2 Best Hotels in Kauai, Hawaii

This swanky sustainable wellness resort—formerly the St. Regis Princeville—offers expansive views of the sea and mountains, including Makana, the landmark peak immortalized as mysterious "Bali Hai" in the film South Pacific. The reopening follows a $300 million overhaul that includes seven food venues, the Bamford Wellness Spa, a 1X Vitahealth Medi Spa program, a gym and fitness classes, on-site rooftop organic garden and apiary, a golf course, three saline pools (one adult-only), and kids' club. The overall design blends well with the natural setting of Hanalei Bay and honors the region's Native Hawaiian culture and history. The spacious guest rooms, many with private lanai, range from garden rooms to lavish suites with ocean views, all with furnishings made from recycled teak and local artworks; the neutral-hue decor uses textures and materials that evoke the natural world. 

This boutique property offers a stylish high-end experience without the bustle of many larger resorts, making it a great place to forget it all while receiving an outdoor massage or lounging by the pool. A resort-wide renovation in 2022 ushered in a garden-inspired color palette and works by Hawaii artists. The oceanfront rooms have gorgeous views of the surfers at Waiohai Beach, and the Red Salt restaurant is top-notch for breakfast or dinner.  Other resorts, restaurants, and beaches are within easy walking distance.