I had the most amazing 2 week stay at the surf cottage. This location is an absolute dream - so close to everything in town (you can rent a beach cruiser for $50/week - no need to drive). Minutes from all restaurants, shops, farmers market, a block and a half to the beach. After staying a little over a week in Princeville, it’s safe to say moving forward when I’m in Kauai I will always be staying in Hanalei because there is just so much more of a special feel to it!
The cottage is rustic yet has so much character. If you’re down for a more connected to nature stay this is it! I had a gecko friend in the house with me, the sound of rain on the tin roof, and birds was so lovely. Yes there’s roosters but you’re in Kauai! That’s a given - bring earplugs :) I had already spent my first 2 weeks on the island running around to see all the sites so the cottage was perfect for me to settle in and chill in the hammock on the porch in the rain with a book, surf, walk on the beach, and get a real feel for living like a Hanalei local. Plus you have mature fruit trees in the yard with you - papaya, oranges, and plantains (avocados in summer according to Micco).
The cottage has its quirks: the windows are just screens, no tv (but really who needs tv you’re in Kauai!), and the bed was a bit firm for my tastes, but really these things weren’t that big of an issue for me bc I just loved the feel of the home and that I had some outdoor space! Micco was the most gracious host and even gave me the cutest mug for Christmas during my stay!
I will definitely be back again sometime. The cottage has a little piece of my heart!