I had Kauai Island Experience set me up with a north shore beach villa and all the activities for…read moremy family and I. We ended up saving hundreds of dollars as the staff has connections to some of the best properties on the island. We also ended up going stand-up paddling up rivers and liked it so much we had private surf lessons for the whole family. The best part is that the staff knows the island, they're safe/professional and they don't overcharge. Kauai Island Experience was able to hook us up with adventures not in any guide book. We referred our friends as well and they felt the same. Mike and the highly trained professionals will surely make your trip unforgettable. I'd also recommend going out on a fishing trip. I caught my first marlin and it was incredible. The best part was that their chefs cooked up the catch island style and we ate like kings for the rest of the trip. Can't wait to go back to my friends at Kauai Island Experience next year~ Mahalo!!

Mike is wonderful. He is maybe the kindest, warmest guy on the island…read more We did a canoe sail to scatter my Mother's ashes in Hanalei Bay and he could not have been more understanding, appropriately compassionate, fun (he even made it fun at times!), he did a great job taking social cues and gave my siblings and I just the experience we wanted. Del (I think) his shipmate was also lovely. We wanted to use them again for other activities that he offers but ran out of time, we were there for a wedding, turns out those things are kind of consuming. I would use him again for lessons, tours or anything of that nature when we come back. Thank you, Mike for giving us a little history, making us laugh and giving us such a wonderful goodbye to our Mother...bless you.

I'm an estate manager in Kukui'ula on the South Shore of Kaua'i. I exclusively use Kauai Transport…read moreService for my clients' airport transportation needs, as I've found them to be incredibly responsive, professional, and reliable. Victoria is a pleasure to coordinate with and Jeff provides great service. I highly recommend them!

Great! So professional, on time, clean ride and friendly. Definitely recommend, love these guys !read more

Our trip to Hawaii started in the middle of Tropical Storm Lala, so we were worried we might not…read moreget to experience our Na Pali Coast boat tour. We were originally scheduled for Sunday but switched to Monday, hoping the weather would clear--and what a blessing that turned out to be! We had a beautiful day and an absolutely amazing tour. Captain Jake and RJ were awesome--knowledgeable, entertaining, and incredibly skilled. The new boats are comfortable, and we were able to navigate through all of the caves with ease (and, of course, Captain Jake's impressive skills! ). We could not have asked for a better time! This was our second time with Na Pali Experience, and we wouldn't book with anyone else. The company and their entire staff are truly top-notch! Thank you, Captain Jake and RJ, for making our day so memorable!

We couldn't have been happier with the tour that we chose for our na Pali coast tour…read more We went with a bigger boat that could still fit in the caves, which ended up being the best choice. It had a little bit of cover, so as a ginger that burns, I sat towards the front and was able to stay mostly out of the sun the entire trip We were able to learn so much about the land, cruised next to a massive pod of dolphins and went in two caves. It was amazing. When we got to the snorkel spot they brought out some drinks and snacks. Snacks included fresh pineapple, chips and granola bars. They do have a bathroom on board for emergencies....but they let you know straight up it's not something you WANT to use if you can avoid it. My only complaint is that they didn't urge people to stay seated on the ride back. This older gentleman decided to come up and stand right next to me to jump and ride the waves? And kept slamming into me and stepping on my feet. Our bench was full so I had no room to move over. I asked him nicely to stop and he ignored me, and the guides ignored him. There are signs all over saying to stay seated when the boat is moving.

We had such an amazing cruise along the NaPali coast. Captain Kelly, Luke and one other crew member…read moredid an awesome job. We were greeted by a pod of spinner dolphins riding the waves of our bow. They served up a delicious breakfast and lunch. We got to snorkel up against some majestic sea cliffs and sail along remote valleys and waterfalls on a beautiful turquoise ocean . This is an adventure to experience. We will be back!

The sunset cruise with Holo Holo Charters down the Nāpali Coast was an unforgettable experience. We…read morebooked it to celebrate my husband's 40th birthday, and it was perfect from start to finish. Captain Max was incredible--his sense of humor kept us laughing even as the rain and mist rolled in. The two women on the crew (I wish I could remember their names) were fantastic, making sure everyone was comfortable and answering all our questions with a smile. The playlist on board was spot on, setting the perfect vibe. I wish I could find it on Spotify! Despite the weather, the views were breathtaking, and getting a little drenched just added to the adventure. The food was delicious, especially the smoked pork, salad, and fresh fruit, and my husband loved the mai tais. Even without the sunset, the whole experience was magical. After chatting with other travelers, I'm convinced we had one of the best tours available. especially after talking to a couple at our hotel pool who had paid more than we did and only got snacks limited alcohol. I can't recommend Holo Holo Charters enough, and I'm already looking forward to trying their breakfast or snorkel cruise next time. If you're looking for an amazing adventure, this is it!

While name calling and distraction seem to be BOBs main business practice the simple facts are…read morehere: #1 - I was billed $6,206.54 by TDB rentals (Who is not a manager, owner, or in anyway connected to teh property nothing but a middle man to make money for themselves) but while I was staying at the property I discovered the owner charged only $3,543.14. A NET RIP OFF / SCAM / Theft of $2,663.40 or 75% up-charge. I wonder what that money was for? #2 - Your email stated "Famous Hideaway Beach is just 2 blocks away!" TRUTH - Hideaway Beach is 1.3 mile walk while that is no big deal it is quite a walk for little children twice a day and most certainly not 2 blocks. #3 - Your email stated "just one block to the ocean and beach!" TRUTH - The property is 1/2 or a little over 1/2 mile from a bluff with steep cliffs to see the ocean. No beach access without climbing gear so not great fro small children.

We rented three villas in the Princeville HI resort area through TBD. The places themselves were…read morefine, with varying levels of updating. One unit looked like it hadn't had anything done to it since initially being built, but everything worked and it was clean, just very dated. My review centers around TBD service. Upon arrival after 10pm, we discovered the lock box for one of our rentals wouldn't open with the code TBD provided us. The 24-hour lockout company listed on our paperwork stated they didn't handle the unit, so two couples out of our party had to crash on couches. We got an updated lock box code the next morning and all was good. I confirmed with the TBD office contact that we would be refunded for the missed night and he agreed. Well, here we are 10 days, several texts and two voicemails later, no refund. If it takes time to arrange the charge, I can understand. But to go silent to my communications tells me there's something shady going on. I've already opened a BBB complaint to get this moving forward. Shame really. The experience with TBD was otherwise fine, but this lack of action colors my whole review.

Absolutely great to work with! We had a couple rainy days and excursions got cancelled and she…read morewoudl check and give us other things to do and reschedule our events. Really just a great soul. Aloha

Stephanie was so helpful with my recent trip to Kauai with my friends. She answered and returned…read morephone calls, was able to answer all of my questions. Even if i sent a quick text she was able to get back to me with an answer. She provided us with snorkeling and a helicopter tour with flexible dates since the rain was a bit unpredictable out there. She helped us to enjoy as much as we could of Kauai for the short time we were there. Was so beautiful seeing the coast by boat then by helicopter. We got to see whales by boat and helicopter!!! It was well worth it!! Thanks Stephanie

One of the best boat trips ever taken! Captain Cole & Crew were AMAZING on every level as was the…read moreride. Being Kamaʻāina, been on plenty boats but this one is definitely not to be missed! MAHALO & A hui hou kākou

For most recreational sailors, 20-knot winds with 5-foot seas would be considered moderately rough…read moreto challenging, depending on the boat and the crew. Here's a practical classification: * Wind: 20 knots (23 mph) * Fresh breeze (Beaufort Force 5) * Whitecaps are common. * Reefing the sails is often recommended. * Experienced sailors generally enjoy these conditions. * Beginners may find them intimidating. * Seas: 5 feet * Moderate waves with regular swells. * Boats will pitch and roll noticeably. * Spray over the bow is common. * Can become uncomfortable, especially for smaller boats. Overall rating * For a 20- to 30-foot sailboat: Challenging. Suitable only for experienced sailors. * For a 35- to 45-foot cruising sailboat: Moderate to moderately rough. Manageable with proper sail handling. * For beginners or passengers: Rough and potentially uncomfortable. If you're asking about a sailing excursion in Kauaʻi I'd classify 20 knots and 5-foot seas as: * Marginal to poor for a leisurely sightseeing sail. * Acceptable for experienced crews on larger, well-equipped catamarans. * Not ideal if your goal is a smooth, relaxing cruise or if you have balance issues or are prone to seasickness. Given what I know about your mobility and balance, I would recommend waiting for conditions closer to: * Wind: 10-15 knots or less * Seas: 2-4 feet Those conditions are generally much more comfortable and enjoyable for most passengers. This a money making joke. I tried to get a refund because I walk with a cain. There response tuff luck I should not have booked.

Had a really good overall experience here…read more View/location is obviously spectacular. Room: Ocean view studio suite is nothing short of incredible. High floor with a perfect view of the bay. Open layout with a large bathroom and huge walk in closet area. Service: Was overall really impressed . Wife had an allergic reaction to something one evening. We called the front desk who unlocked the on site shop to get her allergy medication after the shop had closed for the night. All of our servers at the restaurants were very friendly, pleasant, and warm. Housekeeping was slow and did not make up our room during the few hours we were out from morning to early afternoon, but we called the service team and it was made by the time we got back from dinner. Fitness center was spacious and had plenty of equipment/machines - never felt crowded despite being busy. Restaurant food: The breakfast buffet and dinner meal we had were very good. The buffet in particular was great - so many dishes, omelet station, delicious Hawaiian coffee, etc. Main complaint is that the hotel felt quite packed (including the pool and beach area). We went during peak season so I guess this is to be expected. Tough to avoid though given this will always be a popular destination for non hotel guests as well. It's expensive for what it is, especially compared to international resort destinations at the same price level (a function of proximity to CA I guess) but overall was a worthwhile stay. 5 stars for the views and service t(hat went above and beyond).

Ever since I saw Jurassic Park and watched that little dinosaur with the popped collar spit in…read moreNewman's face, I knew I wanted to visit Kauai. Now, was that scene actually filmed there? Who knows. I was a child, and a guy who lived down the street that my mom made me call "Uncle" told me it was. I've trusted that man with absolutely zero credentials for over 30 years. Well, I finally made it to Kauai, and let me tell you... it is absolutely gorgeous. Lush. Green. Rainy. And now I also look like Newman from Seinfeld. The circle of life. I spent four nights at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, and it was... nice. Let me start with the good. My room was beautiful, the views were incredible, and the grounds are spectacular. Tropical plants everywhere, waterfalls pouring down the mountains, and postcard views in every direction. Now... the not-so-great. The food was aggressively mediocre. By day three I was fantasizing about a microwave burrito like it was a Michelin starred meal. I would've fought someone for a Cup-O-Noodles. I think it's called 1 Hotel because it's the one hotel around, and they know you've got nowhere else to eat. Unfortunately, all three restaurants seemed to have the exact same menu. Room service, The Sandbox, and the sushi restaurant all blurred together into one very expensive wagyu smashburger. The staff? Honestly, I can barely review them because I hardly interacted with anyone. Nobody bothered me, which some people probably love. The pool is beautiful... but there are nowhere near enough lounge chairs. Every morning it looked like the midwest trophy wives stormed the pool deck at 6:00 a.m. to reserve every chair with towels. If you want to sit within eyesight of the water, you're going to need an alarm clock and the competitive spirit of a suburban mother on vacation. Which brings me to... the kids. Look, if you have kids, that's wonderful. They're just not for me. Splashing. Screaming. Running. Falling. Crying. Parents yelling at their kids. Parents yelling at other people's kids. Kids somehow yelling at adults. It was like spending the afternoon inside a Dave & Buster's that happened to overlook the Pacific Ocean. If you're looking for a quiet couples getaway, I'd probably avoid summer break. There is an adults-only pool, but it's pretty small and mostly occupied by guys taking "business calls" while crushing Michelob Ultras. There's also a tiny beach area that's... ehhhhh. Now the spa? That's where this place shines. The second you walk in, it smells incredible. The kind of smell that immediately convinces your brain you've become a much healthier, more emotionally stable person. I got one of the best massages I've ever had from an amazing therapist who somehow found muscles I didn't even know existed and negotiated a peace treaty with all of them. I walked out feeling completely relaxed, refreshed, and significantly less judgmental about everything else. I'd absolutely go back for another massage, and next time I'd definitely book a facial too. My biggest surprise was the cleanliness... or lack of it. For a luxury resort, it never quite felt polished. Dead flies sat on windowsills around the property. The carpets always looked a little grimy. There was a half-finished iced coffee sitting outside my elevator that stayed there for a day and a half. None of it was a huge deal individually, but after a while you start noticing all the little things. Overall, I had an amazing trip because Kauai itself is one of the most beautiful places I've ever visited. Would I go back? Absolutely. Would I stay at 1 Hotel again? Probably not. For what they're charging, I expected luxury. Instead, it felt like I paid luxury prices for a really nice hotel that still needed someone to walk around with a rag and a trash bag. If I'm spending that kind of money again, I'd probably book the Four Seasons.

This cottage is a perfect vacation rental if you like to feel the unique qualities of the community…read moreyou're visiting. HMBC's openness lets you enjoy the warmth, the wetness, and the beauty of Hanalei Bay in a low-key way that lets you feel like you really live there. Maybe I am reacting to our trip to the Princeville St. Regis hotel for sunset cocktails. That beautiful resort felt like placeless luxury. The views were Hawaiian, but the grand style of the rooms, plentiful central air conditioning, upper-class airs, and property layout were suitable for anywhere from the Caribbean to Mexico to wherever... My preference is to stay where the local touch is celebrated. So..., HMBC is not endlessly elegant, it's a beach cottage. But, it is definitely my type of place! HMBC's front lawn leads directly to a very swimmable, less crowded area of Hanalei Bay. We walked 4 miles roundtrip on the Bay every morning, crossing the two local rivers coming into the sea at different places each day as the sands shifted. We took our first swim of the day on our pre-brekfast treks, and decided that the placement of the cottage was enough to ensure a wonderful vacation. The building is smartly designed with a large picture window in the living room. You can sit on the couch or one of the two reclining chairs, and watch the water, surfers, and swimmers go by. Moreover, the furniture and decorations feel well-designed, thought-out, sturdy and in excellent shape. Nothing is beachy, sticky, or falling apart. Suzanne, the owner, knows how to add touches to the property let us feel even more comfortable and able to relax. The building is well maintained and clean, which is not unique but noteworthy because those basic qualities are not universal in Hanalei! There are also nice, if somewhat common extras like a reasonable selection of pots and pans, microwave, toaster-oven, a charcoal BBQ, wide-screen TVs, full-size new refrigerator, comfortable chairs, washing soap, beach towels, extra towels of all types, and other reassuring amenities. We also liked the lock-box on the porch. That arrangement was new to us, but it let us lock up, swim, and not worry about losing the key on the beach. The books, games, and beach-gazing telescope in the living room were truly above-and-beyond treats. So was assortment of beach toys and mats and chairs that were in excellent shape and felt clean. We even appreciated the unique photographs on the walls and the other artwork that was unique and felt just right. We traveled with friends who rented a cottage across the grass from us. Their place is owned by a different member of the extended family that owns 5 adjacent waterfront units (and more elsewhere in the country). We felt lucky to have chosen HMBC because our owners seemed to understand what boosts a vacation. Our cottage had a gas stove, which I much prefer over the electric one our friends had. Adding gas must be costly, but it let us enjoy cooking more. Plus, there is a washing machine and gas clothes drier at the cottage which was both handy and free ... our friends had to pay several dollars to dry their clothes at an underpowered electric drier. (Come on owners of the other cottages... you're charging $400+ a night and then you make your guests put in quarters to wash and dry their clothes?? I am sure glad HMBC's washing and drying were not nickel and dime annoying extras. I mean, do you want to carry a bag full of quarters from the mainland in case you need to do laundry? Geeze!) Another special at HMBC is its lovely, hot-water plumbed, outdoor shower. We also appreciated that our kitchen was stocked with matches (our friends had none) and lighter fluid (again, they had none). Our friends even had to ask the housekeepers cleaning other cottages for more toilet paper. You're given the owner's telephone number is case of any problems. We had an incident: the clothes drier started smoking with an electrical smell as soon as we turned it on one morning. Suzanne had someone check the problem that afternoon and, when it turned out the motor had burned out, had a new drier installed the next morning. She was very, very responsive, came out herself to make sure we were okay, and ensured that the minor problem was solved. That visit, by the way, is when we discovered how delightful and friendly Suzanne is! Overall, in our opinion HMBC is excellently laid out, well taken care of, and, well..., as good as it gets.

Fall asleep to the sound of waves crashing out in Hanalei Bay? Walk to town for coffee and…read morebreakfast (or drinks and dinner at night; no need for a designated driver here!)? Views of Bali Hai from your front lawn? If you want the quintessential Hawaii experience, then stay here! The Moon Beach cottage is on the rustic side (think gecko visitors)--but that's part of its charm. Do yourself a favor and use the outside shower as your primary one (it's amazing to look up at Bali Hai as you lather up). The bed is a lot more comfortable than it looks, which is a big plus in my book. One night it got a bit noisy as some kids were partying on the beach--but everyone else we ran into was nice and respectful (and quiet). Sitting in the living room on the rattan furniture with the windows open and watching the surfers and the waves is pure heaven! It's one of the lesser-expensive places in Hanalei, but at $1,950 for the week it might be above some people's price range. But you are right on Weke road (multi-million-dollar real estate)--in walking distance to town and with direct ocean views. Also, the house sits on a big lot. There's even a neighborhood cat and dog who come by from time to time to say hello--just welcoming you to the neighborhood with that ol' Aloha spirit. Skip Poipu. Stay here. (You can thank me later...)