A sweet slice of mid-century Hawaii in Hanalei

After searching online for an affordable rental in Hanalei, I was delighted when I found Aunty Lydia’s. It’s not upscale or posh, but it is a spotless, homey, roomy, and well-equipped place for a terrific stay in a convenient location. As someone who vacationed with my family in modest beach cottages on Cape Cod as a kid, the paneled walls and 50s-era ambiance evoked nostalgia. Who cares if some of the fixtures are a tiny bit worn in this misty, green, lush tropical paradise? My husband and I slept well in the back bedroom in the comfy king-size bed and didn’t bother with A/C, and since we travel with a white-noise app for the iPad, road noise/rooster serenade didn’t trouble us. (Note: LOTS of plugs to charge devices.) I loved lounging in the cute bamboo-and-palm-themed living room and gazing out the double windows at the lavish vegetation and amazing mountain views (we saw two waterfalls!). An easy stroll to the beach and just a bit further to town on Weke Road (or Kuhio Hway if you don’t mind no sidewalk). Our excursions included Limahuli Garden, Ke’e Beach, Mediterranean Gourmet, and Anini Beach. Just a relaxing and easy-going stay, with great service from the friendly and trusting management company. Would definitely re-book this welcoming family home if we ever return to Hanalei. 05/26/2016 at 11:33 PM