St. Regis Princeville

Description:

• This jewel in the Sheraton crown, a palace full of marble and chandeliers is scheduled to undergo massive interior renovation in 2008, then reopen in January 2009 as a St. Regis property (with new pool and a spa on property). No matter how fabulous they make the interior (and St. Regis properties are always superb), the location still enjoys one of the world's finest settings, between Hanalei Bay and Kauai's steepled mountains. Nearby are outstanding surfing and windsurfing areas, as well as a wonderful reef for snorkeling. The panoramic view from the lobby has to be the most dramatic vista from any hotel in the state.

  The footprint of the building will remain the same: stepping down a cliff, with the entrance on the 9th floor, and you take elevators down to your room and the beach. Each opulent room has such extras as a door chime, dimmer switches, bedside control panels, a safe, original oil paintings, an oversize bathtub, and a "magic" bathroom window: a liquid-crystal shower window that you can switch in an instant from clear to opaque. There are no lanais, but oversize windows allow you to admire the awesome view from your bed.

  In addition to a great children's program, this property has oodles of activities not only for children but for the entire family, from horseback riding to adventures exploring the island. The hotel grounds are a fantasy land for children (and some adults) with a huge swimming pool next to a sandy beach.

  Other great amenities here: twice-daily fresh towels, daily newspaper, complimentary resort shuttle, comprehensive Hawaiiana program, riding stables, in-house cinema, arts program (from photography to painting), and a wealth of outdoor activities. Golfers may choose from two courses, both designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr.; and until the on-property spa is complete in 2009, guests may use the spa in the Golf Club House, with whirlpools, steam baths, 115-foot lap pool, and multitude of treatments.

  Call for current details; they may reduce some rates during certain periods of construction, and rates may increase when property is rebranded a St. Regis in 2009.

  Facilities: 3 restaurants (1 w/excellent nightly entertainment) ; 3 bars; huge oceanside outdoor pool; outstanding golf on 2 courses; 25 tennis courts; first-rate health club and spa; 3 outdoor Jacuzzis (including a really palatial one); watersports equipment rentals; bike rental; children's program; concierge; activities desk; car-rental desk; business center; shopping arcade; salon; 24-hr. room service; massage; babysitting; 24-hr. return laundry/dry cleaning

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Travel + Leisure 500

•  Best Hotel 2008
•  Best Hotel 2009

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010

Other features:

Tennis court.