3 Best Hotels in Kauai, Hawaii

Owners Charlie and Susan Hoerner restored a three-bedroom plantation home on Kapaa's Baby Beach to reflect the charm of yesteryear with the conveniences of today. Think plank flooring, gingerbread, and stained glass alongside a Wolf stove, Bosch dishwasher, and granite countertops. The orientation is due east; you won't have to leave your bed—or living room or lanai—to watch the sunrise, the whales breach, or the full moon rise. In addition to the main Sunrise Cottage, there's a cozy and more affordable bungalow called Moonrise Cottage in back that's perfect for honeymooners. Rent both (weekly rentals only) to sleep a total of eight. Credit cards are accepted via PayPal only.

If you're an outdoors enthusiast, you can appreciate Kauai's mountain wilderness from the dozen rustic cabins—of varying age and quality—that make up this lodge. Cabins are no-frills but more comfortable than a tent, and the mountain setting and proximity to some of the state's most beautiful trails are grand. Wood-burning stoves ward off the winter chill and dampness (wood is a few dollars extra), as it can get pretty cold at this elevation. Cabins sleep two to six and have full kitchens and bathrooms. Note that there's no Wi-Fi or cell service. The nearby restaurant serves breakfast and lunch, or you can bring up groceries from Waimea.

With an enviable spot along the Lihue coastline, 450 acres of landscaped grounds, and a choice of elegant homes and townhomes, Timbers Kauai caters to those who are seeking a self-contained resort experience with an air of exclusivity. Accommodations are available with two, three, or four bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, private lanai, and lovely views of the mountains, pool, or ocean. Full kitchens, washer-dryers, soaking tubs, walk-in showers, and sophisticated decor that hints at the tropics offer comfort and convenience. The resort features walking and biking paths, beach access, lagoons, a Jack Nicklaus–designed oceanfront golf course, two pools, four outdoor tennis courts, a spa, fitness center, and fruit orchards and vegetable gardens. Hualani's Restaurant is on-site, or have a chef whip up a custom meal in your kitchen. Parking and Wi-Fi are free.