It seems that everyone is headed back to the Hawaiian Islands these days, meaning it’s more challenging than ever to stake out an oasis of calm — but our recent discovery of Timbers Kaua’i Ocean Club & Residences puts serene luxury back on the agenda, front and center.
While I’ve long been aware of Timbers’ calling card as curating ultra-luxury experiences in some of the world’s most beautiful locations, I had never visited the Kaua’i property, which is just a few minutes from the Lihue airport and yet worlds away from the busy tourist areas in either direction. Entering the grounds honestly felt like I was arriving at a paradise hidden in plain site.
We arrived quite late, as our flight had been delayed, but we were nonetheless greeted by welcoming staff with leis and cold drinks in hand, and they got us quickly situated so we could all hit the sack. Because it was pitch-dark when we checked in to our three-bedroom oceanfront villa, we could hear the ocean but we couldn’t see it — just imagine the thrill of waking up to the view overlooking Kuki’i Point (where a scene from Jurassic Park was famously filmed during a live storm!) and enjoying coffee on the huge lanai. We had a corner unit with views of the Ninini Point Lighthouse, as well.
Timbers Kaua’i offers short-term stays and opportunities to purchase at both whole and fractional levels. We stayed at the oceanfront residences at Hōkūala, which range from two to four bedrooms, all with dramatic ocean views and three private lanais, and are constructed for privacy and the ultimate in comfort and convenience, with full chef’s kitchens (grocery shopping services available), a world-class golf course, a farm-to-table restaurant, two pools, and a full-service spa. Other home groupings include Kaiholo, Maliula, and Laola (townhomes).
The property is equally conducive to a romantic couple’s getaway as a far-flung family adventure. Everything you need for biking, snorkeling, and paddle boarding is available for free rental, and staff happily point you in the right direction for the best swimming beaches (or anything else you might be looking for).
The onsite restaurant is another hidden gem. Chef Zach Cummings helms the kitchen at Hualani’s, where he offers locally inspired menus, some of which are derived from produce from the property’s 16-acre organic garden.
Speaking of which, the 16-acre organic Farm at Hōkūala is overseen by Samuel Selindh, who, along with agricultural activities coordinator Roni Marco, gave us an extensive tour of the lush and diverse grounds.
Whether you’re looking to escape to Kaua’i for a week or to purchase real estate for the years to come, Timbers Kaua’i should be at the top of your list, as it deftly combines tranquility with adventure and privacy with easy access to all that the Garden Isle has to offer.