Travel to the gorgeous Garden Isle and find yourself immersed in paradise with lush mountainsides, dramatic coastlines, and cascading waterfalls. But, when it comes to deciding where to stay on Kauai, the choices can feel overwhelming!
The island has a handful of distinct regions, each offering their own unique assets. There are a number of beautiful areas to stay with family friendly fantastic resorts, honeymoon getaways, and budget finds. But, planning ahead is key to take advantage of any rare deals!
💰 Heads up: Kauai is one of the more expensive islands, and many hotels average around $400-600 a night.
We had the wonderful opportunity to visit here this past spring and it completely blew us away. To make the most of our trip, we stayed in two different hotels and I’d absolutely do that again.
So, now I’ve written this guide to help you figure out where to stay in Kauai, so that you can plan the ultimate vacation.
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Table of Contents
Where to Stay on Kauai: A Breakdown
Where to Stay on Kauai: Breaking Down the Island’s Regions
Kauai is 550 square miles with beautiful landscapes throughout the entire island. But, you’ll want to get an understanding of its make up before you choose where to stay on Kauai.
This island is divided into four areas: North, South, East, and West. But, the West side is mostly inaccessible for lodging.
Most people will stay somewhere on the Eastern side of the island, because the majority of the Western side is covered by the rugged mountains of the Napali coast. This gorgeous area is owned by private landowners and state parks.
Then, you can divide the East side of Kauai into three categories: North, East, and South.
In the Northern area, you’ll find the towns of Princeville and Kiluauea, as well as the scenic Hanalei Bay. This area is known for being lush and incredibly beautiful. 🌺
The East side includes Lihue, Kapa’a, Wailua, and the gorgeous Kalapaki Beach. This area is more central to the airport and you can easily get to excursions in both the South and the Eastern parts of the island. It’s also more populated with lots of shops and restaurants.
Finally, the South side of Kauai is a fantastic area to stay. Most people stay in the Poipu Beach area in Koloa. This area has wonderful beaches, calm waters, and great resorts. 🙌🏻
And if you’re still planning your trip, check out my detailed one-week Kauai itinerary, it’s the perfect companion to help you figure out how long to stay in each part of the island.
Responsible Tourism in Kauai, Hawaii:
Before you go, here are a few important ways to be a respectful visitor:
- Respect the land and culture: Kauai is more than a paradise — it’s a sacred place for Native Hawaiians. Be mindful at cultural sites, don’t trespass on private land, and learn a few basic Hawaiian phrases if you can.
- Leave no trace: Stay on marked trails, pack out all trash (even food waste), and never take rocks, sand, or shells home.
- Drive and park considerately: Avoid blocking driveways, parking on vegetation, or crowding local neighborhoods.
- Support local businesses: Choose locally-owned shops, tour companies, and restaurants whenever possible.
- Listen to locals: If a beach or hike is closed, it’s for a good reason. Respect signs and posted advisories.
South Shore- Poipu: To Enjoy the Sun
If you want sunshine ☀️, good vibes, and endless activities, then the Poipu Beach area is the spot for you.
This area is known for having wonderful family-friendly resorts, calm waters for swimming, and endless sunshine. So, there’s really no better place to stay on Kauai.
Poipu Beach is home to a number of large resorts with a large variety to choose from. It’s a great home base because it’s close to tours along the Napali coast and central Kauai is also very accessible.
During our trip to Kauai, we stayed at two different resorts in Poipu, Koloa Landing Resort and Sheraton Kauai Resort. Both of them were incredible and I would love to go back to spend even more time enjoying the amenities. 😎
So read below for some of the best resorts in the Poipu area!
Best Things to Do Near Poipu:
- See the turtles at Poipu Beach 🐢
- Take a surf lesson
- Go on a boat tour of the Napali coastline
- Hike the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail
Where to Stay in Poipu
Koloa Landing Resort, An Autograph Collection
One of the biggest draws of Koloa Landing Resort is its world class pool. It’s so amazing that USA Today even named it the “Best pool in the USA!” 💦
It has an adults only lagoon, as well as a large pool with waterslides, hot tubs, and waterfalls. You could seriously spend all day there and never get bored.
I was upset I had planned so many activities during our stay, because I didn’t have enough time relaxing by the pool!
Rooms here are wonderful with great views and laundry machines. So, you can pack less and wash your clothes.
It’s definitely one of the best luxury hotels in Kauai. We had an incredible stay and I hope to go back again one day! 🥰
👉 Book your stay at Koloa Landing Resort here.
Sheraton Kauai Resort
One of the other wonderful resorts in the Poipu area is the Sheraton Kauai Resort. We stayed here for three nights on the island and I could have stayed for longer!
It’s located right on the beach, so you can easily go for a swim or snorkel in the beautiful Pacific waters. Then, grab a drink at the bar and relax out in the sun.
Plus, Sheraton has a bunch of wonderful offerings for the whole family like beachfront yoga classes, snorkeling lessons, and hula workshops. And, they host the only beachfront luau on the entire island. Watch from your room or grab tickets to the show.
If you’re looking for a place to stay that will satisfy the whole family, look no further!
👉 Get rooms at the Sheraton Kauai Resort here.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Although we didn’t have a chance to stay at the Grand Hyatt, I have only heard great things about this resort.
It’s a bit more tucked away with lush gardens, oceanfront lanais, and a world class golf course. Plus, they have Anara, the largest spa on the island, and multiple restaurants on site.
It’s perfect for couples on a romantic getaway 💕 or travelers looking for a true resort experience with all the amenities.
So, get away from it all and relax at this beautiful hotel.
👉 Spend a night at the Grand Hyatt here.
Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach
Stay just steps from the beach, when you stay at Koa Kea Resort. They claim that it’s the “closest to the water” than anywhere else on Kauai.
This resort is a wonderful place to stay with a high end spa and delicious restaurant. It’s perfect for the romantic couple that wants to get away or celebrate their honeymoon.
Visitors who stay here absolutely love the serene setting. So, book your rooms and enjoy paradise!
👉 Stay at Koa Kea Resort here!
Pros & Cons for Staying in South Shore Kauai
Pros:
- The sunniest area on the island!
- Tons of great resorts with plenty to do for the whole family
- Close to the Napali coast boat tours and other outdoor adventures
Cons:
- Busier, “more touristy” area, so it feels a little bit less local
- Only a handful of restaurant options
- Far from the Northern beaches and beauty
North Shore- Princeville: For Nature Lovers
The North Shore of Kauai is arguably the most stunning part of the island, with lush green mountains, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic beaches that look straight out of a movie. 🎥
This area is quieter, more laid-back, and known for its unspoiled natural beauty. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those who want to get away from the busier resort hubs.
The North Shore gets more rainfall than other parts of the island, which is what keeps it so green and lush. 🌧️ Just be prepared for occasional showers (and lots of rainbows!).
The North Shore is a peaceful and relaxing area to stay on Kauai.
Best Things to Do Near Princeville:
- Hike the Kalalau Trail
- Snorkel on Ke’e Beach
- Spend the day at Hanalei Bay
- Watch the sunset on Tunnels Beach
Where to Stay in Princeville
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
The 1 Hotel focuses on wellness and restoration in a relaxing environment along the coastline. This hotel is perfect for the person that wants to get away and truly feel at peace. ☺️
Vines climb along the walls of this hotel, as it aims to focus on the stunning natural setting.
They offer wonderful amenities including a great golf course, relaxing spa, and a pool that looks right over the ocean.
With lush vegetation climbing the walls and sustainability at its core, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is one of the best luxury wellness resorts in Kauai.
👉 Book your peaceful retreat at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay here.
The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas
Journey to the Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas and feel as if you’ve found a home away from home while you’re on vacation.
It’s perfect for the whole family, because these villas come fully equipped. They have living and dining areas, a kitchen, and washer and dryer. So, you can truly make yourself at home here. 🏠
This resort overlooks the stunning Anini Beach, has wonderful restaurants on the property and a number of pools to choose from. It’s also a short drive from Hanalei Bay and other North Shore adventures, making it a great base for exploring.
So, get comfortable and stay awhile at the Westin.
👉 Book your Ocean Resort Villa here.
Club Wyndham Bali Hai Villas
If you like the idea of furnished villas, then consider staying at the Club Wyndham. These apartments have ample room for guests with a living room and kitchen as well.
Stay with the family and you can enjoy the tennis courts 🎾, swim in the pool, or explore the tropical gardens.
It’s just one mile from the Bali Hai beach and near plenty of other stunning North Shore destinations. You will love your stay there.
👉 Check prices and availability at Club Wyndham Bali Hai Villas here.
Pros & Cons of Staying on the North Shore Kauai
Pros:
- Jaw-dropping scenery, lush greenery, and dramatic coastlines
- Great access to snorkeling beaches and the famous Kalalau Trail
- Quieter, more local feel. Perfect for nature lovers
Cons:
- Frequent rain, especially in winter months
- Road closures or delays due to construction or landslides
- Fewer dining and shopping options compared to Poipu or Kapa’a
East Island- Kapa’a & Lihue: To Be Close to It All
The East Shore of Kauai, including the towns of Kapaʻa, Lihue, and Wailua, is one of the best places to stay if you want to be close to it all. From here, you can easily drive to the scenic North Shore or sunny South Shore in under an hour.
This part of the island is the most populated, which means it’s filled with conveniences like grocery stores, great restaurants, coffee shops, and local boutiques. It’s also home to the peaceful Wailua River, where you can kayak to waterfalls or take a boat cruise through the jungle. 🚣🏻
If you’re looking for convenience, walkability, and great food, staying in Kapaʻa or Lihue is a great choice.
Best Things to Do Near Kapa’a:
- Kayak to Secret Falls
- Enjoy a luau at Smiths Family Garden
- Take a helicopter above Kauai
- Explore Wailua Falls
Where to Stay in Kapa’a & Lihue
Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort Lihue
The Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort Lihue offers a luxurious oceanfront stay just minutes from the airport, but it still feels like a tropical escape. 🌴
This AAA Four-Diamond resort has everything from a massive pool complex and beach access to on-site restaurants and spa services.
Whether you’re arriving late or just want a relaxed start to your trip, it’s a great place to begin or end your Kauai vacation.
👉 Find Royal Sonesta room offerings here!
Outrigger Kauai Beach
Located directly on Nukoli’i Beach between Lihue and Kapaʻa, the Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort is a peaceful and eco-conscious escape. You’ll be right on the sand, with tropical gardens, saltwater pools, and an oceanfront restaurant.
Plus, the Outrigger takes sustainability seriously, offering reef-safe toiletries, reef preservation programs, and locally sourced food. 🌿
👉 Find Outrigger deals here.
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach
If you’re looking for a family-friendly resort in Kapaʻa with a convenient location and beautiful ocean views, the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach is a great pick. It’s right on the beach, with a relaxed vibe and recently renovated rooms.
The resort has an oceanfront pool, hot tub, and beachside fire pits 🔥, plus on-site dining and cultural events like hula performances.
👉 Book your stay at Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach
Pros & Cons for Staying in Central Kauai
Pros:
- Very central, easy day trips to the North and South shores
- Close to the Airport
- Tons of great food, restaurants, and coffee shops
Cons:
- Most developed (and crowded) part of the island
- More traffic, especially near Kapa’a
- Fewer scenic beaches and snorkeling areas.
Final Tips on Choosing Where to Stay in Kauai
Choosing where to stay on Kauai can be a daunting task. There are so many great hotels and beautiful areas on the island.
But, I recommend staying in a couple areas if you are going to be on Kauai for 4 days or more. Then, figure out your budget and find the hotels that are under your budget and in the place you want to stay.
No matter what you decide, you will have a fantastic trip! 😃
Let me know if you enjoyed this guide in the comments
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