Where to Stay on Kauai, Hawaii

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a mountain range with mountains and mountains

Best Areas to Stay on Kauai

Often called the Garden Island, Kauai is renowned as the greenest of the Hawaiian Islands. Over 97% of its region remains undeveloped rainforest or inaccessible mountain ranges that cannot be accessed by vehicle or by walking. There are no highways on Kauai. The roads here cover only the coastal areas in the form of a backwards “C,” with no roadways on the northwest coast or in the heart of the island. Much of the interior can only be seen from a helicopter (helicopter tours are extremely well-liked here), and many secluded beaches on the northwest coast are solely accessible by boat, kayak, or an arduous hike. Kauai is over five million years old, making it the oldest principal island in the Hawaiian chain – approximately four and a half million years older than the Big Island. Millions of years of erosion have generated breathtaking landscapes, such as the rugged Na Pali Coast and the colorful desert of Waimea Canyon. Just fifteen kilometers east of the desert lies Mount Waialeale, a long-dormant volcano blanketed in an emerald cloud forest and one of Earth’s rainiest locations. Of course, Kauai is also surrounded by sandy beaches. Po`ipu Beach on the south side of the island has the most development with the largest concentration of luxury resorts; Hanalei Bay on the north side is a crescent-shaped bay with three family-friendly beaches and a pier. The east side of the island from the south end of the Kawaihau district to the north end of the Lihue district is home to a stretch of golden sand beaches known as the Coconut Coast. The west side of the island from Waimea to the Na Pali Coast is home to the most remote, relaxed beaches with the best sunset perspectives. But no matter where you stay on Kauai, expect to see and hear chickens, known locally as moa. After two huge hurricanes ravaged the island last century, domestic chickens escaped and bred with the red junglefowl brought to Hawaii by the original Polynesian settlers, generating the feral chicken population of today – which has become the unofficial “state bird” of Kauai.

For most travelers, the southern region of the island in the vicinity of Koloa will likely present the optimal location to establish temporary residence. The resort zone of Po’ipu in this area offers the ideal confluence of continual sunshine, sandy shorelines, high-end accommodations, and premier dining establishments. Hanalei, situated at the northern periphery of the island, is home to a surfers` haven similarly designated Hanalei, as well as the lavishly planned luxury resort area Princeville and the untamed Na Pali Coastline. Lihue along the southeastern coast constitutes the most practical central location for exploring the complete island, with gorgeous beaches of its own in addition to the island’s airport. Just north of Lihue exists the Wailua River and Fern Grotto (a lava rock cave popular on boat excursions), which form the boundary between Lihue and Kawaihau. Kawaihau presents the superior locale for living like a local resident. Kauai’s largest town, Kapa’a, is found here renowned for its leisurely attitude, charming boutiques, and relatively small yet potent culinary scene. On the western side, the Waimea district experiences the driest conditions on Kauai; Waimea Canyon here ranks among the most celebrated attractions on Kauai.

Best Places to Stay in Kauai

a swimming pool with a pool table and chairs

Best Areas on Kauai for…

people on a beach near a body of water

  • Best Beaches on Kauai: Koloa, Hanalei, Lihue
    Koloa presents the preferable mix of bright, sandy, swimmable beaches on Kauai with Po’ipu Beach being the most famed. Hanalei is home to a gorgeous stretch of sandy, swimmable beaches with excellent snorkeling and lush mountain scenery. Lihue boasts a handful of wonderful family-oriented beaches in sheltered coves or lagoons, ideal for novice swimmers.
  • Top Locations for Families on Kauai: Koloa, Hanalei, Lihue, Kawaihau
    Koloa is the most popular spot for family units on Kauai, known for sunny days, excellent beaches, and luxury hotels with activities for youngsters and their families. Hanalei offers beautiful swimming with reef-protected coves and tidepools popular for exploring, plus laid-back lodging, and wonderful local dining. Lihue offers kid-friendly beaches, a historic downtown area, great dining and shopping, and easy access to the airport. Kawaihau features several family-friendly beaches all connected by a bike path (flat and easy to ride), plus authentic dining, a fun food truck scene, and unique shopping.
  • The Most Romantic Places on Kauai: Koloa, Hanalei, Waimea
    For a luxurious romantic getaway, Koloa provides the finest resorts with stylish spaces and suites, high-end dining, and crafted cocktail bars. Hanalei features more relaxed eating and lodgings complemented by dramatic landscapes and secluded beaches. Waimea is the remotest part of Kauai, renowned for its breathtaking canyon, sundown beaches, a tangle of hiking routes, and a string of small, artistic towns.
  • Top Places for Sightseeing on Kauai: Koloa, Hanalei, Lihue, Waimea
    In addition to upscale lodging and great beaches, Koloa is also home to plantation-era Koloa Town, the Koloa Heritage Trail, and Hawaii`s beloved botanical gardens. At Kauai`s northern end, Hanalei features the rugged Na Pali Coast and Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge, a seabird sanctuary with a century-old lighthouse. Lihue offers numerous historic, cultural, and natural attractions, like Wailua Falls, along with a central location for exploring the island. Waimea is renowned for its canyon and hiking paths but also includes Port Allen in Ele’ele, from where most Na Pali Coast cruise boats depart, plus Hawaii`s longest sandy beach, scenic sunsets, Ni’ihau island views, and close views of the Na Palo cliffs at Polihale Beach`s very north end.
  • Safest Areas on Kauai
    Kauai is a very risk-free place to visit with a lower crime rate than most parts of the continental United States and competing with the Big Island for the most secure county in Hawaii (they alternate holding this title annually). Crimes that occur here tend to be property crimes, especially bicycle theft and theft of items from rental vehicles. Although Kauai as a whole has a low crime rate, the safest places are at the resorts in Koloa and in laid back Hanalei.
  • Unsafe Areas on Kauai
    Overall, Kauai is regarded as one of the most secure locations to reside in both Hawaii and the United States. However, incidents do transpire, therefore basic precautions still apply. Don’t leave valuables unattended in a rental automobile or on beaches while swimming, even if at a resort. Don’t stroll alone in deserted areas at night. And most importantly, be cognizant of currents and waves when swimming in the ocean; many of Kauai’s beaches experience strong currents and swells, particularly in the winter months. Crimes tend to involve property rather than violence. Areas necessitating caution include Kapa’a (as it’s the most populous town, there is a higher incidence of overall crime) and Hanamaulu (a small town just north of the Lihue airport with a higher than average crime rate).

    • a river running through a forest filled with trees

Best Towns & Areas on Kauai for Tourists

1. Koloa

a beach that has some sand on it

Travelers to Kauai frequently opt to base themselves in the island`s southern coast in the Koloa region. This location strikes an near-perfect balance of sunny days, sandy beaches, high-quality resort accommodations, and excellent dining, nightlife, and shopping options. The Koloa district has two primary areas – historic Koloa Town and modern Po`ipu. Koloa Town was once home to Hawaii`s initial sugar mill in 1835, and much of its architecture dates back to the plantation era, though the old storefronts now house contemporary boutiques and quality restaurants and markets offering tasty cuisine – examples include La Spezia serving Italian dishes, Lappert`s famed for locally produced Hawaiian ice cream, and Koloa Fish Market presenting authentic, affordable plate lunches. Along the Koloa Coast lies Po`ipu, an upscale beachfront resort town housing most of the island`s luxury hotels and a handful of golf courses. Shopping and dining here generally cater to more expensive tastes than in Koloa town. Po`ipu Beach comprises a series of three semicircular, sandy inlets with gentle waves and a coral reef filled with tropical fish, popular for snorkeling, swimming, and beginning surfing. Po`ipu is the largest, busiest beach in the vicinity, but all along the coast are sandy beaches nestled in small coves, some sheltered by the reef with calmer waters and others with larger waves perfect for surfing. Some of the best attractions in the area are spread over the length of the scenic Koloa Heritage Trail. This 16 kilometer route begins at Spouting Horn blowhole, a scenic overlook and lava tube significant in Hawaiian legend, continuing to Prince Kuhio`s birthplace, Kihahouna Heiau (an ancient Hawaiian temple), Koloa Jodo Mission (a 1910 Buddhist temple), and more. Of course, like its sobriquet of Garden Island implies, Kauai abounds with botanical gardens and parks, with the finest being McBryde and Allerton Gardens situated side-by-side housing local and exotic tropical species.

2. Hanalei

people on a beach near a body of water The lands situated along Kauai`s northern coastline, from the majestic Na Pali Coastline in the western region to Larsen`s Beach on the eastern edge near Kilauea town, make up the Hanalei district. While Hanalei typically receives less abundant sunshine and smaller crowds than the town of Kola, the scenery of this area is considerably more stunning. The towering spires and deep waterfalls cascading down the dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast give way to the emerald mountains cradling the crystal waters of Hanalei Bay. Traveling farther east presents opportunities to explore the tide pools at Queen`s Bath in Princeville and at Mokolea Point within the protected Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge, home to indigenous seabirds and marine life alongside a historic 1913 lighthouse open for tours on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The Hanalei district has deep agricultural roots, as the initial Polynesian settlers extensively cultivated staple crops such as breadfruit, taro, and yams across the fertile lands. Much of the unincorporated land surrounding the towns continues to be devoted to crop cultivation. Situated on the northern shore, Hanalei offers prime surfing conditions particularly during the large winter swells. Most of the coastline features a protective coral reef, providing a buffer from the strongest surf while enabling quality snorkeling for experienced swimmers around locations including Tunnels Beach, Hideaways Beach, and the boat-accessible Nu`alolo Kai. Hanalei`s principal towns consist of the laidback surf community of Hanalei, the upscale yet small resort of Princeville, and charming Kilauea, a preserved former plantation village. Throughout the Hanalei district, lodging, dining, and shopping maintain an unfussy atmosphere. With the exception of some high-end resorts within Princeville, most accommodations embrace a casual mid-range or budget-friendly boutique hotel and B&B style.

3. Lihue

a large body of water with palm trees The Lihue district is found on Kauai`s southeastern shore, extending from Kawelikoa Point in the south—where Kohala begins—to the Wailua River to the north marking the start of Kawaihau. The major town in this region, also called Lihue, serves as the second most populous on the island. It is home to Lihue Airport and the Nawiliwili Harbor cruise ship port, making this settlement the primary point of entry and departure for all visitors exploring Kauai. As the governmental, historic, and commercial center of the island, Lihue offers a variety of cultural attractions, natural wonders, and stunning beaches. Downtown, travelers can find the Kauai Museum housing ancient tools, historical artifacts, and traditional handicrafts from Kauai and Ni`ihau, the forbidden island. (1) South of the museum sits Grove Farm, a mid-19th century sugarcane plantation spanning 100 acres. Tours visit the stately main house, humble staff quarters, tropical gardens, and small steam locomotives used to transport raw cane. (2) Further north lies the Wailua River home to the lush Fern Grotto lava cave, accessible by boat or kayak. Wailua Falls consists of a plunging cascade terminating in a frigid yet swimable pool.(3) A few sandy, family-friendly beaches can be found in Lihue like Kalapaki and Lydgate, both excellent options.(4) Kalapaki Beach has calm waters within a protected cove, perfect for beginning swimmers and standup paddleboarders .(5) Lydgate Beach features reef-protected swimming and snorkeling behind two lava rock walls, allowing an abundance of colorful fish while breaking the waves—ideal for novice swimmers. Lodging in Lihue ranges from mid-priced to budget-friendly.

4. Kawaihau

a large body of water with a beach next to it Lying north of Lihue and east of Hanalei is the Kawaihau region, home to Kauai’s largest town Kapa’a along with most of the renowned Royal Coconut Coastline and the notable Nounou Mountain. Despite Kapa’a being the island’s most populated municipality where daily commotion takes place, it maintains a strong community feel with numerous dining and retail options catering to local tastes. This eclectic yet charming town features delectable, budget-friendly authentic dishes, handmade artwork, and small boutiques. The expansive Kapa’a Farmers Market held weekly is frequented by over 100 vendors however popular stalls regularly sell out within the initial 10 minutes, so attending early with cash is advised. Kawaihau is also home to the famed Coconut Coast historically reserved for Hawaiian royalty, beginning in Lihue extending north through Wailua town and Kapa’a ending at Kealia Beach. Here lies the bulk of Kawaihau’s resorts alongside white sandy shores, shopping centers and activities such as water sports, luaus and sunrise yoga. The entire renowned Royal Coconut Coastline is interconnected by the multi-use path Ke Ala Hele Makalae passing idyllic beaches and concluding at serene Paliku Beach. Ultimately the path will broaden linking to the northernmost community Anahola down to Lihue. Given the windward position, the coast experiences breezes and surf making it popular for windsurfing, kitesurfing and surfing. Some calm beaches comprise Lae Nani, Fuji Beach and Kapa’a Beach, all providing splendid unobstructed sunrise panoramas over the ocean. Inland travelers encounter Nounou Mountain with hiking trails ascending to the summit rewarding visitors with spectacular vistas of eastern Kauai.

5. Waimea

a mountain range with mountains in the distance The eastern region of Kauai, located between Koloa and Hanalei, is Waimea. Differing from the remainder of the island dotted with lush tropical rainforest, Waimea possesses an arid climate. Classified as a tropical savannah rather than a true desert, it sees minute rainfall exclusive of winter. A premier natural attraction is Waimea Canyon, often regarded as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. This breathtaking geological formation developed across 4 million years as a continually erupting volcano collapsed, filling the void with alternating strata of lava eroded subsequently by rainfall cascading down from Mount Waialeale. The outcome is a 16-kilometer lengthy canyon dropping 900 meters vertically adorned with vibrant stripes of red, orange, and brown bisected by slender waterfalls as well as rugged outcroppings sprinkled with patches of green vegetation. Waimea maintains the most sparsely populated area of Kauai. The two principal towns comprise historic Waimea Town, where Captain Cook made history as the initial European to arrive in Hawaii in 1778, and Ele`ele, home to Port Allen from which the majority of Na Pali Coast tours launch. At 24 kilometers in length, Waimea`s coast accommodates the most uninterrupted sandy beach extending across the state of Hawaii, initiating at Kekaha Beach in the south and wrapping around the promontory north to Polihale Beach, ending abruptly at the towering sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. This truly denotes the endpoint by road on Kauai. Comparable to most beaches in the Waimea region, Polihale and Kekaha experience strong currents rendering them unsuitable for swimming (although reasonably busy for surfing). The preferred beach for swimming here is Salt Pond Beach Park in Ele`ele. All beaches on the Waimea Coast showcase breathtaking sunsets facing Ni`ihau Island. Polihale Beach stands out for its proximity to the secluded Forbidden Island as well as the Na Pali Coast while providing unimpeded sunset panoramas unblocked by Ni`ihau on the horizon. Lodging in Waimea remains sparse, predominantly budget accommodations.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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