36 Best Hotels in Kauai, Hawaii

This boutique property offers a stylish high-end experience without the bustle of many larger resorts, making it a great place to forget it all while receiving an outdoor massage or lounging by the pool. A resort-wide renovation in 2022 ushered in a garden-inspired color palette and works by Hawaii artists. The oceanfront rooms have gorgeous views of the surfers at Waiohai Beach, and the Red Salt restaurant is top-notch for breakfast or dinner.  Other resorts, restaurants, and beaches are within easy walking distance.

Dramatically handsome, Kauai's best megaresort is this classic Hawaiian low-rise built into the cliffs overlooking an unspoiled coastline; it boasts mouthwatering restaurants and has taken great strides to reduce its carbon footprint. Five acres of meandering fresh- and saltwater swimming lagoons with a decent-size waterslide—a big hit with kids—are beautifully set amid lush landscaping. Adults enjoy golf, treatments at the luxurious Anara Spa, or workouts at the well-appointed gym. Breakfast packages are available. The business center here is open to all, not only guests.

Originally built in the early 1900s, these relocated and refurbished one- to five-bedroom sugar-plantation workers' cottages are tucked in a coconut grove along a lovely walkable stretch of beach on the sunny West Side. Swimming waters here are often murky, but morning and evening strolls on the black sand are special. Cozy homes of different sizes feature porches, plantation-era furnishings, full modern kitchens, Wi-Fi, and cable TV. Guests can use the swimming pool, barbecue grills, bocce court, and hammocks on the grounds, and eat on the wraparound porch of the family-style restaurant. This could be an excellent choice for informal destination weddings or family reunions. Waimea Town has limited shops and eateries, but it's close to Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Parks.

This swanky sustainable wellness resort—formerly the St. Regis Princeville—offers expansive views of the sea and mountains, including Makana, the landmark peak immortalized as mysterious "Bali Hai" in the film South Pacific. The reopening follows a $300 million overhaul that includes seven food venues, the Bamford Wellness Spa, a 1X Vitahealth Medi Spa program, a gym and fitness classes, on-site rooftop organic garden and apiary, a golf course, three saline pools (one adult-only), and kids' club. The overall design blends well with the natural setting of Hanalei Bay and honors the region's Native Hawaiian culture and history. The spacious guest rooms, many with private lanai, range from garden rooms to lavish suites with ocean views, all with furnishings made from recycled teak and local artworks; the neutral-hue decor uses textures and materials that evoke the natural world. 

Fronting an uncrowded stretch of beach, this three-story, primarily time-share condo resort is convenient and a bit more upscale than nearby properties. It's one of the better resort properties along this stretch of the Coconut Coast. The fully furnished one- and two-bedroom condo units, each with a private lanai, washer-dryer, and well-equipped kitchen, are housed in three buildings. They are decorated in rich woods, tropical prints, and Hawaiian-quilt designs. The 8-acre property looks out on the ocean and offers a heated pool with natural rock waterscapes, a day spa, a children's pool, an ocean-side hot tub, pool bar, and fitness center. It's within walking distance of shops and home to the excellent Hukilau Lanai restaurant.

The Sheraton is a sprawling resort with lodging that offers views of the ocean or lovely landscaped gardens; it's worth splurging on the ocean-wing hotel rooms, which are so close to the water you can practically feel the spray of the surf as it hits the rocks below. By day, the real fun comes from renting a cabana, complete with a love seat, lounge chairs, side tables, a TV, and a ceiling fan; by night, relax under the stars by one of the firepits. RumFire restaurant on the point has panoramic ocean views, there's an oceanfront luau twice a week, and Lava's by the beach has daily specials and desserts brought in from Ko Bakery. Villa units have kitchenettes and laundry machines, and are within walking distance of many restaurants and shops.

Perched about as close to the water's edge as they can get, these one- and two-bedroom condos are the most luxurious on the South Shore. The rocky beach is good for snorkeling, and a short drive or brisk walk will get you to a sandy stretch. Two barbecue areas, big picture windows, spacious living rooms, lanai, and modern kitchens with washer-dryers make this small hotel a home away from home. Units are individually owned, so they differ in decor. Grocery stocking service and on-call massage is available.

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.

A low-rise, Hawaii-plantation-style design gives this 6-acre beachfront property a pleasant relaxed feeling; the guest rooms are spread over eight three-story buildings, each with a lanai that looks out on lovely green lawns. The rooms are small, with showers and tubs, Wi-Fi, mini-refrigerators, coffeemakers, and microwaves. They are available oceanfront or with garden or ocean views. A free-form pool sits next to a golden-sand beach that's perfect for a quiet stroll, and there's a poolside bar and coffee shop on-site. It's located across the street from Coconut Marketplace, with its many shops and restaurant.

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.

Perched on a rocky point above the pounding surf—perfect for whale- or turtle-watching—these three low-rise buildings have individually owned condos with full kitchens and washer-dryers. All condos have large windows, and many have bedrooms on the ocean side; each unit either shares a sundeck or has its own lanai. There's an oceanside pool, and weddings are sometimes staged on a little lawn beside the sea. A sandy swimming beach is a 10-minute walk away.

The nicest feature of this three-story condominium resort overlooking Hanalei Bay is its upper-level pool with authentic lava-rock waterfalls, an open-air hot tub, and a kid-friendly sand beach. The buildings angle down the cliffs, making for some steep walking paths. Units are spacious, with high sloping ceilings and large private lanai. Rattan furniture and island art add a casual feeling to rooms. Some units are managed by the resort and others by private owners. All units have kitchens, including the smaller studios. This is a good choice for tennis buffs, and the on-site Happy Talk Lounge is lively in the evening with music, bar food, and dining.

The only true beachfront resort on Kauai's North Shore, Hanalei Colony is a laid-back, go-barefoot kind of resort sandwiched between towering mountains and the sea. There's an emphasis on simplicity here, but Wi-Fi is available in every unit. Some units are 10 feet from the sand, and though it's a beautiful coastline, the ocean is normally too rough for swimming. Many of the units are individually owned and generally well maintained, with Hawaiian-style furnishings, full kitchens, and lanai. Amenities, such as cocktail receptions and cultural activities, vary from season to season. There's a new two-story garden pool complex, plus an art gallery, small day spa, and restaurant on-site.  The road leading to this resort can occasionally be closed due to flooding or road repair, causing delays and possibly blocking access to the airport, so plan accordingly.

If you're looking for lodgings that won't break the bank and put you just a block from gorgeous Hanalei Bay, look no further, as this is literally the only choice among the town's pricey vacation rentals. The four attached studio cottages are bare-bones simple; the chief appeal here is price and location. Besides a private bath and queen-size bed, every room has HDTV and Wi-Fi, as well as a kitchen or kitchenette. Outside, you share a picnic table, hammocks, soda machine, and barbecue with other guests.

Set back from the ocean's edge on a quiet road in the heart of Poipu, Hideaway Cove is a boutique vacation rental with three units ranging from studios to two bedrooms, each appointed with tropical-style furniture and original artwork. The two-bedroom top-floor Sea Breeze unit comes with a hot tub and grill. All units have air-conditioning and full kitchens.

Nestled alongside Wailua Bay and the Wailua River, this low-key low-rise chain hotel is a convenient place to stay as it's within walking distance of Lydgate Beach, with its lifeguard and lawns, and also close to shops and a variety of restaurants. Rooms and suites, in two wings with a choice of beach, mountain, or ocean views, have mini- or full-size refrigerators, microwaves, and coffeemakers; two-bedroom cottages are also available. Complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV are included, and the hotel has a modest fitness room, a business center, meeting rooms, and a swimming pool. The resort fee includes yoga classes, a cultural sunrise ceremony, and daily two-hour bike rental.

In business since 1956, this small three-story hotel is something of a Kauai beachfront landmark, with clean comfortable rooms, some with great ocean views, and a large pool that overlooks the water---expect great sunrises. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, mini-refrigerators, microwaves, air-conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. The two-room units are good for families; the oceanfront units are, unsurprisingly, the nicest. Conveniently located on the county bus line and a coastal path, the property is within walking distance of shops and restaurants.

It isn't easy to find good budget lodgings on the southwest side of the island, but this old-fashioned neighborhood inn with studios and one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites does an adequate job in cooler up-country Kalaheo Town. Suites have kitchenettes, and some have full kitchens. There's a great little hilltop park and nine-hole golf course just up the road, and it's an easy drive to West Side sights. The inn loans beach chairs and towels.

An old rock etched with kanji (Japanese characters) reminds you that the site of this condominium gem was once occupied by a Shinto temple. Today, it's home to studio and two-bedroom rentals—all equipped with full kitchens and private lanai—either oceanfront or with ocean views. Studios feature pull-down Murphy beds to create more daytime space. Air-conditioning is a pleasant new addition.

Located in a residential neighborhood, this vacation rental includes quaint studio units near the mouth of Waikomo Stream, about two blocks from a nice snorkeling cove, and the Pool Cottage in central Poipu. The two tropical-theme studios each have a kitchen, a private patio with gas grill, beach gear, and easy front-door parking with one-step access. The cottage has a deck overlooking the lush garden and pool, and it is a super easy walk to Kalapaki Joe's to pick up breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Not only is this low-cost alternative close to the airport, but it's also a great base for day trips to all sides of the island. Rooms are basic, well-worn, and small, with refrigerators, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Newly added studios and two-bedroom cottages have kitchenettes or full kitchens. In summer, it's worth the extra money to get a room with air-conditioning. Coffee is available in the lobby every morning.

Once an oceanfront inn and now an affordable boutique hotel, this property remains no-frills lodging, but rooms—some recently updated—have a refrigerator and are comfortable, bright, and clean. It's adjacent to a public coastal walking and biking path. A big grassy courtyard opens to the beach, where a restaurant and lounge are perched on the sand. There's plenty of dining and shopping at the nearby Coconut Marketplace. 

This longtime Kauai condo project consists of 42 plantation-style low-rise buildings with individually owned one- and two-bedroom units set on grassy fields leading to a lovely beach. The units vary in style, but all are clean, have lanai, and get lots of ocean breezes. Green-thumb visitors will enjoy wandering the Moir orchid and cacti gardens that surround the sugar plantation manager's home, which now houses the front office. Guests have complimentary access to the Poipu Beach Athletic Club, with its restaurant, pool, and fitness classes just across the way.

A family-friendly option, this resort has incredible pools, an on-site spa, plenty of grassy play space, and apartment-style rooms with kitchen and laundry appliances and a bathroom for every bedroom. It's an easy walk to Kukuiula Shopping Village's boutiques, services, and eateries, including a spot with good shave ice. The seawall across from the property is a perfect spot for watching sunsets or the finish of the Kauai Marathon. The on-site convention space works well for corporate retreats, wedding receptions, and local fundraisers, to which hotel guests are often invited. 

Ruling Hawaiian chiefs once returned from ocean voyages to this spot, now host to comfortable condominiums, and OUTRIGGER has created attractive plant, water, and rock features. The one- and two-bedroom condominium units are all individually owned, so some are nicer than others. They all have a full kitchen and a lanai. Though there's generally no air-conditioning, there's typically a good breeze. The landscaped grounds include lighted tennis courts and a large pool. The beach is swimmable, and the property is near shops, restaurants, and a coastal walking and biking path. There is a three-night minimum stay.

The private Kukuiula development rents one- to four-bedroom luxury cottages and villas to nonmembers; all homes have spacious lanai with expansive views, high-end kitchens, and both indoor and outdoor showers. Guests who book through The Lodge have full access to amenities including The Clubhouse for complimentary continental breakfast, other dining, the spa and fitness complex, the pool, a 10-acre organic farm, and use of adventure outfitters. Sports facilities include courts for tennis, volleyball, basketball, and pickleball.

This plantation-style hotel provides a relaxing, upscale oceanfront experience close to the airport, but without the noise. The rooms are extremely comfortable with a casual tropical theme, and the oceanfront grounds are beautifully landscaped. Four pools with fun features like slides, sand bottoms, and waterfalls are a highlight, as are the torch-lighting ceremony and the reasonably good Naupaka Terrace Restaurant. The beach fronts a rocky ocean unsuitable for swimming, but it's perfect for a long stroll.

These older, plantation-style one-bedroom units with garden lanai have well-equipped kitchenettes and are clean and comfortable, with a queen-size pullout sofa for extra guests. This is one of the lower-priced options in the area, and you couldn't ask for a more convenient location for dining, shopping, and sightseeing: it's across from Waipouli Beach and near Coconut Marketplace.  Request a unit away from noisy Kuhio Highway.

Set down within an extinct volcanic crater known as Piha ke Akua, or "Place of the Gods," these two-bedroom condominium units in South Pacific–style townhomes are fairly spacious, with large windows, high ceilings, and full kitchens (some have air-conditioning). It's family friendly and one of the best-priced properties with ocean and beach proximity; Keoneloa Bay (Shipwreck Beach) is a great spot for family holiday card photos.

The condos here—many with cathedral ceilings and all with large furnished lanai and big windows overlooking the lawns—give the 85-acre development the feeling of a quiet retreat inside and out. All condos—one- to four-bedroom units, as well as two-level units with sleeping lofts—are furnished with full kitchens. Villas have air-conditioning and their own gym. Walking paths connect eight distinct resort zones to both Brennecke's and Shipwreck Beaches, but to swim or snorkel safely, walk the extra 100 yards past Brennecke's to reach calmer Poipu Beach. The eight-court tennis club is well established, offers pro lessons, and hosts tournaments.  As one of the largest condo developments in the area, Poipu Kai has a wide variety of unit styles and sizes, and multiple rental agencies. The one- and two-bedroom units offered by Aqua Aston are a good value.