Kauai, HI | Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu

Located on the southern side of Kauai in the resort town of Koloa near Poipu Beach, Koloa Landing Resort welcomes guests to a sprawling 25 acres that's big enough to find your own private nook, yet just small enough to not feel overwhelmed. Or fear you might lose 30 minutes if you have to walk back to your room to retrieve something you forgot, which can happen at truly gigantic properties. With multiple pools, including an impressive 350,000-gallon main pool complex with waterfalls, jacuzzis and private cabanas, cooling off or catching some rays doesn't get much easier. The property isn't right on the beach, but getting there only takes about five minutes on foot and you'll find lots of people doing just that—especially to sit on the seawall and watch sunset.

Barbecue grills and fire pits can be found at nearly every turn for those who want to warm up at night or grill some steaks or freshly caught seafood for a decadent feast. Of course, the on-site Holoholo Grill features upscale takes on Hawaiian classics as well as other international dishes in the talented hands of James Beard Award-winning chef Sam Choy. And unlike the risk of grilling (and perhaps burning) your own dinner, you can be guaranteed your food will come out perfectly prepared. There are also many nearby restaurants and shopping options when you're looking for additional variety.

All in all, Koloa Landing Resort offers a laidback vibe perfect for adults traveling without children thanks to several ways to escape both on-property and beyond. —Steven Lindsey

koloalandingresort.com

5 Reasons to Visit Koloa Landing Resort

Tranquility Pool
(Adults Only)
​​​The soothing sound of waterfalls provides the main soundtrack to this otherwise quiet oasis far from the waterslides and screams of "Marco!" and "Polo!" You have to come prepared, though, because the towel hut—and more importantly, the bar—are located by the main pool about five minutes away. But I was a Boy Scout and packing my own provisions comes easy, even if not naturally. Two BBQ grills make it a fine spot to cook up some lunch or dinner, too.

Spa with Romantic Couples Rooms
​​By and large, resort spas can always be counted on as a kid-free escape and this one is no different. (Although with advance permission from the spa manager, those under 18 can receive services.) With only five treatment rooms and two intimate couple's rooms decked out with a private lanai, rainfall shower for two and Kauai's only Japanese Ofuro soaking tub, rekindling a romance is as easy as inviting two strangers in to rub your back.

1-, 2- & 3-Bedroom Villas with Gourmet Kitchens ​
​Book a villa and feel free to pack lighter than you ever have for vacation thanks to your very own in-room washer/dryer. That's just one of many amenities to make you feel right at home. A fully stocked kitchen has everything you need to prep a simple breakfast or a multi-course tasting menu should you prefer baking food instead of baking in the sun. Bathrooms feature soaking tubs and spacious walk-in showers, plus every villa offers a private lanai or balcony, many with ocean views.

Concierge-Curated Adult Activities
​​Picnic on the beach? Bicycle built for two? Sunrise surfing lessons before a late-morning helicopter ride over (and through) the spectacularly lush tropical Kauai landscape? Truly, if you can dream it the concierge can probably make it happen, so don't be afraid to ask. Whether you're looking for a romantic place to propose or the adulting adventure of a lifetime, Kauai will never disappoint. Never ever. 

Horsing Around on the Beach
​In addition to sky's-the-limit options with the concierge, I enjoyed one bucket list item I particularly enjoyed: horseback riding on the beach alongside azure waters. Just a short drive from the resort you'll find the family-run CJM Country Stables where you can (and should) opt for a private ride with an experienced guide for a guaranteed adults-only option (though even group rides don't allow. kids under 8). You'll see the filming sites of many famous films, but more importantly discover breathtaking views at every turn with photo opportunities aplenty.

Photos courtesy of Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu