Hawaii’s Hanalei Bay

By Eli Siegel (Posted 3/2/23)

Winter is still here — and for those dreaming of an escape to warmer climes, consider the just-opened, wellness-focused luxe Hanalei Bay, a new 1 Hotel on Kauai, Hawaii, the most remote island in the Hawaiian archipelago.

Known as the “Garden Isle,” a lush rainforest covers much of Kauai’s land mass, making it a perfect getaway any time of year.

The hotel’s mission is solace, where guests can swim, snorkel, bike and kayak in harmony with nature, as well as enjoy Hanalei’s extensive wellness spa that caters to medical, physical and spiritual needs. The bay is also a top surfing destination. The Namolokama and Mamalahoa mountains loom over a valley with picturesque waterfalls.

The island’s natural wonders include the Waimea Canyon, Coconut Coast and white sandy beaches, making it a favorite of movie scouts. “Jurassic Park,” “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides,” “Tropic Thunder” and “Raiders of the Lost Ark” are among the films shot here.

Barry Sternlicht, 1 Hotels’ founder-chairman, said he wanted to create a resort that would “combine the magic of a lush native landscape with the region's rich culture and history.” Hanalei Bay offers 252 rooms, including 51 suites with ocean and mountain views from private terraces.  

Indigenous vines and plants are present throughout the low-impact structure. A conservation plan replaced non-native and invasive species with wildlife-friendly vegetation, including white hibiscus and nau, native to the Hawaiian Islands. Reclaimed teak joists, puka lava stone walls and ceilings hand-woven from abacá, a natural leaf fiber harvested from a banana tree cousin, are locally sourced.

In keeping with the commitment to preserving local elements, seasonal cuisine is sourced from community farms and local fishers.

Ecotravelers will appreciate Hanalei Bay’s commitment to sustainability. Nearly 150 tons of on-site furniture, fixtures, equipment and other materials were salvaged from the existing site, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay will eventually operate as a 100% Certified Carbon Neutral and TRUE zero-waste certified oasis, in-line with the brand’s other U.S. properties. 

For more info: www.1hotels.com/hanalei-bay