Which Side of Kauai is Best to Stay On?

Which side of Kauai is best to stay on is a question that I see time and time again, especially from visitors planning their very first trip to the Garden Isle. Newcomers wonder is it better to stay on the North or South Side of Kauai? How about the West Side or the Coconut Coast?

In this post I’ll share some information about each region to help you decide which is the best side of Kauai to stay on.

Which Side of the Island is Best on Kauai?

When determining what is the preferred side of Kauai, you have a few things to consider. Because really it all comes down to what you’re planning to do while on the island as well as your own preferences.

Consider things like weather conditions, activities, and the availability of places to stay.

North Shore

Popular Areas: Hanalei, Princeville, Kilauea

Although the entire island does get rain (after all, it’s called the Garden Island for a reason!) the North Shore definitely gets a bit more than other areas, especially in the winter.

What that means is that you will find lush greenery that includes beautiful flowers and amazing trees. There are also gorgeous beaches and breathtaking cliffs. My first trip to the North Shore was amazing, I don’t think I closed my mouth the entire drive up. It’s almost other worldly, it’s so stunningly beautiful!

It is a bit drier in the summer and fall, so that’s a good time to visit if you’re planning on being outdoors a lot (which I’m assuming you are, it is Kauai, after all!).

There are so many things to do on the North side of the island, making it a popular choice for first timers as well as regular visitors. And plenty of places to stay including many condo rentals on the North Shore of Kauai.

East Side

Popular Areas: Kapa’a, Wailua, Lihue

Also known as the Coconut Coast, the East Side of Kauai is usually warm and sunny but again, does get rainfall. The good thing about rain in Kauai is it comes and goes, and generally doesn’t last too long, especially on the East Coast.

The views here, especially the sunrises, are amazing! Most places are only a short jaunt to the beach, some places, literally a few steps. The coconut groves are beautiful, especially if you’re a fan of palm trees like me. 🙂

My favorite thing about staying on the East Side is that it’s centrally located, so you’re a short drive to almost anywhere on the island. And there is so much to do on the Coconut Coast, from quaint shops to good eats.

There are some wonderful hotels, condos and cottages in Kauai available on the East Side.

South Shore

Popular Areas: Poipu, Koloa, Lawai, Kalaheo

If you’re looking for sunny conditions, come to the South Shore. It’s the driest and sunniest part of the island most of the time, especially in the winter.

A very popular place among tourists, there is shopping, activities, beautiful beaches and marine life. Seeing turtles on Poipu beach for the first time was amazing, and we finally got to see a couple monk seals on our last trip. So fun! Please be sure to keep your distance from turtles, seals, dolphins and whales. It’s not only out of respect and for safety reasons, but it’s the law.

There are some very popular places to stay on Kauai’s south shore including hotels and condos. And so many fun things to do on South Shore Kauai as well!

West Side

Popular Areas: Hanapepe, Waimea, Kekaha

The driest side of the island, it can get very hot as well. Winter is probably the best time to stay on this side of Kauai as the temperatures are more tolerable.

The West Side doesn’t seem to be as busy as the rest of the island, which is great if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and traffic. There are beautiful beaches, lots of activities, shopping and of course good food. Visit this post to see what to do on the west side of Kauai.

It’s more difficult to find a place to stay here but there are a few cottages and even a bed and breakfast on Kauai that I know of.

Which Side of Kauai is Best to Stay On?

Here are a few more questions I see people asking on a regular basis that might help you figure out which part of the island you want to stay on.

Which side of Kauai is best for swimming?

Of course this depends on the time of year you visit, and also, the specific location. For example, the South Shore has areas that are wonderful for swimming, but not every single area is suitable, especially if you’re not an experienced ocean swimmer.

I can’t emphasize enough that if you don’t have experience swimming in the ocean, do not go to beaches without lifeguards. Even if you think you’re a decent swimmer, the ocean is so much different than a swimming pool. Heck, it’s even different on the Hawaiian Islands than other places. The saying is “When in doubt, don’t go out.” Even areas that seem calm can change in a split second, so don’t ever turn your back on the ocean and always be aware of your surroundings.

All that being said, a few good swimming spots (or wading spots if you’re not a great swimmer) are Hanalei Bay on the North Shore, Lydgate Beach Park on the Coconut Coast, and Poipu Beach Park on the South Shore. All of these beaches have lifeguards and the last two have areas have protected areas for swimming (Poipu is protected by a reef and Lydgate by large boulders).

Best area to stay on Kauai for families?

Again, this depends on a lot of things including your likes, dislikes, tastes, and your family’s needs. Personally if I were bringing littles I would stay in Lihue or Kapa’a, both close to kid-friendly beaches, places to eat, and activities like chocolate tours, museums and lots of sights to see. Plus it minimizes time in the car being centrally located between the North and South Shores (although do expect traffic during peak travel times, when locals are going to and getting off of work).

Which is the best area to stay on Kauai for couples?

If you’re traveling with your significant other, I don’t think there’s a bad answer here. You can stay either on the North Shore, East Coast, South Shore or West side and find plenty to do. But also don’t forget to relax and enjoy each other’s company!

What side of Kauai is Princeville?

Princeville is a very popular tourist destination located on the North Side of the Island.

Which side of Kauai has the best weather?

That depends on what you think the best weather is! I suppose for most people that means sunshine, but who knows, you might love the rain! (In which case you’re visiting the right island!)

• The North Side gets the most rain, but is great for visiting in the summer months.
• The East Side has the most consistent weather that is a mixture of sunshine and rainfall.
• The South Shore is typically sunny and dry, especially in the winter.
• The West Side is hot and dry, particularly in the summer months.

Where should I stay on Kauai for the first time?

Once again, there’s no wrong answer here as I truly believe there isn’t a bad area to stay on the island. Personally I would recommend staying on the East Side for your first trip, that way you’re within decent driving distance to both the North Side and South Side. If you discover you like one side more than the other, there’s always your next trip to book a place to stay at your preferred location.

This concludes my post, I hope I have answered the question Which Side of Kauai is Best to Stay On. You really can’t go wrong, whether you stay on the North, South, East or West Side of Kauai. Every single place is beautiful on the island, you won’t be disappointed!

Have you decided which side of Kauai is best to stay on for your needs? Leave a comment below letting us know where you’ll be going!