Tucked into a tropical grove, the three-bedroom, two-bathroom house is a quick stroll from the velvet sand and gentle surf of Hanalei Bay. In the distance, look for the serpent-shaped mountain that inspired the song, “Puff the Magic Dragon.” You’re also easy walking distance to Hanalei’s charming downtown. There you’ll find everything from artisan coffee and chocolate, to sophisticated, healthy cuisine, to classic island cocktails at the iconic Tahiti Nui, a favorite local lounge and a location for the George Clooney film, “The Descendants.”

At the home we call Hanalei Makai Hale, you'll be immersed in beauty, indoors and out. Ascend the stairs to arrive at a custom, beveled-glass door that hints at the treasures inside. The foyer's impressive glass sea sculptures introduce the carefully curated art collection, including original island paintings, carvings and tile work. The breezy lanais (what some call the covered porches) will beckon you outdoors into comfy chairs for morning Kona coffee, an afternoon lilikoi fruit smoothie or chilled wine at sunset, the better to watch the sky turn vivid crimson.



The completely updated home's open floor plan encourages an easy flow between the kitchen, living room and dining room. Numerous lanai sliding glass doors and louvered windows welcome cooling trade winds and filtered daylight. Spacious bedrooms on opposite wings provide ample privacy for groups of couples, friends or families of up to six people.

You may need to draw straws to select bedrooms. The master suite has a king-sized bed, walk-in closet, dressing area, adjoining bathroom and access to the backyard lanai. From the front guest room’s queen bed and private lanai, you can gaze at the ocean or every-shade-of-green terrain. The second guest bedroom offers cozy quiet and two twin beds that can convert to a king.

On the breakfast bar, find a gift basket of local artisan chocolate, Hawaiian spices and discount coupons that will ease your introduction to favorite Kauai treats and adventures—ice cream, bike rentals and a catered dinner. Outside, borrow the boogie boards and beach toys, or treat yourself to a hot-water rinse in the enclosed open-air shower.

In no time, you’ll be living like a local, stocking up on impossibly fresh sushi and shopping the farmers markets for exotic fruits and vegetables that you stash in the Sub-Zero refrigerator. With a kitchen outfitted for the most discerning chefs, you’ll be turning out quick meals on the barbecue gas grill with ease.

In anticipation of our guests’ every need, the electronic front door locks require no keys to pick up, share or return. The kitchen is fully stocked with shopping bags, basic seasonings and cleaning supplies. The laundry room features an oversized washer, dryer and large pantry. Ease into adventures on land and water, guided by our booklet that lists favorite excursions, restaurants and shopping destinations. Throughout the home, labels and instructions ease familiarity with the house and appliances. You won’t lack for indoor entertainment with a large flat-screen television and high-speed Wi-Fi.

Inside and out, you’ll find the kind of cushiony furnishings that cradle you after a long day of surfing, swimming, hiking or power-shopping. Though the home is designed and maintained to five-star hotel standards, the inviting atmosphere and casual decor ultimately relaxes every guest into a blissful island existence. Why don’t you see for yourself?