Kauai Where-to-Stay Ideas

Getting Around & Where-to-Stay Ideas

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Discover Kauai

Getting Around

Getting around Kauai is straightforward once you know the options—it’s a small island (about 25 miles across), but the roads are mostly two-lane highways with scenic twists, one-lane bridges (especially on the North Shore), and occasional traffic (like the infamous “Kapaa Crawl” on the East Side). There’s no full loop around the island due to the rugged Na Pali Coast, so you backtrack the same way.
The best way depends on your plans: if you’re basing on the North Shore (Hanalei/Princeville) for beaches, hikes, and the End of the Road drive, a rental car is strongly recommended for flexibility. Public options exist but are limited and slower.

Renting a car gives you total freedom to explore at your own pace—essential for the North Shore’s winding roads, spontaneous stops (like Lumahai Beach or Tunnels), and early/late timing to beat crowds or catch sunsets.
Pick up at Lihue Airport (LIH)—major companies (Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, etc.) are right there with shuttles to their lots.

Tips: Book early (months ahead in peak season)—availability can be tight, and prices vary. A compact or SUV/Jeep handles the roads well. No real off-roading needed unless you want to go to Polihale Beach State Park. Vans are great for families. Expect narrow curves, one-lane bridges (yield 5-8 cars at a time with a friendly wave), and aloha spirit—drivers are courteous, pull over for faster cars, and let you merge.

Island time is real—add buffer for traffic, stops, and weather (rain can slow things).

Budget-Friendly but Limited: The county-run Kauai Bus is affordable ($2 per ride, $5 day pass) and runs main routes from Kekaha (West) to Hanalei (North), with connections in Lihue. It covers major towns but skips many scenic spots (no direct to Waimea Canyon or most North Shore beaches/hikes). No large luggage, and schedules are for locals (hourly-ish, no Sunday service on some routes).

Airport shuttles (e.g., SpeediShuttle, Roberts Hawaii): Shared/private from LIH to North Shore (Princeville/Hanalei) ~$50-100+ one-way—book ahead.

North Shore Shuttle (for Haʻena State Park/Ke’e Beach): Eco-friendly, required for non-residents in peak times—reserve at gohaena.com (~$35 RT, includes park entry).

Taxis/Rideshares (Uber/Lyft/Holoholo): Available but spotty outside Lihue/East Side—call ahead for airport or North Shore.

Kauai Tour Guy (Doug’s private tours): Highly praised for knowledgeable, fun guides—covers North Shore to End of the Road, Princeville cliffs, Kilauea Lighthouse, and more. Pick-up available (small fee from Princeville). Reviewers love the personal touch and “no motorcoach crowds” vibe.

ToursByLocals or Viator private North Shore tours: Flexible full-day options with local experts—Hanalei Pier, taro fields, hidden beaches, and cultural stories.

Hawaiian Airlines — Most frequent, reliable, with Boeing 717 jets (many directs from Honolulu, Maui, Big Island).

Southwest Airlines — Often cheapest, two free checked bags, fun vibe—directs between major islands.

Mokulele Airlines — Small turboprop (Cessna) for shorter hops, but limited/no direct to Kauai from smaller spots (focuses on Maui, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai—check for connections).

Respect Mauka to Makai (mountain to ocean)

Travel With Aloha

Kauai offers plenty of free parking—a real treat for both residents and visitors alike—but it can turn into a costly headache when people park illegally. When visitors block driveways, shoulders, or restricted areas, it disrupts locals going about their daily lives and creates serious safety risks: parked cars can obstruct emergency vehicles like fire trucks or ambulances during a crisis.

No one wants their vacation ruined by a hefty ticket… or worse, a tow truck hauling their rental away! Mahalo for parking smart!

Speed limits on Kauai are noticeably lower than on most mainland roads—and for good reason! The two-lane highways often have no center barriers, tight curves, pedestrians, cyclists, and stunning distractions everywhere (those ocean views can sneak up on you!). Typical Kauai speed limit: usually 25-45 mph on scenic routes, dropping to 15-25 in towns or curves—always keep an eye out and respect them.
Drive slow and savor the ride—rushing ahead just means you’ll end up stuck behind the car in front of you anyway (they’re probably a local enjoying the scenery!). The person behind you will catch up quickly, and you’ll feel a little silly for hurrying.

On the flip side, if you’re finding it tough to keep up—especially freaky driving in pitch-black darkness because long stretches of Kauai roads have no streetlights—that’s totally understandable! The North Shore (and much of the island) is rural with minimal lighting, so it can feel intense for visitors.

Aloha tip: When you spot a car approaching from behind (or if you’re feeling unsure), pull over safely and let them go by. Residents know these roads like the back of their hand—they drive them daily and can navigate confidently in the dark. You can then follow their taillights as a helpful guide through the blackness—it’s a common, courteous practice here.

Kauai has many one-lane bridges—a charming (and sometimes quirky) part of island driving, especially on the scenic North Shore. Approach slowly, and never enter if vehicles from the opposite side are already crossing. Stay alert and don’t get distracted by the stunning scenery—those views are why we’re all here, but safety comes first. The famous Hanalei Bridge is in a league of its own—historic, green truss design, built in 1912, and the gateway to Hanalei town. Local etiquette is simple and courteous: Typically, 5-7 cars (sometimes up to 8) cross from one side at a time, then you yield to the waiting vehicles on the other side. Give a friendly wave or shaka when it’s your turn—it’s all about aloha.

Shop at farmers markets for the freshest tropical produce, handmade goods, and island specialties—think vibrant fruits, veggies, flowers, and local crafts straight from Kauai growers. Eat at food trucks like Hanalei Taro for real local flavors—generous portions, fresh ingredients, and that laid-back North Shore energy. Book with Kauai-owned businesses—whether it’s tours, rentals, restaurants, or shops—for authentic experiences that directly support the community and keep the island’s culture thriving. By choosing local, you’re not just traveling—you’re giving back and connecting deeper with the island. Mahalo for supporting Kauai!

Let’s be real: the only person usually thrilled about them is the operator. That peaceful hum can shatter the serenity of a quiet kalo (taro) field, a lazy beach nap, or someone’s backyard without warning. Always get permission first if you’re flying near private property or people. Plus, drones are strictly prohibited in Hawaii State Parks (including Haʻena, Ke’e Beach, and much of the North Shore) without a special permit—fines can be steep, and enforcement is real. If you do choose to fly, stay current on local laws (check DLNR Hawaii rules, FAA regs, and any area-specific restrictions), keep your distance from people/wildlife/homes, and operate with kindness and consideration. A little mindfulness goes a long way in keeping Kauai’s tranquility intact for everyone.

Plan Early

Where to Stay Ideas

Kauai has a little of everything. Rolling hills, valleys to the east, sun warmed beaches to the south, sandy beaches in the north, and majestic coastal mountains to the north and west.
There are three main tourists areas: Princeville and Hanalei in the North, Poipu to the south, and the “Coconut Coast” to the east. The westside is largely undeveloped and there are fewer accommodation options than in other places.

Location. Location

The North Shore

The North Shore of Kauaʻi is the island’s most scenic and lush region, featuring emerald mountains, dramatic Hanalei Bay, and easy access to the Nāpali Coast and waterfalls. As the windward side, it receives the most rainfall—especially during winter months, when surf at the beaches becomes bigger and more unpredictable. Conditions calm down considerably in summer. Stay here for natural beauty, hiking, snorkeling, and a laid-back vibe. Keep in mind that the area has many one-lane bridges, which can occasionally wash out during winter storms.

The main areas:

Hanalei is a charming surf town with iconic bay and mountain backdrop.
* Vacation rentals/condos (via VRBO, Airbnb, or local agencies like Kauai Vacation Rentals): many offer homes or units with kitchens, yards, and bay proximity. Ideal for a laid-back, local feel.
* There are no large hotels directly in Hanalei town, but rentals provide easy access to Hanalei Bay Beach (perfect for swimming, SUP, and sunset views).

Princeville is a cliffside resort community with ocean views, golf, and proximity to Hanalei Bay.

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay: Top luxury pick (former St. Regis, rebranded and renovated). Stunning cliffside location overlooking Hanalei Bay, eco-focused design, multiple pools, spa, and wellness amenities. Great for couples or families wanting upscale comfort and views. Highly rated for service, rooms, and setting.
Pu’u Po’a Condos: A small, upscale oceanfront condominium complex with direct ocean views and the obvious advantage of being next door to the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay/St. Regis Princeville Resort. Check VRBO, Airbnb, or local agencies like Kauai Vacation Rentals or Jean & Abbott Properties for availability.
The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas — Family-friendly vacation ownership resort with spacious villas (kitchens, laundry), multiple pools, hot tubs, and ocean views. Excellent for longer stays or self-catering.
Hanalei Bay Resort — Condo-style resort with beach access (via golf cart shuttle to Hanalei Bay), pools, and relaxed tropical vibe. Good for families or groups.

Accommodation here are primarily vacation rentals like homes and cottages right on or steps from Anini Beach that can be booked via VRBO, Airbnb, or local agencies like Kauai Vacation Rentals or Parrish Kauai. Great for families/groups (2–5+ bedrooms common); often include beach gear. Prices typically $400–$1,200+/night (seasonal, higher in peak times).

Accommodation here is mostly vacation rentals like homes, cottages, or farms. Many listings on VRBO, Airbnb, or local agencies.

Haʻena is a remote, stunning area at the end of the road (Route 560), home to Haʻena State Park, Keʻe Beach (trailhead for the Kalalau Trail), and Tunnels Beach (Makua Beach). Grocery shopping is non-existent here so make sure you stock in Hanalei or Princeville store. Most stays are vacation rentals (homes, cottages, condos).

Private Homes & Cottages: The primary choice (via VRBO, Airbnb, or local agencies like Kauai Vacation Rentals, Parrish Kauai, or Jean & Abbott Properties).
Hanalei Colony Resort: It is a well-known oceanfront vacation resort located in Haʻena (just beyond Hanalei town, about 5–10 minutes from Haʻena State Park and Keʻe Beach). It offers a secluded, laid-back escape on a quiet stretch of golden sand with tropical grounds and direct ocean access.

The North Shore

The main areas:

Princeville is a cliffside resort community with ocean views, golf, and proximity to Hanalei Bay.

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay: Top luxury pick (former St. Regis, rebranded and renovated). Stunning cliffside location overlooking Hanalei Bay, eco-focused design, multiple pools, spa, and wellness amenities. Great for couples or families wanting upscale comfort and views. Highly rated for service, rooms, and setting.
Pu’u Po’a Condos: A small, upscale oceanfront condominium complex with direct ocean views and the obvious advantage of being next door to the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay/St. Regis Princeville Resort. Check VRBO, Airbnb, or local agencies like Kauai Vacation Rentals or Jean & Abbott Properties for availability.
The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas — Family-friendly vacation ownership resort with spacious villas (kitchens, laundry), multiple pools, hot tubs, and ocean views. Excellent for longer stays or self-catering.
Hanalei Bay Resort — Condo-style resort with beach access (via golf cart shuttle to Hanalei Bay), pools, and relaxed tropical vibe. Good for families or groups.

Accommodation here is mostly vacation rentals like homes, cottages, or farms. Many listings on VRBO, Airbnb, or local agencies.

Private Homes & Cottages: The primary choice (via VRBO, Airbnb, or local agencies like Kauai Vacation Rentals, Parrish Kauai, or Jean & Abbott Properties).
Hanalei Colony Resort: It is a well-known oceanfront vacation resort located in Haʻena (just beyond Hanalei town, about 5–10 minutes from Haʻena State Park and Keʻe Beach). It offers a secluded, laid-back escape on a quiet stretch of golden sand with tropical grounds and direct ocean access.

The main areas:

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa: The flagship South Shore resort. Sprawling oceanfront property with multiple pools (including a lagoon with waterfalls), full-service spa, golf course, luau, and direct access to Poʻipū Beach. Excellent for families (kids’ programs, calm swimming) and couples (spa, fine dining). Highly rated for grounds and service.
Koa Kea Hotel & Resort: Boutique luxury right on Poʻipū Beach—smaller, more intimate than the Hyatt, with stylish rooms, infinity pool, and oceanfront dining. Great for couples or those wanting a refined, less crowded vibe.
Sheraton Kauai Resort: Family-friendly beachfront resort with pools, kids’ activities, and easy Poʻipū Beach access. Solid value in the luxury category.

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu: Upscale resort-style condos/villas with large pools, hot tubs, kitchens, and proximity to Poʻipū Beach. Ideal for families or groups (multiple bedrooms, full kitchens).
Poʻipū Beach Villas or Whalers Cove: Oceanfront condo complexes with kitchens, lanais, and direct beach access—great for self-catering and longer stays.
Private Homes & Condos (VRBO, Airbnb): Many oceanfront or near-beach options in Poʻipū/Kōloa (1–5+ bedrooms, pools, yards). Best for privacy and home-like comfort.

Embassy Vacasa Poʻipū: Condo-style with kitchens and resort amenities—good value near Poʻipū Beach.
Aston at Poʻipū Kai: Affordable condos with pools and beach access—solid for families on a budget.

The South Shore

The South Shore of Kauaʻi (centered on Poʻipū and Kōloa) is the island’s sunniest, driest, and most resort-focused area—perfect for beach lovers, snorkelers, families, and those wanting reliable good weather, calm protected waters, and easy access to activities like Waimea Canyon and Spouting Horn.
Booking: Reserve early (South Shore is popular). Use resort sites for hotels or VRBO/Airbnb for condos (kitchens save money on meals).

The South Shore

The main areas:

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa: The flagship South Shore resort. Sprawling oceanfront property with multiple pools (including a lagoon with waterfalls), full-service spa, golf course, luau, and direct access to Poʻipū Beach. Excellent for families (kids’ programs, calm swimming) and couples (spa, fine dining). Highly rated for grounds and service.
Koa Kea Hotel & Resort: Boutique luxury right on Poʻipū Beach—smaller, more intimate than the Hyatt, with stylish rooms, infinity pool, and oceanfront dining. Great for couples or those wanting a refined, less crowded vibe.
Sheraton Kauai Resort: Family-friendly beachfront resort with pools, kids’ activities, and easy Poʻipū Beach access. Solid value in the luxury category.

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu: Upscale resort-style condos/villas with large pools, hot tubs, kitchens, and proximity to Poʻipū Beach. Ideal for families or groups (multiple bedrooms, full kitchens).
Poʻipū Beach Villas or Whalers Cove: Oceanfront condo complexes with kitchens, lanais, and direct beach access—great for self-catering and longer stays.
Private Homes & Condos (VRBO, Airbnb): Many oceanfront or near-beach options in Poʻipū/Kōloa (1–5+ bedrooms, pools, yards). Best for privacy and home-like comfort.

Embassy Vacasa Poʻipū: Condo-style with kitchens and resort amenities—good value near Poʻipū Beach.
Aston at Poʻipū Kai: Affordable condos with pools and beach access—solid for families on a budget.

The East Shore

The East Shore of Kauai is a fantastic place to stay, especially if you’re looking for convenience as a base for exploring the whole island. It’s centrally located—about 10–30 minutes from Līhuʻe Airport, 30–45 minutes to the North Shore (Hanalei/Nāpali Coast) or South Shore (Poipu), and full of local vibes with beaches, the Wailua River, waterfalls, Kapaa town dining/shopping like Coconut Market Place, and the Kauai Path trail. The area offers a mix of hotels, resorts, condos, and vacation rentals—more affordable and “local” than the resort-heavy South or North Shores, with a breezy coastal feel and coconut palms everywhere.
Booking: Check sites like Booking.com, Expedia, Tripadvisor, or direct hotel sites for deals—rates vary seasonally.

The main areas:

Kapa’a offers mostly mid-range hotels, beachfront condos/resorts, and vacation rentals (via VRBO/Airbnb)—many with pools, kitchens, and direct beach access. Beaches here are often breezier/wavier (good for walks/bodyboarding), but protected spots nearby are family-friendly.

Kauai Shores Hotel: A favorite budget-friendly oceanfront spot with private beach, tropical courtyard with 2 pools, beachfront restaurant (Lava Lava Beach Club for great food/drinks), beachside yoga, and vibrant island decor. Highly rated for its relaxed vibe, location near town, and value—often called a “hidden gem” for first-timers.
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort: Solid 4-star choice on Coconut Beach with oceanfront with heated pool, pool bar, on-site dining, family activities (lei making, game room), and lush grounds. Great for convenience and exploring the island; many praise the views and central spot.
Aston Islander on the Beach: Classic low-rise oceanfront condo-style resort—pools, hot tub, tiki bar, BBQ areas, and beach access. Excellent for families/groups wanting space and affordability; consistent reviews for cleanliness and location.
THE ISO Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham: Modern, boutique-feel option—clean, contemporary rooms with good amenities; popular for its value and proximity to Kapaa town.

Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa Kauai by Outrigger: Frequently tops lists for families—luxury condos with huge lagoon-style pools (lazy river, slides, hot tubs), oceanfront views, full kitchens, and resort perks. Epic pool complex makes it hard to leave, but it’s central for adventures.
Plantation Hale Suites: Spacious condo suites with kitchens, pools, and beach proximity—good value and family-oriented.
Pono Kai Resort: Large grounds with pools, tennis, ocean views/units—quiet yet walkable to Kapaa town; long-time favorites for repeat visitors.
Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy (also known as Club Wyndham Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy or under Shell Vacations Club) is a solid, beachfront condo-style resort right in the heart of Kapaa.
Other Condos/Rentals Look for spots like Kauai Kailani, Kapaa Shore, or Islander Ocean Resort condos—many oceanfront with lanais, laundry, and pools. VRBO/Airbnb options in Kapaa are plentiful and often cheaper for beachfront than South/North Shores.

The Wailua area on Kauai’s East Shore is a quieter, more scenic part of the central coast compared to bustling Kapaa just north. It’s right by the iconic Wailua River, easy access to Wailua Falls and ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls, and family-friendly Lydgate Beach Park (protected lava-rock pools for safe swimming/snorkeling). It’s super central: 10–15 minutes from Līhuʻe Airport, quick to Kapaa town for dining/shopping, and 30–45 minutes to North or South Shores.

Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay: A reliable modern chain option right on the Wailua River mouth with ocean views from many rooms, outdoor pool, on-site dining, and easy access to Lydgate Beach (great for kids). It’s praised for its central location, friendly staff, and convenience—solid for first-timers or those wanting consistency.
Lae Nani Resort: Oceanfront condos with full kitchens, pools, and direct beach access—quiet and scenic, steps from Lydgate Beach. Popular for families or longer stays; consistent praise for views and value.
Kaha Lani Resort (condo complex): Oceanfront units with great reviews for privacy, beach proximity, and corner units with epic views. Options like 1–2 bedroom condos with balconies overlooking the coast and golf course—often highlighted for being steps to the beach.

OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa: A large, full-service beachfront resort on 25 acres—multiple pools (including a waterslide), 3 restaurants/bars, spa, fitness center, and direct access to a sandy beach. It’s conveniently <10 minutes from the airport, with renovated rooms and a central spot for exploring both North and South Shores. Reviews praise the grounds, pools, and value—great for families or groups.
The Royal Sonesta Kauaʻi Resort Lihue: Upscale beachfront on Kalapaki Bay—stunning ocean views, pool, spa, multiple dining options, and proximity to golf (Kauai Lagoons). It’s newly renovated (AAA Four-Diamond rated), with modern rooms and a luxurious feel. High marks for location (2 miles from airport), beach access, and service—popular for couples or those wanting polish near the airport.
Marriott’s Kauaʻi Beach Club (or Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons – Kalanipu’u for timeshare-style units): Oceanfront with villa-style rooms/parlors, pools, beach access on Kalapaki, and resort amenities. Good for space and kitchens in some units; reviews highlight views and convenience.

The East Shore

The main areas:

Kauai Shores Hotel: A favorite budget-friendly oceanfront spot with private beach, tropical courtyard with 2 pools, beachfront restaurant (Lava Lava Beach Club for great food/drinks), beachside yoga, and vibrant island decor. Highly rated for its relaxed vibe, location near town, and value—often called a “hidden gem” for first-timers.
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort: Solid 4-star choice on Coconut Beach with oceanfront with heated pool, pool bar, on-site dining, family activities (lei making, game room), and lush grounds. Great for convenience and exploring the island; many praise the views and central spot.
Aston Islander on the Beach: Classic low-rise oceanfront condo-style resort—pools, hot tub, tiki bar, BBQ areas, and beach access. Excellent for families/groups wanting space and affordability; consistent reviews for cleanliness and location.
THE ISO Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham: Modern, boutique-feel option—clean, contemporary rooms with good amenities; popular for its value and proximity to Kapaa town.

Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa Kauai by Outrigger: Frequently tops lists for families—luxury condos with huge lagoon-style pools (lazy river, slides, hot tubs), oceanfront views, full kitchens, and resort perks. Epic pool complex makes it hard to leave, but it’s central for adventures.
Plantation Hale Suites: Spacious condo suites with kitchens, pools, and beach proximity—good value and family-oriented.
Pono Kai Resort: Large grounds with pools, tennis, ocean views/units—quiet yet walkable to Kapaa town; long-time favorites for repeat visitors.
Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy (also known as Club Wyndham Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy or under Shell Vacations Club) is a solid, beachfront condo-style resort right in the heart of Kapaa.
Other Condos/Rentals Look for spots like Kauai Kailani, Kapaa Shore, or Islander Ocean Resort condos—many oceanfront with lanais, laundry, and pools. VRBO/Airbnb options in Kapaa are plentiful and often cheaper for beachfront than South/North Shores.

Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay: A reliable modern chain option right on the Wailua River mouth with ocean views from many rooms, outdoor pool, on-site dining, and easy access to Lydgate Beach (great for kids). It’s praised for its central location, friendly staff, and convenience—solid for first-timers or those wanting consistency.
Lae Nani Resort: Oceanfront condos with full kitchens, pools, and direct beach access—quiet and scenic, steps from Lydgate Beach. Popular for families or longer stays; consistent praise for views and value.
Kaha Lani Resort (condo complex): Oceanfront units with great reviews for privacy, beach proximity, and corner units with epic views. Options like 1–2 bedroom condos with balconies overlooking the coast and golf course—often highlighted for being steps to the beach.

OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa: A large, full-service beachfront resort on 25 acres—multiple pools (including a waterslide), 3 restaurants/bars, spa, fitness center, and direct access to a sandy beach. It’s conveniently <10 minutes from the airport, with renovated rooms and a central spot for exploring both North and South Shores. Reviews praise the grounds, pools, and value—great for families or groups.
The Royal Sonesta Kauaʻi Resort Lihue: Upscale beachfront on Kalapaki Bay—stunning ocean views, pool, spa, multiple dining options, and proximity to golf (Kauai Lagoons). It’s newly renovated (AAA Four-Diamond rated), with modern rooms and a luxurious feel. High marks for location (2 miles from airport), beach access, and service—popular for couples or those wanting polish near the airport.
Marriott’s Kauaʻi Beach Club (or Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons – Kalanipu’u for timeshare-style units): Oceanfront with villa-style rooms/parlors, pools, beach access on Kalapaki, and resort amenities. Good for space and kitchens in some units; reviews highlight views and convenience.

The main areas:

Waimea Plantation Cottages: Historic, charming plantation-style cottages (1–5 bedrooms) on a quiet black-sand beach, with full kitchens, private lanais, lush gardens, oceanfront pool, and on-site restaurant. It’s oceanfront, authentic, and family-friendly. Reviews love the vintage Hawaii vibe, views, and proximity to Waimea town/eats.
Inn Waimea (formerly West Kauai Lodging or Coconut Cottage, in Waimea): Cozy, budget-friendly inn/B&B-style with simple rooms or suites, kitchenettes in some, and a homey feel. Central in town—walk to local spots, short drive to canyon hikes. Praised for value, cleanliness, and authentic local experience—ideal if you want basic comforts without luxury.
The West Inn Kauai: Motel-style with kitchenettes, clean and simple—good for hikers on a budget. Convenient location near Waimea Canyon Drive—reviews note it’s straightforward and quiet.

Kekaha has very limited traditional hotels—it’s a small, laid-back residential town with a focus on vacation rentals rather than big resorts. Most lodging here is privately owned beachfront cottages, plantation-style homes, or luxury beach houses, often managed by local companies like Kekaha Oceanside Kauai or listed on VRBO, Airbnb, and similar sites.

Lodging is limited and mostly consists of vacation rentals (private homes, cottages, or apartments) scattered around Hanapepe or the immediate surrounding area (like Eleele or nearby rural spots). These are ideal for a quiet, authentic West Side stay with easy access to the town, Swinging Bridge, Salt Pond Beach, and Waimea Canyon (~20–30 min drive).

Cabins at Kōkeʻe (Kōkeʻe State Park, higher elevation above Waimea): Rustic state park cabins—basic but scenic, with kitchens and proximity to trails/lookouts (e.g., Kalalau Lookout). Advance reservations needed via Hawaii state parks site—perfect for serious hikers wanting immersion in the forest/mountains (cooler temps, misty vibes).

The West Shore

The West Side of Kauai is the most remote and rugged part of the island—drier, less developed, with dramatic red-dirt landscapes, epic hiking in Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe State Park, stunning sunsets, historic towns like Hanapepe, and beaches like Polihale or Kekaha. It’s authentic old Hawaii with fewer crowds, but accommodation is limited—no big resorts, mostly small inns, historic cottages, vacation rentals, B&Bs, and camping.

The West Shore

The main areas:

Waimea Plantation Cottages: Historic, charming plantation-style cottages (1–5 bedrooms) on a quiet black-sand beach, with full kitchens, private lanais, lush gardens, oceanfront pool, and on-site restaurant. It’s oceanfront, authentic, and family-friendly. Reviews love the vintage Hawaii vibe, views, and proximity to Waimea town/eats.
Inn Waimea (formerly West Kauai Lodging or Coconut Cottage, in Waimea): Cozy, budget-friendly inn/B&B-style with simple rooms or suites, kitchenettes in some, and a homey feel. Central in town—walk to local spots, short drive to canyon hikes. Praised for value, cleanliness, and authentic local experience—ideal if you want basic comforts without luxury.
The West Inn Kauai: Motel-style with kitchenettes, clean and simple—good for hikers on a budget. Convenient location near Waimea Canyon Drive—reviews note it’s straightforward and quiet.

Only ones that we would return to…

Recommended Accomodations

Kīlauea on North Shore – House

Jungle Bee (sleeps 8)

Jungle Bee is a private, stunning 23 acre estate and cacao farm perched on a bluff with great views and sunset on clear days. It offers two homes: main 3-bedroom house and a separate 1-bedroom ocean suite. There is a private access to Secret Beach via path – note that the trail can be quite slippery after the rain. There is also hot tub and generous outdoor spaces to relax and enjoy the views. AC in main bedrooms.
What we liked the most: privacy, nature and great communication before and after stay with hosts.

Link to VRBO Site

Anini on North Shore – House

Hale La’Au Pohaku (sleeps 6)

This home offers perfect beach access—just 75 steps from the front door to a private path straight to beach. The reef-protected waters here stay calm most days, making it a gem for snorkeling, swimming, and playing. You’ll find beach chairs, umbrellas, and even water shoes ready in the storage area. The kitchen is well-stocked for easy meals, and there are plenty of games on hand for those occasional rainy days.
What we liked the most: privacy, beach access and great communication with hosts.

Link to VRBO Site

Princeville on North Shore – Condo

Puu Poa Condos (sleeps 4)

Puʻu Poʻa stands out as one of Princeville’s premier condo complexes—and the only true oceanfront option in the high-end category. Situated directly beside the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay and right above the secluded Hideaways Beach, it offers privacy and Pacific views. There are 4 levels, and unit # clearly indicates both floor and building: the first digit shows the floor level (1 = ground/first floor, 2 = second floor, etc.). The other digits identify the building number. There are many great units to choose from.

Link to VRBO Site

Hanalei on North Shore – House

Sunset Hale (sleeps 6)

Sunset Hale is a charming vacation rental in Hanalei—a 3-bedroom, 2-bath beach house that’s just 80 steps from the famous Hanalei Bay. It is located on a quiet cul-de-sac, close enough to beach, and short walk to restaurants, shops, and Hanalei Pier. There is a wrap-around lanai for dining and relaxing, gas BBQ grill, outdoor shower for rinsing off after the beach, and tropical landscaping. No AC.
What we liked the most: proximity to beach and town, and great communication with Kauai Vacation Rentals.

Link to Web Site

Poip’u on South Shore – Condo

Poʻipū Kapili Resort (sleeps 4)

Poʻipū Kapili is a popular low-rise oceanfront condo resort on South Shore. It is known for its quiet, intimate feel, lush landscaping, and great location. It offers 1- and 2-bedroom condos (some up to 3 bedrooms in combined units), with kitchens, lanais with ocean/garden views, and washer/dryer. Many units are individually owned and rented privately. Some units are older—check reviews/photos.
What we liked the most: location, views (great sunsets), and proximity to the Poʻipū resort area.

Link to Web Site

Safe travels

What-to-Pack Tips

If you’re traveling with only carry-on bags, you avoid the risk of losing checked luggage, especially on connecting flights or when switching carriers.
Tip (learned the hard way) for when you do check bags: pack a change of clothes and a swimsuit for each family member, plus any prescription medications, in your carry-on—just in case a suitcase is delayed or lost.
To save space and lighten your load: cut back on regular clothes (except swimsuits and T-shirts) and prioritize essentials instead – beach sandals, walking/hiking shoes (mud sticks, so lightweight KEEN or Teva-style sandals work great), snorkel gear, reef-safe sunscreen, hat with a brim, sunglasses, beach bag or backpack, frisbee, or other beach toys. Pack something light for rain (a packable rain jacket or poncho). If you plan to boogie board or surf, pack a UV rash guard for extra sun protection. Last year we added Thermo Sleeve shirts for snorkeling—water can feel cooler in winter than in summer.
Most rental places provide basic beach gear.
Island restaurants are very informal—no ties or jackets required—but bring long pants for evenings and a light hoodie for cooler winter nights.