Kauai, home of the world famous Na Pali Coast, muddy waterfall hikes and Waimea Plantation Cottages, a time capsule to the past. Over the years visiting Kauai usually took us on the East side around Kapa’a and Wailua. This trip, being our third time visiting since blogging together, guided us somewhere new – the west side, Waimea.
Captain James Cook is credited with being the first westerner to visit the first Hawaiians in Waimea where the first negotiations of trade took place. Waimea village once became the capital of Kauai as outsiders opened the nearby waters for trade and supplies; Trade in the form of whaling and deforestation of sandalwood began unfolding over the years. After Cook, foreigners, under the guise of missionaries, integrated their way into the society which eventually transformed the landscape for sugar cultivation in areas where Hawaiians once had flourishing taro patches.
For first generation visitors, homes were built nearby the sugar cane fields for superintendents, managers, laborers and their families. 61 authentic plantation cottages have been moved and restored to a 43-acre oceanfront black-sand beach, not to mention an amazing place to lounge and watch Kauai sunsets: Waimea Plantation Cottages.
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THREE BEDROOM OCEAN VIEW COTTAGE
No cottage is the same. Waimea Plantation Cottages has oceanfront cottages, ocean view cottages, and garden view cottages. We enjoyed a stay at an Ocean View Cottage (Cottage #77) which had three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Kitchenette (Microwave & Refrigerator), Air-Condition, and massive Lanai area. With each cottage having its own unique history, it’s a goldmine for any history buff!
As digital nomads, we had no worry about staying connected (if you wanted to). The wi-fi was efficient both inside and outside the cottage – Our typical morning of coffee on the lanai while checking up e-mails evened out our cortisol levels. The tranquility here is hard to compete against, especially compared to the “busy” (touristy) side of the island.
Tip: Start the morning right! If you don’t mind walking through the beautiful Palm Tree alley, fill up on fresh coffee in the main cottage (lobby) and start your day with a nice walk around the premises. There’s just something about hanging in a hammock after a fresh cup of coffee!
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DINING
For eateries, you won’t find many places to satisfy that local food taste. The one restaurant on property is Chicken in a Barrel: A Bar that has TV’s showing the latest sporting events and dining service of American food. If you aren’t looking for convenience and if you’re feeling a little adventurous, visit the town of Waimea where you can find other restaurants!
POOL & BEACH
When you aren’t getting a buzz off coffee or alcohol, take a day and spend it at the black sand beach (just in front of the property) or at the pool, where you can bbq and grill. There are also Hammocks and other bbq grills throughout the property. Be warned: the beach has much debris (driftwood) and looks murky because of the sand color.
OTHER AMENITIES
There is a laundry room on property which is complimentary for guests. Also, an ice machine beyond the lobby. At the lobby, there is a DVD rental system which allows guests two complimentary DVDs per night.
Initially, we pictured more people buzzing around the area but that isn’t what it’s about. It’s about escaping from the busy area and remembering a time when the first foreigners started calling Kauai home. We noticed big and small families, couples on romantic gateways, and groups of friends! But, our overall experience was that of a relaxed ambiance and abundant space for separation.
For those of you that love history or just want a taste of old Hawaii, Waimea Cottage Plantation is perfect! Take a step back in time and live the island life.
We have family that was born and raised on Kauai and can vow for the authenticity of how it looked “back in the day”. It’s as close as you can get to old Hawaii without going full-native. It’s laid back, friendly, and the Aloha Spirit abounds in this place of tranquility and relaxation. The property is grand enough for seminars, weddings, and retreats as well!
Waimea, HI 96796
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the nearest airport to Waimea Plantation Cottages?
Lihue International Airport
Does Waimea Plantation Cottages offer airport shuttle service?
No.
Does Waimea Plantation Cottages have complimentary breakfast?
No. They have complimentary morning coffee at the lobby.
Does Waimea Plantation Cottages have a laundry room?
Yes. It’s complimentary for guests.
Is Waimea Plantation Cottages pet-friendly?
No
Does Waimea Plantation Cottages offer a military discount?
Yes
Does Waimea Plantation Cottages offer a kama’aina discount?
Yes
What is Waimea Plantation Cottages parking rate?
It’s free and right in front of your cottage.
What is Waimea Plantation Cottages daily amenity fee?
$25 per day.
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