5-7975 KUHIO HWY

Kauai is gifted with some of the world’s most captivating island scenes—from sandy white beaches and rich green flora, to grand mountains and warm turquoise waters. Travel along the island’s coveted North Shore, and near the end of the road you’ll find a cluster of its most splendid natural sites.

Nestled in its midst is a traditional Hawaiian beach home—a peaceful two-bedroom retreat set amid a free-flowing island landscape. Neatly designed in wood and glass, the home channels the easygoing charm of Old Hawaii. It’s colorful and sunlit, with plenty of windows and fresh-air spaces.

A generous lanai is at the core of the house. It’s the perfect spot to ponder this otherworldly panorama of ocean, coastline and mountains by day—then witness color-drenched sunsets and starlit skies at night. Meanwhile, the home’s interior is efficient, with rooms oriented to the views: The living room is a bright, airy space with wood beams along its raised ceiling; adjacent to an exposed upper level that houses an open-plan kitchen and dining area. The real treasure of the home though, is its altitude. It’s positioned high enough to offer bird’s-eye views of the surrounding environment, while remaining close enough to the ocean for impromptu swims, just steps away.

Privacy abounds at this property, particularly along the deck at the rear of the house, which instantly transplants you to a poetic mountain setting. For the home is set beneath the pointy peaks of the famous Mount Makana (Bali Hai), and rests atop an ancient rock garden.

While the property spans about two acres, including a home that’s approximately 1,500 square feet, it lives well beyond its borders. Natural treasures surround the place, and the number of fresh-air activities seem boundless—from surfing and snorkeling to hiking, swimming with dolphins and outrigger canoe paddling. And when you feel like heading to town, the mellow surf village of Hanalei is about 15 minutes by car.