Do you prefer your tropical vacation to be full of action or are you looking for tranquility? For some people, Kaua’i is way too quiet. On the South Shore of the island is Poipu, Kaua’i's sunniest coast, making it one of the best spots on the islands, even in winter. The beaches are white to golden, set back in protected coves and anchored by vibrant reefs. Poipu Park Beach is considered one of the safest in Hawai’i.

Our crew dropped by the Grand Hyatt Kaua’i Resort & Spa for a tour and lunch. Driving from Lihue to Poipu is like just about anywhere else – construction, traffic – until you take the turn south and experience the Tree Tunnel reminiscent of the old plantations. This grand entrance consists of over 500 eucalyptus trees stretching for an entire mile. Its a short drive from the tunnel to the beach resorts of Poipu. The Grand Hyatt Kaua’i sits on the eastern with an entrance that fits the plantation style of the area. The Poipu Bay Golf Course is just adjacent to the Hyatt and flanked by a gorgeously tropical mountain range. And all that is before you even enter the hotel itself.

The lobby is open with a glorious picture view of the ocean beyond. Between 5:00pm and 8:00pm the lobby features entertainment and potential whale watching early on. There are local vendors displaying cultural, handmade gifts and art throughout the lobby and courtyard. After touring the incomparable ANARA health and fitness spa, complete with outdoor hales (huts) for treatments, we sat for lunch in the open air overlooking the natural gardens and tidepools. The grounds of the Hyatt consist of a meandering one-acre saltwater swimming lagoon and two freshwater outdoor pools. All pools are connecting and dotted with lounge chairs and cabanas that sit in secluded, private harmony with the natural gardens and lagoons. Looking beyond the resort, you can see Shipwrech Beach, a beautiful golden sand cove flanked by a rocky coastline dotted with trails. Beyond this point is another idyllic, isolated Mahaulepu Beach, one of the most unspoiled stretches of sand in Hawai’i.

Dondero’s Restaurant, located in the Grand Hyatt Kaua’i, is the island’s only AAA / 4 Diamond Restaurant (closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays). The Resort recently completed refurbishment just prior to Christmas 2011. You can attend a luau on property on Thursdays or Sundays, play tennis, rent a kayak for around $15, work out in the large fitness center or try the cardio machines in a separate hale. Kids can have their hair braided, participate in cultural activities, play video games or try their hand at the over-sized chess game. The fresh water lagoon is lighted at night so that the tropical fish create a magical ambience. Rent an ocean cabana, a 2-seater cabana chair or cabanas near the water slide. Rooms are available with garden or ocean views with 2 queen beds, a queen and a king, one king, and all the way up to a three bedroom suite.

Action or tranquility? I think the best of both worlds are available at Grand Hyatt Kaua’i. The perfect mix for any occasion. To find out more about this island paradise, simply click on the Schedule an Appointment icon in the right hand column of the Hawaii Travel Solutions website. We look forward to hearing from you and ensuring your spectacular Kaua’i island getaway!