Returning to Kaua‘i’s South Shore for Wellness, Nature & Hawaiian Culture

One of the highlights of my stay was a traditional Hawaiian lomilomi massage at the Anara Spa.

The treatment spaces are open-air garden sanctuaries surrounded by warm timber, tropical greenery and birdsong. A lomilomi massage technique uses long, flowing strokes inspired by the rhythm of the ocean, helping to release tension, restore balance and encourage deep relaxation. As I lay there listening to leaves rustling overhead, I realised this wasn’t wellness separated from nature - nature was the wellness experience.

It was the most blissful way to begin my trip, and next time I’ll spend more time at the Anara Spa facilities - there’s also cold plunges, steam rooms, a lap pool and wellness classes.

What has always made Hawaii so special to me, though, is the Hawaiian culture itself. The pride in heritage is everywhere - woven through the people you meet, the words you learn, the ceremonies, the food, the stories and the experiences. It never feels performative. It feels alive and a genuine privilege to experience and learn.

Even at the resort, that cultural connection was tangible. The lovely Hawaiian woman who welcomed me into the spa and guided me through the experience had worked with Hyatt Hawai‘i for more than 30 years. Spending time chatting with her felt like a warm hug. There’s a groundedness in Hawai‘i that stays with you.

And then there’s the ocean.

I am completely obsessed with marine life. Happiest in, on or under the water. The endangered Hawaiian monk seals and honu - Hawaiian green sea turtles - have always held a very special place in my heart.

On my first morning, I headed down to a local beach for a swim. Looking into the distance, I noticed what I thought was a large round rock on the beach.

As I walked a few more steps, I realised it was a beautiful sleeping Hawaiian monk seal. So, I stopped and just watched.

In Hawai‘i, monk seals sometimes come ashore to rest, with locals carefully protecting them using temporary markers and barriers so humans and wildlife can peacefully coexist. I was utterly captivated. I sat there for almost an hour simply watching a monk seal sleep.

I honestly thought that might be the highlight of my trip.

But later that day, I headed out snorkelling, secretly hoping to see a Honu. Instead, I found myself surrounded by schools of colourful reef fish, giant parrotfish and some of the clearest, warmest water imaginable.

Then, just before sunset, it finally happened.

I went for a quiet swim in the shallows at a local beach and, out of nowhere, three green sea turtles glided gracefully into the water around me. What a surprise. One moment I was floating alone, watching the colours of the sky soften as the sun dipped towards the horizon; the next, I was sharing the ocean with these gentle, ancient creatures. For a few magical minutes, time seemed to stand still as they drifted effortlessly through the clear water.

And maybe that’s what I love most about Kaua‘i. The island has a way of delivering these unexpected moments when you least expect them. It gently reminds you how to slow down, pay attention and be present. To breathe more deeply. To reconnect with nature, culture and yourself.