Top Recommendations for Where to Stay in Kauai 2026

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Kauai’s lush green landscapes and overwhelmingly beautiful views have it known as "Garden Island”. This island is Hawaii’s fourth largest, oldest, and situated most at the north. Kauai’s mountainous landscape, with steep valleys and high peaks, are covered with rainforest. This natural richness lends itself to some of the most exciting – and varied forms of tourism. From exploring the island on a hike to venturing in a kayak through the Wailua River, snorkeling on one of the beautiful beaches or just lounging seaside in one of the island’s fabulous resorts, every traveler can find a Kauai of their own. If you’re wondering where to stay in Kauai, we’ll help you below:

Where to stay in Kauai for family - South Side

The southern part of Kauai includes the regions of Koloa, Lawai, and Poipu.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Kauai, this is the area of the island with the best climate – less rain, more sun, therefore a more predictable choice – safer if you’re traveling as a family. For this reason, it has become the most sought-after part of Kauai, so you can expect busier beaches, more facilities and options for shopping, dining, and visiting.

Expect beaches to be a little busier than others, as well as great infrastructure and transport links. The area is a little far from the North Shore, so make sure you plan your trip accordingly if you’re seeking to explore beyond this region.

1. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa

Located by saltwater lagoons and beautiful tropical greenery, the typically Hawaiian luxury resort dates back from the 1920s. Comfortable and equipped to deliver fantastic vacations to the entire family, it offers an 18-hole golf course, 7 restaurants, including Italian, Asian fusion, Hawaiian buffets, and a cocktail bar.

The hotel’s modern rooms come with amenities including cable TV and a marble en-suite bathroom, as well as toiletries provided by Portico.

The swimming pool area, carefully done with family and adults-only facilities, is open 24 hours and features waterfalls, slides, and volleyball nets.

2. Sheraton Kauai Resort

Conveniently placed minutes from Moir Gardens and Poipu Shopping Village, the Sheraton Kauai Resort is a 4-star resort close by Poipu beach.

It boasts 390 rooms with an array of facilities including air conditioning, fridges, and TVs. Beds come with pillow tops, as well as individual lanais. Free Wi-Fi is also available, as are complimentary toiletries.

The property also counts with a spa offering massages and other treatments for the face and the body. The complex also offers 2 restaurants and a café for guests, as well as a 24-hour business center.

3. Koloa Landing Resort at Po'Ipu, Autograph Collection

Koloa Landing at Poipu Beach is strategically located in the heart of the Kauai's South Shore. This stunning property is situated at the center of 10 hectares of tropical gardens.

It's also a short stroll from Kukui'ula Village, a complex awash with exclusive shops and excellent restaurants. Golf players will be pleased with the proximity to the legendary golf course of Poipu.

The villas within this resort are the biggest on the island, with options as big as 4 bedrooms. It's also served by an array of dining options, including Hawaiian, Mexican and Japanese cuisines.

Where to stay in Kauai for couples - North Shore

If you’re wondering where to stay in Kauai and prefer beautiful sights, the North Shore of Kauai is arguably the most beautiful place on the planet. Marvelous beaches, incredibly lush vegetation and breathtaking mountain views make it one of the most exquisite places to visit in Hawaii. All this green vegetation, however, comes at a price: rain. Travelers can expect rain at any time, particularly during the winter months – between November and March.

Princeville is North Shore's most known part of the Kauaian North Shore, and the home of some of the most luxurious resorts on the island - perfect for honeymoons and couple vacations - even if it rains!

1. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

Situated by Kauai's Napali Coast with direct beach access, this upscale 5-star hotel has world-class golf courses, a complete spa, sophisticated dining, and easy access to Kauai's most rated attractions. The 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay (St. Regis Princeville) has everything it takes to create unforgettable vacations. It comes with a swimming pool with a fun swim-up bar. Hotel guests enjoy lush tropical vegetation, as well as modern gym facilities and large rooms. Princeville Guests can also savor fresh local seafood at the Kauai Grill, and traditional Hawaiian cuisine at Makana Terrace. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, Hawaii, also offers bookings for horseback riding, sailing and helicopter or kayaking tours, scuba diving and so on.

2. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

Set in a prime location of Kauai Hawaii, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas puts everything the city has to offer just outside your doorstep. How is that if you’re looking for where to stay in Kauai? Featuring a complete list of amenities, guests will find their stay at the property a comfortable one. Service-minded staff will welcome and guide you at The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas. Whirlpool bathtub, air conditioning, desk, balcony/terrace, alarm clock can be found in selected guestrooms. Enjoy the hotel's recreational facilities, including hot tub, fitness center, sauna, golf course (within 3 km), outdoor pool, before retiring to your room for a well-deserved rest. Friendly staff, great facilities and close proximity to all that Kauai Hawaii has to offer are three great reasons you should stay at The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas. Certainly a sophisticated answer to where to stay in Kauai.

3. Marriott's Waiohai Beach Club

A sound choice when it comes to where to stay in Kauai, the Idyllic Marriott's Waiohai Beach Club is located on the world-famous Poipu Beach. This outstanding resort has three pools, a gym, and beachfront water sports for visitors to enjoy the dreamy setting even more. Upgrade to a two-bedroom villa with complete kitchens, living rooms, dining areas and more. The property is near Spouting Horn Park and Old Koloa Town and has its own Honu Pool Bar. Near golf courses, the property also offers spa treatments within its premises – perfect if you’re seeking an all-in place to stay in Kauai.

Where to stay in Kauai on a budget - East Shore

Travelers on a budget seeking where to stay in Kauai are advised to stay on the island’s East Shore. Not only are hotels cheaper, but the central location allows for easy access to some of the island’s attractions. The area is also served by commerce such as grocery stores, and even a Costco – a handy option for those seeking an alternative to daily restaurant meals.

1. Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay, HI

Situated by the Wailua River, but also by the ocean, the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay, HI offers guests private beach access, a pool and a hot tub, a restaurant within its premises, and more. A good idea for those wondering where to stay in Kauai, located a short drive from Kapaa, 5 miles (8 km) from Lihue airport, this property offers rooms, suites and 2-room cottages with HDTV, microwave ovens, air conditioning, mini fridges, and a work desk, as well as coffee machines. A quiet yet well-placed answer to where to stay in Kauai.

2. The Iso. Island. Sky. Ocean.

Where to stay in Kauai? You might like ‘The Iso. Island. Sky. Ocean.’ a property situated by Waipouli Town Center. It consists of studios by the beach, linked by a private communal patio, offering a pool and a restaurant within its premises. The studios are equipped with coffee machines.

15 minutes from Lihue Airport, the complex also offers a restaurant with ocean views, serving steaks and seafood. The site has tennis courts for guests and offers free parking.

3. Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

Located by Kauai’s East Shore’s sandy Coconut Beach, this Sheraton property is a comfortable straightforward hotel – perfect for those wondering where to stay in Kauai - offering high-speed internet, private lanais, and fridges in each of its rooms. Conveniently placed, it’s near East Shore’s best shopping centers and restaurants, and offers a business center and a designated outdoor space for functions.

FAQs about Where to Stay in Kauai

• Where to stay in Kauai when traveling as a family?
  The South Shore of Kauai is easier for transport and the weather is more predictable, which makes it a preferred destination for families.
  
  
  
• Where to stay in Kauai when traveling on a budget?
  The East part of Kauai has more affordable hotels, and is near grocery stores and other commerce that reduce the need for services.
  
  
  
• Where to stay in Kauai when traveling as a couple?
  The beauty of the North Shore of Kauai is breathtaking, making it ideal for couples on vacation or honeymoon, despite the unpredictable weather.
  
  
  

Ultimately Kauai can be beautiful from no matter what angle. If you’re wondering where to stay in this island, we recommend picking the place that best suits your interests, and then taking it from there.