For our first trip to Kaua'i (after repeat visits to O'ahu and Maui over many years), I wanted to choose a hideaway cottage where we could feel the beauty and power of the island's nature with five senses. I was also looking for the comfort of high standard in which we would happily wake up to a fresh morning, enjoy the afternoon or relax and wrap up the evening.

If the above resonates well with you, you will probably not regret driving some extra miles after passing Hanalei, crossing a few one-lane bridges, to eventually find your lovely cottage #3 tucked away off the beaten path in Ha'ena. Certainly we did not. We truly enjoyed every moment of our stay there!

Here are some of the things we particularly loved about Cottage #3:

- Ideally tropical environment surrounded by palm trees, looking out to the ocean (the closest to the beach, of 5 cottages on the property)

- Beautiful coral beach steps away and visible from the living room (Almost-private, shared only with just a handful of neighbors)

- Snorkeling with turtles and fish right there!

- Breakfast on the wooden-deck lanai

- Oversized hammock in the garden

- Big bath tub (with a bonus ocean view)

- Nice balance of luxury and practicality, with well-appointed furniture plus everything you need for a comfortable stay

- The owner took good care of us via emails, while respecting our privacy during our entire stay

Just a few reminders:

- To eat out (except at the next-door Mediterranean), you need to drive 10 to 15 minutes to the next small town of Hanalei. We did not mind driving, and ate at a few fine restaurants there including BarAcuda and Dolphin's.

- On the North Shore of Kaua'i, expect some rain. We were very fortunate to have very little during the day, as it rained mostly at night.

- If shopping is on your To-Do List during your stay on the island, you may not complete your mission here.

For my wife and I, it was Paradise! We absolutely loved Cottage #3 and would recommend to others!