Where to Stay in Kauai

Where to stay in Kauai

Hawaii is a massively popular destination for Australians, especially due to the competitive flight deals regularly found by Australian carriers. If you’re planning a trip to Kauai, great choice! This is one of the most natural and undeveloped of the main Hawaiian islands, with spectacular beauty found everywhere- Waimea Canyon, the Na Pali Coast, and the spectacular rugged coastlines are unlike anywhere else. The beauty of Kauai has appeared in many films, most famously Jurassic Park’s opening helicopter scene over a waterfall.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit Hawaii several times with my family, but this was our first time on Kauai. Knowing where to stay in Kauai can make or break your trip, so I hope this guide helps plan your Kauai holiday.

Kauai is also a great destination for US expats in Australia, as it’s by far the closest part of the US from Australia. Direct flights are about 9-10 hours to Oahu, and then a short, 20-minute flight from Oahu to Kauai. As any expat can attest to, it’s always a great feeling being back on US soil from time to time. I’ve gone with Hawaiian Airlines and Qantas to Hawaii and can recommend both for great service and convenient flight times.

Unlike Oahu, which has a main center in Waikiki, the accommodation options on Kauai are spread out a little more, which can be confusing. Or, at least it was to us when we were trying to figure out where to stay. To help make sense of it all, we’ve put together this detailed guide of where to stay on Kauai, based on personal experience and a lot of research.

The main areas of accommodation in Kauai can be divided into three regions: Koloa and Poipu, Lihue, and the North Shore. I’ve stayed in both Poipu and Lihue, and visited the North Shore, and am glad to answer any questions on areas of the island.

Booking.com is a great site to check out when for searching for Kauai hotels. 

I use it myself and have recommended it via links below, as many properties offer free cancellation and they have a huge range of properties on the island. For each property mentioned, I have tried to give the approximate cost per night, in Australian dollars.

Best areas of Kauai to stay

Note: Due to the topography of the island, most of the development and accommodation is located on the east, north, and south of the island- the west of the island is home to the Na Pali Coast, a rugged and craggy terrain, as well as a large military base. That being said, there is a hotel on the west coast, only for military servicemen and women and their families- Barking Sands Beach Cottages.

Below is a breakdown of some of the best areas of Kauai to stay:

Koloa & Poipu

Koloa and Poipu are home to most of the resorts on the island and are located on the island’s south. Despite being the busiest place on the island, it really doesn’t feel that way- the beaches are natural and free from towering high rise hotels, and most of the development seems to be tastefully done. However, most accommodation here is private rentals or western resort chains, so if you truly want a traditional Hawaiian experience, you may not prefer Koloa.

A lot of great restaurants, shopping, and bars can be found here, but don’t expect crazy nightlife. Kauai is definitely not a party island, more so a place to relax and refresh. We really loved Brennecke’s Beach Broiler, a seafood and burger place on Poipu Beach- try to visit at sunset. There’s also unbelievable beaches here, perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkeling.

The whole island is amazing for adventure activities, such as hiking, cycling, or mountain tubing, which looks so fun and I wish we’d have the chance to try it- next time!

Top recommendations for Koloa and Poipu:

Kauai Banyan Inn– This small B&B is incredibly highly rated, and offers three private suites. It looks small but charming, and a great spot for couples. Rates start from $330 AUD per night. 

Koloa Landing 

This spacious resort does not fail to impress, with huge villas, poolside cabanas and a waterslide, and 5-star service. Expensive yes, but this and Grand Hyatt would be my picks for best luxury resorts on Kauai. Rates range from $533 – $1,177 AUD per night.

Lihue

Lihue is a great choice if you want to be close to the airport for an early flight or late incoming flight. At only 5-10 minutes by car from Kauai Airport, this small beachfront township is really convenient for travelers. It’s also home to some great beaches (Kalapaki and Nukoli’l), a small shopping center, and some great waterfront restaurants.

Lihue is also home to Kauai’s cruise ship terminal, so it’s an easy option before or after a cruise.

Top tip: Lihue is home to Duke’s Kauai. If you can’t get a table at the always-popular Duke’s, fear not -head to nearby Lilikoi Bar & Grill instead. No beach views, but they offer delicious and well-priced food, and it’s easy to get a table. I’d say Lilikoi was one of our favorite meals on the island. We also really liked JJ’s Broiler, a sports bar, and Mariachi’s Authentic Mexican.

Top recommendations for Lihue:

(Above- Garden Island Inn, courtesy of www.gardenislandinn.com)

Garden Island Inn– This traditional Hawaiian hotel is a fantastic mid-range option, made extra special by the spectacular gardens on site, which serve up fresh tropical fruit each morning.

Kauai Beach Resort– This boutique property is one of the more affordable resorts in the area, and offers great value with four different pools and beachfront access. Definitely a fantastic option for the area. Rates range from $330 – $609 AUD per night.

North Shore (Princeville and Hanalei)

The North Shore is a great choice if you’re looking for the quintessential Hawaii beach town- surf shops, laid back sunsets and mountain views, hippie vibes, and food trucks. Unfortunately, the modern tourism industry has caught up with this traditional beach town when it comes to prices- accommodation here is no cheaper than anywhere else on the island.

Princeville is a bit more built up and home to some resorts and chains, but Hanalei is home to more locally-owned accommodation, which is nice.

The North Shore definitely offers serenity, delicious food, and a real insight into Hawaiian culture- however, keep in mind that most of the island’s attractions are located in the south. The drive from Hanalei to Poipu, for example, is about an hour and a half to two hours, with no traffic- and there’s almost always traffic.

Top recommendations for the North Shore:

(Above- The Elvis Suite terrace of the Hanalei Surfboard House, courtesy of www.hanaleisurfboardhouse.com/)

Hanalei Surfboard House– This eccentric rental property on the North Shore offers two suites- the Elvis and Cowgirl Suites, both decorated in amazing Hawaiian kitsch and tiki flair. However, they’re still stylish and look like a really fun place to stay- if I was booking a few nights up north, I would definitely check this place out first. Suites start at $480 AUD ($350 USD) per night. 

The Cliffs at Princeville – The Cliffs offer studios and apartments and lux resort facilities, making it a good option for groups or families looking to be in Princeville. Average rates from $398 – $686 AUD. 

Here are some of the best Airbnbs on the North Shore.

Other options in Kauai

In addition to the above, private rentals can be found all over the island. There is also some accommodation near Waimea Canyon, in the town of Waimea, or in Wailua.

My top picks for:

The swimming pools of your dreams: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa (Koloa)

From koi ponds, waterslides, cascading pools, and seemingly neverending pools, all on the oceanfront, I’ve literally never seen a swimming pool this impressive. Walking onto the property for this first time will literally make your jaw drop. Yes, it’s crazy expensive, but for a night or for a special occasion, this is Kauai’s top resort when it comes to luxury. Rates range from $742 – $1,279 AUD per night. 

Doing Kauai on the tightest budget: Kauai Beach House Oceanfront Hostel 

This oceanfront hostel in Kapaa offers clean shared rooms, friendly staff, and spacious balconies to watch the sunset over the sea. A great option for backpackers or those exploring the islands of Hawaii on limited funds. Rates start at $36 AUD per night. 

Family-owned hotel at a reasonable rate: Garden Island Inn (Lihue)

This locally owned hotel lives up to its name- it is literally set in a lush and picturesque garden, and fresh fruit from the gardens are offered at the included breakfast every morning. It has a very traditional feel and is across the street from the beach and walking distance to many shops and restaurants. It’s also only about ten minutes from the airport. Rates range from $282 – $356 AUS per night. 

North Shore Hawaiian hideaway: Hanalei Surfboard House (North Shore)

As mentioned above, this eclectic and fun property would be my first choice for the North Shore (although, as a huge Elvis fan, I may be slightly biased).  Suites start at $480 AUD ($350 USD) per night. 

Resort, hotel, or home rental?

There are several options for accommodation in Kauai, depending on your style of travel.

Hostel– Private or shared accommodation in a clean but no-frills facility. Best for backpackers or those on a very tight budget. Hostels can be a lot of fun and a great way to meet people- I’ve stayed at many around the world and (almost!) always had an incredible time.

Hotel– Hotels can vary greatly in amenities, but will offer a private room and bathroom, and usually a swimming pool. A continental breakfast may be included.

Resort– Resorts in Hawaii are extremely luxurious, but can be hugely expensive. Expect multiple swimming pools and restaurants, a spa, concierge, entertainment, etc. Although resorts are incredible, always check the fine print when booking- many resorts charge, in addition to the room rate, a ‘resort fee’, which is not optional. I find this really frustrating and think all costs should be included in the room rate, but many large, international chains will add this fee at check-in, so ask about this before booking.

Private home– Private home vacation rentals can be arranged through sites such as Airbnb. Private homes are great for larger groups or families, as you have more space, and you also have a kitchen for preparing meals, laundry, etc. Many also have their own private pool.

Prefer an Airbnb? Here are some of the best Airbnbs on Kauai.

We stayed in a home near Poipu Beach called the ‘Waterfall House‘. It was perfect for a larger group and great to have a full kitchen, separate bedrooms, etc. For groups, a house will often work out much cheaper than hotel suites or booking multiple hotel rooms.

We stayed at a private home for most of our time on the island, and can highly recommend this option, as I was with extended family. However, couples or families may prefer hotels or resorts for the amenities- you know generally what style of travel you prefer. Kauai leans heavily towards both resorts and private rentals, but with some research, you can find something for every budget.

Heading to Oahu as well? Here’s some of the best hikes to do on Oahu. 

Hostels in Kauai

The most highly rated hostels on Kauai are Kauai Beach House Oceanfront Hotel and the Honu’ea International Hostel. Both are in Kapaa, on the eastern side, and very close to the beach. I haven’t rated Kapaa as a standalone accommodation region, as many reports say the beaches there can be very rough at certain times of the year, due to large surf and undertow. Given the choice, Poipu is a better choice, but on a tight budget, especially if you have a rental car, I am sure staying in Kapaa is a good option.

Car rental or public transportation on Kauai?

Kauai is known as the ‘Garden Island’, and is renowned for its natural beauty. The best way to explore it all is definitely by renting your own car. Public transportation is slim to none here, and without a car, you’re limited to your resort or booking onto day trips or excursions. There’s so much to explore on the island, including little hideaways and waterfalls you find as you drive along, that having your own car is essential.

If you’re planning a trip, I strongly recommend you budget in for car hire and petrol. Unfortunately, as is often the case on islands and remote areas, expect to pay high prices per gallon than you would elsewhere.

Top money saving tips for Kauai:

Hawaii, and especially Kauai, is not a cheap island getaway. That being said, there are definitely ways to save money during your trip:

• Look for accommodation with at least a kitchenette so you can have breakfast at home. We also prepared picnics and sandwiches for lunches- eating out in Hawaii adds up quickly, so nice to save a bit where you can.
• Many great activities on the island are free- swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and exploring waterfalls and the coastlines are some of the best things to do on the island.
• Hawaii is popular year-round, so there isn’t necessarily an off-season with cheaper fares. However, if you avoid peak holidays and US school vacation times, you’ll have the best shot at finding lower rates.
• Do your research and know what you want to see and do beforehand. If you are set on an expensive attraction, like a Kauai scenic helicopter flight or Na Pali Coast tour, consider saving money in other places, such as eating in or dining at casual take-out spots or food trucks, rather than sit-down meals. Food trucks are everywhere, have amazing fresh food, and can be reasonably priced. As an aside, I’ve written about the scenic helicopter flight here, and would 1000% recommend!
• The short answer is Hawaii is definitely an expensive holiday destination. However, it’s unlike anywhere else and worth it at least once. Go in knowing that you may spend more than on other beach trips, and plan ahead to maximize your time and budget. Booking and paying for excursions in advance is also a good way to help spread out the cost of the trip.

Please note, some of the above links are affiliates- this means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to the reader. This goes a long way to help support the costs of the blog!

Have you been to Kauai? Would love to hear your tops tips for hotels, things to do, or ways to save money!

(The writer visited Kauai as a full-paying member of the public. All opinions are her own.)