Where to stay on Kauai 🏖: Best Place to Stay in Kauai & Hotels

Updated on July 6, 2024
by Alex Miller

Whether you’re seeking luxury resorts, charming vacation rentals, or budget-friendly options, Kauai has it all. Here are some of the key regions: North Shore, South Shore, East Shore and West Shore.

Each area has its own unique character, attractions, and accommodations. In this article, I’ll dive into the details of each region, sharing my top recommendations on where to stay, what to see, and where to eat and drink. I’ll also sprinkle in some helpful tips throughout to help you make the most of your visit to Kauai.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels and Beach Resort:

Quick Guide to the Best Place to Stay on Kauai:

  • 👀 For the First Time: Kauai North Shore
  • 🏡 For Culture & Shopping: Kauai South Shore
  • 👪 For Families: Kauai East Shore
  • 🍃 For Nature Lovers & Adventures: Kauai West Shore

1. Kauai North Shore: Best for First-Time Visitors and Beach Lovers 🏖️

This part of the island is known for its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and charming small towns. Let me take you through some of the highlights of this beautiful region.

Princeville: Golfing With The Beautiful Views And Landscapes of Hawaii

🌿 Scenic Beauty: Princeville is a gem on the North Shore, offering breathtaking views and lush landscapes. The area is perched on a cliff, providing panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great spot for those who love nature and outdoor activities.

🏌️ Golfing Paradise: If you’re into golfing, Princeville is home to some of the best golf courses on the island. The Makai Golf Club offers stunning ocean views and challenging holes. It’s a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.

🌊 Outdoor Activities: Princeville is also a gateway to some fantastic outdoor adventures. From here, you can easily access the NaPali Coast, known for its dramatic cliffs and hiking trails. Hanalei Bay is just a short drive away, offering excellent opportunities for surfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking.

Hanalei: One Of The Best Place With Best Beaches

🏄 Charming Town: Hanalei is a small town with a big heart. It’s got that laid-back, small-town vibe that makes you feel right at home. The town is nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains, and the Hanalei River runs through it, adding to its charm.

🏖️ Beautiful Beaches: Hanalei Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The crescent-shaped bay is perfect for swimming, surfing, and just lounging on the sand. The beach is also a great spot to watch the sunset.

Hanalei, Kauai
Hanalei, Kauai
Hanalei, Kauai
Hanalei, Kauai
Hanalei, Kauai
Hanalei, Kauai
Hanalei, Kauai
Hanalei, Kauai
Hanalei, Kauai
Hanalei, Kauai

🍴 Local Eats: Hanalei is home to some fantastic local restaurants and shops. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • Hanalei Bread Company: Great for breakfast and coffee.
  • Tahiti Nui: A local favorite for Hawaiian food and live music.
  • Bar Acuda: A tapas bar with a cozy atmosphere and delicious small plates.

Insider Tip: For a unique experience, visit the Hanalei Farmers Market on Saturdays. It’s a great place to sample local produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food.

Must-See Attractions

The North Shore is packed with must-see attractions that will make your trip unforgettable. Here are a few you shouldn’t miss:

  • NaPali Coast: Whether you hike it, kayak it, or take a boat tour, the NaPali Coast is a must-see. The dramatic cliffs and lush valleys are simply breathtaking.
  • Queen’s Bath: A natural tide pool located in Princeville. It’s a bit of a hike to get there, but the views and the experience are worth it.
  • Limahuli Garden and Preserve: A beautiful botanical garden that showcases native Hawaiian plants and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.

Top Tip: The North Shore can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid the crowds, visit popular spots early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Where to Stay On The North Shore Kauai:

✨ Best Luxury Hotels

  • 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay – This stunning 5-star resort along Kauai’s Napali Coast is simply spectacular. The views and sounds of the ocean are the perfect backdrop for a deeply relaxing stay. The location is unbeatable – easily the most beautiful on the island. Fantastic beach, snorkeling, food options, and the staff goes above and beyond to make you feel welcome and pampered.
  • Timbers Kauai Ocean Club & Residences – Beautiful oceanfront location with exceptional facilities. The suites and villas are spacious and luxurious, with floor-to-ceiling windows, stone flooring, large balconies and full kitchens. It feels private and secluded while still providing easy access to beaches and attractions.

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels

  • Hanalei Bay Resort – Gorgeous resort with incredible views of Hanalei Bay and the mountains. The condos are comfortable and well-equipped. Great amenities like tennis courts, golf, and a nice pool area. The beach shared with the 5-star 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is stunning.
  • The Cliffs at Princeville – Lovely property on the cliffs overlooking the ocean. Lush tropical grounds and several pools to relax by. The condos have full kitchens and are spacious, perfect for families. Very peaceful location.

🛏️ Best Budget Hotels:

  • The Kauai Inn – Charming plantation-style inn with an old Hawaii feel. Rooms are clean and comfortable. Friendly staff, nice pool, and they provide lots of amenities like beach gear. Great location next to the beach and close to Lihue.
  • Hanalei Colony Resort – Relaxed, low-key resort with unobstructed views of the ocean. The two-bedroom suites are huge with full kitchens. No TVs or phones which is great to really unplug. The beach is just steps away and it’s very quiet and uncrowded.
  • Kauai Shores Hotel – Bright, cheerful hotel right on the beach. Rooms are basic but very clean with a fridge and coffee maker. Pretty courtyard with two pools. Convenient location in Kapaa near restaurants and shops. Excellent value for the price.

2. Kauai South Shore: The Liveliest Part Of The Kauai Island 🏙️

If you’re looking for sunny skies and postcard-perfect beaches, the South Shore of Kauai is the place to be. We absolutely love this part of the island for its warm weather, stunning coastline, and abundance of activities.

Poipu: The Best Side Of The South Shore

🏖️ Beach Bliss: This area boasts some of the best beaches on the island, including the ever-popular Poipu Beach Park. The beach here is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun. It’s also a great spot for families, with a natural wading pool perfect for little ones.

🍽️ Dining Delights: But there’s more to Poipu than just the beach. This area is also home to some fantastic restaurants and shops. A few of our top picks:

  • Eating House 1849 by Roy Yamaguchi: Innovative Hawaiian fusion cuisine in a beautiful setting
  • Brennecke’s Beach Broiler: Casual beachfront dining with killer mai tais
  • Poipu Shopping Village: Cute boutiques, art galleries, and gift shops

🌊 Insider Tip: For a unique experience, check out the Makawehi Lithified Cliffs near Poipu Beach. These ancient limestone formations are covered in sea fossils and are a sight to behold.

Koloa: The Most Beautiful Historical Part Of The Island

🏡 Historic Charm: Just a short drive from Poipu, Koloa is a charming historic plantation town that’s worth a visit. This was once the site of Hawaii’s first sugar mill, and the town has managed to retain its old-fashioned charm.

🛍️ Shop Local: One of our favorite things to do in Koloa is browse the local shops and galleries. You’ll find everything from handmade soaps to locally-grown coffee. Don’t miss the Koloa Farmers Market on Mondays at noon – it’s a great place to stock up on fresh produce and locally-made goodies.

Koloa, Kauai
Koloa, Kauai
Koloa, Kauai
Koloa, Kauai
Koloa, Kauai
Koloa, Kauai
Koloa, Kauai
Koloa, Kauai

🚗 Top Attractions: From Koloa, it’s an easy drive to some of the South Shore’s other top attractions, like the famous Spouting Horn blowhole and the National Tropical Botanical Garden.

💡 Money Saver: Many of the beaches on the South Shore have free parking, so you can save your dollars for shave ice and souvenirs.

Whether you base yourself in sunny Poipu or charming Koloa, you really can’t go wrong on the South Shore. With its perfect weather, gorgeous beaches, and laid-back vibe, this part of Kauai is what Hawaiian dreams are made of.

Must-See Attractions

The South Shore is packed with must-see attractions that will make your trip unforgettable. Here are a few you shouldn’t miss:

  • Poipu Beach Park: Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and family fun.
  • Spouting Horn: A natural blowhole that shoots water into the air, creating a spectacular sight.
  • Allerton Garden: Part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, this place is a paradise for plant lovers.

Top Tip: The South Shore can get busy, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid the crowds, visit popular spots early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Where to Stay On The South Shore Kauai:

✨ Best Luxury Hotels

  • Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa – You can’t beat the Grand Hyatt for 5-star accommodations and amenities on the South Shore. You will blow away by the sprawling pools, lazy river, and saltwater lagoon. Multiple dining options, a great spa, and attentive service made this an unforgettable stay.
  • The Lodge at Kukui’ula – This stunning property is the epitome of luxury on Kauai’s South Shore. The villas and bungalows are incredibly spacious and beautifully appointed. The pool area is spectacular and the staff provided top-notch service at every turn. It’s pricey but worth the splurge for a truly pampered experience.
  • Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort – This oceanfront boutique resort in Poipu is a real gem. It has a smaller, intimate feel but with 5-star touches throughout. Great modern, elegant decor of the rooms. The onsite restaurant Red Salt is fantastic. Perfect for a romantic, upscale getaway.

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels

  • Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu – The suites are huge with full kitchens and luxury finishes. The main pool is absolutely incredible, one of the best you’ve seen anywhere. Gorgeous grounds, a great fitness center, and friendly staff made for an exceptional stay.
  • Sheraton Kauai Resort – You can always count on Sheraton for a solid 4-star experience. It has a great location on Poipu Beach. Rooms are spacious and well-maintained. Several dining options onsite are convenient. Great for families or couples.
  • Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club – The villas at this Marriott Vacation Club property are perfect for families or longer stays. Wonderful pools and easy beach access. Great location in Poipu close to everything.

🛏️ Best Budget Hotels:

  • Kiahuna Plantation Resort – It’s not fancy but well-maintained and comfortable. Gorgeous grounds and an outstanding beach area. Units have full kitchens which made for easy breakfasts. Great location and very family-friendly.

3. Kauai East Side: If You Are Into Chill Things To Do 🌺

The East Side of Kauai, often referred to as the “Coconut Coast,” is a vibrant and diverse region that perfectly embodies the island’s rich culture and natural beauty. This area is home to the bustling towns of Lihue and Kapaa, each offering a unique blend of attractions, activities, and local charm. Let me take you on a journey through this captivating part of the island.

Kapaa: Part Of Kauai Where to Stay for Local Vibe 🌟

🚶 Strolling and Shopping: Historic Kapaa Town is a delight to explore on foot. The streets are lined with charming shops, galleries, and eateries. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs or enjoy a leisurely stroll.

🚴 Coastal Path: One of the highlights of Kapaa is the scenic Ke Ala Hele Makalae coastal path. Whether you choose to bike or walk, this path offers stunning ocean views and easy access to several beautiful beaches. It’s a great way to soak in the natural beauty of the Coconut Coast.

🚣 Water Adventures: For those who love water activities, Kapaa is the perfect base. You can kayak or stand-up paddleboard on the Wailua River, one of Hawaii’s only navigable rivers. The river winds through lush landscapes and offers a peaceful escape.

🍴 Local Eats: Kapaa is also a food lover’s paradise. The town boasts a vibrant food truck scene and a variety of restaurants serving up delicious local cuisine. Here are a few must-try spots:

  • Pono Market: Known for its fresh poke and plate lunches.
  • Java Kai: A great spot for coffee and breakfast.
  • Street Burger: Gourmet burgers made with local ingredients.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss the Kapaa Art Walk, held on the first Saturday of each month. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience local art, music, and food.

Lihue: The Heart Of The Kauai Island ❤️

🏛️ Cultural Attractions: One of the top attractions in Lihue is the Kauai Museum. This museum provides an excellent overview of the island’s history and culture, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about Kauai.

🏠 Kilohana Plantation: Another highlight is the Kilohana Plantation. This historic estate features a beautifully restored mansion, shops, and a restaurant. It’s a great place to explore and get a taste of Kauai’s plantation history.

✈️ Transportation Hub: Lihue Airport is the main transportation hub for the island, making it a convenient starting point for your Kauai adventure. Whether you’re arriving or departing, Lihue has everything you need to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

🛍️ Shopping and Dining: For those who love to shop, Kukui Grove Center is the largest mall on the island. It offers a variety of stores and dining options, perfect for a day of retail therapy.

Top Tip: If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, check out the Kauai Beer Company in downtown Lihue. They offer a great selection of local brews and delicious food.

Where to Stay On The East Side:

✨ Best Luxury Hotels

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels

  • Kauai Coast Resort at the Beach Boy – The pool area is great. Convenient location near shops and restaurants.
  • Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa Kauai by Outrigger – This Kapaa resort has a prime beachfront location. The suites are massive with luxury finishes, gourmet kitchens, and spacious bathrooms. The pool is amazing with waterslides and a lazy river. Perfect for families.
  • The ISO – For a smaller 4-star option, The rooms are bright and airy with colorful decor. You can have a large lanai with beautiful sunrise views over the beach. The pool area is nice and the on-site restaurant is tasty.

🛏 ️Best Budget Hotels:

  • Kauai Shores Hotel – This is a solid choice for an affordable beachfront stay in Kapaa. While the rooms are fairly basic, they are clean and comfortable. Great value and convenient location.
  • Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay – It’s centrally located, making it easy to explore the island. Nice pool area and beautiful beach out front.
  • Kauai Palms Hotel – For a budget option in Lihue, this small hotel offers good value. The rooms are basic but very clean and include a mini-fridge. There’s a small pool and lots of parking. Just a short drive to the airport and central to the whole island.

4. Kauai West Side: For Those Who Are Ready To Uncover The Secrets Of The Island 🔎

The West Side of Kauai is often overlooked by visitors, but it’s a hidden gem that’s well worth exploring. This area is home to some of the island’s most dramatic landscapes and charming small towns. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss on the West Side:

Waimea: Best Area of Kauai for Nature Lovers 🌄

🏞️ Canyon Gateway: Waimea is known as the “Gateway to Waimea Canyon,” often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” This stunning natural wonder is a must-see, with its deep red and green cliffs and sweeping vistas. I recommend starting your day early to beat the crowds and catch the morning light.

Top Tip: Drive up to the Waimea Canyon Lookout for breathtaking views, and if you’re up for a hike, the Canyon Trail to Waipo’o Falls offers a fantastic adventure with rewarding views.

🏘️ Historic Town: Waimea town itself is steeped in history. It’s where Captain Cook first landed in Hawaii in 1778. Stroll through the town to find:

  • Waimea Plantation Cottages: A charming spot to learn about the island’s sugar plantation history.
  • Ishihara Market: A local favorite for poke and plate lunches.
  • Waimea Theater: Catch a movie or a local performance in this historic venue.

Hanapepe: Where to Stay Away from the Crowds 🕊

🎨 Art Town: Hanapepe is often called “Kauai’s Biggest Little Town,” and it’s a delightful place to spend an afternoon. This historic town is known for its art galleries and the famous Hanapepe Friday Night Art Walk, where the streets come alive with local artists, food vendors, and live music.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss Talk Story Bookstore, the westernmost independent bookstore in the United States. It’s a treasure trove for book lovers.

🏖️ Beach and Bridge: Other highlights in Hanapepe include:

  • Salt Pond Beach Park: A great spot for swimming and snorkeling, with calm waters protected by a natural reef.
  • Hanapepe Swinging Bridge: A fun and slightly wobbly experience, this historic bridge offers a unique perspective of the town.
  • Port Allen Harbor: The departure point for many boat tours, including sunset cruises and Na Pali Coast excursions.

Where to Stay On The West Shore Kauai:

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels

  • Waimea Plantation Cottages – This unique property features charming plantation-style cottages spread across a peaceful coconut grove along a black sand beach. You will love the old Hawaii feel and beautiful oceanfront location. Very relaxing and perfect for a longer stay.

🛏 ️Best Budget Hotels:

  • The West Inn Kauai – The rooms are clean and air-conditioned with island-inspired decor. Great location for exploring Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park.
  • West Kauai Lodging – The convenient location near town and the helpful staff. Great price for Kauai.

FAQs About Trip To Kauai

Where is the best place to stay in Kauai?

Deciding where to stay in Kauai largely depends on your preferences. If you prefer a more relaxed and secluded atmosphere, the north shore of Kauai is known for its lush landscapes and peaceful ambiance. On the other hand, if you want to be close to restaurants and activities, the south side of Kauai might be more suitable.

What are some popular areas to stay in Kauai?

When choosing where to stay in Kauai, consider areas like Poipu on the south coast, which boasts sunny weather and beautiful beaches, or the east coast of Kauai for its scenic views and outdoor activities.

Are there resorts on Kauai?

Yes, there are several resorts on Kauai that offer luxurious accommodations and amenities. One popular option is the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort on the east side of the island, known for its stunning beachfront location.

What are the best Kauai hotels for your trip?

When visiting Kauai, consider staying at the Kea Resort on Poipu Beach for a relaxing beachfront experience, or the Kauai Beach Club on the south shore for upscale amenities and service.

Should I stay on the west side or east side of Kauai?

Whether you choose to stay on the east side or west side of Kauai depends on your itinerary. The east side offers easy access to outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, while the west side provides proximity to cultural sites and historical landmarks.