Kona Kai - Shelter Island Gem
Looking to kick your flip flops off and take a break — look no further than Kona Kai Resort! Sitting on the edge of Shelter Island, Kona Kai offers everything you might be looking for in a family vacation, anniversary trip, or just a quick getaway with the gals. From the onsite restaruant, large pool, private beach, and beautiful views of the bay - it may be hard to leave!
Written by Ashley Dunn
The Room
The first thing we noticed was the beautiful view. Facing the Marina, it was so fun to see folks out paddle boarding on the water and the luxurious Yachts and Sail boats taking off! We enjoyed a nice glass of wine on the balcony, a well needed break from a long week at work. If you can splurge for a room with a view, we highly recommend. However, there’s really not a bad view on the entire property - just walk out the front door and that’s all you need!
The room itself was very large - we had a king suite which also had a small sofa couch, perfect for a couple or even a couple and a small child. Of course there are several other options, if you’re looking to bring the whole family or just take a personal day.
The rooms are also recently renovated! Be sure to take a look for yourself,
Ashley’s Bathroom Corner
As some of you may know, my girlfriend loves to do a little bathroom review for each location we visit!
Beautiful - that’s all we have! She’s very picky on bath tubs, she worries about taking baths in “shared” spaces where others have done the same. However, she couldn’t resist — a beautiful jacuzzi tub where her entire body could fit comfortably. Add a glass of bubbles, happiest girl in the world (and it just happened to be her birthday, so it was wonderful to see her so happy!).
There was also a gorgeous walk in shower, where we actually took some notes on the design! (Take a peak at the video!)
Along with being very spacious and clean, one of the top rated on her list so far!
Dinner at Vessel
Vessel Restaurant + Bar is the onsite restaurant at Kona Kai. We were sat on the patio, where the views could make you forget you’re there for dinner. After a few glasses of wine and the cool breeze, we almost forgot to order food!
The inside of the restaurant was also recently remodeled - with a 360° bar at its center and video wall showcasing local landscapes, it’s a beautiful spot even if you’re not staying at the resort.
We didn’t think it could get any better, but the service and food was pretty magnificent. Here’s what we ordered:
Appetizer - Calamari Fritto
A classic appetizer we tend to order a lot! The Calamari was very crispy and served with celery hearts, grapes, and a chile-lime dipping sauce. The grapes were an interesting touch that we don’t normally see, not sure they paired too well, but the chile-lime dipping sauce was a great touch.
Dinner - Pork Chop & Flat Iron Steak Frites
For this dinner we both ordered meat - really can’t go wrong with both options!
I ordered the Pork Chop, which was paried with a mustard-parsley spaetzle, caramelized cipollini onions, and a sour cherry glaze.
It was cooked perfectly and the sour cherry glaze was wonderful - I spread it all over! I don’t often see spaetzle at most restaurants and it was a great switch up from a typical side dish.
My girlfriend ordered the Flat Iron Steak Frites, a true classic. It was paired with marble potatoes, baby heirloom tomatoes, red onion, scallions, and chimichurri. It was prepared perfectly, medium rare to be specific, and the chimichurri sauce is one of her favorites — she was a happy camper!
Things to Do
Kona Kai has some great on site options to fill up your day! We enjoyed a Mai Tai pool side. The pool is right on the edge of the Marina, so if you feel like laying by the pool or on the sand, both are options!
The property itself is beautiful. We highly recommend a stroll around the grounds, along the beach, or even around Shelter Island. You can also rent beach cruisers, if you’d prefer a nice ride over a walk.
At night time they start up the fire pits, a few steps away from the water. If you have a sweat tooth or happened to bring your kids, visit the lobby to purchase s’mores kits (or bring your own ;) )
If you’re looking to explore a little more, Kona Kai is just around the corner from Point Loma - where you can visit the Liberty Public Market, filled with so many foody options! We went for a hike and enjoyed a quick little breakfast at the market, but Kona Kai also offers breakfast on site as well.
The San Diego Zoo is also just around the corner, giving the kids a chance to run around and let out all their energy!
Summary
Overall Review: 8.8/10
Kona Kai Resort is a wonderful location to get away. The rooms are newly renovated, with a lovely onsite restaurant and beautiful grounds.
Room Review: 9/10
The room had a great view and was very large. They have several options for groups large and small. We highly recommend a room with a view!
Ashley’s Bathroom Corner Review: 9.5/10
With an amazing jacuzzi tub and walk in shower, this bathroom was one of the best we’ve seen so far!
Restaurant Review 8/10
The restaurant was beautiful, with perfect views and a gorgeous 360° bar inside. Overall the menu could have had more diverse options, but what we ordered was very delicious.