[…] weather, and just ready for a change of scenery. When it’s not possible to hop on a plane somewhere tropical, even one night in a nice hotel in a new neighborhood can feel rejuvenating. Skip the overpriced […]
Aloha! This has definitely been the season of whirlwind travel, and last weekend was no exception. We flew to Kauai for three quick nights—I know, I know!— for my client’s wedding, making our home-away-from-home at the luxury St. Regis Princeville resort. I’ll never forget walking into that grand marble lobby over nine years ago (back then it was just The Princeville) feeling like I had dropped down into another world. The hotel was elegant—fancy, even—and upon seeing the incredible balcony views from the restaurant, I knew that this was a place to which I had to return for more than just dinner.
The hotel is now owned by St. Regis and I am a little disappointed to say that it just isn’t the same. Alhough it was given a facelift about six years ago—and one that I’m not sure improved it—it is now really in need of refreshing. The glamour has given way to a casual island feel, which isn’t necessarily bad—but even casual needs a fresh coat of paint every now and then.
That said, the beaches here are magnificent, and we spent many blissful hours sitting by the infinity pool counting our lucky stars that we got to be there. Parked on a lounger under an umbrella, we couldn’t look away from THAT VIEW. About every ten seconds, the clouds change the landscape, cloaking the mountains in a shroud of mystery, and then the sun burns through, offering bright blue skies, that illuminate the turquoise sea.
There are several hidden beaches in Princeville, within walking distance of the hotel. This one is called Hideaway, and it’s way easier to access than others.
On our last day, we decided to hike to Queen’s Bath. There are danger signs upon entry, and they shouldn’t be taken lightly; the hike down is muddy and slippery, and falling to your death is a real possibility. If you go, be extremely careful, and avoid this area at all costs when the tide is high. It was too rough to get in the pools, but it was so worth the trek to see them.
I made a little video below that will give you a taste of what it’s like to be there in person. Enjoy!
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Magnificent!
Your charmed fairy-tale adventures continue! Thank you so much for sharing them with us!