A trip to the Garden Island of Kaua’i is truly magical and a stay at The Lodge at Kukui’ula cements the dream vacation. Whether you are a first time visitor or frequent returner to the Hawaiian Islands, we have prepared the perfect 5-day itinerary for those considering a Lodge at Kukui’ula luxury retreat..
DAY 1:
Arrive on Kaua’i: Enjoy the 30-minute drive from Lihue airport through the lush green landscape on your way to the private oasis that is The Lodge at Kukui’ula. Check in to your private bungalow, clubhouse, or villa.
Relax poolside: Head down to the sprawling pools for some refreshing hydrotherapy after your long flight. Choose to dip your toes in the upper infinity-edge pool featured partially submerged loungers for soaking up the sun. Or head down to the labyrinth of lagoon-style saltwater pools connected by waterfalls and waterslides. Soak your muscles in the numerous hot tubs on property as well.
Dinner on property: Dine a short walk from your residence at ‘Umeke Kitchen + Bar, located on property. Menu options feature Hawaiian regional cuisine and local ingredients sourced from nearby ranchers, fisherman, and vegetables from our own 10-acre farm.
Shower beneath the stars: After returning to your private home, indulge in the tropical luxury of a warm outdoor rain shower beneath the sparkling Hawaiian stars.
DAY 2:
Explore the surrounding area: Familiarize yourself with the joys of South Kaua’i. Spend the morning walking the white sands or playing in the gentle waves of world-famous Poipu Beach. Pack the snorkel as the beach is great for beginners and families. Look for turtles, parrotfish, urchins, butterfly fish, and more!
Lunch at Shops at Kukui’ula: After a morning at the beach, fuel up at The Shops at Kukui’ula, just minutes from The Lodge at Kukui’ula. Dining options include Merriman’s Kaua’i, Eating House 1849, Living Foods, Savage Shrimp, Bubba’s Burgers, and more. Window shop for unique souvenirs and island-style brands at the neighboring stores.
Afternoon fun on property: Return to the Lodge at Kukui’ula and choose your own adventure. Head to our state-of-the-art fitness facilities to break a sweat or review our list of daily fitness classes to see what may catch your interest. Class options include yoga classes, sound healing, Pilates, HIIT trainings, and kettlebell workouts. Or choose to play billiards, ping pong, board games, or play arcades in our family game room overlooking our sprawling grounds. Head out on the grass and play a round of croquet too!
Sunset at Spouting Horn: Located a five-minute drive from The Lodge at Kukui’ula is one of the most beautiful blowhole displays in the state. Watching the sunset at Spouting Horn on Kauai is a breathtaking experience, as the vibrant colors of the sky complement the dramatic display of water shooting through the blowhole, creating a truly unforgettable scene.
Dinner in Old Koloa Town: Cap off the evening with a stroll through Koloa. Dining in Old Town Koloa offers a charming experience, with options ranging from local eateries like Kenji Burger and Koloa Pizza Kitchen to more refined establishments such as Koloa Thai Bistro, all set amidst the town's historic and picturesque surroundings.
DAY 3:
Spend your third day on Kauai taking advantage of the luxuries amenities our guests enjoy. Choose between a relaxing spa day or a day on the links. For the over-achievers, you may be able to squeeze in both!
Spa Day: The Hi'ilani Spa at Kukui'ula is a serene wellness sanctuary nestled within a lush landscape of meditation gardens and lava rock walls, offering a range of treatments inspired by Hawaiian traditions and incorporating organic botanicals grown on-site. Start with the signature water ritual which guides participants through a dry sauna, steam sauna, and hot and cold plunges. After all your treatments are complete, lounge poolside in comfortable daybeds that surround a private lap pool accessible only to spa patrons. Fully decompress!
Golf Day: The Kukui'ula Golf Course, designed by renowned architect Tom Weiskopf, is a private 18-hole championship course located in southern Kauai. This par-72 course spans 216 acres, featuring paspalum-turf and sand-plated fairways that weave through orchards, gardens, and rolling hillsides, offering panoramic ocean views from most holes. The course is known for its challenging yet enjoyable layout, with wide fairways and strategic bunkering, making it accessible to players of all skill levels. It is often ranked among the top 10 courses in Hawaii year after year.
Head to The Farm: Guests of the Lodge at Kukui’ula have access to a private 10-acre organic farm where the can pick vegetables and produce right off the vine. Take ingredients back home to your private bungalow, cottage, or villa to feature in your very own chef’s table creation for dinner that night.
DAY 4:
Spend your 4th day on Kauai exploring the great outdoors. The natural beauty of the Garden Island can be witnessed everywhere you look. Below are some popular ideas:
Consult with our team at Huaka’i Outfitters: Review a full guidebook of unique Kauai adventures ranging from mountain bike rides and fishing excursions to sunset adventures on a traditional Hawaiian sailing canoe. Each activity is lead by a team of world class athletes and Kaua’i locals one with the land and water.
Hike Waimea Canyon: Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," hiking Wailea Canyon is an unforgettable experience on Kauai. This stunning natural wonder offers breathtaking vistas from numerous roadside lookouts, allowing visitors to appreciate its grandeur. The Waimea Canyon Lookout at mile marker 10 is a must-visit, providing panoramic views of the canyon's vibrant red and green hues. For those seeking adventure, Waimea Canyon State Park and adjacent Koke'e State Park offer a variety of hiking trails to be explored.
Sail the Na Pali Coast: Sailing the Na Pali Coast offers an unforgettable experience, with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and hidden sea caves creating a breathtaking backdrop for snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and sunset cruises. Whether aboard a luxury catamaran or a nimble raft, visitors can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of this rugged coastline, often accompanied by encounters with dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life.
DAY 5:
Take in your last morning on Kauai and at the Lodge at Kukui’ula by soaking up the peaceful setting. Some fun options include:
Rent bicycles: Choose from beach cruisers, mountain bikes, and modern electric bikes to rent for the morning. Our Island Host concierge team will provide maps and recommended trails to explore around the neighboring acreage.
Fish for Peacock Bass: Located adjacent to our 10-acre organic farm is a private pond stocked with prized peacock bass, a fun sportfish found in only other US State. Rent out some fishing poles from our Island Host team and head up to the lake!
Poolside lunch: Catch some final rays of sun poolside and satisfy your hunger at Makai Grill + Bar. Order barbecue favorites like burgers or fish filets to pair with savory French fries. Once you have had your fill of food and pool time, head up to the Lodge to finalize your checkout and make your way to Lihue airport.