Hanalei Colony Resort C2

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Hanalei Colony Resort? It’s actually tucked away on Kauai’s north shore in a spot that feels completely removed from the typical resort scene – and I mean that in the best possible way. This isn’t your sprawling hotel complex with a massive lobby and crowds of tourists shuffling around with lanyards. Instead, you’re looking at these low-rise condo-style units that honestly blend into the landscape so well, you might miss the place if you’re not paying attention while driving along Kuhio Highway.

The thing about staying here is that you’re literally steps from some of the most gorgeous, uncrowded beach on the island. I’m talking about that stretch of sand where you can actually hear yourself think, where the biggest decision you’ll face is whether to wade in now or after you finish your coffee. The units themselves – well, they’re not fancy in a marble-countertop kind of way, but they’ve got everything you actually need. Full kitchens that work (trust me, you’ll want to cook at least a few meals since dining options up here are pretty limited), and these lanais where you can sit with your morning coffee and just… breathe. The trade winds come through in the evenings, which is honestly better than any air conditioning system.

Here’s what locals won’t tell you but I will – this part of Kauai gets rain. Sometimes a lot of it. But you know what? It’s warm rain, and it usually comes and goes pretty quickly, leaving everything smelling like plumeria and wet earth. Plus, you’re perfectly positioned for exploring the real gems up here. Hanalei town is maybe ten minutes down the road, with its one-lane bridges and that killer farmers market on Saturdays. The Napali Coast trailhead at Ke’e Beach? You’re basically already there. I mean, you could walk to some of the most photographed coastline in Hawaii if you really wanted to work off that shave ice from Wishing Well.

The resort keeps things pretty low-key – there’s no room service or concierge wearing a suit, but the staff actually knows the area and can point you toward the good stuff. They’ll tell you which days the surf’s too rough for swimming, or when the monk seals are hanging out on the beach (spoiler: give them plenty of space). Parking’s never an issue, which honestly is a bigger deal than you might think until you’ve circled Hanalei looking for a spot during peak season.

Look, this place earns its 4-star rating not because it’s trying to be the Ritz, but because it gets the fundamentals right while putting you in one of the most naturally beautiful spots you’ll ever wake up in. If you’re the type who needs turndown service and a spa menu, maybe look elsewhere. But if you want to fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to mountains that look like they were painted by someone who’d never heard the word “subtle” – well, you’ve found your spot.

Rooms

• Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 2 × 2 single beds for 4 adults

Reviews

• Pamella from United States (9/10)

  very close to Haena. we chose to stay here to be able to go to Haena beach.
  The peace and quiet was superb! The pool area was beautiful.

• Robert from United States (9/10)

  Location and restaurant.

• Maryjo from United States (8/10)

  Close to beach. Pool and hot tub, and laundry. Comfortable and clean.

• Jared from United States (8/10)

  Amazing location!!!
  Peaceful environment.
  Spacious unit.

• Toni from United States (8/10)

  Room was lovely, very breezy if you leave all doors and windows open and the tradewinds are blowing. Hanalei Day Spa is on site, and hubby had a great massage. Pool and grill area are beautiful. Very quiet, calm and peaceful. No chickens crowing!

• Martin from Germany (8/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities