Where to Stay in Kauai: 15 Best Hotels & Nearby Attractions

Are you ready to soak up the sun and show off those summer vibes on the beautiful beaches? Then it’s time to pack your bags and head to the stunning island of the Garden Isle, Kauai! From top-notch hotel accommodations to incredible nearby attractions along the Kauai Marriott resort, Coconut Coast, the east Kauai, and the west side. Kauai has your back and is ready to make your vacation dreams come true.

Prepare to be blown away by Kauai’s stunning natural beauty and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a beach bum, nature lover, or just looking to escape the craziness of city life, this is the sign where to stay in Kauai.

Get ready for the ultimate Kauai vacation of a lifetime! In this post, we’ve got the inside scoop on the most epic Kauai ride that will take your trip to the next level. So hold on tight and keep reading until the end because you won’t want to miss out on these unique experiences!

 Our Favorite Accommodation in Kauai

Get ready to find your dream home away from home in the breathtaking paradise of Kauai! With so many options, finding the perfect place to stay can be overwhelming. But fear not, because if you have a specific preference, we have got you covered on where to stay in Kauai hotels. 

• Best Luxury Hotel in Kauai – 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
• Best Mid-Range Hotel in  Kauai – Kauai Beach Resort & Spa
• Best Budget Hotel in  Kauai – Kauai Palms Hotel
• Best Vacation Rental in  Kauai – Luxurious Tropical 3-Bed Oasis
• Best Campsite in Kauai – Anahola Beach Park
• Best Resort in  Kauai – Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
• Best Family-Friendly Hotel in  Kauai – Kauai Shores Hotel 
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotel in  Kauai – Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay

Best Attractions in Kauai

Get ready to experience the ultimate Kauai adventure, but before you book your accommodation, make sure it’s in the perfect location for all the attractions you want to visit. Not sure where to start? No worries, here are our top picks of must-see Kauai attractions you won’t want to miss! 

• Best Attraction for First-Timers/Tourists – Hanalei Valley
• Best Attraction for Budget Travelers – Waimea Canyon State Park
• Best Attraction for Luxury Travelers – Na Pali Coast
• Best Attraction for Families – Poipu Beach
• Best Attraction for Kids – Lydgate Beach

Where to Stay in Kauai, Hawaii

1. Best Luxury Hotel in Kauai – 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

Situated in one of the most stunning locations on Earth, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is poised to bring a first-rate wellness resort and a flagship eco-friendly sanctuary to Kauaʻi’s North Shore, facing the Pacific Ocean. This is the best place to stay in Kauai. The resort’s 252 rooms provide guests an unforgettable stay amidst breathtaking surroundings on Kauaʻi’s North Shore.

There are numerous activities to do near 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, such as embarking on a hike along the Kalalau Trail for breathtaking views of the Na Pali Coast, indulging in various water sports like surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking at Hanalei Bay. For a more laid-back experience, guests can explore the Limahuli Garden and Preserve or take a helicopter tour to admire Kauaʻi’s stunning landscapes. 

Moreover, visitors can opt for a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion to discover the diverse marine life thriving beneath the waves. The culinary choices are also outstanding in this Hanalei Bay resort. It has chefs bringing traditional cooking methods and the hotel’s modern Asian fusion cuisine contributes to the whole experience.

The resort offers guests a variety of room options, ranging from guest rooms to spacious suites and villas, each boasting spectacular views of the ocean and surrounding natural beauty. The resort also features various on-site amenities, including multiple dining options, a spa, a fitness center, and an infinity pool, compared to other luxury resorts in Kauai. 

2. Best Mid-Range Hotel in Kauai – Kauai Beach Resort & Spa

If you are looking for an unparalleled experience of relaxation, adventure, and rejuvenation for a mid-range price, this Kauai hotel is for you. Kauai Beach Resort & Spa is on the east coast of Kauai, an island in Hawaii. 

The resort boasts a prime beachfront location, providing guests with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and access to a pristine, white sand beach. The resort offers a range of amenities, including several swimming pools, a fitness center, on-site restaurants, and a full-service spa, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing and indulgent vacation. 

Kauai Beach Resort & Spa provides numerous options for adventurous guests, such as surfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking. In contrast, others can enjoy a scenic hike through the nearby mountains or horseback riding along the gorgeous beaches. Additionally, guests who prefer to stay on land can use the resort’s amenities. 

In this hotel, guests can expect luxurious accommodations, with every detail meticulously designed for comfort, from spacious guest rooms to lavish suites. The hotel room features elegant furnishings, premium bedding, modern amenities, and private balconies with ocean views, ensuring a relaxing and indulgent stay. Then the hotel’s location offers easy access to some of the island’s most popular tourist spots, including Lydgate State Park.

3. Best Budget Hotel in  Kauai – Kauai Palms Hotel

Kauai Palms Hotel is an affordable, budget-friendly hotel in Kauai. It is a charming boutique hotel perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulging in a peaceful vacation for budget accommodations. This hotel will greet you with decorated rooms that exude comfort and tranquility with a relaxing atmosphere. 

Stepping inside Kauai Palms Hotel, you will be welcomed by tastefully decorated rooms that emanate a sense of comfort and tranquility. Each room has contemporary amenities such as air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a flat-screen TV. Furthermore, the hotel provides complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring you remain connected throughout your stay.

Once checked in at this hotel,  they will serve you a complimentary breakfast that includes freshly brewed coffee, pastries, and fresh fruit offered to all guests. The hotel’s outdoor pool and hot tub are perfect for unwinding and soaking up the warm Hawaiian sunshine. Alternatively, explore Kauai’s natural beauty, including the breathtaking Waimea Canyon, Na Pali Coast, and the stunning Hanalei Bay. 

Then, the hotel’s exceptional location ensures guests can quickly reach a diverse range of dining and shopping options on foot, guaranteeing a pleasurable and comfortable stay. The Kauai Palms Hotel amenities are also well-suited for children.

4. Best Vacation Rental in  Kauai- Ka Hale O’Luina

Looking for a kiss of nature that promotes tranquility and a serene vibe? Ka Hale O’Luina is one of the best vacation rentals on the east coast of Kauai. It is an excellent choice for travelers who desire a peaceful and relaxing vacation in Hawaii. 

Ka Hale O’Luina is a retreat center located in Hawaii that offers a variety of amenities and spaces for children, including a swimming pool, outdoor play area, movie theater, and game room. It provides children’s programs, including kids’ camps and children’s yoga. Ka Hale O’Luina is also the best place for couples among budget-friendly hotels in Kauai. 

Ka Hale O’Luina’s luxurious amenities, stunning views, and personalized service can be a catching feature for travelers looking for a high-end vacation experience. Some of the nearby attractions and tourist spots that guests of Ka Hale O’Luina may want to visit include the road to Hana and Haleakala National Park.

The best feature of Ka Hale O’Luina’s is the personalized attention and care provided to each guest. From customized meal plans to tailored wellness programs, guests receive a truly personalized experience tailored to their needs and desires among other Kauai vacation rentals. Among the luxury hotels in Kauai, this hotel goes above and beyond to ensure each guest will visit Kauai again.

5. Best Campsite in Kauai – Anahola Beach Park

When it comes to camping, one campsite stands out from the rest – Anahola Beach Park. With its unbeatable location on the east coast of Kauai, convenient access to major towns and the airport, and various camping options and amenities, Anahola Beach Park is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the island and enjoy all that it has to offer.

Anahola Beach Park has a diverse selection of camping alternatives, including tent camping, car camping, and even glam camping (glamorous glamping). The park provides plenty of room for camping. All camping sites are situated only a few steps from the beach, allowing campers to wake up to the calming sound of the ocean and appreciate the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from their campsite.

Along with its prime location and diverse camping options, Anahola Beach Park features a range of facilities to enhance visitors’ experience. The park maintains clean and well-kept restrooms and showers, ensuring campers can conveniently freshen up after a day of exploration. Additionally, several picnic tables and barbecue grills are accessible to the public, making it simple to cook and relish meals in the park.

Anahola Beach Park is also conveniently close to several popular tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the stunning Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, experience the beautiful Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, or venture to the verdant mountains. 

6. Best Resort in  Kauai – Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa 

The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is among Kauai’s best resorts and hotels for several reasons.  The resort’s location on Poipu Beach near the south shore provides guests with easy access to various outdoor activities, including snorkeling, surfing, and hiking.

This resort offers guests an exceptional dining experience with a range of culinary options to choose from. Among the resort’s several on-site restaurants is Tidepools, a fine-dining establishment offering seafood and Pacific Rim cuisine in a romantic, open-air setting overlooking a koi pond. The resort also features several bars and lounges, including Stevenson’s Library, a cozy cocktail, and a live music spot. 

The Grand Hyatt is also renowned for its world-class amenities, catering to various interests and preferences. The resort’s award-winning Anara Spa is a standout feature, offering a range of relaxing treatments and therapies, including massage, facials, and body wraps. The resort’s championship golf course and tennis facilities provide outdoor opportunities for those seeking an active getaway. 

The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa offers guests a picturesque view from various vantage points around the property. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the resort’s lush tropical gardens, the serene saltwater lagoon, and the Pacific Ocean beyond.

7. Best Family-Friendly Hotel in Kauai – Kauai Shores Hotel

Kauai Shores Hotel is a beachfront hotel located on the eastern shore of Kauai, specifically in Kapa’a, about a 15-minute drive from Lihue Airport. The hotel is situated on Kapa’a Beach, known for its calm waters and beautiful views. 

Kauai Shores Hotel is the best family-friendly hotel in Kauai because of its excellent amenities and location. The hotel offers spacious rooms that are perfect for families, and many of them come equipped with kitchenettes, making it easy to prepare meals for the whole family. 

The hotel’s pool area is also great for kids, with a separate pool area designed just for them. The hotel’s location is also unbeatable, with easy access to nearby beaches, hiking trails, and family-friendly attractions. 

The hotel amenities include two outdoor pools, a hot tub, a fitness center, and a restaurant. Guests can also enjoy complimentary yoga classes, tennis courts, bike rentals, and beach gear rentals. The hotel’s Lava Lava Beach Club restaurant offers a casual dining experience emphasizing fresh, local ingredients.

Kauai Shores Hotel is a convenient base for exploring Kauai’s many attractions, including the nearby Wailua River, the Na Pali Coast, and the Hanalei Valley. The hotel’s central location also makes it easy to explore the charming town of Kapa’a, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries.

8. Best Pet-Friendly Hotel in  Kauai – Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay

Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay is situated in Wailua Bay, a scenic area on the eastern coast of Kauai, one of the Hawaiian Islands. The hotel is in a prime location, offering easy access to local walking distance attractions like the Wailua River, Opaeka’a Falls, and the Fern Grotto. It is also located near popular beaches, hiking trails, beautiful coconut trees, and other outdoor activities. 

Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay stands out as the best pet-friendly hotel in Kauai, providing spacious and comfortable pet-friendly rooms with easy access to outdoor areas. The hotel staff is known for their exceptional customer service, especially towards guests with pets. Its prime location near pet-friendly beaches, parks, and trails make it the ideal spot for pet owners to explore Kauai with their furry friends, creating the perfect pet-friendly vacation.

The hotel also displays a stunning design that blends modern amenities with traditional Hawaiian elements with perfect beach access. The hotel’s exterior combines natural wood and stone finishes. At the same time, the interior is decorated with warm colors and local artwork to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. 

Its modern amenities include free wifi, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges. Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay has an outdoor pool and hot tub, a full-service restaurant serving local Hawaiian cuisine, and picturesque views of Wailua Bay. Its cozy Hawaiian-inspired design creates a serene ambiance perfect for relaxation.

9. Best For Business Travelers in Kauai – The Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort Lihue

If you want to know where to stay in Kauai for business travelers, The Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort Lihue is a stunning oceanfront property in Lihue, Kauai island, Hawaii.  Its central location on the island makes it an ideal choice for business and leisure travelers exploring Kauai.

The Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort Lihue is ideal for business travelers due to its excellent meeting and event facilities, convenient location, and luxurious amenities. Guests in this hotel can also enjoy a business center, fitness center, spa, and dining options. The resort’s stunning oceanfront location provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and productivity, which offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby mountains.

The Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort Lihue offers top-notch amenities, including a business center, fitness center, spa, and dining options. Its meeting and event facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and high-speed internet access.

On top of that, Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort Lihue’s design offers a modern Hawaiian aesthetic, including beautifully landscaped gardens, a cascading pool, and elegant interiors. The resort offers multiple dining options, including the famous Hualani’s Restaurant, serving delicious farm-to-table cuisine and offering stunning ocean views. The resort’s bars and lounges also provide a relaxed atmosphere for guests to unwind and enjoy signature cocktails and appetizers. 

10. Best For Nightlife in Kauai – Sheraton Kauai Resort

The Sheraton Kauai Resort is located on the southern coast of Kauai island in Hawaii, in Poipu. The resort is on a beautiful oceanfront property, offering guests stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to the beach. Its central location on the island also provides convenient access to many of Kauai’s top attractions, including Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast.

With a prime location near bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, the Sheraton Kauai Resort is the go-to destination for nightlife in Kauai. Guests can enjoy nightly entertainment, live music, and cultural performances.

At the same time, the resort’s on-site bars and dining options cater to all tastes. The luxurious guest rooms offer a comfortable retreat after a night out. The beachfront setting provides breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby nightlife. 

The resort boasts exceptional amenities such as several swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, and water sports activities. Its oceanfront location presents breathtaking views of Poipu Beach, and guests can access nearby attractions.

Food and beverage enthusiasts will appreciate the resort’s diverse dining options and bars. The hotel prioritizes outstanding customer service and provides a welcoming ambiance that guarantees an unforgettable stay. The Sheraton Kauai Resort provides a joyful and exciting experience for travelers exploring Kauai’s nightlife scene.

Related: Best Bahamas All Inclusive Resorts

11. Best Trendy Hotel  in Kauai – Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort 

Situated in Poipu on the southern coast of Kauai island in Hawaii, Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort offers breathtaking oceanfront views and convenient access to attractions like Spouting Horn, Allerton Garden, and Poipu Beach Park. The resort’s location on a stunning oceanfront property adds to the overall charm of the place. 

This nice resort stands out as the ultimate trendy hotel in Kauai, thanks to its contemporary architecture and lavish facilities. The resort boasts an array of deluxe amenities, such as a complete spa, a fine dining restaurant, and a pool overlooking the ocean, lush greenery, complete with private cabanas in the incredible scenery. 

Guests can easily explore local attractions due to the hotel’s prime location on Poipu Beach. In contrast, the hotel’s unwavering commitment to personalized service guarantees an unforgettable stay.

The resort’s rooms and suites feature elegant design elements, modern furnishings, and private balconies or patios. Whether you’re seeking a stylish and upscale vacation in Kauai, Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort is the ultimate choice.

The resort also offers luxurious amenities such as oceanfront rooms, a world-class spa, and an award-winning restaurant. Kea is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat.

Related: Best Best Beaches in the Bahamas

12. Best Hotel for Safety  in Kauai – The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas is located on the north shore of Kauai Island in Hawaii, in the town of Princeville. The resort is situated on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, providing guests with breathtaking views of the coastline and nearby natural landmarks. 

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas offers spacious villas with modern amenities and Hawaiian-inspired design, as well as two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, and multiple dining options. Its location on the northern coast of Kauai provides easy access to popular tourist spots such as Hanalei Bay and the Na Pali Coast, as well as the Princeville Resort community’s recreational activities.

The resort also provides easy access to a variety of nearby tourist attractions, including Hanalei Bay, the Napali Coast, and the Kilauea Lighthouse. The resort is also situated within the Princeville Resort community, which offers golf courses, shopping, dining, and other recreational activities.

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas in Kauai is renowned for its top-notch safety standards and secure environment for guests. The resort has implemented stringent cleaning protocols, contactless check-in options, and social distancing measures to ensure the safety and health of guests. Moreover, the resort’s location in a gated community with 24-hour security offers guests an added sense of security.

Related: Where to Stay in Maui: Best Hotels & Nearby Attractions

13. Best Unique Hotel – Waimea Plantation Cottages

Waimea Plantation Cottages is one of the most interesting places to stay on Kauai if you want to experience true Hawaiian hospitality.

This property, situated on a former sugar plantation in western Kauai, is an excellent base from which to explore Waimea Canyon, the island’s most well-known natural attraction. Much closer, at a distance of only nine miles, is Kauai Coffee Estate. Have a cup or two of the local brew on the plantation’s guided tour, and then pick up some bags of freshly roasted beans to enjoy back at home.

Choose from cottages with as few as one bedroom or as many as five bedrooms to best accommodate your party size. The 59 quaint homes line the shore and were constructed between 1880 and 1930. The interiors are furnished with traditional rattan and wicker pieces and decorated in a relaxed Hawaiian style.

Your morning coffee will taste even better on the big front porch. If you’re in the mood to have a party, you can utilize the barbecue in the backyard to cook up some seafood to serve to your guests. Just around the corner is an amazing Japanese market, perfect for stocking up on fresh fish.

14. Best Beachfront Hotel In North Shore – Hanalei Colony Resort

The North Shore of Kauai is home to only one hotel, Hanalei Colony Resort. The towering mountains provide a stunning background to the breathtaking views of Hanalei Bay. Nothing could be better than this right now!

The goal of creating Hanalei Colony Resort was to provide a space where guests could disconnect from their busy lives and focus on taking in the island’s breathtaking scenery. This means the suites in an apartment-style format do not include amenities such as a television, radio, or telephone.

Each of these condos, located in buildings designed to look like plantations, features two bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a private veranda. The expansive ocean or verdant mountain scenery can be seen through the large picture windows.

For guests’ convenience, the hotel provides free shuttle service to the adjacent beaches and the cities of Hanalei and Princeville. When you’re not out exploring the surrounding area, you may relax in the hotel’s spa, hike the hotel’s five acres of tropical property, or swim in the water. Opakapaka Restaurant and Bar, located on the hotel’s beachfront, serves sunset cocktails and seafood straight from the ocean.

15.  Best Amenities – Koloa Landing

Koloa Landing is a five-star resort with so many fun features that guests seldom need to leave the premises. Suites with three bedrooms are also available, in addition to spacious apartments. The Penthouse Suite, though, is where it’s at if you really want to splurge.

The resort’s three stunning pools are among its many appealing features. Enjoy the pool, the waterfalls, the Japanese hot tub, and a drink from the bar or grill while you relax. If you take a stroll around the grounds, you will also find a spa, a gym, and a volleyball court.

If you plan on preparing meals in your chef’s kitchen, you may get the necessary ingredients at the gourmet farmers’ market that is located nearby. You also have the option of making arrangements to have your pantry completely stocked with anything and everything you might require during your stay, from pancake mix to wine.

Around a dozen, informal and expensive dining establishments may be found in close proximity to Kukui’ula Village, which is only a short walk away. Gather around the fire pit on select weeknights to take advantage of the complimentary s’mores that are provided. It’s the ideal way to wind down after a day of having a good time in Kauai.

Resources:

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