Guestrooms—and 51 premium suites
—also bespeak well-crafted luxury,
but it’s difficult to take your eyes
off the view, as from your bluff top
perspective you gaze out upon surfers
in the bay, the town of Hanalei and the
craggy splendor of the Na Pali Coast.
Even in the marble-lined bathrooms, the view is foremost. With
the flick of a light switch a unique
“privacy window” turns from opaque
to clear. When clear, guests are able
to enjoy the full visual impact of the
magnificent setting while indulging
in the pleasures of a wide soaking tub.
A glass of champagne is suggested to
accompany your bath.
A 10,000-square-foot spa and a signature restaurant by Jean-Georges
Vongerichten are other noteworthy
additions to the resort.
GARDEN OF EARTHLY DELIGH TS
A short drive from Princeville leads
to Hanalei, a laid back North Shore
village that serves as an adventure
gateway for the Na Pali Coast. Outfitters can be found here to usher you on
snorkeling trips, hikes, kayak expeditions, horseback rides and zipline
thrill rides.
Even if you’re not inclined to partake of a hike, drive north to where
the highway ends and the Kalalau
Trail begins. Several picturesque and
oft-deserted beaches are found along
the way—including Lumahai, of
South Pacific fame—and a glimpse of
Kauai’s rural lifestyle await discovery.
Kauai may be, as Robert Trent
Jones Jr. says, a perfect island for
golf. For everything else, it’s just
downright dreamy. n
