In August 2011, when I stayed at Koloa Landing at Poipu Beach, it was a work in progress. While it was just four months old at the time, the property — a Wyndham Grand resort — already showed promise as one of Kauai’s most luxurious visitor digs.
Fast forward to the present and a recent update from resort officials has confirmed that the all-villa property is well on its way toward completion.
One of Koloa Landing’s most impressive features is its high quality of design and construction. Check-in takes place in a stunning open-air pavilion highlighted by water features, wood accents, high ceilings, handsome beams and views straight out to the ocean.
Four-story buildings rim the resort’s 25 acres, and on each floor are four villas ranging in size from 1,351 to 3,662 square feet and offering from one to four bedrooms. My two-bedroom villa — enhanced by lush fabrics and natural stone floors — was as upscale as any I have encountered on Kauai. Created like a mini-residence, it boasted a large dining table seating eight people, a roomy living room, an expansive outdoor lanai, a large master bedroom with a walk-in closet, a generous bathroom with walk-in shower and a washer/dryer. The gourmet kitchen featured granite countertops, top-of-the-line appliances and plenty of cooking and dining supplies.
Pampered by such lavishness, clients could easily be persuaded to stay inside all day, but then they would miss out on outdoor lures such as two swimming pools, walking trails and sprawling lawns for activities such as yoga, frisbee and croquet. Additionally, since the resort doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, its Marketplace store recently broadened its inventory of foods for in-villa cooking as well as ready-to-eat meals and snacks.
It’s no wonder that families, small groups and couples traveling together have lauded the Koloa Landing experience, according to Jeff Zogg, vice president of Azul Hawaii Resorts, which manages the resort.
“Our guest comments have been tremendous, our occupancy strong and we already have repeat customers who love the property,” said Zogg. “They appreciate the location — not right on the beach but within a very short walk or drive — and the beautiful mountain and ocean views.”
While 85 villas are available for booking at present, work is under way on 13 additional villas, a full-service spa and a retail outlet, all scheduled for completion by March 2013.
“Construction takes place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mondays through Fridays,” said Zogg. “It is managed extremely well, with little noise. Only a small percentage of the villas have their views impacted. For those guests, we offer a special construction rate.”
Discriminating clients can rest assured that Koloa Landing may be a work in progress, but it’s already a complete experience in luxury.
The Details
Koloa Landing at Poipu Beachwww.koloalandingresort.com
