The Best Areas of Where to Stay on Kauai

Forged in fire, Kauai is an ancient island of unspeakable natural beauty. Volcanic mountains and craggy shores complement golden, green, and black sand beaches. Kauai is one of the rainiest spots on the planet. The vast majority of the island is undeveloped rainforest, earning it the nickname of the Garden State. The wealth of tropical moisture makes Kauai the greenest of the eight major Hawai’ian Islands.

Hawaii’s oldest island, Kauai, is five million years old. It is millions of years older than any of its sibling islands, Maui, Lanai, Oahu, or the Big Island-Hawaii. But those eons of sand and water have created stunning landscapes.

The jagged Na Pali Coast and desert sands of Waimea Canyon give way to Mount Waialeale at the epicenter of Kauai. This extinct shield volcano has a peak of 5140 feet and is often covered with an emerald cloud of lush vegetation.

Helicopters are needed to see much of the interior. The mountains of Kauai are the remnants of a once-active volcano, where the main summit caldera spans 12 miles, flanked by two smaller basins. And Pliocene lava flows and debris fields isolate several parts of the island. The Northwest Coast may only be accessible by charter boat or kayak.

Getting Around Kauai

There are no freeways on Kauai. The main road, King’s Highway, only covers the coastal regions. No roads have been built on the Northwest Coast or in the island’s mountainous center.

Kauai is broken down into four geographical regions; south, north, east, and west. Each area or district is known for its distinct beaches, climate, and lifestyles. So, where to stay on Kauai largely depends on what you want to do when you visit the island.

The Beaches Of The Garden State

Everyone can agree that Kauai has some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. But there are some differences.

Southside’s Po’ipu Beach is the most popular and home to luxury hotels, condos, and resorts. Here there are three family-friendly beaches. The North Shore’s crescent-shaped Hanalei Bay offers long walks, water sports, and a long fishing pier.

The famed Coconut Coast, a swath of golden sand beaches, extends up and down the east side of Kauai, from the Kawaihau district in the southeast to the Anahola district in the northeast. The island’s western side, from Na Pali Coast to Waimea, is home to the most remote beaches on Kauai.

When to Visit

When planning a visit to the island, there is much to consider. Kauai’s high season, or peak tourist season, is the months of June, July, and August and from December to the beginning of April.

The absolute busiest times of the year to visit Kauai are around the major holidays — Christmas, Easter, or Spring Break. Off-peak seasons, from September to December and April to June, are best for budget-conscious travelers or to avoid crowds and take advantage of travel incentives.

Overall, Kauai’s weather is perfect, ranging between 70-85 F. Like all the Hawaiian Islands, the cooler and wetter North Coast gives way to the drier but sunny Southern Coast. The island’s rainy season extends from October to March. And the dry season from April to September. And although rare, the Eastern Pacific Ocean tropical storm season runs from May 15 to November 30.

Regardless of the time of year, Kauai is often listed as one of the safest places on the Hawaiian islands, adding to the island’s beauty.

The Best Areas To Stay

Are you still deciding where to stay for your Kauai vacation? No matter where you stay, with a little effort, you can find a stretch of paradise for the trip of a lifetime.

1. The South Shore

• Most popular area to stay
• Destinations include: Koloa, Lawai, and Po’ipu
• Family friendly beaches
• Sunny and dry

Most Kauai travelers choose the South Shore when they visit. This side of the island, a unique contrast of past and present, extends roughly from Nawiliwili Bay to the east and Port Allen Airport to the west. It includes the charming town of Koloa, Lawai, and the popular town of Po’ipu.

Po’ipu is a Kauai resort town that exemplifies Aloha-inspired hospitality. It is known for sunny days, blue waters, beachfront hotels, and upscale Hawaiian restaurants.

Calm Waters

Famous for its sunsets, the South Shore is a perfect spot to visit as a solo traveler or with friends and family. The calm, shallow waters are warm and great for kids.

In fact, Poipu Beach is famous for its family-friendly environment. In addition, Anini and Hanalei Beaches on the North Shore make for a great family day with baby waves and eating options nearby.

A big attraction of the South Shore is the climate. It is considerably sunnier and drier than the other parts of Kauai. As a result, the ocean is easier to swim, and there is a good chance of spotting seals and turtles near shore.

Close To Everything

The area is also popular with tourists because there is such a wide range of properties to choose from. Most of Kauai’s activities are headquartered on the South Shore, such as the departure point for cruise ships and helicopter tours.

But being close to all these activities and amenities comes with a cost. The South Shore’s oceanfront hotels and large are awash with crowds during peak season. The coastline has some of the best hotels, beach access, swimming pools, and tennis courts; however, very few Kauai hotels on the South Shore could be called budget-friendly.

With easy access to both Waimea Canyon and Lihue Airport, Po’ipu is a great home base for traveling. The public sands and royal blue waters of Po’ipu Beach, Glass Beach, Kapukai Beach, the not-so, Secret Beach, and the popular Shipwreck Beach are all absolutely worth the visit.

For those searching for a few manageable waves without driving to the North Shore, try the nearby Brennecke’s Beach, best known for boogie boarding and body surfing.

Botanical Gardens

Garden Isle’s South Shore is not just endless beaches and stunning scenery. The Kukuiolono Golf Course and Japanese Botanical Gardens are a few miles away from Poipu. The garden is a popular place for quiet and reflection and includes a footbridge overlooking gentle fountains, stone Asian statues, and bonsai trees. The garden also houses a unique collection of Hawaiian lava rocks near the meditation pavilion.

The Allerton National Tropical Botanical Garden is also part of the South Shore. Recognized by NatGeo Traveler magazine as a lifetime must-see, this former estate is open to visitors for a self-guided walking tour. Then, visit a natural wonder for a few minutes directly across from Allerton Garden. The Spouting Horn is a regularly spouting blowhole formed by lava tubes.

Theatre

Auliʻi Lūʻau, a performance theater, depicts the ancient island ritual of the Luau nightly for Kauai visitors. This dinnertime show is a vibrant must-see experience celebrating Hawaiian culture and people.

Adventure

If you are looking for adventure, the Kukuiolono Trailhead, Makauwahi Cave Reserve, and the coastal hike along the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail, all near Shipwreck Beach, are waiting to be explored. And if you have never been mountain tubing, here is your chance!

Shopping

The South Shore also boasts open-air boutique-style shopping centers for trendsetters and souvenir hunters. The Pou’pu Shopping Village is a laid-back, open-air green space that is a short walk from Koloa Landing, offering eclectic boutiques and island restaurants. Not far away are the Shops at Kukui’ula, a short walk from Koloa Landing – offering recognizable upscale brands.

If you like antiquing, Old Koloa Town offers several blocks of historical Kauai structures and modern boutiques for a taste of Hawaii.

One of the unique shopping areas in South Shore is Warehouse 3540. Housed in a refurbished warehouse, this is a collection of artisanal items great for unique island souvenirs.

Food

Some of the best activities off the beach have to do with food. The Koloa Rum Company, Kauai’s first rum distillery, offers tours and tastings. Or, for a more caffeinated activity choice, the Kona Coffee Company offers self-guided tours and sample tastings. And visitors to this side of the island have an endless selection of Pan-Pacific island delicacies in trendy eateries or roadside food carts.

With everything to do and see, it is easy to see why most visitors choose the South Shore.

2. The North Shore

• Tranquil and private
• Destinations include: Kilauea, Wainiha, Princeville, and Hanalei
• Scenic rugged beaches
• Wetter and tropical

The North Shore of Kauai boasts some of the best beaches offset by rugged cliffs and ancient mountains. Protected by the Kilauea Lighthouse, the North Shore’s coastal towns are Kilauea, Wainiha, Princeville, and Hanalei, each with its own vibe.

Surfing and Beaches

Kauai’s North Shore is home to luxury resorts that define indulgence and romance. All counted, five stunning beaches cover over two miles of golden sands – Haena Beach Park, Ke’e, and Tunnels Beaches add to the perfect waves of Hanalei Bay and Hanalei Beach.

Hanalei Beach is a surfer’s haven. In comparison, nearby Princeville houses a luxury master-planned community adjacent to Hanalei Bay, with an award-winning golf course and tennis courts.

While visiting Kauai’s North Shore, if you venture off the beach, there are a few landmarks worth noting. One is Queen’s Bath on the northernmost tip of the island. This unique sinkhole is home to several aquatic species. But getting to this popular swimming hole requires a half-hour hike along a cliffside path.

Tranquill and Romantic

The North Shore offers serenity, privacy, and tranquility. It is also perfect for those looking for a slower pace away from the crowds. This is probably why this part of the island caters to weddings and honeymooners. It is the perfect romantic getaway and is often named one of the best island hideaways for newlyweds.

Adventure

To the locals, the North Shore is referred to as the gateway to the Na’pali Coast. This part of the island contains the spectacular Hanakapi’ai Falls and offers dozens of hiking trails with unbelievable views of cliffs, waterfalls, and tropical vegetation.

The entry to the famous Na’Pali Coast State Wilderness Park and the Hono O Na’Pali Nature Area Preserve sits at the area’s westernmost tip. In addition, the north central area hosts the Power Trail.

The Hanalei Mountains, a single craggy mountain ridge that runs to the island’s center, separates Kauai’s North Shore from the West Coast. From Hanalei Bay, three mountain peaks fill the horizon. These are Hihimanu, Namolokama, and Mamalahoa. Clouds often hide the Hanalei Mountain range. And during the rainy season, dozens of spontaneous waterfalls highlight the peaks.

One of the North Shore quirks is that it receives more rain than other parts of the island. And during the winter months, from November to March, the Tradewinds, which blow east to west, are strongest. These winds are perfect for sailing and parasailing in Hanalei Bay.

Botanical Gardens

And at the North Shore’s easternmost tip sits the third botanical garden on the island, Na ‘Aina Kai. The name translates to lands by the sea. The Na ‘Aina Kai Botanical Gardens and Sculpture Park covers roughly 240 acres with waterfalls, a hardwood plantation, and striking bronze statues. And both guided and self-guided tours are available.

Wildlife

While this side of Kauai may be quiet, chickens are everywhere. After two large 20th Century hurricanes destroyed the island, domestic chickens, moa, began breeding with red jungle fowl, creating a wild chicken population. Now, the moa is Kauai’s unofficial state bird.

3. The East Coast

• The Coconut Coast
• Destinations include: Kapa’a, Hanamaulu, Wailua, Kawaihau, and Lihue
• Range of accommodations
• Wetter and temperate

The East Coast includes the towns of Kapa’a, Hanamaulu, Wailua, Kawaihau, and Lihue. This side of the island is home to the famed Coconut Coast, named for the hundreds of coco trees lining the Kauai coast that flourish during the rainy season from November to March.

Budget Conscious

The east side is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to visit Kauai. On the central East Coast, there is a range of hotels and vacation rentals to fit most needs, even during peak season – from November to March. You will not have to sacrifice ocean views, but you may not be directly on the beach.

The strip, from Kealea Beach to Lae Nani Beach, holds most of the resorts and hotels. It is a hub for island visitors — providing easy access to everything from snorkeling and sunset boat charters to golf, cave diving, and hiking in the numerous parks and natural reserves.

Local Beaches

The beaches on the East Coast are certainly paradise grade, but they are frequented mostly by local residents and lack the volume found on the South Shore. One of the exceptions is the popular Kalapaki Beach. A distinctly crescent-shaped beach on Nawiliwili Bay just off Kuki’i Point and the Kuki’i Point Lighthouse.

Adventure

One of the best towns on the East Coast for adventurous and solo travelers is Anahola. It has a casual feel and provides a good glimpse of island life. Anahola is bordered by lava rock caves – great for hiking and exploring.

The East Shore town is also near the 15-mile-long Wailua River and State Park. This beautiful 1,100-acre park hosts the famous Wailua Falls. This majestic 100-foot double waterfall is best known for the opening scene of television’s Fantasy Island.

The best way to see Wailua Falls is to kayak the river and hike the mile or so through the dense jungle to the falls. Within the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge, immediately adjacent to the Huleia Stream, is the Menehune Fishpond.

This 1000-year-old stone structure is both sacred to Hawaiian culture and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is said to have been built overnight by the Menehune, the legendary Hawaiian people.

Another excellent town on the East Coast is Kauai’s capital, Lihue. The small city hosts the island’s main airport, Lihue Airport. Overall, this area is a great jumping-off point for the rest of the island and a gateway to the Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve.

Laid Back

The East Shore’s main city of Kapaa is a popular option, offering a laid-back vibe, with small boutique shopping at the Kinipopo Shopping Village and a growing food scene.

One of the must-try dishes while visiting Kauai is the famous Street Burger. Kapaa town is also close to the Kauai Path, a hiking and biking trail that extends the coast from Donkey’s Beach to the lovely green space of Lydgate Park.

4. The West Side

• Wild and rugged
• Destinations include: Waimea and Hanapepe
• Few accommodations
• Dry

Kauai’s western side is a wilderness frontier. This side of the island is drier than the rest of Kauai, giving rise to the colored sands of Wilemea Canyon and rocky shores.

Because of the difficult terrain and geographical isolation, few travelers choose to stay on the West Shore. Considered the leeward coast of Kauai, Waimea and Hanapepe are its major cities. The Waimea district is considered the driest part of Kauai, as the central mountains block the rain.

Hiking

Just because this side of the island is dry and lacks the ritzy resorts of the South Coast doesn’t mean it is devoid of life. The west side of Kauai is a mecca for hikers and backpackers because of its proximity to Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, and Kokee State Park.

There are a couple of state park areas with great hiking along the coast. There are also excellent choices for Kauai vacation rentals nearby. Likewise, there are few, if any, traditional restaurants on this part of the island; however there are many choices along the way. And the nearest burger is back on the North or South Shore.

Beaches

Polihale Beach and Polihale State Park, which sit on the Southwest Coast, are stunningly beautiful choices to get your outdoor fix. Further North sits a handful of equally spectacular but small coves and beaches, including Milolii Beach, Nualolo Beach, Honapu, and Kalalau Beaches. These are reachable mostly by boat charter but claim some spectacular sunsets.

Cultural Center

The island’s cultural history reveres the Wailua Valley as a religious center. The sacred valley was home to several heiaus, sacred places of worship.

On the western coastline near Nualolo Kai Beach is a rock wall ruin in a natural cove. This sacred place of worship is dedicated to Pele, Goddess of Fire.

Adventure

This section of the Western Coastline also hosts several trails. The most famous is the Awa’awapuhi Trail. With a trailhead, Kekaha, this is a difficult six-mile hike through Kokeʻe State Park and the breathtaking Nāpali-Kona Forest Reserve with the spectacular Pacific Ocean and Napoli Coast views.

Two more popular trails on most hiker’s bucket lists of Kauai are Black Pipe and Cliff Trail, both moderately difficult and lead to different vantage points along the rim.

One of Waimea Canyon State Park’s more popular attractions is its thunderous waterfalls. Red Dirt Waterfall is a fascinating cascade over brilliantly brick-red soil near the entrance to Waimea Canyon. Visitors can find a panoramic view of the region at Waipo’o Falls Lookout, with a spectacular view of the distant Waipo’o Falls and Mini Falls.

Waipo’o Falls is an 800-foot cascading waterfall on Waimea Canyon Trail, a roughly four-mile moderately challenging hike to the rim of Halemanu Canyon.

Off Kokee Road, visitors will find Pu’u Ka Pele Lookout, dedicated to Kauai’s goddess, Pele. Or try the Pu’u Hinahina Lookout at the Waimea Canyon Trailhead for a great view without the strenuous hike. This particular lookout point marks the end of Kokee Road. But, off to the side is a short, easy Pihea Trail that provides a different perspective on the ocean and valley floor.

One only has to traverse one of these many trails to understand why Kauai is sacred not only to the Hawaiian people but a Mecca to all who appreciate the raw natural beauty of the island.

Remote

The things that turn most people away from the West Coast are why this part of the island remains a pristine, tropical wonderland. While remote, this side of the island rewards the most dedicated and adventurous explorers with awe-inspiring sights. And that’s the real beauty of Kauai.

Paradise In On Every Coast

No matter where you stay and explore on Kauai, you’ll find a different version of paradise. Each coast offers a distinct flavor of island living, whether it’s beaches, adventure, or cultural exploration. Booking a cozy vacation rental home nearby can make exploring Kauai an experience of a lifetime.

Featured Image Credit: Shane Myers Photography