There are two types of places on this earth: The Club at Kukui`ula and everything else.
This is the place to go with a group of friends when you want to truly experience the good life. Located on the lush island of KauaÊ»i, “The Club” as I endearingly call it, is the place to go for the perfect vacation. Situated on the south shore of the island not far from Poipu, there are 15 Club Cottages (with options for 3-4 bedroom villas) that give the renter rights to all of the membership privileges that Kukui`ula has to offer. This is significant because the club is private and the only way you can get access is by renting one of these cottages or by owning property in the development. This is also significant because Kukui`ula is as nice of a resort as I have ever been too.
Why so nice? For starters there’s an excellent Thomas Weiskopf designed 18-hole golf course and practice facility. This may not matter to you, but to me it’s a big plus. Then there is a beautiful open air clubhouse with bar, restaurant, a really nice gym and an incredible spa. Don’t forget the massive pool area with hot tubs and then the second smaller more private pool that’s near the spa. All of this is within very close range to the ocean.
All that noted and considered, the best part about Kukui`ula is the service. It’s on another level. As a New Yorker, I spent the first four days thinking that everyone was patronizing me –because everyone there was just that nice. Not to mention the fact that the staff seem to anticipate anything you may need or want and are just generally excellent. What makes this even better is the fact that it doesn’t seem to get crowded. This is key to ensure proper relaxation.
Having had the opportunity to go and experiencing Kukui`ula first hand has nearly ruined me for all other vacations. Get some friends together and rent one of these cottages and chances are the same thing will likely happen to you. While the rental price for the week is going to carry a significant price tag, if you split it up between friends or a few couples you can really come out ahead of staying at a nice resort. And honestly, the vibe, service and amenities at Kukui`ula are going to be on par (or likely better) than the majority of the vacation destinations out there.
Trust me, you’ll end up leaving KauaÊ»i saying: “There are two types of places on this earth…”
Below: Photos from the North Shore of KauaÊ»i. You don’t really ever need to leave The Club, but if you do, the island has a lot to offer in terms of activities and things to see. There’s also massive amounts of fruity drinks to be had and good seafood to eat. It truly is a magical place.
I personally traveled to and stayed at Kukui`ula at my own expense in late 2012 / early 2013 and was not compensated in any way for this review. I endorse it because it is awesome.
I appreciate your being upfront that this was on your nickel. It matters that this is you saying, “Go here. This is great.” Keep scouting for us Michael. We appreciate it.
Have not been to Kauai yet, but have been to other islands in Hawaii and I can’t wait to go back as Kauai is next!
Good report
Looks like paradise.
nice old people party pic.
@jeff I actually love that picture. That’s classic shit right there.
And don’t underestimate the life experience that you can gain from wise older gents.
Nice. I’m headed to Kauai next week. Any hot tips on ACL-approved activities for those not cool enough to be in the club?
@KBF You’re still lucky.
Hike Waimea: http://www.everytrail.com/best/hiking-waimea-canyon-state-park
Stand up paddle board: http://www.kalapakibeach.org/
Eat at the Koloa fish market: http://www.yelp.com/biz/koloa-fish-market-koloa
Thanks, Michael. It’s much appreciated.
Love, love, love Kauai.
We’ll probably go back to Poipu again this year for the 5th time, third year in a row.
Koloa fish market is the best. We get poke there first thing after we arrive.
Dinner one night at Merriman’s, as well.
Last year we hiked part of the Kalalau trail out and back the same day (about 5 miles) and the Awaawapuui trail, too.
The rest of the time sitting around doing a whole lotta nothing.
Pretty good break in front of the Waiohai hotel / Poipu Beach State Park down the road. Rentals are right there, but the shop opens after the wind has already picked up…
Other options – not the same as kukui’ula but whatever – Kiahuna, Poipu Kapili (both further West).
Take a helicopter ride along Na pail. Totally amazing. Make sure you get a pilot willing to fly into between the spurs.
Golf at Kukui’olono – super cheap, so laid back you can wear ‘slippas’ on the green. DON’T wear anything white!
Hi Michael,
I happen to live on the North Shore of Kauai, and I very much enjoy exploring and capturing the beauty of Kauai with my Leica.
On my photo website, http://www.maulephoto.com there are photographs that your viewers who are
contemplating a trip to Kauai may enjoy seeing.
Thank you for your write up about The Club at Kukui’ula. As a Kauai resident I should have already
known about it, but it wasn’t until I read your article that I even knew it existed! Now I have an
excellent excuse to take my wife to the south side.
Mahalo