This content was created on behalf of the advertiser by The Foundry at Dotdash Meredith.
Kauai, Hawaii
A stay on Hawaii’s fourth-largest island is several cuts above your average beach vacation. Its sweeping natural beauty is enhanced by tasteful luxury accommodations and fine dining experiences. Here, local chef Amanda Smith, who’s passionate about farm-to-table dining, shares must-sees and must-dos for an unforgettable Kauai experience.
If you’re a nature lover seeking jaw-dropping vistas on your next island getaway, Kauai delivers in both expected and unexpected ways. Considered the Garden Isle, it offers a pristine beauty that feels almost prehistoric. Ninety-seven percent of the island is taken up by forests or mountain ranges; tall buildings and highways are scarce, adding to its laid-back spirit. It may come as a surprise then that, surrounded by waterfalls and stunning geology, you’ll find world-class resorts and restaurants, offering a delicious and relaxing counterpoint to your action-packed days.
This fascinating combination first drew Amanda Smith—social entrepreneur, TV food host, and private chef—to the island when she was just a teenager. Smith is passionate about promoting nutrition and health through sustainable cooking practices. She features local farmers in her non-profit cooking education program, Menehune Chef, serving the Hawaiian Islands. In this video, explore Kauai with Amanda as your local guide, as she shares her favorite spots across this one-of-a-kind island.
Eligible Capital One rewards cardholders can book their flights to Kauai through Capital One Travel and set a price alert to be notified when it’s the right time to book to get their best price.1
Tip:
Eligible Capital One rewards cardholders can choose from thousands of travel options, book with flexibility, and enjoy exclusive travel perks with Capital One Travel.
WHERE TO EAT
Merriman’s
2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka #42 KoloaTucked into the island’s south shore with stunning mountain and ocean views, this local institution celebrates Hawaiian regional cuisine. Chef Peter Merriman, acclaimed as a pioneer in Hawaii’s farm-to-table movement, serves up beloved delicacies like Keahole lobster and fresh scallops. The Mai-Tai with liliko’i (passion fruit) foam is a must-order, as is the Wok-charred Ahi, the chef’s signature entree.
Beach House Restaurant
5022 Lawai Rd., KoloaSnag a waterfront table at golden hour for gorgeous sunset views of the Pacific as you sip a signature Monkeypod Mai-Tai. The Lobster Deviled Eggs are a crowd-pleaser, and the fresh fish is served with a delightful liliko’i beurre blanc.
JO2 Natural Cuisine
4-971 Kuhio Hwy., KapaʻaOn the island’s bustling east coast, this eclectic eatery offers creative interpretations of local dishes. The Tempura Green Beans are a perennial favorite—even among carnivores—as is the Scallop Ravioli and Hamachi Sashimi. Edible flowers adorn every thoughtful plate.
Bar Acuda
5-5161 Kuhio Hwy., HanaleiThis north shore Mediterranean tapas restaurant is sister to the popular AMA Restaurant and offers a chic, modern aesthetic with an urban feel. The ultra-local North Shore Honeycomb with goat cheese and Fuji apple and the Grilled Lamb Riblettes are stars of a sophisticated menu.
Uncle's Shave Ice Kauai
4454 Nuhou St., Set 419, Lihue2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St., Koloa
Family owned and operated since 2011, Uncle's Shave Ice is an award-winning shave ice and sweets shop. The menu features lots of local favorites, including Chef Amanda Smith’s highly recommended honey toast.
WHERE TO STAY
Koʻa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach
2251 Poipu Rd., KoloaOceanfront suites are the draw at this stunning Poipu favorite, which has balconies to soak in Kauai’s fabled sunsets. The intimate boutique property also offers a lava-rock swimming pool and fire pits on the beach as well as a world-class spa. Red Salt, the on-site restaurant, celebrates local ingredients with a new American menu and is acclaimed as one of Kauai’s top foodie destinations. Other restaurants can be found a short stroll away—if you can tear yourself from the balcony.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
1571 Poipu Rd., KoloaBuilt on a former sugar plantation, this expansive property is nestled at the east end of the beach, offering guests a secluded feel. The hotel boasts its own world-class golf course and a late-night cigar bar with vintage charm. Room decor evokes an old Hawaii vibe, with luxurious plantation-style furnishings.
Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection
2641 Poipu Rd., KoloaSet on 25 acres of lush tropical landscaping, the resort has some of the largest guest quarters on the island, ranging from studios to four-bedroom villas that clock in at 3,600 square feet. There is also a signature pool with a walk-through grotto and a family lagoon.
TIP: Eligible Capital One rewards cardholders can book their stay at the above hotels through Capital One Travel, where they match hotel prices before and after you book so you don’t overpay.2
WHERE TO EXPLORE
Waimea Canyon State Park
Waimea Canyon Dr., WaimeaTrek to the island’s more rugged west side to witness one of the Pacific’s most dramatic natural wonders. Waimea Canyon is a 10-mile valley that rises 3,600 feet above sea level. Drive up to one of its many vantage points that overlook red volcanic buttes and dense forest. For a true adventure, set out on one of the state park’s many hiking trails, which are suited for a range of abilities.
Blue Ocean Adventure Tours
Kikiaʻola Small Boat Harbor, KekahaExplore the island’s rugged Nāpali coast, which stretches along the northwest coast of Kauai between Ke`e Beach in Haena State Park to Polihale State Park in Mana, guided by a passionate Kauai native who started this boutique tour company. The gorgeous 17-mile coastline boasts stunning cliffs that rise as high as 4,000 feet, waterfalls, lush green valleys, and mysterious sea caves. Since the coast is inaccessible by car, an expert boat tour is your best bet to experience it.
Poipu Beach
KoloaThis crescent-shaped beach (prized by some as America’s best) is Kauai’s most popular for good reason: sea turtles! Bring your goggles and snorkel for your best chance to spot these magnificent creatures. Be sure to respect the ocean and the land that surrounds it as the Native Hawaiians who have lived in harmony with nature for years have done by leaving things undisturbed.
Endless Summer Surf School
2827 Poipu Rd., KoloaLocated on the beautiful sunny south shore of Kauai, this is your one-stop shop to receive surfing lessons on Kauai. Hawaii's beaches have some of the best waves. Surfing on the stunning waves of Kauai beach is something you are going to cherish for a lifetime.
Click here to explore more destinations through the eyes of an in-the-know local.
Visit Capital One Travel, where eligible rewards cardholders can choose from thousands of flights, hotels, and rental cars.