River Estate

Nothing Better on the North Shore!

This visit marked my 8th year returning to River Estate (sometimes multiple times a year), and it just keeps getting better! Mark is a wonderful host and he thinks of everything you could need - if you don't see it, give him a call and he'll make it happen! Guest House was recently remodeled and it is worthy of a magazine spread - this is not a funky beach hut, but a sophisticated bungalow up in the trees that invites you to take off your slippahs Hawaiian style and make yourself at home. The setting is a secluded botanical garden alongside a bubbling stream with whispering bamboo a stones throw from some of the islands most beautiful beaches. This is truly island style living! Take advantage of the lovely kitchen and barbeque on the lanai to prepare a meal or two! Super private without feeling isolated, minutes from fabulous snorkeling beaches K'ee and Tunnels in one direction and the lovely Hanalei Town in the other direction. I have done a bit of traveling in my time and I have not stayed in a five star resort that can hold a candle to River Estate - this is experiencing Kauai the way it was meant to be experienced. If you have only stayed in hotels up to this point, you have a treat in store! River Estate is a gem and the value for the price can't be beat. I am returning in a few months and I can't wait!

Unique Quality: A home away from home...a beautiful house in the trees in what amounts to a botanical garden. Close to some of the best beaches on Kauai as well as to Hanalei for shopping and good eats! Private and peaceful, prepare yourself to unwind to the sound of the breeze in the bamboo, the soothing sounds of the river, and the birds in the trees. Don't miss barbequing on the lanai! Owner Mark Barbanell has thought of everything you could need to make your stay on the north shore perfect...if you don't see it, give him a call and he'll make it happen.

• Opinion of Price: less expensive than average
• Related to: Family Travel, Beaches, Romantic Travel and Honeymoons
• Written January 22, 2012

River Estate Photo: A beautiful setting, river is on the left.

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