Ah, Kauai. The Garden Island. A destination where the lush landscapes make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale scene and the beaches are so perfect you’ll wonder if you’ve stumbled into a postcard.
But let’s be real for a second. Finding the best place for you to stay on this island ain’t all sunshine and rainbows. Between the overhyped resorts and budget digs that have seen better days, navigating the accommodation scene here can be trickier than dodging a rogue wave at Hanalei Bay.
Fear not, adventurers. I’ve scoured the island, from North to South, East to West, and have lived to tell the tale. I’ve got the lo-down on where to stay on this idyllic island and will help you find your dream accommodation, no matter what your Kauai getaway has in store for you.
So grab a mai tai and kick it back because I’m about to tell you about the best places to stay on Kauai.
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As one of the best Hawaiian Islands, Kauai is a buzzing spot for tourists.
The island hosts some of the most unique accommodations in Hawaii – including swanky Hawaiian treehouses! These are my favorite recommendations for places to stay on Kauai.
Waipouli Beach Resort and Spa Kauai by OUTRIGGER | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Kauai
The rooms are spacious, the kitchen is modern, and the location is ideal with its own private beach. There’s also not one, not two, but three poolside hot tubs here. Waipouli Beach Resort also has a 2-acre beach-side pool with water slides and cascading waterfalls, as well as a large sun terrace. The rooms in this wellness resort also have amazing views of the ocean; it’s hard to be bored here.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa | Best Luxury Hotel in Kauai
Live the Kauai dream at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. Relax in magnificent beachfront condos with gourmet kitchens for in-suite feasts. Dive into the luxury resort’s centerpiece, a meandering river pool with waterfalls and thrilling slides. Relax by the pool or unwind at the spa and fitness center – paradise awaits you within the resort.
Suite Hale Kauai 1Br Poipu Condo walk to beach | Best Airbnb in Kauai
This lovely, romantic one-bedroom beach bungalow provides everything couples and honeymooners may need when visiting Garden Island! This Hawaiin vacation rental overlooks a lawn with tropical plants and offers complete privacy. Relax on the veranda with views of the lush tropical garden. BBQs are conveniently located nearby to use so you can cook up a storm.
There are also some stunning beach houses and epic VRBOs in Kauai for a comfortable and homely stay.
South Coast
The South Coast boasts some of the best coastlines in the country. It’s super atmospheric, with a beautiful and relaxing vibe that’s difficult to match. Its central location to some of the best beaches on the island makes it an excellent choice for all you beach bums out there.
North Shore
Kauai’s North Coast is anchored by two main towns: Princeville and Hanalei. Princeville is an absolute cliffside charmer. While there is no actual downtown, there is a shopping center with everything you need, as well as several upscale resorts and vacation rentals.
East Coast
Welcome to Kauai’s East Coast, popularly known as the Royal Coconut Coast because of the magnificent groves of swaying palms that surround the resort areas.
West Coast
The West Shore is Kauai’s ultimate hideaway, a place for anyone seeking isolation amidst the island’s raw beauty.
No matter where you stay on Kauai, you’ll be surrounded by stunning sandy beaches, incredible mountain peaks, massive rainforests, and lots of wildlife. Whether it’s your first or tenth visit, this Hawaiian island never fails to enchant.
The entire island is protected against development which only adds to the idyllic vibe of the island. It’s dotted with small towns, each with their own unique vibe and attractions. All you have to do is decide what you really want to get out of your time here!
The first place to consider is the North Coast. It is a quieter area on the South shore but still has easy access to stunning beaches and natural attractions. If you don’t want to face the crowds, this is one of the best areas to stay on Kauai. It’s also a surfer hotspot in the summer for all of you on the hunt for the perfect wave.
Next up I’ll talk about Kauai’s South Coast, the most popular town for travelers of all kinds. You’ll find everyone from new-age seekers to sun bums here. It has a great mix of nightlife, culture, and nature attractions. There are some excellent villas in Kauai that are perfect for you to rally up the troops on an epic vacation.
The East Coast is where you’ll find Kauai’s best budget accommodation. This is where the island’s main airport is and where all the commercial hustle and bustle takes place. Its prime location makes traveling to other areas of the island a breeze. But be warned, there is a cost to this convenience: when peak season arrives, it becomes busier than a surf shop during a summer sale.
Finally, we have the West Coast, the most remote part of the island. There is not a ton of accommodation options here but it’s definitely worth a visit in itself to see Waimea Canyon. If you’re adventurous enough you can camp in the Waimea Canyon region – just remember to get your permits prior to your trip!
There is a vacation rental in Kauai for everybody!
Kauai’s Four Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Just like the different neighborhoods in Hawaii, the garden island has a lot of cool areas.
Whether you’re exploring on a budget, traveling with a family, or looking for a little luxury, here are the best areas to stay in Kauai.
1. South Coast – Where to Stay on Kauai for Your First Time
The South Coast boasts some of the best coastlines in the country. It’s super atmospheric, with a beautiful and relaxing vibe that’s difficult to match. Its central location to some of the best beaches on the island makes it an excellent choice for all you beach bums out there.
You can’t go to the South Coast without stopping by Poipu Beach Park, where the sand is as golden as your best tan and the snorkeling spots are so good you’ll feel like a fish in a tropical paradise. Then, grab your hats and head to Spouting Horn, where the ocean spouts water like a natural fountain through ancient lava tubes.
Kauai’s sunny South Shore has lots of water activities like paddle-boarding, sailing, and snorkeling in its warm, turquoise water. The golden sand beaches are seemingly endless. With fewer rain clouds to damper the spirits, this sun-kissed paradise welcomes those seeking pure relaxation rather than adrenaline-fueled adventures.
Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu, Autograph Collection | Best Mid-Range Hotel on the South Shore
Koloa Landing Resort is an excellent and serene location to visit Kauai. Beautiful setting, wonderful pools, and plenty of hot tubs! The grounds are gorgeous and well-kept, and the rooms are spacious and extremely relaxing.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa | Best Luxury Hotel on the South Shore
Live the Kauai dream at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. Relax in magnificent beachfront condos with gourmet kitchens for in-suite feasts. Dive into the luxury resort’s centerpiece, a meandering river pool with waterfalls and thrilling slides. Relax by the pool or unwind at the spa and fitness center – paradise awaits you within the resort.
Hilton Vacation Club The Point at Poipu Kauai | Another Great Luxury Hotel on the South Shore
This Hilton hotel is situated in such a fantastic location; you can see turtles and whales right around the resort. It’s an easy walk to the beach and has a beautiful spot to watch the sunset just out the door. The apartments are spacious and have all of the amenities you need for a relaxing stay.
Suite Hale Kauai 1Br Poipu Condo walk to beach | Best Airbnb on the South Shore
This lovely, romantic one-bedroom beach bungalow provides everything couples and honeymooners may need when visiting Garden Island! This Hawiian vacation rental overlooks a lawn with tropical plants and offers complete privacy. Relax on the veranda with views of the lush tropical garden. BBQs are conveniently located nearby to use so you can cook up a storm.
Things to See and Do on the South Shore
- Spend a day in Poipu Beach Park swimming, snorkeling, or having a picnic.
- Go sailing, snorkeling, or paddleboarding along Shipwreck Beach.
- Check out the area’s history at the Koloa Sugar Mill.
- Escape to an expansive oasis of extraordinary natural beauty on a guided tour of Allerton Botanical Garden.
- See Kauai from a unique perspective as you feel the wind in your hair on a thrilling zipline adventure.
- Marvel at the views at the Sprouting Horn Park.
- Set sail along the majestic Napali Coast and explore cliffs, valleys, waterfalls, and secluded beaches.
- Marvel the beautiful sandstone sea cliffs of the Makawehi Lithified Cliffs, renowned for its fossils and petroglyphs.
- Try out surfing with a lesson on Poipu Beach.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. North Shore – Most Beautiful Area in Kauai
Kauai’s North Coast is anchored by two main towns: Princeville and Hanalei. Princeville is an absolute cliffside charmer. While there is no actual downtown, there is a shopping center with everything you need, as well as several upscale resorts, vacation rentals and Hawaiin VRBOs. It’s a wonderful destination if you can afford to splurge, but keep in mind that the accommodations around Hanalei Bay are pretty pricey in relation to the rest of the island.
Then there’s Hanalei, the classic surf town with beaches so stunning that it’ll make your Instagram feed look like you’ve taken a page out of a travel magazine. If you ask somebody what their favorite part of Kauai is, they would most likely say Hanalei. It’s a beach bum’s heaven, but don’t anticipate enormous resorts here. It’s all about the relaxed, toes-in-the-sand vibe.
Kauai’s North Shore has unparalleled natural scenery. In fact, the whole North Shore is filled with awe-inspiring waterfalls, towering mountain ranges, and dense tropical rainforests. This region of the island does see more rainfall than the South Coast, but that only adds to the lush greenery that makes this tropical island so magical. Just be careful as the beaches generally aren’t safe in winter and some of them don’t have lifeguards. If you aren’t a strong swimmer, it’s probably safer to stay and relax in Hanalei Bay or one of the many other stunning beaches.
You’ll find a huge variety of travelers on the North Coast, from families to surfers, and people looking for a luxury to those wanting to experience the local culture. There are several important historic sites in the town, as well as local art galleries and interesting, unique shops. No matter what kind of getaway you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find the perfect Kauai hotel for you on the North Shore. If hotels aren’t you’re thing, there are also some pretty epic Airbnbs to be found in this region too.
Hanalei Colony Resort | Best Mid-Range Hotel on the North Shore
Kauai resorts don’t get much better than this! Nestled on a beachfront with jungle charm, this haven boasts luxurious amenities and classic Hawaiian style in its woodsy furnished suites. Perfect for families, friends, or romance, it’s Kauai’s beachfront bliss!
Hanalei Bay Resort | Best Luxury Hotel on the North Shore
Hanalei Bay Resort is stunning! Immerse yourself in gorgeous gardens and stunning Hawaiian landscapes. The lavish amenities meet every demand, with spacious one and two-bedroom suites ideal for families or couples. Discover Kauai’s natural beauty before returning to your own private hideaway.
Hanalei Garden Surf Cottage | Best Airbnb on the North Shore
This vacation rental offers a clean and affordable escape only minutes from the beach and town center. Despite its modest size, it provides everything you need for an enjoyable stay, including a private lanai and a full kitchen. You can really discover the heart of Hanalei in this beautiful retreat – it’s actually one of my favourite cabins in all of Hawaii.
Things to See and Do on the North Shore
- Take a stroll along the iconic Hanalei Pier to do some people-watching.
- Wander through the incredible Limahuli Garden and Preserve, where you’ll find 17 acres of immaculate landscapes.
- Head up to the Hanalei Valley Overlook for astonishing views of Hanalei Bay.
- Check out Haena Beach Park or Hanalei Beach Park for a great combination of beach and green spaces.
- Experience an incredible single-day tour of Kauai’s north and east shores and learn about the island from an expert.
- Make sure you visit the Queen’s Bath, a natural pool sliced out of a lava shelf where you can see an astonishing collection of marine life.
- Go swimming at Hideaways Beach and check out its incredible barrier reef.
- Shred some waves at Rock Quarry Beach (the conditions are best here in the winter.)
- For some incredible snorkeling, go to Tunnels Beach.
3. East Coast – Most Accessible Area in Kauai
Welcome to Kauai’s East Coast, popularly known as the Royal Coconut Coast because of the magnificent groves of swaying palms that surround the resort areas. This colorful district offers an excellent starting point for your island adventures, with easy access to all corners of Kauai.
The East Coast, which is home to the island’s principal airport and a thriving business area, may not have the same magnificent beauty as its North and South Coast equivalents, but it serves as a convenient hub for travelers looking to explore both ends of the island. Its convenience, however, comes at a cost—this region is bustling with activity and may lack the real charm seen in quieter areas.
Fear not Hawaii backpackers! The East Coast is an oasis for savvy travelers looking for low-cost accommodations, with beachside bungalows ripe for the picking. Its blend of convenience and affordability makes it an unrivaled base for your Hawaiian excursions.
That’s not to say that the East Coast is completely boring, or devoid of charm. Discover hidden gems within its bustling streets, from cheap souvenirs to delightful local eats. Kalapaki Beach, a pristine stretch of shoreline that rates among the island’s most beautiful spots is also nearby.
The Kauai Inn | Best Budget Hotel on the East Coast
It’s a little corner of paradise. The Kauai Inn’s air-conditioned guest rooms provide a flat-screen television with cable channels, a refrigerator, and a microwave. The staff are super friendly, and the breakfast is excellent.
Waipouli Beach Resort and Spa Kauai by OUTRIGGER | Best Mid-Range Hotel on the East Coast
The rooms are spacious, the kitchen is modern, and the location is ideal with its own private beach. There’s also not one, not two, but three poolside hot tubs here. Waipouli Beach Resort also has a 2-acre beach-side pool with water slides and cascading waterfalls, as well as a large sun terrace. The rooms in this wellness resort also have amazing views of the ocean; it’s hard to be bored here.
The Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort Lihue | Another Great Mid-Range Hotel on the East Coast
This hotel offers 5-star accommodation close to local attractions and restaurants. The rooms have ocean or garden views, and all the amenities you’ll need for your stay. It boasts tennis courts, a rooftop terrace, an outdoor pool, water slides, childcare, and activities. There’s also a gym, restaurant, and bar on site.
Pristine Lihue Condo | Best Apartment on the East Coast
A roomy condo with incredible amenities and homey facilities, this spacious Airbnb is the perfect place to stay for a family on a budget. With ocean views, a fully equipped kitchen, and comfortable living areas, you will quickly feel at home in the plush space.
Things to See and Do on the East Coast
- Head down to Kalapaki Beach for beautiful views.
- Witness Kauai from above on a panoramic helicopter flight covering over 100 miles of breathtaking scenery.
- Check out the Alekoko Fishpond, a 1000-year-old Hawaiian aquaculture reservoir.
- Spend the day at Lydgate Beach Park, known for its incredible snorkeling.
- Hike the Sleeping Giant East Trailhead for panoramic views of the mountain rainforest.
- Check out Ninini Point Lighthouse which has been in operation since 1897.
- Experience Kauai’s award-winning luau, a traditional Hawaiian party, with graceful hula dancers, traditional fire knife dancing, and a buffet of local favorite dishes.
- Spend the day strolling along the Coconut Coast.
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Grab an eSIM!4. West Coast – Best Area in Kauai for Outdoor Enthusiasts
The West Shore is Kauai’s ultimate hideaway, a place for anyone seeking isolation amidst the island’s raw beauty. While there are fewer accommodation options than in other places, the town of Waimea reigns supreme as the ideal base – unless you’re adventurous enough to camp inside the park.
Choosing to stay here means submitting to the embrace of nature, away from the crowds of tourists who frequently flock to more accessible locations. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of Kauai’s distant landscapes, a rare and unique experience in a destination as cherished as this.
This area is an oasis for outdoor enthusiasts, with some of the island’s most iconic stretches of unspoiled beauty. Prepare to be awestruck by the majestic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, a dramatic shoreline best explored by boat, helicopter, or on foot via the Kalalau Trail—if you’re up for the challenge.
Waimea Canyon, sometimes known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” is awe-inspiring, with its bright colors and startling depths. Lace up your hiking boots because this is one epic hike – the popular Canyon Trail, which leads to the stunning Waipoo Falls, is a favorite among hikers of all skill levels.
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, why not take a helicopter trip? From above, you’ll have a bird’s-eye perspective of Waimea Canyon’s rugged beauty, with twisting rivers, tumbling waterfalls, and steep cliff walls creating an unforgettable picture.
Just a word of warning: there’s no straight shot from the laid-back West Side to the North Shore. Nope, you’ll have to take a scenic detour through the South Shore and East Side to make the journey. So, if you’re plotting out some epic day trips with a rental car, just keep this little nugget of info in mind.
West Kauai Lodging | Best Budget Hotel on the West Coast
This rustic lodge in the remote town of Waimea is ideal for your Western Kauai adventures. There is plenty of room to spread out, with a living room, a king bedroom with an adjacent spa tub, and an en suite. There is a beautiful beach within walking distance of the property that offers breathtaking sunsets.
If you’re looking specifically to find an eco-lodge, check out my favourites here.
Waimea Plantation Cottages, a Coast Resort | Best Mid-Range Hotel on the West Coast
A charming group of historic individual cottages that make you feel like you have your own beautiful grounds! The cottages vary slightly, but they are all well-equipped, relaxing, and clean. It is quaint and understated, with an excellent location right on the beach.
Entire home in Kekaha | Best Airbnb on the West Coast
This two-bedroom property boasts magnificent ocean views and is a charming and comfortable place to call home during your stay. The property is located in Kekaha, a community known for its sunny days, laid-back vibe, and easy access to Waimea Canyon. It features modern amenities, most notably a big terrace that receives direct sunlight for the majority of the day, making it ideal to unwind.
Things to see and do on the West Coast
- Discover Waimea Canyon on a tour and head on a cruise along the Wailua River and Fern Grotto.
- Visit Koke’e State Park, a Hawaiian national park covered in forests, wildflowers, and hiking trails.
- Head to Kalalau Lookout for picturesque panoramas over the Kalalau Valley & the ocean.
- Check out Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park for cascading waterfalls and epic views from the sea cliffs.
- Visit Kilauea Lighthouse and take in the beautiful views of the North Shore.
- Hike up to Red Dirt Waterfall.
- Spend the day kicking it back at Kekaha Beach Park.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay on Kauai
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Kauai and where to stay.
What To Pack For Kauai
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for Hawaii is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
How do you get around Kauai?
Cruising around the entire island by rental car takes about three hours, making it a breeze to explore multiple stunning locations on a day trip. Plus, if you choose to base yourself in a particular town, no matter the coast, you’ll likely find most sights and restaurants within easy walking distance, making exploring on foot a delightful option too.
Is there a bad time of year to visit Kauai?
Kauai enjoys a tropical climate marked by warm temperatures and an abundance of rain. Sunshine reigns from April to October, perfect for soaking up the scenery. November to March brings the rainy season, but don’t fret! This is when Kauai flourishes with emerald landscapes and boasts the fewest crowds, offering a more secluded experience.
Is it better to stay in North or South Kauai?
Kauai offers something for everyone, no matter where you stay! The South Shore is livelier, with resorts, shops, and easy access to Waimea Canyon and the airport. North Shore is secluded, perfect for romance and nature enthusiasts, with the stunning Napali Coast nearby. In short; it’s all about what you want out of your stay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Kauai
Hey, I know – travel insurance is not the most exciting aspect of a trip to Kauai. But believe me, if things don’t turn out as planned, a paradise trip quickly turns into a nightmare. So expect the best, but prepare for the worst.
This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to this beautiful island.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay on Kauai
Kauai has a ton of cute tiny towns that will charm your flip-flops (or Birkenstocks, in my case) off. Picture perfect beaches? Check. Endless outdoor adventures? You bet. This island is the poster child for beach getaways, and guess what? It truly lives up to the Instagram hype. One visit, you’ll be hooked – coming back again and again like a boomerang. It really is one of the best islands for you to choose for a quintessential Hawaiian getaway.
If you’re looking for that secluded idyllic getaway with a touch of luxury, I’d definitely recommend heading up to the North Shore. Hanalei Bay Resort is a great pick for those wanting to unwind in style whilst being immersed in the beauty that this island has to offer!
For beauty all year round, no matter the season, you should definitely head to the South Shore. It’s got the best resorts here, stunning beaches, and epic wave breaks for all you surfers out there. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is an EXCELLENT choice if you can afford to splurge a lil bit.
If you’re chasing year-round beauty, the South Shore’s where it’s at. This place has killer resorts, jaw-dropping beaches, and waves that’ll make any surfer swoon. And if you’re ready to treat yourself (and your wallet’s not crying), the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is the way to go if you can afford to splurge a lil bit.
So, pack your bags, leave your worries (and sense of direction) at home, and get ready to go all-in on the island life. Whether you’re hiking the Napali Coast, snorkeling with sea turtles, or just soaking up the sun with a Mai Tai in hand, Kauai is the place you need to forget about your inbox, your laundry, and that weird smell in your car.
Aloha and happy travels!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Hawaii.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Kauai.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Kauai instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Hawaii to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Hawaii is a great way to maximise your time.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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