Exploring Kauai: Hawaii's Garden Island is Pure Paradise

By EliteLYFE CEO Niko Contardi - Aloha everybody!

I just got back to L.A. after spending the weekend in Hawaii and I have to admit, I completely fell in love with the place. It’s not just the fact that the islands boast some of the most idyllic natural beauty in the world, there’s an overwhelming sense of happiness among the people which is infectious. Literally, everyone I met was smiling.

I had the opportunity to travel to Hawaii’s “Garden Island”, Kauai, which is widely regarded as one of the most unique and beautiful paradises in the world. After spending a few days there, I wholeheartedly agree.

The tropical climate is great all year round, even in winter, and the scenery is absolutely stunning. The landscape ranges from mountains, beaches, rainforests, canyons, caves, and waterfalls. It has everything. Truly magical!

As the CEO of EliteLYFE, a part of my job is personally vetting all the products and services we offer. Yes, I was traveling for work purposes, but who says you’re not allowed to enjoy your work?

I went to Kauai to make sure the villas and resorts we represent at EliteLYFE were up to the standards demanded by our discerning clientele. I was not disappointed. The place is beautiful and the facilities were without a doubt at the height of contemporary luxury.

Flying into Hawaii was a lot easier than I originally anticipated. The islands in the middle of the Pacific Ocean may seem like they are a million miles away from civilization but, in reality, it was a simple flight which only took around five-and-a-half hours from LAX.

I flew directly into Lihue airport in Kauai, so no need for transfers. We then took a 40-minute drive to Princeville/Kilauea on the gorgeous north coast, where the majority of our villas and resorts are located.

My first impressions of Kauai? Mind-blowing. I’ve traveled to some of the most exclusive destinations in the world, including the majority of the Caribbean islands, but Hawaii was clearly something special.

The island’s nature is as abundant as it can get. The mountains are tall and awe-inspiring (the highest peak, Kawaikini, is 5,243 feet above sea level) while the beaches are bare-naked and beautiful, featuring golden sands and a vibrant turquoise ocean.

As my guide said, “this is the golden corridor of Hawaii”…

I visited four luxury villas on my trip to Kauai and I have to admit, I was not disappointed in the slightest. The locations were as stunning as the photos had promised and the quality of the interior finishes were exquisite. These villas perfectly balanced the desire for a modern living space with that laid-back Hawaiian vibe.

Sea Song at Kahili Bay - EliteLYFE

Anini Beach House - EliteLYFE

Anini Vista Estate - EliteLYFE

Secret Cove - EliteLYFE

These vacation rental homes are elegant and sophisticated yet warm and welcoming.

What a dream to wake up to this ocean view!

As part of my trip to Kauai, I also had the opportunity to check out the suites and amenities on offer in the Princeville Resort. This lovely retreat also met the high standards of EliteLYFE’s customers and is definitely going to be added to our collection of luxury resorts.

The facilities in the Princeville Resort are second to none. We had a round of golf, spent time at the beach, and lounged by the pool. Personally, lunch on this terrace was one of the highlights of my day. Unbelievable views!

I returned to L.A. with a smile on my face. Kauai promised to be a special destination and it did not disappoint in the slightest. My only regret is that I had to leave…

If you would like to take a look at the villas I vetted while over in Hawaii, the listings are now live on the EliteLYFE website. If you’re interested in taking a vacation in Kauai, feel free to contact me. I’d be happy to give you tips and recommendations!