Photo: Jeff Sanner

Kaua‘i is appropriately nicknamed the Garden Isle for many reasons … From the majestic mountain ranges to the rolling surf, clear blue waters, and white sandy beaches, adventures, and activities are truly abundant. Revelers love to take in the memorable sights, scenes, and views of this paradise island.

You’ve landed and checked in. Let us welcome you to The ISO—a new boutique hotel showcasing a harmonious oceanfront location with an enticing private stretch of beach. Relax at your leisure, enjoy live music, cocktails, and an abundance of twinkling stars above. The next morning, wake up refreshed and fuel up with fresh island fruits, homemade granola, and Hawaiian roasted coffee. From here you can head west, or north, where the temperatures vary from hot and dry to tropical and humid. Regardless of where you go to explore be sure to bring the provided BPA-free water bottles (water refill stations on-site), towels, swimwear, and lots of sunscreen.

Journey to the western coast you will find empty beaches ideal for sunbathing, seashell searching, and warm trade winds.

From the sea to the mountains, the lush grounds of Koke‘e State Park bring you 4,000 feet high in elevation and amongst the island’s most pristine wildlife, vegetation, and panoramic views of Kalalau Valley and Waimea Canyon (the Grand Canyon of the Pacific). This is surely a bucket list item to see, drive, experience, and hike.

kalalau view photo Jeff sanner

Charming Hanapepe Town is now thriving with local shops, eateries, and historic sights. Be sure to stop by Lappert’s for ice cream, the swinging bridge, salt ponds, and Hanapepe Art Night held every Friday. The weekly festive event brings together musicians, artists, locals, and visitors to enjoy what was once dubbed a sleepy town that is now transformed, alive and vibrant again.

As you begin to head south and toward the eastern part of the island, Koloa and Po‘ipu are famous for unique finds: food trucks, delicious snacks, and ideal for snorkeling. Spouting Horn Blowhole and Shipwreck Beach are just a few of the notable destinations to take in and explore. As you leave Koloa, the always welcoming tunnel of trees will bid you a fond farewell while eagerly awaiting your return.

Lihue is a wonderful place to do your shopping for essentials, visit Kalapaki Harbor and the Kaua‘i Museum. As the financial and government district of the island, Lihue and its surrounding areas also boast some hidden gems when it comes to activities. Jump into ice-cold water flumes and go tubing, test your adrenaline tolerance with some zip-lining or go for a challenging mountain hike.

As you make your way back to Kapa‘a town you’ll notice an abundance of coconut trees, waterfalls, and boogie boarding opportunities. ‘Opaeka‘a Falls, Smith’s Tropical Paradise, and the Wailua River are ideal for families to tour the eastern shores of Kaua‘i. As an ISO guest, you will also enjoy oceanfront yoga (complimentary yoga mats are provided) and tai chi to cleanse your mind, body, and spirit. Rejuvenate and refresh to the sounds of the enticing ocean in the comfort of your own on-site retreat. If you decide to stay on property enjoy a beach stroll, our courtyard fitness sessions, or bicycle the famed Ke Ala Hele Makalae Kapa‘a bike path.

You’ve landed and checked-in. Let us welcome you to The ISO—a new boutique hotel showcasing a harmonious ocean- front location with an enticing private stretch of beach.

Venture north and you’ll stumble upon an array of farms, markets, and sights. From guava plantations to cacao farms and the historic Daniel K. Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse, the journey north also reflects a change in the scenery, foliage, and community. Princeville Ranch is the perfect respite for a jungle adventure, horseback ride, and hiking.

Once you cross a tiny, one-lane Hanalei Bridge you have arrived in timeless Hanalei Town. This beach community is steps from Hanalei Bay and its unique Hanalei Pier. With plenty of restaurants, cafes, shopping, and browsing you will find anything you need in this charming suburb. If you are a lover of the ocean Hanalei Bay is the perfect place to stroll the water’s edge, bring young children and Tahiti Nui is a lively stop in the evening for live music and dancing.

Continue north and some of the world’s most stunning beaches, parks, and hideaways abound. Please use caution when exploring, swimming, and snorkeling (especially during the winter months) as there are no lifeguards and you swim at your own risk. But if you are prepared, aware and a strong swimmer you will likely see fish you have never seen before, enjoy an enchanted beach with lush greenery and dive into the vibrant azure water.

The finale of your island tour culminates at “the end of the road” also known as Ke‘e Beach. On the way, you will see wet and dry caves, fruit vendors, and rugged sea cliffs. This protected beach park is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and lounging. Located along the Napali coastline this beach is protected by a reef abundant with fish. Popular Hanakapi‘ai Trail is also located along Ke‘e Beach. This challenging hike takes you to a powerful waterfall, but if you would like something less intense consider a 2-mile journey to Hanakapi‘ai Beach. There you can dip your toe in the nearby stream and sit on the sand.

Kaua‘i is a stunningly beautiful island with much to see and experience. Please allow our friendly ISO staff to cater to your every need. With 24-hour front desk assistance, we welcome your questions and will offer guidance on your journey exploring the island. Capture the moments and memories so you can share them with your loved ones after your Garden Isle adventure!.

Photo: Courtesy of ISO