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If getting on island time during these unusual times is on your wish list, look no further than Kaua‘i. Hawai‘i’s oldest major island is home to small towns with vibrant arts, food and shopping scenes, unreal views and a slower pace – making it the perfect place for travelers to unwind and indulge in local culture.

While scoping out a place to stay during your next Kauaʻi holiday, we recommend checking out our partner hotel properties, where our guests can score exclusive deals, earn HawaiianMiles, and relax knowing they’re in good hands. 


Sip, Savor and Support Local

Kaua‘i’s shops and restaurants are symbolic of the community’s love for the land and pride in calling the Garden Island home. While wandering its small towns during a lazy afternoon, visit Java Kai and Kaua‘i Juice Co, whose menus emphasize Kaua‘i’s tropical crops, like ‘ōlena (turmeric), kalo (taro), banana, mango, pineapple, and more, and dish up sweet and savory bites that are as good for your body as they are for your taste buds.

Kaua‘i Juice Co, which has multiple locations throughout the island, is known for mastering the art of a flavor- and health-packed juice. Visitors can relax in the shops’ refreshing ambiance, indulge in handcrafted foods, or purchase locally made beauty and health products.

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In the heart of Kapa‘a, Java Kai offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere to enjoy a smoothie or coffee and share a meal with a friend. Patrons can pair specialty drinks such as Maui Mocha or Limeade with dishes like its Kālua Pork Burrito or Surfer Sandwich. All orders are served on the go or at its limited seating. 

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Masks are required while visiting local businesses and social distancing is a must when waiting in line and shopping. Visitors should also brief themselves on the latest details of Kaua‘i County’s COVID-19 order before venturing the island.


Settle into a Relaxing Resort Experience

Mauka-to-makai (mountain-to-ocean) views and authentic hospitality are abundant at Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort. The hotel sits on an impressive beach-facing parcel with dreamy sunsets and sunrises, a signature spa and an expansive cliffside golf course. The resort is an easy drive from Līhu‘e Airport and fronts the soft sands of Kalapaki Beach, a natural harbor known as an ideal spot for swimming, surfing lessons, and relaxing on the beach.

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Providing a safe and hospitable guest experience has been a paramount focus for the resort's team, with health protocols reflected throughout the property. To learn more about Royal Sonesta Kauaʻi Resort and what to expect before visiting, click here.

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Experience (and Take Home) Hawaiian Sugar Cane Rum

Kōloa Rum Company was founded in 2009 and today proudly sources its staple components for premium Hawaiian rum – coffee, sugarcane and water – from the Garden Island. Based on Kauaʻi’s south shore, its distillery refines the ingredients and blends them into a unique spirit that is bottled, sold, and served worldwide.

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Visitors can get an up-close experience with Kōloa Rum's distilling process at its tasting room and shop at the iconic Kilohana Plantation in Līhu‘e. Rum lovers can learn about the unique taste notes of Hawaiian “tall cane” sugarcane rums, meet with connoisseurs, and chose from a wide selection of rum varieties to sample, mix into a cocktail or take home.

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In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, tastings are now by reservation only and groups are limited. Tastings are both outdoors and at the bar, though face masks and social distancing are required when not tasting. For the latest health and safety protocols at its store and tasting room, guests should call 808-246-8900 or visit koloarum.com.