Though the red tile, pink stucco and wood beams of the lanai are reminiscent of the Mexican baja, the views of Molokai are unmistakably Kapalua. Our villa, located on a fairway lined with Cook pines and teeming with 23 various calling birds, this being an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, afforded eye-watering views that are distinctly Hawaiian.
The location is excellent. Favorites such as the Gazebo on Napili Bay, are the perfect walking distance from the villa. An early morning walk guaranteed we'd have the appetite necessary to enjoy the hearty local fare and determinedly awesome views. We found the pristine Kapalua Bay the ideal spot to sit a spell after breakfast and digest the scenery prior to the inevitable trek back up the rather steep hill. Staying here and walking everywhere (the Ritz, Fleming beach) provided a perfect resort style fitness challenge. If you find yourself unwilling to make the hikes around the resort, however, you can simply hail the Kapalua Shuttle van to deliver you perspiration-free to any destination.
On most days, following the final burst of energy required to hoof up the hill, we took great advantage of the small but glorious pool located adjacent to our building nestled into a cozy, private garden. Back at the villa, the cool, air conditioned interiors and pale tropical decor provided a welcome oasis from the heat and sun. Two separate entries dispense with any concerns of waking a napping companion. Two bathrooms, one with soaking tub and another with shower and washer/dryer eliminates any disagreement over who showers first. (The water pressure in the showers was waterfall intense, though the hot water supply a bit short-lived.)
The spacious bedroom with king bed and wall of glass doors opens broadly onto the lanai with views of Molokai, making it inviting any time of day but providing the ultimate quiet and comfort for star filled nights. Outfitted with working desk, two closets and TV/VCR, anyone could feel at home here even for a longer stay. Since you won’t sleep any better than you will here or awaken more refreshed to the filtered sunlight on the lanai it‘s likely you might want to stay longer than originally planned. Like forever.
In the fully equipped kitchen we found everything we needed to prepare light meals; microwave, blender, rice cooker, coffeemaker, utensils and dishes. Phoning home was easy as local calls are free, including internet access if your provider has a local number. We appreciated the folding chairs and ice cooler we found in the large utility closet, items we used for sunset viewing rituals.
Best of all, though we noticed plenty of cars in the designated spaces and occasionally shared the pool with other guests, we never saw or heard a soul once inside our villa or while sitting on the lanai. With absolutely no complaints and nothing lacking, we deemed the villa a perfect way to manage the rigors of paradise.