It's little wonder that, with its frothy waves and tropical scenery, Kaua'i has starred as the backdrop for many a Hollywood blockbuster, as well as a favourite amongst stars including Jessica Alba. Here's how to eat, drink and surf your way around Hawaii's most captivating isle…
STAY
Looking out across Makana Mountain, the St Regis Princeville Resort is perfectly placed on Kaua'i's north shore. The furnishings are solid and sumptuous, with lashings of marble and walls painted in tonal colours. Beside the pool, towering palms dance in the breeze as families laze beneath circus-hued umbrellas. You can expect a world-class gold club and outstanding service. It's worth crossing oceans for.
INDULGE
For a dose of post-surf Zen, make for the Halele'a [House of Joy] Spa at the St Regis Princeville Resort. Taking cues from age-old Hawaiian healing rituals, treatments include restorative algae wraps, cardamom-scented body scrubs and lomi lomi massages. Try the Makana Renewal Ritual, which is a dream for sun-parched skin. It begins with a pumice and guarana body polish and ends with a tension-melting massage.
EXPLORE
If you're a watersports fan, take advantage of the tremendous waves that dominate Pine Trees or seek out calmer waters, ideal for paddleboarding, at Hanalei Bay. To appreciate the island's rugged beauty, the walking tracks are a good place to start. Zigzag along the lush Nāpali Coast on the Kalalau Trail, stopping to bathe in crystalline streams and waterfalls.
TASTE
For a laid-back lunch, Makai Sushi hits the spot. Although the setting is nothing to speak of, the menu makes up for it; share a plate of hapa rolls before moving on to the main event – a flavour-packed gorilla ahi bowl. Supper-wise, Red Salt is fantastic and the Hanalei Bread Company does great cold-pressed coffee.
WHAT TO WEAR
Mozambique binding bikini, £160, Heidi Klein; visit heidiklein.com
Instant Detox Mask, £33, Bobbi Brown; visit bobbibrown.co.uk
Figure Salome pompom sandals, £210, from matchesfashion.com