Best Overall Hostel On Kauai Kauai Beachfront Inn
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- Free Parking
- Private Rooms Only
Kauai has some of the best beaches in Hawaii, so why not make the most of it! Kauai Beachfront Inn is a great hostel that puts you right where you want to be: 100 meters from the waters edge. At this seaside gem, youll be living in paradise, without having to break the bank. This is why weve named it best overall hostel on Kauai.
The inn offers all private rooms. Shared spaces, like the bathrooms and kitchen keep down the expenses, so you can use your hard earned money on adventures and surfing lessons. At the end of the day, enjoy a barbeque with fellow travelers overlooking the beautiful ocean. It doesnt get much better than that!
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What Are The Most Popular Points Of Interest And Landmarks To Stay Near When Travelling To Poipu
Vrbo UK offers a large selection of holiday accommodations near great places in Poipu. From Vrbo UK travellers, the most popular points of interest to stay near are:
- Poipu Bay Golf Course: 2,472 holiday lettings
- Kiahuna Golf Course: 2,467 holiday lettings
- Poipu Kai Tennis Center: 2,443 holiday lettings
- Prince Kuhio Park: 2,478 holiday lettings
- Moir Gardens: 2,444 holiday lettings
But there are many other points of interest around Poipu listed on Vrbo UK where you can find your place to stay. Please use our search bar to access the selection of holiday rentals available near the point of interest of your choice.
Bonus : The Best Airbnbs In Kauai
I have already talked about the best Airbnbs in each area but for those who want to have their home comforts while also looking for a unique stay experience, here are some interesting vacation rentals just for you. All of these Airbnbs I will talk about are listed in price order from most to least expensive and are located in amazing natural settings and have great facilities, so here we go.
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Tour A Coffee Plantation
If you love Hawaiian coffee, youll definitely want to stop at Kauai Coffee. With more than 4 million coffee trees, they are the largest coffee grower in the United States!
Stop by their estate to do a self-guided walking tour to learn more about how coffee is grown and harvested. And take a peek at their museum to see old photos and antique coffee machinery.
But, the biggest reason to visit Kauai Coffee is to take advantage of their free coffee samples and to stock up on the ones you like!
Plus, they have an amazing gift shop with a great selection of Kauai gifts and clothing.
Best Boutique Hotels On Kauai
If youre looking for an intimate resort, Koa Kea is one of the best boutique hotels on Kauai. Set on the beautiful Poipu Beach, Koa Kea is the closest resort to the ocean on the island. On warm days, you may even spot endangered Hawaiian monk seals sunbathing on the sand!
The ultra-friendly staff will go above and beyond to make sure you have the best stay possible. They even gift you with a complimentary bottle of wine, a box of macadamia nuts, and fresh orchids upon arrival! If you really want to get into the Kauai spirit, order up a Mai Tai and watch the hotels nightly tiki torch lighting ceremony.
Koa Kea has everything you need for a magical vacation. You can get pampered with a kukui coconut-infused hot stone massage at the spa, soak up the sun around the palm-tree studded pool area, or sip umbrella drinks at the pool bar.
For dinner, head over to the resorts award-winning restaurant, Red Salt. Open for breakfast and dinner, the restaurant specializes in fresh seafood dishes. You can dine on lobster benedict in the mornings and Madagascar vanilla bean-seared mahi-mahi in the evenings.
After a sun-filled day, youll love relaxing in the beautiful rooms, which all boast private lanais, tropical decor, and marble-accented bathrooms with botanical bath products. If you want to go all out, the oceanfront rooms and suites are well worth the splurge!
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Princeville Vs Poipu: Finding The Best Place To Stay On Kauai
by Erica Gellerman | Oct 1, 2021
Youre heading to Kauai for the first time and now youre undertaking the difficult task of deciding where to stay. While Kauai is a small island, it is diverse and your vacation experience on the north shore will look very different from your experience on the south shore .
When comparing Princeville to Poipu: where should you stay? Pick Princeville if youre visiting in the summer months and want to enjoy a lush, green landscape . Book in Poipu if you want a better chance of sunny weather year-round and more resort options.
But theres more to it than that. Heres a breakdown to help you decide whether your vacation is best spent staying in Princeville or Poipu.
Feel The Hanalei Vibe
Next to the Napali Coast you find the peaceful Hanalei Bay. Surrounded by lush mountains its a place in Kauai that holds a unique charm.
The bay is picturesque around the year, but its mood depends on the season. In winter Hanalei Bay is a surfers paradise, while the water is placid in summer.
No matter when you visit, its a must to check out the town of Hanalei. On the pretty bay its certainly a cozy town to explore.
As you have an Hawaiian shave ice, or browse the towns surf shops, you really feel that youre in the heart of the Pacific.
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How Many Days To Stay In Kauai
One week is the perfect amount of time to stay in Kauai The Garden Island is very small and the highlights can easily be explored in about 4-5 days. If you wish to attempt some of the longer hikes, such as the Kalalau Trail, or are planning to partake in tours, this is where extra time comes in handy.
When choosing where to stay on Kauai, you first need to answer the following question: Would I prefer to spend all of my time in one area to have a consistent home base, or would I prefer to divide my time between two or more areas in Kauai?
Best Airbnb In Poipu: Dunson Kauai Vacation Condo
Located in the best area in Kauai to stay in if you want a quieter, local experience, this condo is ideal for couples or families. Its surrounded by acres of beautiful gardens, has a newly remodeled kitchen, and onsite amenities like BBQ areas, restaurant, a beach hut, workout facilities, outdoor pool. and onsite surf school.
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Where To Stay On Kauai Final Thoughts
We hope this travel guide has helped you find the best place to stay in Kauai for your big Hawaii holiday. With such an important decision to make, understanding all the pros and cons of each are important to consider.
If you found this post useful, please let us know in the comments below. Likewise, we truly appreciate any corrections or opportunities for improvement that you notice while reading. Finally, our inbox is always open if you have any questions you need more help answering: simply us!
Best Place To Stay In Kauai Final Thoughts
When searching for the best places to stay on Kauai, it is best to map out whats most important to you. Some things to consider when planning include the type of accommodation you wish to stay in, your proximity to the islands main attractions and your budget.
With so many things to do in Kauai, youll also want to consider what activities you would like to do.
Regardless of where you stay on the beautiful island of Kauai, you are bound to have a memorable experience. So double-check your Hawaii packing list to make sure youve packed everything you need and head on over to your perfect island getaway!
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South Shore Stay On The Sunny Side Of Kauai
The South Shore is a beautiful option for where to stay in Kauai if you want to soak up the sun. No other region in Kauai gets as much sun as the South Shore.
It can be surprising how the weather changes from area to area in Kauai. Especially in winter its noticeable how the sun shines at Kauai hotels down south, while its cloudy further north.
So if you look for sunshine, theres no better place to stay in Kauai than the sunny South Shore.
Another South Shore draw is that its a place where swimmers of all levels enjoy the ocean year round. While the north gets huge swells in winter, the South Shore offers calmer conditions.
The most popular beach on the South Shore, Poipu Beach, is conveniently split into two bays. In the protected environment visitors of all ages, and sporadic seals and turtles, have fun in the ocean throughout the year.
As a bonus you also find some of the best Kauai hotels and resorts right on Poipu Beach. At the luxury Kauai beachfront resorts in the South Shore area you really live your best life.
To sum up, the South Shore is a place to stay in Kauai that offers the whole package. Down south you find sunnier weather, a calmer winter ocean and several stunning Kaui oceanfront resorts.
Pick South Shore for: Kauai hotels on the sunny side.
Kauai Accommodations By Region
Ultimately, each region of Kauai has its own unique personality. If beaches are your scene, then you’ll be happy almost anywhere on Kauai. The entire island is full of them – more than any other island in the state. If lush scenery is what you are looking for, again, it’s hard to go wrong since the entire island is known as the “Garden Isle.” Although, the North and East coasts are considerably more lush and verdant than the South or West coasts.
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each of the areas we’ve briefly discussed above. As noted above, these are in order of popularity, by our account.
Poipu Beach, South Kauai
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North Shore The Best Place To Stay In Kauai For Scenery
Among the options for where to stay in Kauai, the North Shore is the most iconic alternative. The area is renowned around the world for its dramatic scenery.
All over the North Shore the green and mountainous surroundings are striking. You dont even have to leave your Kauai accommodation to enjoy the lush backdrop.
If you look for beautiful scenery, the North Shore is the best place to stay in Kauai.
Most remarkably the otherworldly Napali Coast dominates the northwestern coastline. At Kauai hotels and resorts in the North Shore area you base yourself right where the Napali adventure begins.
But just as the nature is wilder up north, so is the weather. Throughout the year the North Shore gets more rain than the significantly drier South Shore.
The ocean conditions also change over the year, and the North Shore is famous for its big winter waves. So if you visit in winter and prefer a calm ocean, its wise to look towards Kauai hotels in the South Shore area.
In short, the North Shore is the best option for where to stay in Kauai to enjoy the islands spectacular nature. If you look for awe-inspiring scenery, there are no better places to stay in Kauai.
Pick North Shore for: The most scenic place to stay in Kauai.
Best Areas To Stay In Kauai
Kauai, like the other Hawaiian Islands, is relatively small, yet amazingly beautiful. It consists of 115 miles of shoreline, half of which are sand beaches.
Typically, people locate themselves in one area and take day trips to other areas for particular sites or activities.
However, if your plan is for a longer stay, you may want to consider dividing your stay across multiple locations.
Regarding the weather, there is a local saying Kauai doesnt have the best weather, but the best weather is on Kauai.
Throughout the year, the temperature keeps between 21C and 29C , while ocean temperatures keep between 23C and 27C . More info Official Kauai Weather Website.
As well, the vast majority of rainfall keeps to the interior of the island. As a result, throughout the year you are generally basking in beautiful sunshine with perfect temperatures.
Here is a map of Kauai showing the best areas to stay.
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Top 25 Fun Things To Do In Poipu Kauai
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Staying in Poipu Kauai for your next Hawaiian vacation? Scroll to find out the best things to do in Poipu Hawaii for families, couples, adventurers and more!
This post on the best things to do in Poipu Kauai was originally written April 8, 2020 and was updated January 30, 2022 and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Don’t Want to Scroll? Here Are the Top Things to do in Poipu, Kauai
Out of all the places to stay on Kauai, one of the most popular resort towns is Poipu on the South Shore of Kauai.
Poipu is known as the sunny side of the island and its one of the best places for Kauai snorkeling, shopping, dining, or just relaxing on the beach.
Its located just 20 minutes from the Lihue Airport and its very easy to get to by rental car or resort shuttle.
Whether you are traveling toKauai with kids, going on your honeymoon, or doing a solo vacation, Poipu HI is definitely something you should have on your Kauai itinerary!
Keep scrolling for our favorite Poipu attractions and activities!
Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Kauai Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.
Where is Poipu in Kauai?
Poipu is located on the South Shore of Kauai, about 20 minutes from Lihue Airport.
How do you pronounce Poipu?
Its pronounced poy-POO.
Is Poipu Beach safe?
Wailua Waipouli Best Place To Stay In Kauai Framed By Spectacular Nature
Known primarily for the Wailua River that stretches through the community, the Wailua Waipouli area is a blink-and-you-may-miss-it kind of town.
As you walk along, youll understand why this part of Kauai is known as the Coconut Coast. Spread all around are flowering coconut trees that Hawaii is known for, along with several great dining and shopping options.
While there isnt a ton in the way of touristy activities, youre still bound to get in incredible sight-seeing and recreational activity here.
The lush, 30-acre Smith Family Garden Luau is located quite close to this area. A tropical oasis full of botanical gardens, walking peacocks and leafy palm trees, the real attraction here is the classic Hawaiian luau and feast.
Pick an evening and be prepared to immerse yourself in an incredible, authentic ceremony complete with a traditional Kalua pig roasted over an oven, haunting Hawaiian chants and hymns called mele, Tahitian drum dances and a Samoan fire knife dance.
The Smith Family has ensured the ceremony sticks as closely to tradition as possible, so youll be sure to leave feeling the full impact of the Hawaiian spirit.
Also be sure to book a tour of Ferns Grotto, a true geological feat. After going up the river, youll embark at Ferns Grotto landing. Here youll see verdant ferns hanging upside down from the roof of the grotto, as well as flowering plants all around.
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What To Be Careful About
While most of the island is super safe and is really easy to travel through like any other island in Hawaii, there are definitely a few things I want to call out as you’re preparing for your trip.
- Try not to get the red sand/mud on your shirt as that stuff is really hard to get off fabric.
- Follow the signage for hike trails. If a trail is closed because of erosion, don’t go around it thinking you’ll be okay.
- Take an abundance of caution into the hike trails of Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Parks. Due to unstable soil and steep drop offs, make sure you’re always in a safe position. If it’s been raining, pay even more attention to this.
- Finding a hiking stick on your hike may come in handy.
- Reservations are required for the Kalalau Trail if you missed that earlier. Make sure you book ahead of schedule. Reservations may be made up to 14 days in advance, and no later than the day before your visit.
- When travelling during rainy season, keep an eye out for heavy rainfall as this may flood the connecting bride on the highway to the town of Hanalei. If heavy rain is projected, make sure you’re on the right side of the bridge so you’re not stuck.
- When looking at the weather forecast, you’ll most likely always see some sort of rain forecasted but don’t worry, the rain is usually scattered and comes in bunches and then disappears. Rain will also sometimes only hit certain parts of the island.
Welcome To The North Shore
Beloved first and foremost for its spectacular natural beauty, the North Shore of Kauai is that jaw-dropping, how-can-this-be-real tropical paradise you see in your dreams. As you steer your rented Jeep up the one-lane Kuhio Highway from the East, there is a perceptible difference: The air starts to feel heavier, the foliage grows more lush and the greens look even more, well, green. Of course, it is perpetual rain that is creating all of this rich landscape, as it is wetter here than in any other inhabited part of the island. When you add in loads of sunshine, the North Shore weather becomes predictably unpredictable. If youre a rainbow lover you will be in your element.
An adventurers fantasy, as well, the North Shore offers majestic mountain ranges filled with trails, verdant valleys, thundering waterfalls to explore, white sand beaches, rolling waves full of surfers and some of the best snorkeling, paddle boarding and kayaking in the world. Family friendly activities offer fun for all levels and are limited only by your imagination. Spinner dolphins play in the water, sea turtles glide along the rocky under-bottom and schools of fish flash right by your face. Since the North Shore features some of the best Kauai beach resorts, too, there will be scads to do at your home base, as well.
Lifes a little slower here, so take cues from the locals. Look up from your phone, soak in whats around you, have a Mai Tai, and feel the happiness.
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