Best Resorts in Kauai, Hawaii

One of the most well-liked destinations for tourists seeking a bit of nature, sand, and sun is the Hawaiian island of Kauai. Locals refer to it as “the Garden Isle” because of the kilometers of pristine mountains, valleys, rivers, and waterfalls that are covered in an abundance of lush vegetation. Sand beaches and towering sea cliffs jut out into the Pacific Ocean, where whales, dolphins, and colorful fish live.

Is that the kind of island you’re looking for? If so, you’re in luck because Kauai’s beaches, mountains, and natural beauty are home to numerous opulent resorts. The island has long been a popular spot for both romantic getaways and family vacations, although it attracts only a small portion of the visitors you’d find on Oahu or Maui.

Accommodations on Kauai, like those on the other Hawaiian Islands, are rarely inexpensive. That is especially true if you are considering authentic resort settings. When planning your ideal vacation to paradise, be prepared to change your perception of what is reasonable to Hawaii pricing because the greatest Kauai resorts aren’t cheap.

Don’t be alarmed by that last point, though; just wait till you see the fantastical swimming pools, opulent spas, renowned golf courses, and stunning guest rooms the greatest resorts in Kauai have to offer. Below is an accurate list of those that we’ve put together:

Best Resorts in Kauai

1. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

1571 Poipu Road, Koloa, Hawaii 96756

One of Kauai’s top resorts, the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, is frequently ranked among the best. On Shipwreck Beach, on the south coast of the island, close to the Poipu resort area, sits this opulent building. Anyone having World of Hyatt status should find it simple to make this decision because it is one of the most lucrative and reliable loyalty programs available.

This vast resort features both sophisticated and casual dining options, extensive gardens, numerous pools, an ocean-fed lagoon, and direct beach access. A championship golf course is located on-site, and the Anara Spa is one of the most opulent on the island. Couples and honeymooners will find all of this to be quite romantic, but families will also enjoy their time here because of the waterslides and lazy river (there is also a pool specifically for adults).

The resort’s location on the south shore is ideal for exploring the distinctive environment in addition to all the fun and relaxation it offers. Directly across the street, a guided south beach hike leads to bizarre caves, cliffs, and snorkeling locations.

The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa’s Neighborhood Attractions:

• Poipu Bay Golf Course
• Shipwreck Beach
• Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail
• Poipu Beach

Pros:

• Extremely opulent lodging, spa, and outdoor spaces
• Excellent bargain when redeeming Hyatt points
• On-site family-friendly activities

Cons:

• High rates year-round for hotel rooms
• A daily resort fee is incurred.

2. Kauai Beach Resort & Spa

4331 Kauai Beach Drive, Lihue, Hawaii 96766

If the opulent resorts on the island’s north and south shores are simply out of your price range, the east side offers a more affordable alternative. For travelers on a budget who still desire room, comfort, and outdoor entertainment at their accommodations, the Kauai Beach Resort & Spa is a perfect choice.

The resort offers easy access to a sandy beach just beyond its several swimming pools, hot tubs, and waterfalls. On-site treatments at a full-service spa include massages with a Hawaiian flair. You can watch live local entertainment in the bar, the restaurant, or from a distance on the lanai of your hotel at night.

Since eastern Kauai is the island’s main population and commercial hub, it is simple to eat and shop outside the resort thanks to an airport and local area shuttle that connects visitors to the area’s points of interest. Additionally, it is the location of the Wailua River and Secret Falls, both of which are easily accessible by kayak and on foot, respectively.

The Kauai Beach Resort & Spa’s Neighborhood Attractions:

• Wailua River & Secret Falls
• Hanamaulu Beach
• Wailua Golf Course

Pros:

• A central section of the island that is far from any tourist attractions
• many pools, as well as a waterslide
• Comparable prices to comparable big resorts

Cons:

• Early departure (11am) and late arrival (4pm)
• Not the best beach for swimming

3. Sheraton Kauai Resort

2440 Hoonani Road, Koloa, Hawaii 96756

The Sheraton Kauai Resort, near Poipu Beach on Kiahuna Beach, is one of my personal favorites for lodging. This is a sizable, family-friendly resort because of the variety of hotel types and sizes it offers, as well as the abundance of outdoor area.

You may spend a relaxed day in any of the two swimming pools or the hot tub because they are only a few feet away from the sand. The ‘Auli’i Lu’au starts when the sun starts to set; be sure to try this Hawaiian meal and show one night, and listen to its music from the bar or beach chairs the other nights!

If you decide to venture outside and explore on your own but didn’t reserve a car at the airport, there is also a rental car desk inside the resort. If you want to view the most stunning coastline in the world, which is only accessible by sea, don’t miss this N Pali Coast boat excursion, which leaves from Port Allen and is conveniently located on the south shore.

Pros:

• Local luau
• Clean, recently renovated rooms
• No cost parking.

Cons:

• Expensive prices for the goods
• The use of beach chairs is fee-based.

4. Marriott’s Kaua’i Beach Club

3610 Rice St., Lihue, Hawaii 96766

The renowned Kalapaki Beach is where Marriott’s Kaua’i Beach Club, also known as the Kauai Marriott Resort, is situated only a short distance from the airport. As a result, it is perfectly situated for both seeing the rest of the island and enjoying the fantastic waves out front when surfing or paddleboarding.

The majority of the accommodations at this Marriott Vacation Club property are multi-bedroom condo-style timeshares that may also be reserved on a nightly basis. For families, having all of that space in addition to a kitchen and living room can be very beneficial. There is an on-site spa, a sizable pool with plenty of lounge chairs surrounding it, and a golden sand beach with board rentals that is only a few feet away.

With a Japanese restaurant in addition to the well-known Duke’s, this Marriott offers excellent eating options as well. The area is ideal for helicopter tours, which are among my top suggestions for things to do on Kauai. By lunchtime, you may be back at the pool after spending the morning flying over locations used to film movies like Jurassic Park, the N Pali Coast, and Koke’e Canyons.

Attractions Close to Marriott’s Kauai Beach Club:

• Kalapaki Beach
• The Ocean Course at Hokuala Golf
• Deep sea fishing from the nearby harbor
• Helicopter tours departing from the nearby airport

Pros:

• Lovely villa-style lodgings with numerous bedrooms
• Access to and from the airport is simple.
• On-site is Duke’s Kauai, one of the island’s top bars.

Cons:

• At Marriott Vacation Club locations, there are no Marriott Bonvoy elite benefits.
• Food and beverages are highly pricey.

5. Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection

2641 Poipu Road, Koloa, Hawaii 96756

The resort is quite opulent and spans 25 acres. There are many places to relax in the sun thanks to three enormous swimming pools, including an adults-only area and several waterfalls.

much the entry-level studios are twice as big as a typical hotel room, and the multi-bedroom villas provide much more space, making the rooms here a major selling feature. Free activities like yoga in the morning on the grass and s’mores in the evening are fantastic extras for any trip.

Don’t pass up the opportunity to eat at the resort; Sam Choy, a well-known local chef, designed the Holoholo Grill, and the outcome is truly delicious. The beginning of one of Kauai’s zipline courses, a thrilling way to soar over the island’s rich flora, is also very close to the Koloa Landing Resort in Poipu.

The Koloa Landing Resort in Poipu Attractions:

• The Shops at Kukui’ula
• Kiahuna Golf Club
• Nā Pali Coast boat tours
• Scuba diving and surfing on the south shore

Pros:

• Some of Kauai’s top swimming holes
• Several restaurants and The Shops at Kukui’ula are nearby.

Cons:

• No direct ocean views or beachfront
• There are few food options at the resort.

6. Whalers Cove Oceanfront Resort

2640 Puuholo Road, Koloa, Hawaii 96756

Another well-known Poipu Beach resort, Whalers Cove Oceanfront Resort, is only a short distance away. It is perched on a small cliff with views of Hanakaape Bay. This is an all-condo property with spacious units that have all the comforts of home, making it ideal for families or visitors who will be staying a long time.

Although the resort’s outdoor spaces aren’t as large as some of the others on our list, its modest oceanfront pool offers a little more peace and quiet. Additionally, it includes supplies like coolers, beach chairs, and umbrellas that are prepared for you to take to surrounding locations, such the serene and quiet Baby Beach that is just around the corner. Many of the fantastic restaurants and stores in the Koloa region, such The Shops at Kukui’ula, are accessible on foot, and the employees will even do your food shopping if you ask them to.

Whalers Cove Oceanfront Resort, like the other resorts on Kauai’s south shore, places you in a fantastic location to embark on excursions around this region of the island. Just a few miles away, the Allerton Garden—famous for its deep Hawaiian history, appearances in Hollywood movies, and breathtaking natural scenery—makes for an effortless complement to any morning or afternoon.

Attractions Close to the Oceanfront Resort at Whalers Cove:

• Baby Beach
• Allerton Garden
• Scuba diving and surfing on the south shore

Pros:

• All guest rooms are condos, making them ideal for families or extended stays.
• Views of Hanakaape Bay from the cliff above
• The use of beach equipment is accessible to visitors.

Cons:

• A tiny pool, and exterior spaces
• No direct access to the beach

7. Waipouli Beach Resort

Address: Kapaa, Hawaii 96746, 4-820 Kuhio Highway Suite 1.

Look to the eastern town of Kapaa, where several resorts are located on the Coconut Coast, if you prefer to be in the heart of daily living on Kauai rather than in a tourist region. The Waipouli Beach Resort, which is positioned between one of the island’s major retail malls and the sand-filled Waipouli Beach, is one of the most well-known ones.

Another condo hotel that rents out huge, privately owned condos on a nightly basis. A short stroll will take visitors to additional local staples like shave ice and poke in addition to the seaside bar and grill. Boss Frogs in the neighborhood rents out surfboards, bicycles, snorkeling gear, and other outdoor gear. You can then retire to a sizable living area with a balcony overlooking the ocean at dusk.

While traffic in this area can be horrible, Kapaa is a fantastic position for accessing locations like the Wailua River, Secret Falls, and Opaeka’a Falls as well as for driving both north and south. However, the Luau Ka Hikina is conveniently located next door and offers fantastic Hawaiian entertainment and cuisine.

Nearby Attractions to Waipouli Beach Resort:

• Kauai Village Shopping Center
• Luau Ka Hikina
• Ho’opi’i Falls Trail

Pros:

• Ideally situated for access to neighborhood eateries, shops, and transportation
• Cheaper than some of the other condo hotels on Kauai

Cons:

• Some of Kauai’s worst traffic is in Kapa’a town.
• Not extremely swimmable beach

8. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

Princeville, Hawaii 96722, 3838 Wyllie Road

There are a ton of stunning luxury hotels on the well-known North Shore in addition to the numerous resorts we’ve discussed so far in east and south Kauai. The majority are located in the Princeville resort area, which is close to Hanalei Bay and has a number of golf courses.

The rooms of this Marriott vacation ownership resort are large villas. It is surrounded by well-kept gardens and a handful of peaceful bathing pools that are hidden amongst them high on coastal cliffs.

The well-equipped exercise center is a great addition to jogs through the peaceful Princeville neighborhood. It’s a long trip to the other sections of Kauai, but the north shore is a magnificent location, so you should definitely take advantage of the isolated beaches, picturesque kayaking, and excellent snorkeling. Stay here to experience exclusivity, elegance, and isolation on the north coast.

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas Nearby Attractions:

• Hanalei Bay views, swimming, and surfing
• Wyllie’s Beach & Anini Beach
• Princeville Botanical Gardens
• Princeville golf courses

Pros:

• Suites that are spacious and opulent and have kitchens and living areas
• Beautiful hot tubs and swimming pools
• Views from cliffs

Cons:

• Far away from attractions and activities that aren’t North Shore-related
• There is only one restaurant on the property, and breakfast is grab-and-go only.

9. Hanalei Colony Resort

The Hanalei Colony Resort can be found not far from the road’s terminus by continuing on Kauai’s north shore. The purpose of coming here is to get away from Princeville’s tourist hub and stay somewhere quieter and more local.

The famous Tunnels Beach, where some of Kauai’s best snorkeling can be found, is only a short walk or bike ride from Hanalei Bay. This resort is about as close as you can get for a day trip if you’ve heard of the renowned Kalalau Trail, which offers difficult access to parts of the N Pali Coast. Keep in mind that the trail requires a difficult-to-get permit after a certain point, and this is treated seriously.

With lots of space and local furnishings, resort rooms are designed in the style of condos. In addition, given the size, prices here are a little more reasonable than those of the competition. Don’t forget to check out some of the neighborhood favorites here.

Attractions Near the Hanalei Colony Resort:

• Tunnels Beach
• Wainiha Beach Park
• Ha’ena State Park
• Kalalau Trail

Pros:

• Secluded peace at “the end of the road”
• Around some of Kauai’s top snorkeling spots

Cons:

• The majority of rooms lack air conditioning.
• High cost compared to what is provided

10. Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by Outrigger

2253 Poipu Road, Koloa, Hawaii 96756

If you’ve been to Hawaii before, you may be aware with the Outrigger name. This is a well-known local hotel chain known for its mid-range accommodations throughout the islands. Despite being somewhat different from the company’s other hotels in that it is a condo hotel with little amenities, the Kiahuna Plantation Resort in the Poipu region is nevertheless well-liked because of its reasonable pricing and other inclusions.

Here, lodgings are at least one bedroom in size and decorated in a regional style. Don’t be put off by the absence of a restaurant, pool, or beach on the property. Due to the proximity to Kiahuna Beach and the Sheraton Kauai Resort, guests may easily enjoy the sand and delicious cuisine.

You can reach the Poipu Beach Athletic Club, which offers free access to its pool and exercise facility as well as other services, by taking a short stroll in the other direction from the hotel. This small shopping complex also has more restaurants.

The Kiahuna Plantation Resort ultimately strikes a perfect balance between acquiring more space, conserving money, and maintaining access to good pleasures. Spend your cash on a private trip of Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, which is nearby and located in the island’s interior. Whether you go on a private tour or not, you MUST see this while visiting Kauai.

Attractions Near the Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai:

• Poipu Beach Athletic Club (free access)
• Kiahuna Golf Club
• Kiahuna Beach
• Scuba diving and surfing on the south shore

Pros:

• Low cost for the renowned Poipu resort region
• Large rooms a la condo

Cons:

• No pool or beach
• No restaurants there
• Rooms need to be refreshed.

11. Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons – Kalanipu’u

3325 Holokawelu Way, Lihue, Hawaii, 96766

As the guest rooms are only two or three bedrooms in size, the Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons – Kalanipu’u Marriott Vacation Club on Kauai is particularly suitable for large groups or families. There are no eateries on-site, so visitors may prefer to use the full kitchen in their apartment.

But this resort still makes the cut because of its immaculate grounds, wonderful pool, and opulent accommodations. Duke’s Kauai, Kalapaki Beach, and additional dining alternatives may be reached quickly by car or on foot in 20 minutes. This resort is a favourite choice for golfers due to the three nearby golf courses, while athletes will appreciate the fitness center and trail options leading to beaches and overlooks.

Similar to the Marriott hotel nearby, you can easily take helicopter tours or even scenic flights where you can fly the plane thanks to the airport’s close vicinity. Additionally, it is adjacent to Nawiliwili Harbor, from which numerous sport fishing boats leave.

Kalanipu’u Attractions Near Mariott’s Kauai Lagoons:

• Kalapaki Beach
• The Ocean Course at Hokuala Golf
• Deep sea fishing from the nearby harbor
• Helicopter tours departing from the nearby airport

Pros:

• Expansive land with outstanding views and no nearby structures
• Beautiful spaces with a pool, loungers, and fire pits

Cons:

• No restaurant or beach; a long walk or brief drive is required to reach these close
• Extreme rates

12. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

5702 Ka Haku Road, Princeville, Hawaii 96722

One of Kauai’s newest and most opulent resorts is the one we’ve saved for last. On Kauai’s north shore, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay recently debuted, and it might feature one of the nicest vistas and pool experiences the island has to offer.

Regular visitors to Kauai may remember the location as the former St. Regis Princeville, but significant renovations were made to the building before it reopened. Some of the key selling qualities are an infinity pool perched high above the bay, enormous guest room windows, and a trendy design.
It is very feasible for parents to bring along everyone and relax at the same time thanks to a kids club and wellness spa. The focus with farm-to-table results in deliciously fresh and savory food and drink. Hanalei Bay is an excellent location for surfing instruction if you can force yourself to leave for a few hours.

• In the Neighborhood of 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
• Pier and Bay of Hanalei
• Golf course at Princeville Makai
• Gardens Botanical of Princeville

Pros:

• Possibly the newest and most opulent resort on Kauai
• Excellent perspectives of Hanalei Bay
• Fantastic fine dining

Cons:

• Astronomically pricey
• The majority of other Kauai attractions require a lengthy drive.

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