Travel Guide: Poipu, Kauai in Hawaii

August 4, 2017

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Luxury Travel Advisor & Founder of Passport To Friday. Follow along on my travels and let me help you plan your dream trip or honeymoon!

I'm Chelsea.

I grew up going to Kauai every summer, so to me it feels like a second home. While my parents have continued making the trip out there annually, I have not (you know how it is – life gets in the way) so I made it

Kauai is my favorite of the Hawaiian islands, although I think it is often overlooked when planning your Hawaiian vacation. There are so many aspects that make this island unique and charming – from the lush green terrain, to the less-touristy-crowded-feeling, to the stunning Na Pali Coast, to even the chickens who roam the streets in the way bunnies or ducks do in other cities.

While my list could be much longer to capture the essence of the entire island, I have chose to focus on a guide when staying in Poipu today!

WHERE TO STAY

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort

The Grand Hyatt Kauai is by far my favorite resort on the island of Kauai. Growing up I honestly viewed it as a Hawaiian castle and my dream hotel. Fast forward 15 years and who knew I would have the chance to personally experience it for myself!

One thing I love about Grand Hyatt Kauai is that it is truly stunning. What you picture Hawaii to be, you find here. The breathtaking ocean views, tropical flora & fauna throughout the resort with lush gardens, relaxing hideaways with hammocks, and more all add to the allure.

The Grand Hyatt Kauai is set on 50 oceanfront acres with 604 guestrooms, 2 multi-level freshwater pools complete with a slide, 18-hole golf course, and 10 dining venues.

Book your next stay at the Grand Hyatt Kauai with me and receive:
  • Air credit
  • Daily breakfast for two
  • Complimentary WiFi
  • Upgrades based upon availability

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK

I love dining in Hawaii because the food is fresh, colorful, authentic, and gorgeous. Local fish, vibrant fruits, and foods from the earth dominate the menus in Kauai, and these are some of my favorite spots to indulge in the island’s cuisine!

Breakfast

  • Ilima Terrace at Grand Hyatt Kauai: Did someone say breakfast buffet? BONUS: when you book with me, you get daily breakfast for two here! If ordering a la carte try the Anahola Granola French Toast or the Seared Ahi Benedict.
  • Living Foods Market & Cafe: For a lighter option, head to Living Foods Market’s juice bar and grab a Pitaya or Acai Bowl. They also have an assortment of Gluten Free Crepes!
  • Anuenue Cafe: Good old fashioned Hawaiian breakfast at its finest!

Lunch

  • Hale Nalu Poolside at Grand Hyatt Kauai: No need to leave the pool for lunchtime! Order a Tai Chi cocktail and delicious local food poolside including a Hawaiian Ahi Poke Bowl, Kalua BBQ Pork Sandwich, Kauai Fish Tacos, and more.
  • Koloa Fish Market: This casual grab & go spot is popular amongst locals and tourists alike and is known to sell out early. Some fan favorites are the Fresh Ahi Poke (different flavors!) and Kalua Pig Hawaiian Plates.
  • Living Foods Market & Cafe: Back at Living Foods Market, this time for lunch! My favorites are the Fresh Ahi Poke Bowls, but the Veggie Burger or Banh Mi Sandwich look great too. They also have a selection of prepared salads such as Cauliflower Salad, Moroccan Cous Cous, Crunchy Miso, and more.

Dinner

  • Tidepools at Grand Hyatt Kauai: Dining at Tidepools always feels like a special experience for me. Request a water-side table (although according to my parents they typically seem to reserve only for hotel guests), so that you can dine next to the koi swimming around. My favorite dish is the Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi, and I was extremely impressed by the Crab Cakes starter.
  • Eating House 1849: This Roy Yamaguchi restaurant concept approaches traditional Hawaiian dining with a modern twist. Start with a craft cocktail and the Crispy Cauliflower & Brussel Sprouts. An absolute MUST to order is the “Kamameshi” Hot Pot Rice Bowl with Butterfish – the most tender, fall-apart fish ever!
  • Stevenson’s Sushi & Spirits: Sushi & cocktails – what could be better?! This spot at Grand Hyatt Kauai has a terrace with ocean views and a cocktail-library-feel inside. The fish is flown in fresh from Japan so you are guaranteed some of the best sushi you’ll ever have.
  • Keoki’s Paradise: We come here when we are really wanting to feel the Hawaiian vibe. Great for families!

WHAT TO DO
  • Shipwreck’s Beach: This beach is right outside your door at Grand Hyatt Kauai. Watch (or partake in!) jumping off of the famous Shipwreck’s rock or catch some waves on this small, locals beach.
  • Pool Time at Grand Hyatt Kauai: Grab a cabana and relax all day at the beautiful Grand Hyatt pools!
  • Spa Treatment at Anara Spa: If you didn’t get a spa treatment, did you really go on vacation? The 45,000 square foot on-site spa at Grand Hyatt Kauai is the perfect place to unwind and relax. I received a personalized Anara Massage and immediately slipped into Hawaiian heaven.
  • Sail Na Pali Coast with Captain Andy’s: You absolutely cannot leave Kauai without seeing the stunning Na Pali Coast (think Jurassic Park and Lost!), and Captain Andy’s is the way to do it. This is my favorite activity on the island and their food is delicious! Choose between a daytime snorkeling sail or sunset cruise.

 


SHOP MY SUITCASE


 

Safe travels y’all!

Chelsea Rose Martin

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Hi, I'm Chelsea Martin, Luxury Travel Advisor & Founder of Passport To Friday. I've been planning bespoke luxury vacations and honeymoons for almost a decade now. I can't wait to help you plan the trip of a lifetime! 

A true Cancer, hotel-slipper-obsessed gal whose IG Explore page is full of dogs.

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