oahu years ago), and flying in from Tennessee…read moremade for a long journey--especially compared to when I lived in California. My brother and his wife were celebrating their 20th anniversary. He surprised her by renewing their vows on Kekaha Beach and presented a beautiful diamond ring symbolizing their four kids and two decades together. She knew family and friends were joining for vacation, but had no idea the real reason we all made the trip was to be there for his surprise. While they stayed in an Airbnb, I wanted a more authentic island experience. My travel agent (who knows Kaua'i well from family trips) recommended Waimea Plantation Cottages, and we booked months ahead for what felt like a solid deal. I was pleasantly surprised by how roomy the cottage was. Like a well-equipped Airbnb, the kitchen had everything--dinnerware, serving bowls, knives, silverware, the works. The beds were extremely comfortable, and they provided plenty of pillows (I used at least four and was happy). We had three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a beautiful covered deck with comfy chairs perfect for watching the ocean waves, plus a table for breakfast and a coffee table. Individual climate-controlled AC units in each room kept things as cool as we wanted--impressive and much appreciated. The plantation grounds were gorgeous, the weather was ideal during our early September stay (quiet with kids back in school), and we were close to the beach. I loved having the bar and restaurants right on the property. Front-desk customer service was excellent, and every staff member we encountered was friendly and professional. We arrived Thursday, September 3rd, and Thursday through Sunday were wonderful. My brother's surprise went perfectly. Then talk of a Category 5 hurricane approaching started. Many thought it would stay farther west, and Kaua'i hadn't seen a major one in 34 years. With my elderly mother with me and our cottage so close to the ocean, I was cautious. My brother's group (in a bigger second-story building even closer to the water in Kekaha) felt more confident, but by early afternoon Monday the 7th we all decided not to risk it. We booked rooms at the Sheraton at Coconut Beach on the east side--still near the ocean, but with the island between us and the storm. It proved to be a smart move; we fared much better than we would have on the west side. Thankfully, we brought all our belongings when we left (not planning to return ). The Waimea Plantation Cottages survived with quite a bit of damage but will recover. Without us even asking, they refunded a generous portion of our booking costs before we left the island--more than fair and greatly appreciated. This was just the start of some challenges, but I'll save those for another time. I plan to return and finish the vacation we started. If you have the chance to stay at Waimea Plantation Cottages, I highly recommend them. Beautiful grounds, comfortable cottages, great location, and thoughtful staff--even in the middle of an unexpected storm.

There aren't enough good words to say about this place. I'm almost afraid to rave about it too much…read morebecause I don't want it to be booked up when I come back! This place is beautiful, amazing, peaceful, and incredibly relaxing. In my opinion, it's even better than a "luxury" resort. It feels like you've stepped back in time to an era before technology took over, while still having all the comforts you could want. Each cottage has air conditioning, ceiling fans, and a TV, along with a full kitchen equipped with almost anything you could think of--a rice cooker, microwave, toaster, coffee maker (with coffee!), tea kettle, and even a blender. And if you choose, you can leave the screen door open and fall asleep to the sound of the waves crashing all night. It's truly a special place, and I can't wait to come back!

We finally booked a cabin and stayed in Kokee. I have been wanting to do this for a long time and…read moremy husband who is local has never stayed in a cabin up here. We absolutely loved it and want to make this something we do every year with our son. Here is my advice anyone looking to book. If you have high expectations and are expecting new and up to date with IG aesthetics don't book. These cabins are old. But that's what gives them their charm. They supply you with everything that you could need in the kitchen and bathroom and bedding. My only complaints were the pans to cook in were a little rusty and need to be replaced and they need to mop the floors with a swift jet or something. Are socks were black after being in side for only a couple of hours after checking in. Things to bring. Bring lots of fire wood if you are going during winter/early spring. You will definitely want a fire constantly going to keep the cabin warm. We brought extra blankets. Also I would bring a few of my kitchen items next time for things to use for cooking that they didn't have. Even though they had almost everything you would need. Oh and coffee filters. I drink and make a lot of coffee. They give you prepackaged coffee already in a sealed filter but I also like to bring my own. All in all we had a wonderful experience and look forward to stay here again.

You know it's an incredible place when all of the wrong kind of people are giving it bad reviews…read more This place ain't fancy. They are cabins as cabins are supposed to be: wild and rustic. Why people think a cabin is supposed to be a resort is beyond me! The prices are incredible and so is the location: up in the misty mountains close to the nature trails. I'm coming back to Kauai in November, and I'm staying here 3 nights, I can't wait!

My daughter and I stayed here while on our visit to Kauai. Lorna, John, and family have poured…read moretheir lives and love into this inn, making it a very special and welcoming place to stay. We only wish we could have stayed longer and will definitely stay here again. We also enjoyed meeting Happy, their sweet little dog. Thank you again Lorna for making us feel so welcome.

Spectacular views, atmosphere, and hospitality!…read more Such an incredible way to feel at home in Kauai. Will definitely keep coming back!!

This place is a gem for military families. I didn't even realize that there were military…read moreaccommodations in Kauai, until some friends mentioned it. Luckily, when I called, they had one cottage left, not renovated, oceanside. I took it and thank goodness I did. Location - This is as far as you can go west in Kauai (in civilization) before you hit the State Park and then Napali Coast. Even though it is the furthest point, Kauai is not that big, so don't deter the location from booking. Waimea is about 10 mins away! Also, bonus, our cottage was one of the non-renovated ones so our rate was even cheaper. Score! Pros: - Price can't be beat. - Stand alone cottage and we got ocean front. Our view was the beautiful ocean and the Forbidden Island, The Island of Ni'ihau and the other little island. The sunsets here are gorgeous (we, unfortunately only had one good day as the rest of our vacay, it was raining). - Full Kitchen (microwave, coffee maker, full stocked kitchen), 2 Closed Bedrooms (1 queen in one and 2 Full in the other), Stacked Washer and Dryer, TV, AC - the deck to go out and look at the beautiful sunset or early morning or just going out there to hear the ocean waves crash - the NEX on post has a commissary section in their store. Not a lot to choose from, but that's just Kauai. Cons: - the little bugs are ridiculous at night! Looks like fruit flies and they just get through the screen. During the day is fine. They just love to come out and play at night. - the moaning of the Wedge tailed Shear Water birds. They have started a colony and they are protected. Every time they dig a hole, the military puts up a wooden shelter over it. They just have the weirdest moaning noises and they only do this at night. We thought it was our own kids fussing to go to bed. No, it's those birds. So, this isn't really the PMRF's problem and more their effort to protect these birds! Overall, you can't beat the price and the best view on land of Ni'ihau. Can't get any closer unless you take a boat tour. Also, the convenience of being able to use your benefits of gas station and NEX is a no brainer. Also, this will be another review post, but the on post restaurant Shenanigans had really great food for the price (closed Mons)! We ate there 2 nights as it was right there on post!

The best if you are able to stay here. The prices in this entire state are sky high. Not sure how…read morethe locals survive. The base have less expensive gas but only premium. If you want to save money shop the chain stores, but that hurts the local business, just like where you live. Much of the local stuff comes from China. Local work at the chain stores so it is good and bad. Groceries compared to where we live were doubled or more at local stores and even on the base. Best prices were at Target and Costco because of bulk buying power i.e. Amazon. Base does have a great restaurant. This island does have something you cannot buy, weather, but just prepare for sticker shock and bring plenty of plastic. My thing is to go to the beach, get sun and pick up trash. Some of God's best work so please treated it kindly. MAHALO!

We had a great time staying in the bamboo suite, it was very comfortable. We very much enjoyed…read moreWranglers Steakhouse which is just a stone throw away and greatly appreciate the complimentary drinks after our room was not cleaned when we arrived but we left for the day and it was beautifully cleaned when we came back after a long day of walking the beach. We snorkled at Poipu which is a beautiful scenic 25-30 min drive and saw incredible fish, turtles and monk seals and the complimentary beach chairs and towels were wonderful from the hosts. Mahalo nui loa for everything.

The Historic Inn Waimea is a great and convenient two-story place to stay at if you are planning to…read moredo activities in and around West Kaua'i (instead of having to come all the way from Lihu'e or even the South Coast). Four suites in the house overall, and it's right across the street from the Big Save Supermarket and several restaurants, plus within walking distance to other eateries and points of interest. Plus, next door to the beach. I stayed in the Hibiscus Suite and it was a great value overall and very clean. One bedroom, one bathroom, and then the living room with a mini-refrigerator, a sofa, two soft chairs and a TV (which I did not use the majority of the time I was there because I was out and about during the 2 days/nights). There is on-site parking available and also out in front right off the road. To check-in, you will want to go to the West Kauai Lodging offices located at 9600 Kaumualii HWY #MC2, Waimea, HI 96796. It's right next door to the only traffic light in Waimea Town. They will give you the keys to get into the main entrance and then into your room. For security reasons, they want you to lock the bolt every time you go in and out. If I stay in West Kauai, I would certainly consider staying here again!

Casa Kalaheo is bringing the bold, vibrant flavors of Mexico straight to the heart of Kauai--and…read moreit's so worth a stop! Even during their soft opening, they're already serving up authentic, thoughtfully crafted dishes that transport you with every bite. I had the lamb birria, and wow--it was rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Very different than what I'm used to as the consume is already incorporated into the taco , so no dipping needed. The carnitas tacos was another standout: tender, perfectly crisped on the edges, and paired beautifully with their fresh salsa fresca. You can really tell they put care and tradition into each plate. Their menu also includes mouthwatering options like chicken tinga tacos, sopes costeños, and enchiladas Acapulco--plenty to keep you coming back! They're still in the soft opening phase while waiting on the rest of their equipment, but don't let that stop you--now's the perfect time to support a locally run spot that's already serving up greatness. I'll definitely be back once the full menu rolls out!

Stayed 4 days, quite, friendly neighbors always waving Hi, Aloha Spirit. Shower,is good…read morevolume/pressure, luxury bath towels & just about all kitchen utensils you need! Bed is comfortable good sleep. Price is very reasonable considering our economy presently. Good food all proximal to the inn. Management/Employees Ho'omalemale/Kokua. Definitely returning soon. Hope rooms will have a KI pen!? Aloha Ahui hou Hawaii's Finest

Do NOT stay here it's not safe, homeless all around. Someone knocked on our door at 4am. Lucky we…read moreare smart & wouldn't open the door. Told him we were going to call the police then he left. No security on property after midnight. This place is not recommended.

The hidden gem of Kaha Lani resort are the front office staff. Both Carlynn and Tia are welcoming,…read moreand personable. You need anything do not hesitate to go in and ask for whatever your need is. Recommendations for any service, any activity, where to go, what to eat, and everything in between. Let's not forget they can get you whatever you need to make your stay more comfortable. These two ladies run a tight ship, with beauty, grace, and kindness. Thank you Carlynn and Tia!

We had an amazing experience with our young kids and their grandparents. It'll be a memory we'll…read morecherish for a long time. Luckily our cottage was without major issues, and the fact that there were geckos and some wildlife in and around the cottage at times didn't bother us. This is in fact a tropical island and Kauai, after all. Still tremendously well kept properties. The set up is ideal for families and/or folks interested in golf trips. The property is sprawling, picturesque, and tremendously available. You can walk or golf cart wherever you'd like. We found it without major crowds even during peak child/summer break visiting times. This is likely due to the high number of owners who don't rent and the higher price cost. It was very peaceful but just enough other families around. There's a few adult only areas (pool, etc) for those honeymooning or getting away from their kids. The pool area next to the lodge/club and the spa are the two shinning stars. The pool is actually multiple pools, none too deep, and two different hot tubs of differing temps. The small tube slide is a hit for kids and adults. There's no lifeguard so beware but the average 3' depth makes it easier for parents to relax more (but still monitor!). The spa experience was amazing. It was one of the best massages I've ever had -- probably number two! -- and amazing spa benefits and layout, too. Believe it or not the $75 per day cost just to use the facilities is worth it between the steam room, sauna, hot and cold pools, and awesome treats. Highly recommending going through the self-guided multiple step traditional treatment. Don't worry the gym is free! Btw, they have a full selection of their own Peloton shoes. You don't need to bring your own. Tons of classes and personal trainers if you'd like. The daily activities are fun for kids. Make sure to sign up in advance. The club restaurant is fairly good as is the pool restraunt and bar but it's worth adventuring and cooking in -- the farm/farm stand has lots of free bounty each day. Go visit it! The staff were all super welcoming, friendly, and helpful. It's a laid back place but attentive (e.g., every 3rd day house-keeping). You'd do best to seek them out if you need it, and know it's not going to be immediate texts back to concierge. It's island-life style but still luxury stay vibes. Cottage is great set-up for in-laws/grandparents with separate Ohana king beds. Second bedroom in cottage itself can be made into twin beds. Very nice kitchen and living areas. Showers awesome and fun outdoor showers if geckos don't weird you out. Only wishes are for longer hours on the gym (closes at 6pm or 7pm some days, one day early at 5pm), and some easier EV hook-ups. This was a great use of our Hyatt points. We stayed her previously in a Villa for non-points, and it was wonderful for our family there, too. We'll be back!

Although beautiful, VERY dirty. We are in Villa 1. $7K a night. Cockroaches, King Spiders,…read moreBeetles. Non stop. The GM, Andy, of Destination Hyatt, is of no help. They said they sprayed for pests and cleaned but we came home to more bugs. Including one in my bed. I find them crawling on my clothes that are hanging. It is incredibly sad and frustrating. This villa is not well kept. Our amazing vacation is ruined. I've stayed in Hawaii many times and never encountered this. Do not stay here! I asked him to move us to another villa or to the Hyatt down the street. He emphatically said no. Poor management. I am so so upset.