Discover The Best Kauai Hotels You’re Going to Love

If you’re looking for the best hotels on Kauai, Hawaii, you’ve come to the right place! As a self-proclaimed Kauai enthusiast I can tell you that finding amazing places to stay on this beautiful island is not only fun, it’s becoming an obsession of mine!

It’s my goal to provide helpful resources to make your first or next trip to Kauai the best yet, and that starts by finding the best Kauai hotels! Through tips, recommendations and reviews you will have all the information you need to plan your relaxing vacation in paradise.

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

But first, take a look at this post if you’re not sure which side of the island to stay on Kauai.

North Shore Kauai

Kauai’s North Shore is a magical place.

Hanalei is a small, quaint little town with local shops and restaurants.

But the bay is where it’s at! Hanalei bay is probably the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen, it’s absolutely breathtaking! And the pier is pretty impressive as well.

While you won’t find many hotels on the North Shore, there’s no shortage of amazing places to stay. You will find an abundance of condos, timeshares, and house rentals that will allow you to relax and enjoy your time in paradise.

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is one of the main hotels on the North Shore. It’s definitely a luxury hotel, so be prepared for luxury pricing.

They offer wellness experiences that nourish the mind, body and soul. With everything from a salon and spa to curated events and local experiences, there’s some thing for everyone.

Enjoy the pool or a round of golf. Visit the retail shop or hang out at the stunning Pu’u Poa Beach. There’s no shortage of things to do and experiences to be had, without ever leaving the hotel.

South Shore Kauai Hotels

The South Shore of Kauai is a very lively area. It has a variety of hotel options, as well as condos, house rentals and even a couple bed and breakfasts.

There is lots to do in the areas of Poipu, Koloa, and Kalaheo. From gorgeous beaches to yummy food, there’s something for everyone.

This area gets many tourists, as does most of the island. But in my experience, beaches and restaurants are much busier, especially in Poipu.

But oh the sunsets! They alone are worth a trip south. And if you’re an animal fan, you’ll likely see turtles (honu) and Monk Seals right up on the beach. They are so cool to watch!

Note: You must stay at least 10 feet away from all animals by law!

A few popular places to stay are:

Sheraton Kauai Resort

Nestled on the shores of Poipu beach, the Sheraton Kauai Resort has everything needed for a relaxing Kauai vacation. You’ll find an outdoor pool and hot tub, plus a fitness center on the stunning property. They also have a convenience store, gift shop, and an onsite restaurant.

The location can’t be beat as you’ll find many additional restaurants and shopping centers nearby.

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu

As far as room types go, Koloa Landing has pretty much any size room you could possibly need. From a cozy studio to a luxury villa or penthouse suite, you’ll find them accommodating for any size party or occassion.

Their amenities are impressive: Three pools, a putting green, volleyball court and yes, even a soccer field!

We can’t forget to mention the day spa, 24 hour fitness center and gourmet market onsite. This resort is definitely worth checking out, especially if you’re traveling with a large party.

Koʻa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach

With gorgeous ocean views, this hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway or solo retreat.

Their on site restaurant Red Salt serves locally-sourced Hawaiian seafood and produce. You’ll also find a sushi bar on site.

Other amenities include a spa, pool and tiki bar, plus a yoga and fitness studio. You can even take Hula lessons!

Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club

This beachfront resort has a convenience store (with a Starbucks!), an outdoor bar, fitness center, free WiFi and no resort fees. And you are literally steps to the beach!

With three outdoor pools to chose from, you can spend countless hours swimming or relaxing.

Choose between a guest room with one King bed and one sofa bed, or a two bedroom villa. You really can’t go wrong here!

Hotels in Kapa’a

The town of Kapa’a is nestled on Kauai’s Coconut Coast, the East side of the Island. It has an abundance of hotels, condos, and houses to rent.

Kapa’a is one of my favorite areas on the island. It’s centrally located, so it’s an easy drive to the North or South shore.

Now traffic, that’s another story. Every day during rush hour, traffic can get backed up. It’s not uncommon to spend time stuck in traffic, although there are bypass roads you can use.

Honestly I don’t mind the traffic, it’s nothing like big city traffic. Plus you can’t get a better view!

Some excellent Kapa’a hotels are:

The ISO

Discover Oceanside rooms with private lanais at the ISO (Island, Sky, and Ocean). They offer daily grab and go breakfast that’s included in the price of your room as well as yoga mats and refillable water bottles.

Enjoy lounging by the pool or walking along the bike path. Delight in their live music, cocktails and dinner at their on site restaurant The Bull Shed. They’ll reserve a little corner of Kauai just for you!

Kauai Shores Hotel

Located beachfront on the Coconut Coast, Kauai Shores offers lawn games, fire pits, a pool, complimentary bike rentals and air conditioned rooms.

Feast on great food and groove on live music at their on-site restaurant Lava Lava Beach Club, where you can literally dine with your feet in the sand. You can’t get any closer to the beach than that!

Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

The location is perfect, the views are amazing. Rooms with an ocean theme contain a mini fridge, air conditioning and a private lanai.

Enjoy food from one of the three restaurants on site, or explore with a complimentary bike rental.

With a full calendar of activities and events offered, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Read my review of the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort here.

Aston Islander on the Beach

Set on six acres of tropical floral gardens, this Kauai hotel is conveniently located and offers everything needed for a comfortable stay.

Located just steps from the beach, utilize barbecue grills, enjoy the pool, or take rest under a thatched hut cabana.

There’s a coffee shop on-site for your morning java, self-service laundry available, a pool side bar, and a picnic area.

Plantation Hale Suites

This family friendly property offers three pools, two whirlpool spas and lush gardens. The comfortable suites are a great value and perfect for family vacations or group gatherings.

With fully equipped kitchens and private lanais and balconies, this hotel is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy your time in Kauai.

Waipouli Beach Resort

These luxury vacation rentals offer first-class onsite amenities: a family-friendly fantasy pool, sand bottom jaccuzzis, a full-service spa, a beachfront restaurant and bar.

A full-size washer and dryer are in every unit, as well as a full kitchen. The Kapa’a bike path runs right in front of the property, and parking is free.

Best Kauai Hotels on the Beach

I don’t know about you, but staying right on the beach is my absolute favorite. And getting an ocean front room is even better!

There’s something about being able to see and hear the ocean from the room.

Many of these places also have restaurants that have exceptional views as well as bars, pools and hot tubs.

Here are just a few of the best beach resorts in Kauai:

Royal Sonesta

Just a short 2 mile drive from Kauai airport, this hotel boasts the largest one-level pool in Hawaii. Enjoy a private poolside cabana and a $25 food and beverage credit (certain restrictions apply) when you stay 4 nights or more.

With direct access to Kalapaki beach, you can feel the sand in your toes anytime you desire, day or night.

There are a number of delightful restaurants both on site and close by, as well as in-room dining available.

Check out this post if you’re looking for hotels in Kauai with great pools, and this one if you want to stay at hotels on the beach in Kauai.

Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach

This hotel is worth repeating. Located in Kapa’a, it offers views of the most beautiful sunrises I’ve ever seen!

Our favorite thing to do is get up while it’s still dark and head down to First Light Coffee and Juice Bar located in the resort. We take our coffee to go, take the short walk out to the beach, and enjoy the breathtaking sunrise!

The beach isn’t swimmable, but no worries. They have an amazing pool- two, actually- and hot tub to boot.

Plus there are swimmable beaches close by.

OUTRIGGER Kauai Beach Resort & Spa

Located between the North and South shores, this ocean front property spans across 25 acres of tropical paradise.

They offer everything from beachfront sunrise yoga and Lei making to Hula lessons and live entertainment.

With a wide variety of room and suite types, they offer accommodations for any size party.

Kauai Hotel Deals

Some hotels offer special rates for booking directly. You can also use sites like Booking.com or Tripadvisor to get great deals.

But our favorite way to save when booking Kauai resorts is to go through Costco Travel. You can bundle your hotel, airfare and car rental. Although prices can vary, if you watch it months before your desired travel time, you can score some fantastic deals!

I hope you’ve found this list of the best Kauai hotels to be helpful! Sharing is always appreciated.

Have you ever stayed at one of these properties, or do you plan to? Let me know, leave a comment below!