Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai, the fourth largest Hawaiian island, is a breathtaking natural paradise. From hidden waterfall swimming holes to stunning beaches and vast stretches of untouched rainforest, Kauai offers an unparalleled escape. Despite being one of the wettest places on Earth, Kauai boasts lush greenery alongside plenty of sunshine, fantastic surf, and soft sandy shores. For those seeking drier climates, the south side of the island enjoys sunnier weather for most of the year. The North Shore, while experiencing more rainfall due to trade winds and mountainous terrain, is equally captivating with its dramatic beauty. The iconic 17-mile Napali Coast, best explored through hiking or boat tours, showcases some of the world’s most dramatic coastal scenery, featuring towering 3,000-foot cliffs, verdant valleys, and cascading waterfalls.
Kauai’s accommodation scene is as diverse as its landscapes, offering everything from luxurious sprawling resorts to cozy vacation rentals with exceptional amenities, ensuring a perfect stay for every type of traveler and budget. Our curated list highlights the best places to stay in Kauai, ranging from the tranquil and romantic Koa Kea Hotel And Resort on the sunny South Shore, to The Surfshack, a surfer-favorite Airbnb in Hanalei Bay, and the opulent Grand Hyatt Kauai boasting the island’s largest spa. Whatever your ideal Hawaiian escape looks like, our selections are sure to inspire your travel plans.
Best Luxury Hotel in Kauai Overall: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
For an unparalleled luxury resort experience on the Garden Isle, the Grand Hyatt Kauai stands out.
Patrick Kelley
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Perfect For: Discerning travelers seeking luxury and breathtaking surroundings.
Exceptional Amenities: Home to Kauai’s largest spa, three inviting freshwater pools including a lazy river and waterslide, tennis courts, a state-of-the-art open-air fitness center, the engaging Camp Hyatt kids club, and an impressive ten dining venues.
Must-Experience: Explore the innovative 4,000-square-foot Hydroponic Garden and immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture at the twice-weekly luau.
Prime Location: Poipu Beach, Kauai’s sun-kissed South Shore.
While the Grand Hyatt Kauai, with its 602 rooms, may not be considered intimate, it delivers exceptional 5-star service and every amenity imaginable. Nestled on a pristine stretch of beach on Kauai’s sunny South Shore, guests can choose to body surf in the refreshing ocean waves or enjoy a more relaxed swim in one of the three pools or the expansive saltwater lagoon. A visit to the resort’s sprawling spa is essential, featuring steam and sauna rooms, invigorating outdoor lava rock showers, soothing whirlpools, and a unique float pod. For active guests, tennis courts and the renowned Poipu Bay Golf Course are conveniently located across the street. Dining decisions are plentiful with ten restaurants to choose from, but a reservation at Tidepools is highly recommended. This contemporary Hawaiian restaurant, set in charming thatch-roofed bungalows overlooking a serene koi-filled lagoon and a cascading waterfall, provides an unforgettable and romantic tropical ambiance.
Best Kauai Hotel for Romantic Getaways: Koa Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach
A glimpse into the Deluxe Oceanfront guest room at the Koa Kea Hotel and Resort, Poipu Beach.
COURTESY
Koa Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach
Perfect For: Couples seeking a romantic and private Hawaiian escape.
Exceptional Amenities: A stunning tropical pool with panoramic ocean vistas, a soothing lava rock hot tub, romantic oceanside fire pits, a yoga and fitness studio, a rejuvenating spa, and convenient on-site watersports.
Must-Experience: Indulge in the exquisite tasting menu at the award-winning Red Salt restaurant.
Prime Location: Poipu Beach, Kauai.
Couples in search of a romantic Hawaiian retreat will find indulgence and connection at the Koa Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach. Following a significant $5 million renovation in early 2022, the guest rooms, many boasting oceanfront views and private lanais, showcase exquisite local artistry. Couples can enhance their romance with a couples massage in one of the open-air spa treatment rooms, sip handcrafted cocktails by the pool, and savor fine dining at the exceptional Red Salt restaurant, complete with picturesque palm-lined beach views. Chef Noelani Planas, a Kauai native with experience under culinary giants Wolfgang Puck and Joel Robuchon, elevates the dining experience. For an unforgettable occasion, reserve a private six-course dinner for two in a romantic oceanfront cabana. Adventurous couples can strengthen their bond through activities like snorkeling, surfing, paddle boarding, outrigger canoe expeditions, thrilling helicopter tours, ATV adventures, and ziplining excursions.
Best Wellness Resort in Kauai: 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay harmoniously blends with its stunning surroundings, including the iconic bay, known for its world-class surf break.
COURTESY
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
Perfect For: Health-conscious travelers, wellness enthusiasts, and solo adventurers.
Exceptional Amenities: A comprehensive wellness center, an expansive 18,000 square-foot spa and fitness center, access to on-site nutritionists, integrative medicine doctors, physical trainers, meditation guides, the engaging Seedlings Kids Club, the unique Goodthings Shop, and two refreshing pools.
Must-Experience: Immerse yourself in a customized wellness retreat or explore creative classes like pottery and beach art.
Prime Location: Princeville, Kauai’s North Shore.
The 1 Hotel brand is globally recognized for its dedication to wellness and sustainability. The new flagship 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay in Princeville, an upscale resort area on Kauai’s North Shore, further emphasizes this commitment to holistic wellness. Guests have the opportunity to book personalized four-, seven-, or ten-day wellness retreats. These immersive experiences include consultations with the hotel’s team of nutrition, wellness, and medical experts, along with rejuvenating treatments at the renowned Bamford Spa. Eighteen of the hotel’s 252 rooms are specially designed retreat guest rooms, promoting in-suite tranquility with features such as in-room sage burning ceremonies, circadian lighting to regulate sleep cycles, and advanced sleep-tracking technology. All accommodations feature sustainably sourced native greenery, reclaimed materials, and luxurious organic cotton linens. The resort’s seven restaurants and bars prioritize fresh, local ingredients sourced from the on-site gardens and nearby farms. Guests can complement their wellness journey with a range of activities including snorkeling and diving, paddle boarding, whale watching, bird watching excursions, and guided trail running adventures.
Best Family Resort in Kauai: Timbers Kauai Ocean Club & Residences
Timbers Kauai’s spacious condominium-style accommodations make it a top choice for family-friendly resorts on the island.
Timbers Kauai at Hokuala
Timbers Kauai Ocean Club & Residences
Perfect For: Families of all sizes, multigenerational groups, and nature enthusiasts.
Exceptional Amenities: The prestigious Hokuala golf course, a luxurious spa and gym with an outdoor fitness studio, 17 miles of scenic trails, 40 acres of tranquil lagoons perfect for paddle boarding and kayaking, and complimentary bicycles for exploring the resort.
Must-Experience: Take a tour of the unique golf course-turned-organic farm, cultivating traditional Hawaiian crops like kalo, noni, and breadfruit.
Prime Location: Lihue, Kauai.
Families seeking ample space and engaging activities will find Timbers Kauai Ocean Club & Residences ideal. This luxury resort community offers 47 exquisite condominiums and townhomes featuring two, three, or four bedrooms, expansive indoor-outdoor living areas, and contemporary design – some even include private plunge pools. Parents and children alike will stay entertained with activities like biking and kayaking, teeing off at the award-winning golf course, relaxing by the pool or beach, and indulging in spa treatments and fitness classes. The resort also provides enriching cultural experiences through lei making workshops, ukulele lessons, and Hawaiian language sessions, allowing guests to connect with the local culture. A fantastic kids club and a 16.5-acre organic farm, offering tours and even hands-on farming experiences, further enhance the family vacation.
Best Oceanfront Luxury Vacation Rental in Kauai: Hale Kamapuaa
The Hale Kamapuaa beach bungalow offers an idyllic oceanfront setting and a gourmet chef’s kitchen.
Airbnb
Hale Kamapuaa
Perfect For: Travelers who appreciate gourmet cooking and oceanfront living.
Exceptional Amenities: Direct beachfront access with unobstructed ocean views, multiple lanais for outdoor relaxation, and a fully-equipped professional-grade kitchen.
Must-Experience: Enjoy the private outdoor heated shower after a day at the beach.
Prime Location: Hanalei Bay, Kauai’s North Shore.
Seclusion and breathtaking oceanfront beauty define Hale Kamapuaa, a luxurious three-bedroom, three-bathroom beachfront property situated near the renowned Tunnels Beach. Spend your days directly on the beach in your backyard, then refresh in the private outdoor shower before unwinding in the cozy upstairs loft with a daybed and captivating ocean views.
Owned by retirees from the San Francisco restaurant industry, the gourmet kitchen is a culinary enthusiast’s dream, featuring state-of-the-art appliances and a stunning marble-topped island. A gas BBQ grill on the lanai and an outdoor dining table for four, facing the turquoise ocean, encourage al fresco meals. The spacious main bedroom boasts a king-size bed, vaulted ceilings, and a walk-in closet. Demonstrating their commitment to sustainability, the eco-conscious owners provide stainless steel, reusable water bottles for guests and request the use of “reef-safe” sunblock, in accordance with Hawaiian law.
Best Kauai Resort Amenities: Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection
The vibrant Lobby Bar at Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection.
Autograph Collection
Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection
Perfect For: Travelers seeking a comprehensive resort experience with abundant amenities.
Exceptional Amenities: An incredible infinity pool with thrilling waterslides, swim-through waterfalls, separate family and adults-only pools for diverse preferences, a lively lobby bar, a relaxing spa and fitness center, a putting green for golf enthusiasts, and inviting fire pits for evening gatherings.
Must-Experience: Enjoy complimentary s’mores at the fire pits and opt for a villa with a gourmet kitchen for a luxurious stay.
Prime Location: Poipu, Kauai’s sunny South Shore.
Guests will feel instantly at ease at Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection. This resort on Kauai’s South Shore offers stunning ocean views and residence-style accommodations, including deluxe studios with kitchenettes and spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas equipped with chef’s kitchens featuring premium Wolf and Subzero appliances. Explore the resort’s expansive grounds, including the Aquatic Playground with three swimming pools and fire pits, and the Sunset Wall, a perfect spot to relax with a refreshing coconut water while watching the sunset. For dining, Holoholo Grill serves delicious fresh Hawaiian poke bowls and classic fish and chips. The open-air lobby bar, with its vaulted ceiling and tropical ambiance, offers handcrafted cocktails and gentle plumeria-scented ocean breezes.
Best Beachfront Resort in Kauai: Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
The Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort offers unparalleled sunrise views from its prime beachfront location.
Steve Sanacore
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
Perfect For: Traditional travelers desiring direct beach access and oceanfront accommodations.
Exceptional Amenities: An infinity-edge pool with designated areas for children and adults, an oceanfront bar for sunset cocktails, complimentary sunrise yoga sessions three times a week, and a 24/7 fitness center.
Must-Experience: Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture with activities like the twice-weekly luau, hula dancing lessons, lei making workshops, coconut husking demonstrations, and ukulele classes.
Prime Location: Kapaa, Kauai’s Royal Coconut Coast.
The beachfront Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort is ideally located on the eastern side of the island, known as the Royal Coconut Coast, famed for its tranquil palm-lined beaches. The guest rooms, freshly redesigned in 2021, feature a calming ocean-inspired color palette. Most rooms offer captivating ocean views, and four new restaurants include a convenient coffee and juice bar and a relaxing lounge adjacent to the infinity-edge swimming pool. Guests can enjoy leisurely walks along the beach or unwind in a beachfront lounger. The resort also provides a rich array of cultural experiences, including Hawaiian language classes, torch lighting ceremonies, and an authentic luau twice a week.
Best Beach House for Surfers in Kauai: The Surfshack
The bright and airy living room at The Surfshack, with stunning sea views.
Airbnb
The Surfshack
Perfect For: Style-conscious travelers, millennial adventurers, and surf enthusiasts.
Exceptional Amenities: A private patio with comfortable loungers, access to a shared pool, complimentary beach gear, and convenient access to the secluded Hideaway Beach.
Must-Experience: Snorkeling or surfing at the pristine Hideaways Beach.
Prime Location: Princeville, Kauai’s North Shore.
This highly sought-after two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo, known as The Surfshack, overlooks the stunning Hideaway Beach and is perennially booked due to its bohemian beach vibe and exceptional location. While availability can be limited, checking for openings on the 2024 calendar is recommended. Immersed in bright patterns, cozy textiles, rattan furniture, and bohemian beach artwork, guests will effortlessly embrace island life. The private Hideaway Beach is easily accessible via a paved trail and offers excellent snorkeling conditions in the summer months and a surf break for experienced surfers along the reef (beginners should head to nearby Hanalei Bay). This rental, equipped with beach gear, is located within the exclusive Princeville resort community, which features a pool, a restaurant, and a golf course. Thoughtful touches like complimentary local coffee and a collection of vintage tiki glasses make this a truly unique Kauai vacation rental.
Best Boutique Luxury Resort in Kauai: The Lodge at Kukui’ula
Accommodations at The Lodge at Kukui’ula are elegantly appointed bungalows, cottages, and villas.
COURTESY
The Lodge at Kukui’ula
Perfect For: Travelers seeking an intimate alternative to large beachfront Hawaiian resorts.
Exceptional Amenities: The serene Hiilani Spa, championship golf and tennis courts, the expansive Makai Pool complex, convenient water sports outfitters, engaging cultural activities, a welcoming clubhouse, and a game room.
Must-Experience: Participate in the Ke Alaula Sunset and Sunrise Ceremonies and enjoy a bike ride to the resort’s organic farm.
Prime Location: Poipu, Kauai’s South Shore.
At The Lodge at Kukui’ula, nestled within the private Kukui’ula community, luxurious accommodations are offered in elegant one- to four-bedroom homes rather than traditional resort buildings. Guests can choose between charming plantation-style bungalows and cottages or more contemporary indoor-outdoor villas with private pools. Despite the residential ambiance, all expected resort amenities are provided and elevated. Guests can play a round on the 18-hole Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course and relax in the lagoon-like swimming pool. The spa, featuring yet another pool, offers relaxation and rejuvenation, while the indoor-outdoor gym caters to fitness enthusiasts. Yoga and Pilates classes are available, and bicycles can be rented for exploring the grounds. Cycle to the 10-acre organic farm and hand-pick fresh flowers, tropical fruits, seasonal herbs, and vegetables.
Best Value Hotel in Kauai: Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa Kauai by Outrigger
Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa Kauai by Outrigger provides an oceanfront experience at reasonable rates.
Outrigger Resorts and Hotels
Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa Kauai by Outrigger
Perfect For: Budget-conscious travelers, families, and large groups seeking value and beachfront access.
Exceptional Amenities: A heated swimming pool with an exciting flumed water slide, three relaxing whirlpools, a full-service spa, and bicycle rentals for exploring the area.
Must-Experience: Indulge in a couples massage on the beach for ultimate relaxation.
Prime Location: Kapaa, Kauai’s Royal Coconut Coast.
Finding an affordable beachfront hotel room in Kauai can be challenging, especially during peak season from mid-December to March. Outrigger Resorts and Hotels is renowned for offering enjoyable, family-friendly vacations at reasonable prices in desirable island destinations. The studio, one-, and two-bedroom condo accommodations at Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa Kauai by Outrigger are well-appointed with full kitchens and convenient on-site barbecue grills. While offering competitive rates, the resort doesn’t compromise on amenities, featuring a meandering heated river pool, a full-service spa and gym, and guest rooms furnished with elegant hardwood. The two-acre property is located directly on Waipouli Beach and is surrounded by Kapaa Town, offering guests easy access to souvenir shops and a variety of restaurants.
About Devorah Lev-Tov, Your Kauai Guide
I am Devorah Lev-Tov, a seasoned travel writer with over 15 years of experience specializing in luxury, experiential, family, wine, and culinary travel. I consider myself a pizza expert and have honed my skills in navigating multiple time zones with my two young sons. This includes frequent trips to Hawaii from my home in New York City (where I have lived for nearly 20 years) for both family vacations and romantic getaways. My work has been featured in prestigious publications such as The New York Times, Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Afar, National Geographic, Vogue, Robb Report, Food & Wine, Bon Appétit, and more.
