Hawaii: A little slice of (inexpensive) paradise on Kauai

Kauai is one the most beautiful places on Earth — it’s not for nothing it’s called the Garden Isle —but it can be pricey. So how about a 1,000-square-foot apartment overlooking the Wailua River gorge, not 10 minutes from the ocean, complete with full kitchen, separate living room and bedroom, laundry facilities, and even a gorgeously landscaped swimming pool? And how about paying $110 to $130 a night?

Bruce and Rose Horka have created a luxurious vacation retreat called Opaekaa Falls Hale in the middle of what appears to be a normal suburban neighborhood. It’s not until you venture into the backyard that you see the two apartment units (The upper Royal Palms Suite is the more expensive; the lower Queen Emma, where we stayed, is quite nice.)

Despite the quiet, secluded nature of the place, the location couldn’t be more convenient. It’s in the hills between Lihue and Kapaa, not more than 20 minutes from the airport and less than 10 minutes from the belt road that circles Kauai. From here, you’re never more than an hour from almost any place on the island. On the other hand, who would blame you if you never left?

Info: Opaekaa Falls Hale, (888) 822-9956