Sunset’s Insider Guide series highlights seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts. Follow along as we learn where to eat, drink, stay, and shop.
Photo by Emily Helen
Meet the Insider: Ivory Kealani Lloyd, Director of Events & Brand, Common Ground Kauai
Location: North Shore, Kauai
It’s hard to imagine a place more picturesque than the North Shore of Kauai. And the absolute embodiment of that utopic setting is Common Ground Kauai, a regenerative farm and food experience that is a stunning example of agroforestry. Kauai local Ivory Kealani Lloyd is not only a passionate advocate for the environment in the programming she builds for Common Ground but also a skilled lei maker, longboarder, and devoted mother of two. Here, she shares her favorite spots along Kauai’s North Shore.
STAY
@aliciagreenwellphotography
Whenever I find gems like The Surfshack, I recommend them to everyone who comes to visit because it feels a bit like a home away from home. It’s a small condo in the heart of Princeville but with the best sunset view, bikeable to the shopping center, and just about ten minutes from Hanalei and Kilauea.
EAT
Fresh Bite Kauai
Fresh Bite in Hanalei is a family-owned and -operated food truck that uses all the freshest ingredients. Try the ‘ulu (Hawaiian breadfruit) or sweet potato fries. They’re the best. It’s perfect for a grab-and-go to the beach! My kids especially love this one, so it’s a win-win because it’s healthy, fresh, and delicious. For dinner, head to AMA Restaurant Hanalei. Not only is it situated with an incredible backdrop to Namolokama Mountain but it also has an open firepit, a beautiful atmosphere, and delicious ramen. There’s nothing better after an evening surf session.
DRINK
Courtesy of The Haven
The Haven is a bit of a hidden gem coffee shop in Wainiha—the very last chance until the end of the road on the North Shore. Opened by local young entrepreneur Emmalani Lloyd, she has created a community haven for locals and visitors.
DO
Common Ground
Common Ground Kauai is a destination focused on regenerative agriculture, set back from the Kilauea town area. There, you can visit the waterfalls at Stone Dam, walk through the property’s agroforest, or enjoy a hike along Wai Koa Loop Trail.
Afterward, learn how to make leis the local way, and eat a delicious meal that is sourced 100 percent from Hawaii. For local gifts, stop inside Nohona Kaua’i, a beautifully curated Pacific Island boutique that has a wide elevated array of Pacific artisans for the home.
