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About Kauai

Known as the 'Garden Isle', Kaua'i is a gorgeous tropical destination for outdoorsy adventurers looking to scale verdant peaks, descend into red-rock canyons, paddle along meandering rivers and snorkel in brilliant blue coves. Whether you’re dreaming of zip-lining through the canopy or riding the waves, this laid-back, nature-focused island offers some fantastic accommodation options, including simple cottages and extensive luxury resorts. Many of the best places to stay in Kaua’i are right on the coast, promising spell-binding ocean views.

For dramatic landscapes and heaps of tropical wildlife, head to Waimea Canyon State Park, the National Tropical Botanical Garden or Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. You'll find ample opportunities to hike, kayak, mountain bike, rock-climb and zip-line. There are also big, tranquil beaches dotted on all sides of the island. Our favourites include Lumaha’i Beach, Kealia Beach Park and Ke’e Beach, but your hosts will be best-placed to recommend their top spots, depending on where you’re based.

One of the major appeals of Kaua’i is its relaxed, friendly feel. There’s a big emphasis on community, hospitality and ancient traditions throughout the Hawaiian Islands, and Kaua’i is no different. Do take the time to discover the island’s thriving spiritual and cultural side, soaking up the wonders of island life throughout your stay. Kaua’i’s slow living vibe also extends to a focus on locally-grown, seasonal produce, so you can expect to feast on fabulous fare in hole-in-the-wall eateries, seaside bars and chic restaurants alike. Even more reason to explore!

Whether you’re dreaming of a couples’ getaway or a fun-filled family holiday, the best places to stay in Kaua’i promise a very special taste of this magical island.

The Best Places to Stay in Kaua'i

For Old-School Charm

  • Waimea Plantation Cottages offers a collection of 1880s to 1930s heritage homes set on 43 verdant acres of Kaua'i coastline. Carefully restored, the cottages feature understated period decor, fully-equipped kitchens and up to five bedrooms. Charming, serene and well-suited to couples or groups.

For Barefoot Luxury

  • Timbers Kaua'i Ocean Club & Residences offers 47 swish, contemporary villas on a 450-acre estate just a few minutes from Lihue Airport. Ideal for active families or groups, the luxurious residences promise plenty of independence, as well as resort-style facilities — including championship golf, watersports, an organic farm and direct access to the beach.
  • The Lodge at Kukui'ula features beautiful one- to four-bedroom villas on Kaua'i striking south shore, perfect for a romantic escape or an epic family trip. Centred around the plantation-style clubhouse, facilites include an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, swimming pools and water sports, whilst food is sourced from the property's 10-acre farm. Kids will adore the impressive Keala Pueo programme and grown-ups can unwind at the Hi'ilani Spa. An elegant, indulgent choice.

For a Family-Friendly Resort

  • Grand Hyatt Resort & Spa is a brilliant family pick, with spacious, tropical rooms and suites overlooking Keoneloa Bay. Expect family-friendly accommodation options, as well as four swimming pools, a lazy river, six restaurants, nine bars, a golf course and a relaxing spa. The ultimate beach resort.
  • Koloa Landing Resort is a south shore favourite, with access to some of the best surfing on the island. Little ones will love the family lagoon - complete with slides - and the many exciting activities. Treat yourself to a massage at the spa before cosying up around the firepit for a BBQ in the evening. A fantastic family choice.
  • Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort promises chic, contemporary rooms with bold splashes of colour and space for couples or families. Think surfing, diving, spa treatments and delicious fare in a stunning beachfront location. Great for families, but also a wonderfully laid-back couples' getaway spot.

FOR GREAT VALUE

  • The ISO is an idyllic beach hotel in Kaua'i, with a fresh, modern feel. Expect spectacular views, a soothing seaside colour scheme, great cocktails and live music. Excellent value for a coastal stay.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly into Lihue Airport on Kaua'i and travel by bus or taxi to your destination. There are regular flights to Kaua'i from Honolulu on Oahu.
  • There's plenty to explore by car on Kaua'i! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • December and July are peak season, and hotels book up fast during the school holidays. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures (still around 26°C).

STILL NOT SURE?

Best Hotels in Kauai

  • The ISO Kapaʻa, Kauai 78 rooms from €125

    Local exploring  -  Explore the Na Pali Coast to the north, and Lihue, Poipu, and Waimea Canyon to the south
    Total relaxation  -  Unwind by the pool, sip on cocktails and find serenity during a yoga lessons
    Restaurant  -  Bull Shed is an award-winning local favorite featuring steaks, seafood and tropical cocktails
    Great walks  -  Hike the trails of Hanalei
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    A new luxury yet affordable beachfront hotel with incredible views of the Pacific. Chic rooms and suites have rustic coastal decor and private lanais. Enjoy live music, cocktails and dinner with ocean views. Unwind with a book by the pool, try yoga or explore the area by bike. An idyllic escape. See More

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  • Waimea Plantation Cottages Waimea, Kauai 59 rooms from €161

    Back to Nature  -  Explore Kauai, home to stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and cascading waterfalls
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the iconic Waimea Canyon and Koke'e state park
    Sailing  -  Hire a catamaran for the day
    Restaurant  -  On-site pizzeria
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    Vintage and authentic Old Hawaii style cottages set on a golden sand beach on the remote Western side of the island. Self-contained rustic cottages offer island decor: hardwood floors, hammocks, BBQs and patios with Adirondack chairs. Lounge by the pool or play volleyball on the beach. Idyllic. See More

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  • Grand Hyatt Resort & Spa Koloa, Kauai 602 rooms from €276

    Families  -  A range of children’s activities are offered from ukulele lessons to waterside races and seaside evening s’mores
    Beach Life  -  Situated right on the beachfront, perfect for exploring Kauai's beautiful sweeping beaches
    Total relaxation  -  Unwind at the spa or lounge by one of the four pools
    Restaurant  -  Choose from one of the resort's six restaurants with sushi, Italian Hawaiian dishes and American fare
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    A grand family-friendly resort overlooking Keoneloa Bay. Spacious tropical rooms feature wooden accents, balconies, and marble bathrooms with walk-in showers. With 4 pools, a lazy river, 6 restaurants, 9 bars, a golf course and a relaxing spa, guests are spoilt for choice at this luxury resort! See More

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  • Koloa Landing Resort Koloa, Kauai 298 rooms from €282

    Local exploring  -  From the depths of Waimea Canyon to the towering emerald cliffs of Napali, Kauai is an explorers paradise
    Families  -  With a family lagoon with slides, a wide range of menus and spacious suites, this is a family destination
    Total relaxation  -  Indulge at the spa or relax by the pool and sip cocktails!
    Spa  -  Enjoy high-end treatments at the spa. With 5 private treatment rooms and the island’s only all-copper Ofuro Japanese soaking tub
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    A luxury resort on the sunny South Shore near world-famous beaches. Chic and spacious rooms feature blue hues, lanais overlooking the ocean and rain showers. Indulge at the spa. Families can discover the aquatic playground with 3 pools, BBQs, whirlpools, fire pits, full food & beverage service. See More

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  • Koa Kea Hotel & Resort Hawaii, Kauai 121 rooms from €386

    Active Holiday  -  If you can tear yourself away from the property the activity options are endless from golf to helicopter rides or whale watching
    Beach Life  -  Set beside a long stretch of sandy beach (best enjoyed from the outdoor massage beds) - a luxurious choice for a beach break
    Total relaxation  -  A quiet atmosphere, indulgent rooms with L’Occitane bath products, and a full service spa all ensure a relaxing stay
    Surfing  -  Soft surf breaks make this a good choice for beginners while neighbouring beaches offer larger waves for the experienced
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    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A luxury resort located on a quiet stretch of golden sand beach. Contemporary rooms are spacious and bright; the best have private patios with ocean views. A full-service spa, an award-winning Hawaiian restaurant, and spot-on service ensure an indulgent break. Suitable for couples or families. See More

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  • The Lodge at Kukui'ula Koloa, Kauai 40 rooms from €899

    Active Holiday  -  The resort offers three-day immersive experiences that equip participants with skills in a range of sports and activities
    Spa breaks  -  Hi'ilani Spa hosts one-of-a-kind wellness retreats with world-renowned yogis, movement experts and wellness gurus
    Families  -  With unlimited ice cream, games sweets and treats, the Club’s Game Room is the perfect spot for families
    Local exploring  -  Explore the Garden Isle, with its stunning beaches, waterfalls and canyons
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    A family-friendly resort on the south shore of Kauai. Luxurious contemporary villas and rooms have ample indoor/outdoor space and balconies. The resort offers 5 pools, watersports, golf and a vast spa and wellness centre. Expect organic fresh Hawaiian delicacies and delicious handcrafted cocktails. See More

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  • Timbers Kaua'i Ocean Club & Residences Lihue, Kauai 47 rooms from €1443

    Beach Life  -  Kalapaki Beach is home to the resort’s beach club, with surfboards, paddleboards, snorkelling equipment and kayaks for hire
    Families  -  With a fantastic kids club, spacious suites, childrens menu and a specific pool, it is a children's paradise
    Active Holiday  -  Yoga, pilates, personal training and guided bike rides are all offered at the resort
    Spa  -  The Spa at Timbers Kaua'i specialises in massage and facials and uses Hawaiian plant-based oils
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    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    A new luxury oceanfront resort south of Lihue. Elegant contemporary rooms feature sea-inspired interiors, terraces with plunge pools and ocean views. Sip on handcrafted cocktails oceanside and eat Hawaiian delicacies. Enjoy two pools, a relaxing spa, beach access, golf course and watersports. See More

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  • 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay Princeville, Kauai 252 rooms from €1476

    Spa breaks  -  Indulge in transformative wellness experiences at the Bamford Wellness Spa, a sanctuary for body and mind rejuvenation
    Honeymoons  -  Embark on a honeymoon haven amidst Kauaʻi's lush beauty, where oceanfront luxury and wellness bliss await you
    Restaurant  -  Enjoy gourmet dining experiences, from fresh local seafood to classic Hawaiian cuisine, at the hotel's exquisite restaurants
    Diving  -  Make the most of the crystal clear waters and abundent marine life by heading out for a scuba trip
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    A 5* oasis nestled in Kauai's lush Princeville. Rooms blend natural elements with modern comfort, while wellness takes centre stage with a top-notch spa and fitness offerings. Indulge in local culinary delights at on-site restaurants. Eco-luxury with breathtaking views of Hanalei Bay. See More

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