North Shore Kauai Home: Saltwater Ohana

Guys, I found the spot.

You know the feeling when you’re on vacation, after about day 5 you start feeling the itch for the need of “home?”

Make a home cooked meal.

Have some space from strangers.

Not share one bathroom with 6 people.

Not wear wrinkled clothes from your suitcase.

Do some laundry.

And ultimately, to not feel like a tourist.

Well, I found the key to not feeling like a tourist in one of the world’s most visited-destinations: Saltwater Ohana. We stayed in this gorgeous 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom nestled in the quiet estate of Princeville for a week & we all agreed it felt like home. Although to be quite honest, this was an upgrade. I think we might honestly be homesick for Saltwater Ohana when we land back in California. ;)

With ocean views on your right and mountain views on your left (and a pool and hot tub) - I’m going to warn you that you’ll be tempted to not leave the property even though you’re on one of the most beautiful Hawaiian islands.

The sun was going down as we made a tri-tip home cooked meal our first night with Hawaiian meat found at the local gas station (yup - got that tip from one of my foodie friends) and made Pina Coladas with the local farmers market pineapples (best we’ve ever had). Saltwater Ohana has all the kitchen tools, appliances & utensils you’ll need to create any local fare recipe you’re interested in trying. Go wild.

With just a short, scenic 10 minute drive into downtown Hanalei, you have access to all the local shops & restaurants (get the Churro French Toast at Wake Up Delicious is out of this world). But a heads up, maybe wait on the decadent breakfast until AFTER you surf Hanalei Bay — don’t make the same mistake as me ;) ).

This trip was half work/half play for us, so having a quiet and relaxing spot to unwind and chill out our sore muscles and sun burns was such a treat. Taking a dip in the hot tub, relaxing in the Lanai and having an extremely comfortable bed is the best way to gear up for another day ahead.

Ultimately, Saltwater Ohana was exactly what was needed for us. We both love feeling like we’re immersing ourselves in the community rather than standing out as tourists, so this hidden getaway was perfect for escaping the masses and truly relax. 10/10 recommend for anyone traveling to Kauai and wanting a home-away-from-home feel. 🌺 Ditch the homesick-itch and book this home here before it fills up! You won’t regret it.

You can follow Saltwater Ohana on Instagram here and book your stay here !

Cheers,

Christy

Tips:

Some favorite local restaurants & pop-ups we loved:

Wake Up Delicious (Churro French Toast)

Pinks Creamery (Kona Mud Pie + Cookies & Crème on a Waffle Cone)

Wishing Well (açaí & shave ice)

Hanalei Bay Pizza (Pesto Pizza)

Kalypso’s (Mac-Nut Pesto Pasta - the mud pie also looked divine)

Chicken In A Barrel (Loaded fries & other BBQ)

Foodland (cheaper groceries)

Nourish Hanaeli (just go for the view)

Farmers Market (Saturdays - get fresh fruit & a coconut!)

Holey Grail (wild donuts)

Favorite Activities:

Surfing in Hanalei Bay

Hiking Na Pali Coast - hike to Hanakupai Falls (need reservations)

Adventurous boat ride excursion with Na Pali Pirates

Saturday morning Farmers Market

Drive up and hike Waimea Canyon