Eat. Beach. Sleep. Repeat. The nice thing about going back to a place is that you have your routine. Get your luggage, stop at Costco, drive through the Tree Tunnel, pick up a Puka Dog, and then move into your favorite accommodations.

Our last trip to Kauai we decided to mix it up a bit. We had an opportunity to experience a new residence in Lihue, Hokuala.  This is part of the Timbers resort group which has phenomenal locations all across the globe. We had visited Hokuala in 2017 when it was nothing but dirt and steel, so we were intrigued to experience the finished residence.

From the moment we used our surfboard keys and stepped into the luxurious accommodations, we felt the aloha vibe.

For the adults the kitchens are well appointed and the bedrooms as comfortable as yours back home. For the kids there were bikes to borrow and a room dedicated to indoor activities. There are two pools: a beautiful infinity pool overlooking the ocean and a more family oriented pool.

We wanted to take a tour of their farm on our last day, but it was pouring rain and we didn’t get a chance to explore. As nice as Hokuala was, what it didn’t have for us was direct access to the beach. Yes, you could take the complimentary shuttle down to Kalapaki Beach, but it’s not the same as being able to walk out your room to the beach. What I did like was being in the middle of the island and being able to more easily explore the North Shore.

So, after a lovely five days, it was time to move on. I usually find that serial Kauai travelers fall into three camps:  Princeville, Kapaa or Poipu. Each has their own unique vibe. Sunshine is what we come for and why our heart is always in Poipu, besides the fact that we were married there.

When we go to Poipu, we have our checklist:

1. Drive through the Tree Tunnel

2. Watch the sunset from the Sheraton or Beach House

3. Snorkel at Poipu Beach

4. Eat breakfast at Kalaheo Cafe

5. Visit Puka Dog at least once

We often go in November when the local Rotary Club hosts the Old Sugar Mill Run. Being on West Coast time, the 8am start time doesn’t feel so bad on vacation. I just wish they’d move the run closer to Thanksgiving, so we could stay over the holiday break.

We are still looking for the perfect place to roost [like those chickens] in Poipu. Having a family of five now makes staying at the Sheraton challenging. Koloa Landing has a great pool that the kids love, but no direct beach access. I know, first world problems. I am grateful for the time we spend in Kauai as it brings a peace and contentment like no other.