Puu Poa 101

Puu Poa 101 Overview

You know what’s funny about Puu Poa 101? The name doesn’t really prepare you for how special this place actually is. I mean, when you first hear it, you’re thinking maybe it’s just another North Shore rental — but honestly, this spot earned its perfect 10 rating for good reason.

The thing that hits you right away is the location. It’s perched on the bluffs above Hanalei Bay, and I’m not exaggerating when I say the view will make you forget whatever you were stressed about back home. You can see clear across to those dramatic mountain ridges that Kauai’s famous for, and the water changes color throughout the day — sort of this incredible progression from deep blue to turquoise to almost silver when the light hits it just right. The trade winds usually pick up in the afternoon (which is perfect timing, actually, because it keeps things cool when the sun’s at its strongest), and you’ll hear them rustling through the palm trees mixed with the sound of waves below. It’s one of those places where you find yourself just… listening.

What really makes this 4-star property work, though, is all the details they got right. The parking situation is straightforward — no hunting around residential streets or dealing with those tiny resort lots where you’re dodging pedestrians. Check-in was refreshingly simple, and the staff actually knows the area well enough to give you real recommendations, not just the standard tourist checklist. The unit itself feels like someone who lives here part-time designed it, not some corporate decorator. There’s this lived-in comfort that’s hard to fake, with local artwork that doesn’t scream “hotel art” and a kitchen that’s actually equipped for cooking real meals (the farmer’s market in Hanalei is just a few minutes away, and trust me, you’ll want to use it). The lanai is where you’ll spend most of your time — it’s got this perfect setup for morning coffee and sunset drinks, with enough space that you’re not bumping into each other. Honestly, the only thing I’d change is maybe having blackout curtains in the bedroom, because those sunrise views are gorgeous but not always welcome at 6 AM. The place stays surprisingly quiet considering you’re not that far from the main road — though you will hear roosters in the morning, which is just part of life on the North Shore. Peak season can get busy around Hanalei, but Puu Poa feels removed enough that you’re not dealing with crowds right outside your door. It’s the kind of place that makes you understand why people fall in love with this side of the island and start planning their return trip before they’ve even left.

Puu Poa 101 Accommodations

Reviews of Puu Poa 101

• Jennifer from United States (10/10)

Surroundings

Facilities