It took some digging but eventually we found the perfect place, The Kauai Marriott resort. After a quick look at their location (it's 5 minutes from the airport), the website, and their offerings it was a no-brainer that they were going to become our home for nearly a week. Like most things I'm always anxious to see how a place holds up in-person after seeing it on the worldwide web but the resort blew our expectations out of the water. It's an understatement to say it's stunning.
Our room was flawless and came with one of the most amazing views I've ever seen, a doting and welcoming staff and a pretty lengthy list of amenities and activity offerings every day. It was the perfect place to experience Hawaii for the very first time and I think you'll feel the same way...
Aside from those mentioned above, I've compiled a list of reasons why Kauai Marriott Resort is a must-stay place on the island- just in case you need an additional nudge in their direction.
1. Gorgeous Resort and Rooms
Pulling into the Kauai Marriott Resort's lush scenic property was like out of a dream. The grounds leading up to the beach are adorned with perfectly manicured tropical plants, flowers and trees. At the bottom of the escalator is an enormous Koi pond with a waterfall and surrounding seating for a moment of Zen before checking in at the lobby desk. It's hard to miss and has daily Koi feedings, which are a sight! Frangipani (Plumeria) trees are spread throughout the grounds making for opportune moments to grab a freshly dropped flower for your hair. Remember, left side for taken and right for looking. The resort also happens to have the largest single-level outdoor pool in the state of Hawaii. That paired with the 5 surrounding hot tubs made for an incredible pool day.
Our room was amazing. The view alone was an incredible sight first thing every morning. We slept with the blinds open and let the cotton candy sunrises (and roosters) rouse us each day. It was incredibly spacious, two double beds, a pull-out couch with a coffee table, full size desk and bistro table over looking what I imagine to be the best view in the house. Everything was clean and always stocked, thanks to the amazing housekeeping staff who took perfect care of us each day. To say it was hard packing up on departure day is a bit of an understatement.
2. Kalapaki Beach
Pulling into the Kauai Marriott Resort's lush scenic property was like out of a dream. The grounds leading up to the beach are adorned with perfectly manicured tropical plants, flowers and trees. At the bottom of the escalator is an enormous Koi pond with a waterfall and surrounding seating for a moment of Zen before checking in at the lobby desk. It's hard to miss and has daily Koi feedings, which are a sight! Frangipani (Plumeria) trees are spread throughout the grounds making for opportune moments to grab a freshly dropped flower for your hair. Remember, left side for taken and right for looking. The resort also happens to have the largest single-level outdoor pool in the state of Hawaii. That paired with the 5 surrounding hot tubs made for an incredible pool day.
Our room was amazing. The view alone was an incredible sight first thing every morning. We slept with the blinds open and let the cotton candy sunrises (and roosters) rouse us each day. It was incredibly spacious, two double beds, a pull-out couch with a coffee table, full size desk and bistro table over looking what I imagine to be the best view in the house. Everything was clean and always stocked, thanks to the amazing housekeeping staff who took perfect care of us each day. To say it was hard packing up on departure day is a bit of an understatement.
The resort just so happens to be on one of the most swimmable & kid-friendly beaches on the island, Kalapaki Beach. WIN! The picturesque cove has mild waves and frequents cruise lines that dock throughout the week. Make your way down to the beach for a swim, surf and/or game of beach volleyball. Lounge on a beach chair for a front-row seat to watching surfers, paddle boarding and swimming.
3. On-Site Rentals and Excursions
One of the perks of being on Kalapaki Beach is it's a great place to learn all kinds of water and wave based activities. The surf is great for beginners and reliable thanks to the reef break. Rent yourself a long board for $35 a day from the Kauai Beach Boys shack on the beach and paddle out. Not ready to catch a wave? No problem, they also have kayak and stand up paddle board rentals available. They even have daily Catamaran cruise tours. Of course the resort also has an extremely helpful concierge service that can help you book an array of excursions throughout your stay.
4. On-Site Dining Options
(including room service!)
While we spent a good majority of the time eating poké from Foodland, the resort had several delicious options for dining on-site. We were exhausted our first night on the island and ended up ordering room service and watched cooking shows before "conching" out before 8pm. The food was quick and hit the spot. Throughout the following days we dined beachfront at Kukui's on Kalapaki Black and Duke's Kauai. Other options include Italian from Cafe Portofino, stop in breakfast options at Aupaka Terrace, & sushi at Toro-Tei Sushi Bar. They also have a Hawaiian luau every Monday night.
While we spent a good majority of the time eating poké from Foodland, the resort had several delicious options for dining on-site. We were exhausted our first night on the island and ended up ordering room service and watched cooking shows before "conching" out before 8pm. The food was quick and hit the spot. Throughout the following days we dined beachfront at Kukui's on Kalapaki Black and Duke's Kauai. Other options include Italian from Cafe Portofino, stop in breakfast options at Aupaka Terrace, & sushi at Toro-Tei Sushi Bar. They also have a Hawaiian luau every Monday night.
5. Daily Activities
When we checked in we were handed a calendar with hour-by-hour listings of activity options during your stay for both adults and children. Some were complimentary and some required a small fee. They had everything from movies on the beach to lei making classes. We popped into a couple of activities such as the torch lighting ceremony, movie night and s'more making. So, if you get tired of wandering the island there's plenty to do at the resort each day.
6. Kid-Friendly
While I didn't see a huge amount of kids on our trip I was definitely on the lookout for activities and special attractions for future use for my boys. One, they have a children's pool with a waterslide for kids up to 12 years old. It was just the right size and the kids looked like they were having a blast. They have a huge variety of kids activities to keep kids busy between excursions, beach time and pool time.
7. Full Service Spa
Massages on the beach? Yes, please. The Kauai Marriott Resort has it's very own full service spa that leaves you feeling pampered and refreshed. Pricing ranges from $45 for a blowout to $125 for a 50 minute massage on the beach.
Massages on the beach? Yes, please. The Kauai Marriott Resort has it's very own full service spa that leaves you feeling pampered and refreshed. Pricing ranges from $45 for a blowout to $125 for a 50 minute massage on the beach.
8. Location
Aside from all of the amazing amenities, the resort just so happens to be in the middle of the island making it ridiculously easy to get from one end of the island to the next. It also doesn't hurt that it's 5 minutes away from Lihue Airport, ideal for snagging additional beach time before your flight (Marriott's hospitality room makes it easy to clean up from the beach even after you've checked out). They offer round-the-clock complimentary shuttles to and from the airport and also have on-site rental car services from Enterprise. Tip: If you're on the 10pm flight, check out and leave your bags with the bellman. Keep one small bag for yourself with your 'essentials' for the day and ask for a key to the hospitality room. They have lockers and showers with the best smelling-shampoo & conditioner. Spend the day at the pool, beach or explore the island a bit more before heading back to the mainland...
Aside from all of the amazing amenities, the resort just so happens to be in the middle of the island making it ridiculously easy to get from one end of the island to the next. It also doesn't hurt that it's 5 minutes away from Lihue Airport, ideal for snagging additional beach time before your flight (Marriott's hospitality room makes it easy to clean up from the beach even after you've checked out). They offer round-the-clock complimentary shuttles to and from the airport and also have on-site rental car services from Enterprise. Tip: If you're on the 10pm flight, check out and leave your bags with the bellman. Keep one small bag for yourself with your 'essentials' for the day and ask for a key to the hospitality room. They have lockers and showers with the best smelling-shampoo & conditioner. Spend the day at the pool, beach or explore the island a bit more before heading back to the mainland...
This post is sponsored by Marriott. All opinions are my own.
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