I’ve stayed at a lot of resorts across Hawaii. Some are beautiful, some are luxurious, some have incredible beaches…

But this one? This one is impressive. 

Those views over Hanalei Bay…they’re the kind that don’t even look real. Deep green mountains, dramatic cliffs, and this perfect crescent of beach stretching across the north shore of Kauai.

And honestly, I don’t think anything else in Hawaii comes close.

I stayed here back when it was the St. Regis, and even then I thought it had the best location in all of Hawaii. Now that it’s been fully reimagined as 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay? It’s gotten even better.

Staying at the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay sits on Kauai’s north shore in Princeville, perched high above Hanalei Bay. The setting is dramatic…like, “there are hardly words” dramatic.

The property has been a handful of different resorts over the years (most recently a St. Regis), but after a full renovation and rebrand, it’s now part of the 1 Hotels collection…known for eco-conscious luxury and nature-inspired design.

The resort is built into the hillside, so almost everywhere you go…lobby, pool, restaurants, rooms…you’re facing out toward Hanalei Bay and the surrounding mountains.

This part of Kauai is also very different from the south shore. It’s gr eener, more lush, more raw. It rains more, but that’s what gives it that almost cinematic landscape.

The hotel is known for its views (obviously), its design-forward approach, and its more relaxed, wellness-focused luxury vibe.

Things I Love About 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

1. The Views Are Actually Unreal

I know I’ve already said it, but this is the reason you come here.

Everywhere you turn…there it is. Hanalei Bay. The mountains. The clouds rolling through the valleys.

It’s not just a “nice view.” It’s the kind of view that changes throughout the day. Morning feels calm and misty, midday is bright and vibrant, and sunset hits everything with this golden glow.

It’s a place you just…sit and stare…a lot. 

2. The Renovation Is Really Well Done

The transition from the old St. Regis to 1 Hotel could have gone a lot of ways…but they absolutely nailed it.

The whole property feels refreshed, intentional, and cohesive. Natural textures, wood, stone, neutral tones…it’s very “1 Hotel,” but it works beautifully here.

It feels luxurious, but not in a stiff or overly polished way. More like: high-end, but relaxed.

Which honestly fits Kauai perfectly.

3. It Feels Like Kauai (In the Best Way)

Kauai has a very specific energy.

It’s quieter. Slower. More connected to nature.

And this hotel leans into that.

There’s no loud party scene, no over-the-top flashiness. It’s calm, grounded, and kind of restorative. You feel like you’re supposed to slow down here…and it actually works.

4. The Rooms Are Genuinely Impressive

I was really impressed with the rooms…especially for entry-level categories.

They feel spacious, thoughtfully designed, and actually comfortable to spend time in. Not just a place to sleep, but somewhere you want to come back to and relax.

One of my favorite small details? The water spout in the bathroom for refilling bottles. It’s such a simple thing, but it fits the whole eco-conscious vibe and is actually super convenient.

Overall, it felt like one of the nicest standard rooms I’ve stayed in at this price point in Hawaii.

5. Easy Access to Hideaways Beach

This is one of those features that not everyone talks about…but I loved it.

The trail down to Hideaways Beach (a must if you’re on the north shore) is just past the guard shack at 1 Hotel which is super convenient since there’s VERY limited parking here. 

It’s a bit of a trek (steep in parts), but it’s worth it.

It feels a little adventurous, a little off-the-beaten-path…and the beach itself is beautiful and less crowded than others nearby.

6. Views Everywhere (Not Just From Your Room)

Some hotels save the best views for certain room categories.

Here? You get it almost everywhere.

The lobby, the restaurants, the pool areas…it all opens out toward the bay. So even if you don’t splurge on the top-tier oceanfront room, you’re still constantly surrounded by that scenery.

Things That Could Be Better

1. The Design Feels Slightly “Global” Instead of Hawaiian

This is probably my biggest (and really only major) critique.

The design is beautiful…no question. But it leans into that global 1 Hotel aesthetic that could easily exist in Bali or Tulum or…anywhere.

I kind of wish it felt a bit more distinctly Hawaiian.

When you’re in a place as unique as Kauai, there’s an opportunity to really reflect that local identity…and while the hotel nods to nature, it doesn’t fully lean into Hawaiian culture or design in a deep way.

2. It’s Expensive (No Way Around It)

This is a premium property, and the pricing reflects that.

Rooms, dining, everything…it adds up quickly.

For what you’re paying, expectations are naturally high. And while the hotel delivers in many ways, it’s still something to consider depending on your budget.

3. North Shore Weather Can Be Unpredictable

This isn’t really the hotel’s fault…but it’s worth mentioning.

The north shore of Kauai gets more rain than other parts of the island. That’s what makes it so lush and beautiful, but it also means you might not get perfect sunshine every day.

Personally, I think the moody weather adds to the experience, but if you’re chasing guaranteed sun, it’s something to keep in mind.

4. It’s a Bit Removed From Everything

Princeville is stunning…but it’s not super central.

If you want to explore other parts of the island, you’ll be doing some driving. There aren’t tons of restaurants or activities immediately outside the resort area compared to somewhere like Poipu.

That said, if your goal is to stay put and soak it all in, this isn’t really a downside.

Overall

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is one of those places that feels almost unreal.

The setting alone puts it in a category of its own. And when you combine that with thoughtful design, comfortable rooms, and a relaxed luxury vibe…it becomes something really special.

You should stay here if:

• You want the most jaw-dropping views in Hawaii 
• You love nature, mountains, and a more lush, dramatic landscape 
• You’re looking for laid-back luxury that doesn’t feel stuffy 
• You want a place that feels calm, restorative, and a little bit removed 
• You value design, comfort, and overall atmosphere
  
  

You might consider staying elsewhere if:

• You want a more distinctly “Hawaiian” design and cultural feel 
• You’re trying to stay within a tighter budget 
• You prefer guaranteed sunshine and drier weather 
• You want to be closer to a wider range of off-property activities
  
  

For me, this is one of those rare places that actually lives up to the hype.

The views alone would be enough. But the fact that the hotel experience matches that setting?

That’s what makes it unforgettable. And honestly… I still think it’s the best location for a resort in all of Hawaii.

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