4 Days in Kaua’i at The Lodge at Kukui'ula

The Lodge at Kukui’ula

The Lodge at Kukui’ula, on Kauai’s South Shore, consists of vacation rental bungalows, villages, and cottages, which all have access to the exclusive Club at Kukui’ula. A stay here would be perfect for a family group or friends group of all ages, and we saw guests of all age demographics enjoying the property. There is something for everyone here: golf, pickleball, and swimming for those who are more active, and a spa, activities such as traditional handicrafts, and informational talks for those who want a more restful visit.

The accommodation

There are three categories of accommodation on offer, each clustered in different neighborhoods: 1–3 bedroom bungalows, 2–3 bedroom cottages, or 3–4 bedroom villas with private plunge pools.

Cottage bedroom

All accommodation types have fully-equipped kitchens and spa-inspired bathrooms with lava rock outdoor showers. They are all tastefully appointed, and most rentals have BBQs and fire pits. Guests will enjoy high-quality towels, linens, slippers, bath robes, and toiletries.

Cottage living room and lanai

Hi’ilani Spa

Any visitor would be amiss to skip a treatment at the spa, which is absolutely world-class and unique in its verdant outdoor aesthetic.

The pool at Hi'ilani Spa

Treatments can begin with a water ritual, which includes a sauna, steam room, and cold/hot plunge combo (definitely recommend!) The treatment rooms have wall-to-wall windows, each looking out onto a private garden.

The thought put into all the small details of the spa really stands out, from the range of snacks available throughout the relaxation areas to the high-quality toiletries and Dyson beauty tools in the lounge.

Spa refreshments

Dining

The main restaurant, ‘Umeke, is located to the left of the club’s lobby, and has an elegant indoor dining room and expansive outdoor dining space. Executive chef Ben Takahashi prepares Hawaiian Regional cuisine with fresh ingredients from the club’s 10-acre farm, which visitors can tour (fun for all ages—the farm is a destination in itself and visitors can try freshly-harvested fruit and novel local specialties such as hibiscus leaves!) There is also a bar which offers an ocean view with a side of cocktails.

'Umeke Kitchen + Bar

A poolside cafe and bar provide sustenance for sunbathers.

An upscale continental breakfast is served daily in the main clubhouse, which is complimentary for guests and club members.

Treasures from the farm

Activities

Guests can either relax at the adults-only infinity pool or the family-friendly pool and hot tub lagoon complex, which sits below. Here, multi-tiered smaller pools and jacuzzis flow into several larger pools, one of which is styled after a beach and has a waterslide!

The infinity pool

Kukui’ula is home to an 18-hole Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course, and guests can either jump straight to the green or work on their swing with a lesson on the practice green.

There are also pickleball, tennis, and basketball courts near the pools, and an archery field just a short drive away. Guests can also rent bicycles, scooters, beach equipment or book a ride on a sailing canoe, which was made by the Activities Director, Jason!

Guests can venture out of the club and enjoy the incredible snorkeling, surfing, paddle boarding, and hiking found on the Garden Island.

Back at the clubhouse, guests of all ages can enjoy pool, table tennis, pinball machines, and other arcade games.

Activities at The Clubhouse

It’s recommended to book a car when visiting Kaua’i. Ubers and taxis are not as prevalent as in big cities, and it’s helpful to have a car should you wish to venture out and explore more of the island.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Kaua’i page.