The Essential Travel Guide to Kauai

With an average high of 78 degrees in January, Kauai has no real off-season. However, the island is also one of the wettest locations in the world, so be prepared for a brief rainstorm each day. For this reason, you’ll need layers--a lightweight sweater and a nylon anorak will have you covered. A travel-sized bottle of euphoria Calvin Klein evokes the spirit of the island, while a pair of sneakers and a small backpack are essential for trekking into Waimea Canyon. Be sure to leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs: The island’s signature chocolate macadamia nuts will become your new trail mix.

Ko’a Kea, a boutique hotel on Poipu Beach. Yes, you may have to share the (world-class surfing) waves with a few more tourists than you would at, say, the secluded beaches along Hanalei Bay. But this part of the island, the South Shore, is considerably dryer than the North Shore, where more of the locals reside. Plus, with your choice of pool or ocean, snorkeling or sunbathing, and sushi or tiki bar, it’s kind of a no-brainer.

Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort (starting at $299 a night)

Ko'a Kea is conveniently home to one of the South Shore’s most popular restaurants, Red Salt. Start with the poke and edamame dusted with red Kauai salt, and then finish your meal with the cotton candy “cloud” dessert. Should you take a day trip up to Hanalei Bay on the North Shore, stop by the farm-to-table food truck Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. for a kaula poi bowl (pulled pork topped with poi) and a mango fruit smoothie.

Because the island is fairly small--only about an hour-and-a-half drive from north to south--it’s probably in your best interest to rent a car (available right outside the airport). With that squared away, plan a scenic drive up to Hanalei Bay (see above) and its pristine beaches. Pro tip: Sweet-talk the valet at the St. Regis into letting you park for free and ask him for directions to Hideaways Beach. He’ll lead to you to a little trail that ends at the most unbelievable beach you’ll ever set foot on (zero people, crystal-clear water and sand that feels like silk). If you’re looking for a little more adventure, plan a trip to Waimea Canyon ortake an ATV tour with Kipu Ranch to see the filming locations of Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Lost Ark.