Ko'a Kea Resort on Po'ipu Beach

We were pretty underwhelmed with our stay at Ko'a Kea. It bills itself as a “luxury boutique hotel,” but in reality, it felt more like a dressed-up, older motel. The rooms and overall property just didn’t live up to the price point or the way it’s marketed. Service and food were both fine—nothing bad, but nothing memorable either. There also weren’t nearly enough beach chairs, which meant competing for space every morning. For a place that emphasizes its beachfront experience, that felt like a miss. We spent the other part of our trip at the 1 Hotel in Hanalei Bay, which was a completely different experience—yes, it’s more expensive, but the quality, service, and atmosphere were on a whole different level. If you have the option, I’d recommend staying there the entire time. All in all, Ko'a Kea wasn’t terrible, but we definitely felt oversold on the “boutique” experience and left feeling like it just didn’t deliver.

Valet parking is time consuming and unnecessary. The valet guys were the friendliest employees of all. Granted checking in time is 4 pm but people are checking in from everywhere. We were not allowed to check in until almost 4 pm. The lobby was full of people waiting. I have never been made to wait until exact check in time at any hotel/ resort I ever stayed at. I would not rate resort 5 stars. Never received welcome bottle of wine or water promised. Lanai is not private and no lounge chairs on lanai. No weekly live music. Resort is looking a bit rundown. Balcony banisters need refinishing, floor in bathroom is stained, Restaurant food is mediocre, lounge chairs are most uncomfortable I have ever encountered and air conditioning did not work properly. No useable beach as there are signs not to use the tiny sandy part in front. Pluses are Walk to public beach is short, resort is small and Resort is at a good location. View from resort is nice.

The best hotel on Kauai for adults! Small boutique feel - everything was wonderful! Full service, staff is very attentive. The only complaint we had is very late maid service - we had a deluxe ocean front room but maid service was usually between 3-4 pm and we wanted to shower, rest, etc then. Otherwise couldn’t ask for more - the only place I’d stay on Kauai!

Kiamana and all the valet were so so kind and generous with their warm energy, customer service and great recommendations! They greeted us each time with an aloha and a smile, and they made Ko’a kea feel like home. We loved our whole experience!

Spent a wonderful 41st anniversary here. It was really beautiful and we had a nice room overlooking the pool and ocean. The staff are all great! One comment, You pay $40/night for parking and then fell like you need to tip everytime you get your car. Great location, close to snokling!