This Revamped Kaua‘i Resort Has the Largest Single-Level Pool in Hawai‘i

Renovated rooms and Kalapaki Bay views

Photos: Rebecca Jackson

Following a multi-year transformation completed in 2025, the resort underwent an extensive, property-wide renovation that impacted its 356 guest rooms and suites, alongside public spaces, restaurants, and outdoor areas. The redesign leans into a modern island aesthetic, with lighter, airier interiors; natural textures; and a softer palette that mirrors the surrounding landscape of Kalapaki Bay.

In my King Ocean View room, that refresh is immediately apparent. The furniture and fittings feel crisp and contemporary, while warm wood tones and textiles soften the aesthetic. But the view is what holds my attention. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the ocean and hills, while the balcony offers a front-row view over the resort and bay.

That private outdoor space quickly becomes the focal point of my stay. Later, a glass of prosecco in hand, I watch finches swoop and dart as my pre-dinner entertainment. My mornings start slowly with a coffee as I watch the light move across the water; days end with the sound of the ocean crashing against the shore. Back inside, resort comforts like the walk-in waterfall shower, spacious grey sofa, and extra-large plush king bed complete the feeling of understated luxury.

Of course, this kind of setting comes at a price. Rooms start at around $354 per night for a 453-square-foot Garden View King, while my top-floor Preferred Ocean View at 463 square feet sits closer to $504 per night.

A superlative pool, your pick of cabanas, and lineup of weekly activities

Photo: Rebecca Jackson

Arguably, Royal Sonesta’s showpiece is its flower-shaped lagoon pool, which everything seems to orbit. Spanning 26,000 square feet, it’s the largest single-level pool in Hawaiʻi. When I take my early morning swim, it feels like it’s mine alone. With five jacuzzis around the pool area to choose from, there’s no fighting for space. More importantly, with plenty of sun loungers available, there’s no need to race down to claim one at dawn.

Near the pool, a koi pond winds through the tropical gardens, and I join a small crowd gathered at the water’s edge for the daily feeding. The surface is still for a moment, then suddenly alive, as flashes of orange, white, and gold surge upwards in a rush of movement.

By mid-morning, I’ve relocated to one of the oceanside cabanas, which come with cookies, water, and service from the on-site restaurant, Kukui’s on Kalapaki Beach (more on that later). For lunch, I opt for the mahi-mahi tacos and, later, Mai Tai cocktails, all served straight to my cabana. Poolside cabanas are also available. Wherever you settle, the feeling is the same: spacious and uncrowded.

Other amenities include the Alexander Day Spa & Salon, a 24-hour fitness center, and yoga and aqua fit classes. There’s also a rotating weekly activities schedule, which, during my visit, advertises a full itinerary of cultural walks, hula lessons, fresh flower lei making, and Hawaiian language basics.

Photo: Rebecca Jackson

The following day, I head out to explore on foot. A short trail leads me up through a golf course and onto a quiet rural track, gradually opening out to dramatic coastal cliffs. At Nīnini Point Lighthouse, I pause to watch waves crash against the rocks below, while looking back at the bay and the resort.

Later, I wander down to the shoreline for the resort’s weekly luau, “Drums and Dances of Polynesia,” staged every Thursday against the oceanfront of Kalapaki Bay. As golden hour settles in, a soft light casts a glow over the sand, the palms, and the gathered crowd. At the entrance, I’m welcomed with a purple orchid lei before drifting toward the buffet, where I pile my plate with fresh poke, slabs of grilled mahi-mahi, sweet potatoes, and greens.

The night unfolds slowly. A gentle prelude of Hawaiian music and hula gives way to deeper, more rhythmic movement. As darkness settles, the drums begin low and steady, then build in intensity. The performance becomes a journey across Polynesia, with dancers and musicians carrying stories through movement, chant, and song.

By the time the fire dancers take the stage, the energy has switched gears. Flames whirl faster and faster against the night sky, illuminating the performers in flashes of gold. It’s thrilling and hypnotic, and I’m drawn completely into the moment.

A restaurant or bar for every mood

Photo: Rebecca Jackson

With four on-site restaurants to choose from, I make a point to try them all during my stay. The Royal Lanai has a convenient grab-and-go breakfast bar, perfect for when I need a quick coffee and pastry before hitting the pool. By evening, the same space transforms into The Royal Lanai Sushi & Spirits. When I return the next day for dinner, it feels like a different restaurant, with low lighting and plates of neatly arranged sushi and sashimi. I dine on a smorgasbord of chili cucumber salad, garlic edamame beans, and salmon-topped rainbow rolls with tobiko, washed down with a crisp glass of Sancerre.

For something more substantial, Kukui’s on Kalapaki Beach does a table-service breakfast and continues right through the day with lunch and dinner. Next door, Kai’s Bar provides a livelier contrast. I stop by for a margarita one evening and end up staying longer than planned, pulled in by the easy, social atmosphere.

Then there’s Duke’s Kaua’i, arguably the resort’s most iconic spot. Named after surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku, it has a more casual, nostalgic feel, with surf memorabilia lining the walls and views over Kalapaki Bay. I come here for a late lunch and quickly understand why it’s a local favourite as I tuck into an ahi poke bowl and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

For a change of scene, Café Portofino brings something altogether different. Tucked into a quieter corner of the resort, it feels more intimate and traditional, with white tablecloths, soft lighting, and a menu offering Italian classics. When I wander down one evening to enjoy live music, a glass of Malbec, and a comforting bowl of tomato pasta, it almost feels as though I’ve left the resort, without actually having to.

Getting to The Royal Sonesta Kauaʻi Resort

Photo: Rebecca Jackson

If my time at The Royal Sonesta wasn’t relaxing enough, getting to and from the hotel couldn’t be easier. It’s just two miles from Kaua‘i’s Līhu‘e Airport (LIH), and a quick hop on the complimentary shuttle delivers you straight to the door.