Best Place to Stay in Kauai, Hawaii: Introduction
Welcome to your ultimate guide for finding the best place to stay in Kauai Hawaii. Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai is full of lush landscapes and stunning beaches. It also has a warm aloha spirit that welcomes everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventure, or a family vacation, your choice of accommodation matters. Kauai has everything from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options. This island offers a wide range of places to stay, fitting all budgets and preferences.
Discover how to make the most of your stay in this paradise. Explore the best neighborhoods, accommodations, and activities Kauai has to offer!
Key Takeaways
- Kauai offers diverse accommodation options across various budgets and preferences.
- The North Shore and South Shore provide unique experiences with stunning scenery and family-friendly beaches.
- Luxury resorts average over $600 a night, while budget hotels start around $200.
- Vacation rentals are often more affordable than resorts, especially in areas like Kapaa.
- Travel costs are typically lower during specific seasons, such as mid-April to early June and September to mid-December.
- Understanding seasonal weather can help in choosing the best time to visit and stay.
Best Areas to Stay in Kauai
Planning your trip to Kauai? Knowing the best places to stay can make your trip better. Each area has its own attractions and places to stay. You can find the perfect spot for your needs, from beautiful views to family-friendly resorts.
North Shore (Princeville & Hanalei) – Best for stunning scenery and luxury stays
The North Shore of Kauai is known for its stunning views and luxury hotels. Places like Princeville and Hanalei have upscale resorts and cozy hotels. It can get rainy, especially in winter.
Many people love Hanalei for its beautiful beaches. Booking early is smart, as prices can change a lot.
East Side (Kapaa & Wailua) – Ideal for convenience and affordability
The East Side is great for its easy access and affordable places to stay. It’s the most populated area, making it easy to find shops and restaurants. But, be careful of traffic, especially during rush hours.
Rain is common here, but it’s not as much as on the North Shore. This makes the area lush and green.
South Shore (Poipu & Koloa) – Perfect for beaches and family-friendly resorts
The South Shore is the sunniest part of Kauai, perfect for beach lovers and families. Poipu Beach is famous for its clear waters and snorkeling. It has many places to stay, from luxury resorts to budget hotels.
With attractions in Koloa and the Grand Hyatt Kauai, it’s great for relaxation and fun.
West Side (Waimea & Hanapepe) – Best for adventure and off-the-beaten-path experiences
The West Side is great for outdoor adventures. It’s less crowded, perfect for those who want to avoid the busy areas. Waimea Canyon offers amazing hiking and views.
It has fewer places to eat, but its warm weather and dry climate are great for active travelers.
| Area | Main Attractions | Hotels & Accommodations | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Shore | Hanalei Bay, Na Pali Coast | Luxury resorts, boutique hotels | Scenic views, romantic getaways |
| East Side | Kapaa, Wailua River | Affordable hotels, vacation rentals | Convenience, local culture |
| South Shore | Poipu Beach, Koloa historic town | Family-friendly resorts, condos | Beaches, family vacations |
| West Side | Waimea Canyon, Polihale Beach | Limited options, vacation rentals | Outdoor adventures, less crowded |
Best Hotels & Resorts in Kauai
Kauai has many places to stay, from fancy resorts to cozy hotels. You can find the perfect spot for your trip to Hawaii.
Luxury Resorts
Luxury resorts in Kauai offer top-notch service and beautiful views. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort is a great choice. It covers 50 acres and has a 150-foot waterslide.
Guests can relax in a 1.5-acre saltwater lagoon or at the huge Anara Spa. Prices start at $960 per night.
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is another top pick. It has 252 rooms and 51 suites. The Bamford Wellness Spa is huge, and the fitness center is big too. Prices start at $1,200 per night.
Mid-Range & Boutique Hotels
Mid-range and boutique hotels in Kauai offer charm and comfort. The Meritage Collection resort is close to Poipu Beach. It has 121 rooms and prices start at $494 per night.
Kiahuna Plantation hotel is known for its Hawaiian vibe and beach access. It’s a great place to relax and explore local culture.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
For those on a budget, Kauai has affordable options. The Kauai Shores Hotel in Kapa’a starts at $238 per night. It also offers bike rentals.
Vrbo vacation rentals are often cheaper than resorts. Airbnb in Waimea starts at $100 per night. These options are great for a budget-friendly trip to Kauai.
| Accommodation Type | Name | Location | Number of Rooms/Suites | Starting Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luxury Resort | Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort | Poipu | Over 1,000 | $960/night |
| Luxury Resort | 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay | Hanalei | 252 | $1,200/night |
| Boutique Hotel | Meritage Collection | Poipu Beach | 121 | $494/night |
| Mid-Range Hotel | Kiahuna Plantation | Kauai | Varies | From $399/night |
| Budget-Friendly Hotel | Kauai Shores Hotel | Kapa’a | Multiple | $238/night |
| Budget-Friendly Airbnb | N/A | Waimea | N/A | $100/night |
Best Vacation Rentals & Airbnbs in Kauai
Exploring Kauai is special when you stay in vacation rentals or Airbnbs. You can pick from many Kauai lodging options. This means you can find the perfect place for your trip. You might choose an oceanfront condo or a big family home.
Top vacation rentals in Kauai get a 4.92 out of 5 rating. Places like Kapaa and Koloa are very popular. For example, a condo in Koloa has a 4.92 rating from 108 reviews.
Many rentals are close to beaches, restaurants, and shops. This makes your trip better by letting you enjoy the island’s culture. You can find kitchens, air conditioning, and pools in different rentals.
Families love vacation rentals because they offer special amenities. Some rentals have beach gear and kids’ utensils. This makes it easier for families to have fun at the beach.
The best-rated property got a 5 out of 5 from 212 reviews. Many hosts are Superhosts, which means they provide great service. This shows that vacation rentals in Kauai are top-notch.
Choosing the right rental makes your trip to Kauai even better. You can pick from cozy cottages to fancy villas. This lets you make your stay fit your budget and what you like, creating a great Hawaiian memory.
Best Family-Friendly Places to Stay
Planning family vacations in Kauai means choosing the right place to stay. Family-friendly spots offer big rooms, fun amenities, and easy access to activities for kids.
Koloa Landing Resort is a top pick in Kauai. It’s on 25 acres in Poipu, South Shore. It has a great pool for all ages and big villas for families. Nearby, families can enjoy calm beaches with gentle waves.
The Sheraton Kauai Resort is another great choice. It’s by Kiahuna Beach and has ocean-view suites and pools. It also has daily activities like lei-making and an oceanfront luau on Mondays and Wednesdays.
The Waipouli Beach Resort offers a big beachfront experience. It has vacation rental amenities like kitchenettes. This helps families save money by cooking their own meals.
Look for places to stay close to fun spots like Anini Beach and Kealia Beach. These beaches are safe and have small waves. They’re perfect for making memories in Kauai’s beauty.
Best Romantic Getaways in Kauai
Kauai is known as the “Garden Isle” for its stunning landscapes. It’s a top pick for romantic stays and honeymoons. The island’s greenery, beaches, and calm make it perfect for couples.
The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa has a huge saltwater lagoon and sandy beach. Couples can enjoy a private spa at Anara Spa. The resort also has a water slide and lazy river for everyone.
The Ko’a Kea Resort is a charming boutique option. It’s one of the most romantic hotels in the world. Its rooms are modern and offer stunning ocean views.
Airbnb has cozy options for a unique stay. Vintage cottages near Polihale State Park offer a private hideaway. It’s great for honeymooners who love nature.
Visitors should spend at least five days to enjoy Kauai fully. May, August, September, and October are the best months. Summer days are warm, while winter is cooler.
The South Shore is a favorite for its sunny weather and resorts. It’s perfect for unforgettable honeymoons in Kauai.
| Accommodation | Location | Features | Average Price per Night |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Hyatt Kauai | South Shore | Saltwater lagoon, spa services, activities for couples | $300 – $600+ |
| Ko’a Kea Resort | Poipu | Romantic amenities, ocean views, intimate setting | $300 – $600+ |
| 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay | North Shore | Sustainable spa, wellness classes, beautiful landscaping | $300 – $600+ |
| Vintage Cottages (Airbnb) | Polihale State Park | Private hideaway, close to nature | $100 – $250 |
Best Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Stays
Kauai has many eco-friendly places to stay. These places make your trip better and help the planet. For example, the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay saved 144.6 tons of materials by renovating. It also cut 73.8 tons of greenhouse gas emissions during its rebuild.
Green travel is becoming more popular. The 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay uses less energy, saving 20% a year. It also has lots of native plants and collects rainwater, saving a lot of water.
The Fairmont Kea Lani uses solar panels to power itself and nearby homes. It also has a program to clean up the beach. This lets guests help protect the beach while they stay.
Here is a table showing some eco-friendly places in Kauai:
| Hotel/Resort | Sustainable Features | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay | 144.6 tons materials saved, 70% native plants, 3.5 million gallons water saved | Hanalei |
| Fairmont Kea Lani | 2,000+ solar panels, 50+ environmental initiatives | Maui |
| Maui Eco Retreat | Solar panel energy, organic garden | Maui |
| Volcano Eco Retreat | Recycled rainwater, zero-waste goal | Hawaii Island |
| Four Seasons Resort Hualalai | Waste reduction, LED lighting | Kona |
| Westin Hapuna Beach Resort | Tree planting for carbon neutrality | Big Island |
These places in Kauai are leading the way in eco-friendly travel. They let you enjoy the beauty of Kauai while helping the planet. Choosing these options makes your trip more meaningful and green.
Best Camping & Glamping in Kauai
Kauai is great for camping and glamping. It’s perfect for those who love nature. You can choose from simple camping or luxury glamping.
Places like Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park are beautiful. They cost $25 to $35 per person. You get to use fire pits and hot showers.
Glamping offers a special experience. Tent cabins cost $85 for up to three people. Bungalows are $110 per night. Yurts are great for families, costing $150 to $180 a night.
The Kumu Camp in Anahola is special. It has a community feel. It offers coffee and different campsite options. Know the cancellation rules; refunds depend on how early you cancel.
| Accommodation Type | Rate per Night | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Camping Sites | $25 – $35 | Varies (tent, camper van, truck) |
| Tentalow | $85 | Max 3 |
| Bungalow | $110 | Max 3 |
| Yurt | $150 – $180 | Up to 6 (additional $15 each) |
| Hale Nui | $150 – $240 | Up to 10 (additional $15 each after 4) |
Camping or glamping in Kauai is unforgettable. It lets you connect with nature. You’ll find cozy places that fit your budget and style.
Seasonal Considerations: Best Time to Visit & Stay
Knowing when to visit Kauai is key for a great trip. The best times are April to June and August to October. You’ll find nice weather and less rain, perfect for outdoor fun.
Summer, from mid-June to mid-August, is the busiest time. It draws lots of visitors, raising prices for flights and hotels. For cheaper options, visit from mid-August to mid-December. This time offers deals and fewer people, except for Thanksgiving week.
Traveling during the holidays, like Christmas, means more people and higher costs. Winter, from January to March, is the best for seeing humpback whales in Kauai’s waters.
Choosing the right time affects your trip and where you stay. Book early, especially in busy seasons. For activities like hiking, get your permits early. Traveling during off-peak times can make your trip better, with fewer crowds and lower prices.
Plan to stay at least seven days in Kauai. Ten days is even better for exploring fully. Renting a car is smart, as public transport is limited. For families, booking a place with more rooms can save money and enjoy Kauai’s beauty.
Insider Tips for Choosing the Best Place to Stay
When looking for the best place to stay in Kauai, keep a few insider travel tips in mind. Think about what you want to do. If you love the sun and swimming, Poipu on the South Shore is perfect. It’s always sunny.
For amazing views, Hanalei Bay is a must-see. It’s on the North Shore.
Think about how close your place is to fun spots. The North Shore is peaceful with beautiful views. But, it rains a lot, over 500 inches.
The East Side, or Royal Coconut Coast, has affordable places. Prices are between $150 to $250 per night.
Reading reviews helps a lot. Look for comments on cleanliness, service, and what’s included. Booking sites often have deals to save money. Also, remember that prices change with the seasons.
- Consider your interests (beaches, hiking, amenities).
- Research proximity to attractions.
- Read reviews on various booking platforms.
- Look for seasonal deals and promotions.
Kauai has many places to stay, from fancy resorts to old cottages. With some research and these tips for finding the best lodging, you’ll have a great trip.
| Location | Activities | Average Price per Night |
|---|---|---|
| Poipu | Beach relaxation, golfing at Poipu Bay | $300 – $700 |
| North Shore | Outdoor adventures, Na Pali Coast tours | $200 – $500 |
| East Side (Royal Coconut Coast) | Historical sites, beaches | $150 – $250 |
| West Side | Hiking, Waimea Canyon | $200 – $400 |
Final Thoughts & Recommendations
Planning your trip to Kauai needs careful thought for a memorable time. Each area—North Shore, East Side, South Shore, and West Side—has its own special places to stay. For example, the North Shore has luxury resorts in Princeville for a fancy stay.
The East Side has more commercial spots, offering a lively vibe for dining and convenience. The South Shore is sunny and great for families, making it a favorite spot for many.
Exploring Kauai’s different areas is key to finding the right place to stay. Keep in mind the rain patterns, especially on the North Shore during the wet season. Booking early, especially during busy times, ensures you get the best spots.
Try to stay for at least four to five nights to fully enjoy Kauai’s nature and culture. With 43 miles of beaches and beautiful landscapes, Kauai offers a unique adventure. Choose accommodations that match your preferences for a better trip.
These tips will help you make unforgettable memories in Kauai. Whether you want a resort or a cozy rental, the right choice makes your trip better.
