By Narbeh Minassian
At Poipu Beach, on the south shore of Kauai, you will find one of the most relaxing places in the world. Koa Kea Hotel and Resort harnesses the beauty and tranquillity of this sun-swept corner of Hawaii. Having opened in April 2009, this hotel offers all the latest luxury amenities while offering spectacular beachfront accommodations.
The location is one of the more vibrant that Hawaii has to offer, with festivals planned throughout October, including Eo e EmmalaniiAlaka’I, which is a celebration of Queen Emma’s ascent into Kokee in 1871. This festival involves plenty of Hula dancing and a royal procession at midday, showcasing Hawaiian culture in all its glory. The Na Lima Hana Celebration is also due to take place in October, taking place at the Grand Hyatt Kaua`i Resort and Spa. This festival is in honour of Hawaii’s culturally rich traditions and health practices, giving you a spa experience unlike any other.
Of course, your enjoyment of Hawaiian spas will not be limited to one three day event, as Koa Kea’s spa provides outstanding treatment. The spa has five treatment rooms, all designed in accordance with the broader theme of the hotel; a strict focus on nature and drawing inspiration from the Hawaiian landscape. This idea is carried through into their spa treatments, which take ingredients from seaweed, pineapple, Awapuhi root, Red Kauai clay, maile, pikake, guava and coconut. The Koa Kea Spa offers a variety of treatments specifically dedicated to easing the body after a day of vigorous activity on the island. This spa specialises in all the traditional spa services such as facials and massages, and, in addition, a number of in suite baths can be arranged, given the important role of water therapies in Hawaiian healing practices.
While this resort is appealing for all kinds of holiday makers, it has proved particularly attractive to honeymooners and couples. A big part of this is down to the designers, who made the most out of the island’s floral opulence, which leaves a constant but subtle fragrance of exotic flowers in the air. The Koa Kea management acknowledge its potential for romantic getaways and offer a ‘Tropical Desire Package’ for those visiting with their spouse. This deal includes a daily breakfast for two with mimosas, a one hour couple massage, and a dinner for two in Red Salt (the principle restaurant in the resort). To make the most of evening walks on the beach, be sure to stay in the oceanfront rooms, where you can order room service to provide you with a romantic dinner for two on your balcony overlooking the beach.
Red Salt at the Koa Kea Hotel and Resort on Kauai makes for a perfect Hawaiian dining experience. The oceanfront setting is enhanced by a contemporary open design, and the large picture windows give a view of the ocean and pool. Its forte is fresh seafood, but they have the scope on their menu to please all kinds of tastes. Breakfast in particular is a highlight; there isn’t much in this world that can beat waking up to a serene, sunny landscape and an array of tropical fruits.
I say Koa Kea hotel is arguably one of the most relaxing places on the planet because of its peaceful ambience and wonderful use of nature. It is a hotspot for romantics but is just as ideal for those who just want to get away from it all. As quiet as this resort is, Koa Kea should be screaming at you from the very top of your bucket list. •
Koa Kea Hotel and Resort
2251 Poipu Road,
Koloa, Hawaii
(808) 828-8888
koakea.com
