Best Resorts in Hawaii - Grand Hyatt Kaua'i Resort & Spa

“Hawaii is not a state of mind, it is a state of grace.” – Paul Theroux

We only experienced the Hawaiian Island of Kaua’i for one day, but our transcendent experience at the Grand Hyatt Kaua’i Resort & Spa will live on in our minds for years to come.

The resort has most certainly earned its place when discussing the best resorts in Hawaii.

How Do I Get There?

The Grand Hyatt Kaua’i Resort & Spa is on the Hawaiian Island of Kaua’i, which is northwest in the chain of the Hawaiian Islands. There are many ways to travel to Kauai – 1) Direct flight from the US (mostly Phoenix or Los Angeles); 2) Inter-island ferry from Oahu; or 3) Inter-island flight from one of the other islands on Hawaiian Air or Island Air.

Whether you arrive by ferry or plane, you’ll need to drive approximately 30-45 minutes (depending on traffic) to the South Shore of Kaua’i to the town of Koloa to reach the resort (Google Maps Link).

Arrival and Entry

The resort is positioned majestically overlooking the Keoneloa Bay on the South Shore of Kaua’i, replete with lush greenery, sparkling Hawaiian flowers, and miles of crystal blue ocean views like you’ve never seen beyond the main lobby area (as pictured in the main image of this article).

I loved the jawdropping framing of the view of the ocean through the open air lobby – just spectacular. I also marveled at the stately and regal opening foyer. The guest feels the warmth of the craftsmanship of the deep rich wooden walls and panels, and the light crisp Hawaiian (and naturally scented) air. Most lovely.

Stephenson’s Library

The Grand Hyatt Kaua’i Resort & Spa is an expansive property, perhaps the largest property I’ve ever visited. We first decided to grab a cocktail at Stephenson’s Library, which I could write an entire feature article on if I had more time at the property. What an incredibly cool place!

The 27-foot handcrafted Koa Wood Bar is perhaps the most beautiful bar I’ve ever seen, like something out of Allan Quatermain, simply exquisite. For more on the Library, Click Here.

Stunning Grounds

We walked the property and its impossible to convey its beauty and serenity. The grounds are quite impressive, with a varied selection of plants, flowers, pools and water features – all wrapped to the south by the soft ocean air and glorious ocean views. So lovely.

Dining

The resort offers a number of excellent dining options, such as Dondero’s, Stephenson’s Library, Hale Nalu, and other options. For more information on the dining options, Click Here.

We dined at the property’s signature restaurant Tidepools, and it was quite simply the best meal that we enjoyed during our entire Hawaiian vacation. Hands down.

Tidepools Exterior

The restaurant is set in a koi-filed lagoon in the middle of the resort, and it’s truly something to see. A panoramic:

More exterior views:

Tidepools – The Experience

Tidepools combines contemporary Hawaiian cuisine and a unique Hawaiian setting to serve – as I mentioned – some of the absolute best food I’ve had in some time.

The menu is overly impressive, featuring a wide array of fresh and uniquely and beautifully prepared seafood and delectable meats and side dishes. Here is a sampling of what we enjoyed:

Anara Spa

I didn’t have the time for a spa treatment but I did venture into the Anara Spa, and it is peaceful and luxurious, including my absolute favorite – Hawaiian lava rock outdoor showers! Yes please!

Kids

The resort is great for kids – Ukelele playing, Lei making, pools, saltwater lagoon, and of course, the ocean!

But on my way to the Anara Spa, I stumbled across a very cool area called Camp Hyatt where kids can take art classes and play with toys, including a super cool over-sized checker board!

Final Thoughts

As you can see, my experience at the Grand Hyatt Kaua’i Resort & Spa was marvelous. I’d like to thank all of the incredibly warm and generous staff, but in particular, Malaika, the Front Office Agent who checked me in. She urged me to contact her if I needed anything to enjoy my stay. Her warmth and kindness set the tone for my visit.

And as I mentioned at the outset, while we only enjoyed one day on Kaua’i, Malaika’s smiling face will always come to mind when I think back on my visit to the Grand Hyatt Kaua’i Resort & Spa.