Kauai may be the oldest of Hawaii’s major islands, but its visitor industry is keeping current by making headlines of importance to travel agents and their clients.
Koa Kea Hotel & Resort
The newest accommodation to open on the island is Koa Kea Hotel & Resort, which made its debut on April 14. Located on Kauai’s south side in sunny Poipu, the multimillion-dollar oceanside property sports a contemporary design billed as a “true boutique luxury experience.” Guestrooms and suites feature a decor of turquoise, brown and white. Its restaurant, Red Salt, features the talents of executive chef Ronnie Sanchez, known for his work at El Bulli in Spain. The Koa Kea Resort Spa pampers guests with a variety of services in five treatment rooms or oceanside.
Clients can check out the new digs by booking one of Koa Kea’s current packages. For adventurers, the Second Nature package comes with daily breakfast, two adventures — either an ATV, ocean kayak or zipline tour — and the use of a convertible or Jeep, and rates start from $633 per night. A romance package called Tropical Desire provides daily breakfast with mimosas, a one-hour couples’ massage, dinner for two and a car, priced from $700. The Tranquility promotion indulges guests with two body treatments, two massages, a $50 spa-merchandise certificate and a car with rates starting from $667. Clients get the fifth night free through June 15 and from Sept. 1-Dec. 19.
877-806-2288; www.koakea.com
Poipu Bay Golf Course
In the south side of the island, Poipu Bay Golf Course has introduced a nine-hole rate for clients who want to make the most of their time on Kauai. Poipu Bay is an 18-hole championship course spread across 210 oceanfront acres and designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr.
“We realize that a full round of golf can take up a large part of the day, and visitors often have limited time,” says Poipu Bay director of golf Craig Sasada. “Our new nine-hole option allows golfers to experience the course, but still have time to hit the beach in the afternoon or go sightseeing with family.”
The nine-hole rate of $95 — good for tee times between 7-9 a.m. —includes a shared golf cart and the use of the driving range. The 18-hole green fee at Poipu Bay is $220. Check the Web site for other special rates and packages.
800-858-6300; www.poipubaygolf.com
Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation
Meanwhile, as Poipu gears up to host the first annual Kauai Marathon on Sept. 6, Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation is setting the pace with special room rates for runners and spectators. When clients book the Kauai Marathon Special, they pay nightly condominium rates starting as low as $165 per room.
“Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation is an ideal location for guests who are participating in the Kauai Marathon or cheering on friends or family in the race,” said Tim Alex, director of sales and marketing for the Outrigger Condominium Collection. “With the start and finish lines located right in front of the property, guests will have a front row seat to all the exciting festivities.”
Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation features fully furnished condominium units with space and amenities to help runners prepare for the big day. Fully equipped kitchens are perfect for fixing pre- and post-race meals and on-site laundry facilities mean guests can pack lightly. Available in one- and two- bedroom condominiums, the units allow groups of all sizes to stay together comfortably and save money over multiple hotel rooms. Larger accommodations sleep up to six people, while living areas and separate bedrooms allow each guest ample space and freedom.
800-688-4444; www.outriggercondos.com
Aston Islander
Making news on Kauai’s east side in the town of Kapaa, the Aston Islander on the Beach is courting couples with its Discover Kauai romance package. Available through Dec. 21, the four-night deal gives clients a choice between a kayak adventure or 50-minute couples massage; a dinner for two; two poolside cocktails; and late check-out. Package rates start from $868. The six-acre property features contemporary, island-inspired decor surrounded by six acres of landscaped gardens.
866-774-2924; www.astonhotels.com