Our recent seven-day stay in Kapa‘a at the Hilton Garden Inn Wailua Bay left us with a mix of impressions, but overall, it was a memorable trip to Kaua‘i. We found the staff and location to be standout features, though some aspects of the hotel experience were a bit of a challenge.
Our Hotel Experience: The Good and the Not-So-Good
The hotel’s location was undeniably its biggest asset. While we wouldn’t quite label it a resort – it felt more like a well-equipped hotel with a couple of pools – its proximity to amenities and attractions was a huge plus. We particularly appreciated being within walking distance of Lydgate Beach Park and Kamalani Playground, which were fantastic for keeping our toddler entertained. In fact, on our last day, we managed a delightful beach and playground morning before checking out. Kapa‘a itself proved to be a convenient central hub, putting us roughly 40 minutes away from both the Waimea and Hanalei areas. Plus, there was no shortage of dining options nearby, making it easy to grab a bite whenever hunger struck.
However, our stay wasn’t without its quirks. We genuinely felt for the staff, who often seemed to be learning about changes at the same time we were. For instance, on our first evening, we’d planned to dine at the main hotel restaurant, only to discover upon arrival that they had recently switched to a pizza-only dinner service. This change, apparently implemented just days before we got there, came as a surprise to everyone. Our check-in experience also hit a snag; despite arriving at 3 PM, our room wasn’t ready until 5 PM. We also learned that the hotel’s activity schedule, which promised fun diversions like lei making, ukulele lessons, and keiki hula, was subject to sudden alterations. These unexpected shifts could be a little frustrating when trying to plan our days.
An amusing, albeit inconvenient, incident involved our room’s entryway light switch. It somehow controlled the microwave, TV, and refrigerator, a peculiarity we didn’t discover until the following day when our snacks had unfortunately spoiled. Maintenance promptly resolved this issue, which we suspect was an isolated quirk. A more significant disruption was the ongoing reroofing construction. We only received notification about this project, slated to last until November, a day or two before our arrival. While we understand the necessity of maintenance, earlier communication would have been appreciated. On a weekend night, a wedding in the events room across from ours kept us awake with loud music and revelry. If we hadn’t had a toddler with us, we probably would have shrugged it off, but with a little one needing sleep, it was a bit of a challenge.
Despite these minor setbacks, the staff truly shone. Curt, a bellman, immediately stands out in our memories. He was a delightful conversationalist and quite funny. Michelle at the front desk was incredibly sweet and helpful. Honestly, every staff member we encountered was exceptionally kind and consistently apologetic for the numerous last-minute changes. Their genuine warmth made a significant difference to our overall experience.
When considering whether we’d stay here again, the answer is a resounding yes, primarily because of the incredible staff and the fantastic location, rather than the facilities themselves. We’re not a family that spends a lot of time in the resort bubble; our preference is to be out exploring, using our room mainly for naps, sleeping, and storing our belongings. The included activities were a lovely bonus for our toddler, and let’s be real, finding a seven-day room and car rental deal on Kaua‘i for a total of $1,926 is practically unheard of. It was a deal we absolutely would seize again. This trip marked our first visit to Kaua‘i, and we completely fell in love with the island. We were fortunate to meet wonderful people and forge connections with new local friends, who we eagerly anticipate visiting again soon.
Adventures Across Kaua‘i
Our days on Kaua‘i were packed with exploration and discovery. We started with a charming ride on the Kilohana Plantation Train, which offered a delightful glimpse into the island’s agricultural history. Another highlight was the Smith’s Fern Grotto River Boat Tour, a serene journey up the Wailua River to the iconic Fern Grotto. Naturally, Lydgate Beach Park and Kamalani Playground became regular fixtures in our itinerary, providing endless fun for our toddler. We also ventured to Anahola Beach, enjoying its more secluded charm.
Scenic drives took us to stunning viewpoints like the Opaeka’a Falls overlook, where we marveled at nature’s power. We timed our visit perfectly for the Kapa’a Art Walk, held on the first Saturday of each month, immersing ourselves in the local arts and crafts scene. Anini Beach offered beautiful calm waters, though we learned a stark lesson about respecting the ocean’s power there; a rescue occurred during our visit, sadly with a tragic outcome. We spent a few hours in Hanalei on our way to Hā’ena State Park, taking in its vibrant atmosphere. The Maniniholo Dry Cave provided a unique historical stop. For a breathtaking sunset, Ke’e Beach was our destination, but be forewarned: reservations are essential for entry into Hā’ena State Park to reach it. Further afield, we soaked in the panoramic vistas from the Kalalau Lookout and Pu’u Ka Pele Lookout, offering glimpses of the dramatic Na Pali Coast.
A tranquil afternoon was spent strolling through Hanapepe, “Kaua’i’s biggest little town,” admiring its quaint shops and art galleries. Po’ipū Beach, with its golden sands and excellent snorkeling, was another enjoyable stop. We had an incredibly enriching “farm day” experience with Kumano I Ke Ala in Waimea, learning about traditional Hawaiian agriculture and community efforts. And when it came to snorkeling, we made sure to dip our toes (and faces!) in the waters at Lydgate, Anini, Po‘ipū, and Ke’e, each offering its own underwater wonders.
A Culinary Journey Through Kaua‘i
Our taste buds were just as busy as we were on Kaua‘i, exploring a wide array of local flavors. As avid poke lovers, Foodland became our go-to for consistently amazing fresh poke. Times Supermarkets also delivered consistently great poke. For truly fresh options, the Kōloa Fish Market was a must-visit. We highly recommend Nāpali Brewing Co., where the smoke meat plate was a standout. While Fillo’s Mexican food might not compete with authentic mainland Mexican cuisine, it certainly hit the spot when we were craving something familiar. Smiley’s offered excellent local-style comfort food.
The Kapa’a art walk was also a treasure trove of culinary delights, with many local vendors offering mostly amazing desserts. Sunrise donuts, however, we found to be a bit overhyped, just okay in our opinion. On the other hand, Rainbeau Jo’s served up delicious coffee, and the owners, Beau and his wife Jo, were incredibly welcoming. We also indulged in the treats from Passion Bakery Cafe, where the malasadas and loco moco were truly excellent. The malasadas from Kauai Bakery were also super tasty. For a refreshing treat, Wailua Shave Ice became a multi-visit favorite, especially for their ube flavor. The musubi truck was another essential stop; grab the ahi katsu musubi – you won’t regret it. Diamond Pizza provided a really good pie, and of course, a stop at Lappert’s for ice cream was mandatory. For our quick fixes, 7-Eleven offered satisfying char siu manapua and pork hash. But by far, our absolute favorite dining discovery was Wailua Drive-In. We feel it’s an underrated gem that doesn’t get enough recognition in food recommendations, and it truly shone during our visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Kaua‘i
What is the best time of year to visit Kaua‘i?
Kaua‘i offers pleasant weather year-round, but generally, the driest months are from April to October. This period usually means fewer rain showers and ideal conditions for outdoor activities like hiking and beach days. November to March is the wetter season, though rain often comes in short, heavy bursts, and there are still plenty of sunny days to enjoy. Prices for accommodations and flights can also vary depending on the season, with peak tourism usually occurring during the drier months and holidays.
Do I need a car to get around Kaua‘i?
While there are some public transportation options and Ubers/Lyfts available in more populated areas, having a rental car is highly recommended for exploring Kaua‘i. Many of the island’s most beautiful and remote attractions, such as the Kalalau Lookout or various hiking trailheads, are not easily accessible without your own vehicle. A car gives you the freedom and flexibility to discover the island at your own pace.
What are some must-do activities on Kaua‘i for families?
Kaua‘i is incredibly family-friendly. For younger children, Lydgate Beach Park with its protected swimming areas and the Kamalani Playground are excellent. The Kilohana Plantation Train Ride offers a fun historical experience. For slightly older kids and adults, a boat tour of the Na Pali Coast (weather permitting), snorkeling at Po‘ipū Beach, or exploring the Waimea Canyon State Park provide memorable adventures. Many resorts also offer kid-friendly activities.
Are reservations required for popular attractions on Kaua‘i?
Yes, for some of Kaua‘i’s most popular sites, reservations are essential and should be made well in advance, especially during peak season. A prime example is Hā’ena State Park, which includes access to Ke’e Beach and the Kalalau Trail. Without a reservation for parking or shuttle service, you won’t be able to enter the park. It’s always best practice to check the official websites of any attractions you plan to visit for current reservation requirements.
What kind of local food should I try on Kaua‘i?
When on Kaua‘i, you absolutely must try poke, which is incredibly fresh and varied on the island. Loco moco, a classic Hawaiian comfort food, is also a must-try. Malasadas, Portuguese-style doughnuts, are a delicious treat, and you’ll find them at various bakeries. Don’t forget to sample local shave ice with tropical fruit flavors, and for something savory, look for plate lunches featuring dishes like kalua pig, lau lau, or fresh fish.
References
Kilohana Plantation
Smith’s Tropical Paradise
Foodland Super Market
Times Supermarkets
Kōloa Fish Market
Nāpali Brewing Co.
Fillo’s Mexican food
Smiley’s Cafe
Rainbeau Jo’s
Passion Bakery Cafe
Kauai Bakery
Wailua Shave Ice
Diamond Pizza
Lappert’s Hawaii
Wailua Drive-In
Plan Your Kaua‘i Escape Today!
Our trip to Kaua‘i was an immersive experience, blending the comforts of a centrally located hotel with the raw, untamed beauty of the Garden Isle. From the challenging yet ultimately rewarding hotel stay to the incredible culinary adventures and breathtaking natural wonders, every moment contributed to a truly unforgettable journey. If you’re seeking an authentic island experience, where friendly faces are just as abundant as stunning vistas, and where every day brings a new discovery, then Kaua‘i is calling. Don’t let logistical quirks deter you; instead, embrace the aloha spirit, plan your adventures, and prepare to fall in love with this magical place. Start mapping out your own Kaua‘i itinerary now – the vibrant culture, delicious food, and unparalleled scenery await your arrival!
