Unwind at an Amazing Bed and Breakfast on Kauai

Believe it or not, there are actually a few bed and breakfasts on the island of Kauai. Although typically a B & B is a home that rents out individual rooms (often a family home), that’s not always the case. A bed and breakfast can also be comprised of individual units, guest houses, or cottages.

But for the real question: Is staying at a Bed and Breakfast on Kauai right for you?

Well, that all depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for, as well as your individual needs.

As with any decision in life, there are pros and cons. I’d like to share both with you so you can make the best decision for yourself and your travel companions.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I earn a commission if you make a purchase.

Bed and Breakfast Pros

Off the Beaten Path Locations

Due to the nature of B & Bs they can be located in a neighborhood and less touristy area, often more secluded. If you prefer a little more privacy, this might be a good choice for you.

Local Recommendations

From places to visit, activities to do, and good eats, bed and breakfast owners usually have the latest scoop on what’s happening on Kauai. They’re usually willing to share their own experiences as well as those of previous guests that might be helpful.

Different Vibe Than a Regular Hotel

Being that bed and breakfasts on Kauai are actually located in a house, they do have a more homey, comfortable feel.

Unique Design

Whether older or new, each B & B has its own design and feel, from historic to modern. There could be several rooms at the inn and each could have it’s own theme and be decorated differently.

Getting to Know Other Travelers

Most bed and breakfasts have common shared areas where people can hang out, eat, play games, even watch TV. If you have an outgoing personality and love people, this provides more opportunities to connect than other types of accommodations might.

More Accommodating

With most owners on site you get a very personal experience, often catering to the needs of individual guests. This could include early check in, late check out, or being willing to consider special requests.

Last but not least, Breakfast!

The best thing about a bed and breakfast if you ask me (a self-proclaimed breakfast lover) is the actual breakfast! This can be anything from items to go, to a full on gourmet cooked meal.

Bed and Breakfast Cons

Seclusion

While being a bit more isolated is a plus for some, for others, it might be a drawback. If you’re the kind of person who likes to be where the action is, a bed and breakfast on Kauai might not be the right type of accommodation for you.

Overinvolved Owners

This might not happen often, but I’ve definitely heard horror stories of owners being way too concerned about what their guests are doing. Of course no one can blame them for wanting to make sure their property is taken care of, but no one wants someone nosing around in their business when you’re on vacation.

Not Upscale Enough

Although a relaxed feeling is nice, it’s also nice to feel like you’re staying somewhere that’s different than a typical house. Most people don’t want to go on vacation and feel like you’re at home, or at your Aunt or best friends house. If the professionalism that most hotels display is more your style, then a Bed and Breakfast might not be for you.

Inadequate Maintenance

Hotels are typically more strict about maintenance. When something needs fixing or updating, they’re usually on it. With a Bed and Breakfast on Kauai, it’s all up to the owner. And frankly, if they don’t feel like fixing something, they don’t have to.

Different Standards

This is kind of related to the point above. The standards of the owners are IT, they have the last word on if something is good enough or not. Where at a hotel if you run into an issue that can’t be resolved with the person who is helping you, you can request a different staff member or even a manager to assist.

Close Quarters With Other Travelers

If you’re an introvert like me, being around a lot of people doesn’t necessarily fit into your vacation plans. If that’s the case, the thought of sitting down to have breakfast with a room full of strangers might be more stressing than relaxing.

Fewer Amenities

Although some B & Bs do indeed have pools and such, not all do. If a fitness center, hot tub, pool and room service is important to you, a hotel on Kauai might be a more suitable option.

Kauai B & Bs

Now on to the good stuff!

If you’ve decided that a bed and breakfast on Kauai will suit your needs, I’ve discovered a few possibilities to for you to consider.

Marjorie’s Kauai Inn    

Located just five minutes from Old Koloa Town and 10 minutes from Poipu beach, this bed and breakfast sits on a lush 1.2 acres. You’ll find lots of tropical plants and beautiful flowers on the property as well as a 50 foot salt water pool.

Also provided are a washer and dryer, beach toys, and a BBQ grill at no extra cost. And no cleaning fees to boot, which is very unusual to find anywhere on the island.

Kauai Banyon Inn

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat you’ll find it here. Kauai Banyon Inn has been a labor of love for one family, dating back to humble beginnings in 1976. They have four units available, each with a private sitting area, bathroom and lanai.

Located in the hills above Poipu, each unit also has air conditioning, a refrigerator/freezer, coffee maker, a wet bar, TV and much more. This doesn’t seem like your typical B & B and I myself am excited to visit this property!

Hale Kua Bed and Breakfast

Located on Kauai’s South Shore just 20 minutes from the airport and 10 from gorgeous Poipu beach, this private bed and breakfast offers two separate units. The Cottage and Gardenia units are both self-catering and completely furnished.

Experience breathtaking panoramic views this hillside property. Enjoy a private lanai, tropical fruits, flowers and macadamia nuts. Even a nearby waterfall! Sounds pretty heavenly to me!

Kauai Bed and Breakfast on the Beach

Poipu Plantation

Although it’s not right on the beach is just a short 9 minute walk, or a 2 minute drive. And while they have full units, they also have what they call Bed & Breakfast which include a separate bathroom and a private lanai. Built in the 1930s, this Inn is furnished with custom Kauai art, hardwood flooring and Plantation style decor.

It’s close to many restaurants and shopping as well.

I hope this post will help you decide whether a bed and breakfast on Kauai is right for you. Feel free to leave a comment below regarding your decision, and check out this post—> Stay in Beautiful Cottages, Bungalows & Villas on Kauai if you’re in need of a few more ideas.