Introduction
First time visiting Kauai? This guide will help you decide where to stay — whether you’re travelling in summer or winter, seeking adventure or relaxation.
Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai is the greenest and most untouched of the Hawaiian islands, filled with rainforests, cliffs, and beaches that look almost unreal.
Each side of the island offers a completely different experience. The South Shore is warm and sunny most of the year, perfect for families and resort stays.
The North Shore is lush and dramatic, ideal for those who want nature and quiet luxury. The East Side gives you easy access to everything, while the West Side offers solitude and proximity to the island’s great outdoors.
In this post, we’ll break down where to stay in Kauai based on season and travel preference, with hand-picked hotels on each side of the island — from luxurious oceanfront resorts to comfortable mid-range stays that capture Kauai’s relaxed spirit.
South Shore – Poipu
Staying in Poipu
Poipu is the sunniest part of Kauai, known for its golden beaches and calm ocean conditions year-round. It’s the island’s main resort area, offering easy access to dining, shopping, and water activities.
The atmosphere is relaxed yet upscale, making it a favourite for families and travellers who prefer convenience without losing the island feel.
Hotel Recommendations in Poipu
Luxury Stay – Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
A landmark property that sets the tone for resort life in Kauai. The Grand Hyatt combines expansive tropical gardens with direct beach access, saltwater lagoons, multiple pools, and a full spa.
It’s ideal for travellers who want everything in one place — comfort, scenery, and service.
Mid-Range Stay – Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection
A spacious, well-appointed resort with villa-style accommodation. Guests enjoy access to lagoon pools, outdoor BBQ areas, and proximity to Poipu Beach Park.
Strong choice for couples or families who want resort-level amenities without the full luxury price tag.
When You Should Stay in Poipu
Poipu is the most reliable spot for sunshine, especially during Kauai’s wetter months from November to March. If you’re planning a winter getaway and want beach weather, this is where you’ll find it.
Why You Should Stay in Poipu
This part of the island is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply unwinding by the ocean. Poipu Beach Park often hosts Hawaiian monk seals resting on the sand, and golf enthusiasts can play at some of Kauai’s best courses.
The area also provides easy access to the Allerton Garden and the Spouting Horn blowhole — two of Kauai’s signature attractions.
North Shore – Hanalei & Princeville
North Shore – Hanalei & Princeville
Staying in Hanalei & Princeville
The North Shore shows Kauai at its most dramatic — towering cliffs, emerald mountains, and lush valleys that feel almost untouched. Rainfall is heavier here, especially in winter, but it’s also what keeps the landscape so green.
Hanalei has a laid-back village feel with small cafés and surf shops, while Princeville sits above the bay, offering resort-style comfort with sweeping ocean views.
Hotel Recommendations in Hanalei & Princeville
Luxury Stay – 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
A newly reimagined eco-luxury resort overlooking Hanalei Bay. Designed with sustainability in mind, it blends organic materials with open-air spaces, spa facilities, and a focus on wellness.
It’s ideal for those who value comfort with an environmental conscience.
Mid-Range Stay – The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas
Set atop the cliffs of Princeville, this property offers apartment-style accommodation with kitchenettes, pools, and access to walking paths along the coastline.
It’s a great base for travellers who want resort amenities but prefer self-catering flexibility.
When You Should Stay in Hanalei & Princeville
Late spring through early autumn brings the best conditions here — calmer seas and clearer skies, perfect for exploring the beaches and trails.
Winter months can be rainier and bring strong surf, which appeals to experienced surfers but less so to casual swimmers.
Why You Should Stay in Hanalei & Princeville
The North Shore captures Kauai’s wilder side. You can surf or stroll along Hanalei Bay, hike part of the Kalalau Trail, or drive to the end of the road at Ke’e Beach for unforgettable views of the Na Pali Coast.
It’s an area that suits travellers who prefer scenery, quiet, and a connection with nature over nightlife.
East Side – Kapaa & Wailua
Staying in Kapaa & Wailua
Known as Kauai’s “Coconut Coast,” the East Side offers a central base that makes exploring the island easy. Kapaa has a lively small-town atmosphere with local shops, bike paths, and oceanfront cafés, while Wailua is home to waterfalls, river activities, and a more relaxed pace.
The area balances accessibility with a touch of local life, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want to see all sides of the island.
Hotel Recommendations in Kapaa & Wailua
Luxury Stay – Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
A modern beachfront resort with ocean-view rooms, a lagoon-style pool, and evening firepits. Guests can unwind in comfortable surroundings while staying within easy reach of both the North and South Shores.
Mid-Range Stay – Kauai Beach Resort & Spa
Located just north of Lihue, this property offers large pools, a beachfront setting, and spacious rooms at a reasonable rate.
It’s well-positioned for travellers who want convenience, comfort, and good value without compromising the island feel.
When You Should Stay in Kapaa & Wailua
The East Side stays fairly consistent year-round, though the best weather often falls between April and October.
Its central location means you’re rarely far from sunshine — if one side of the island clouds over, another is just a short drive away.
Why You Should Stay in Kapaa & Wailua
This area is great for active travellers and families. You can kayak up the Wailua River, visit Wailua Falls, or cycle the Ke Ala Hele Makalae coastal path.
Kapaa’s dining options and markets also give visitors a taste of local culture without being far from major attractions.
West Side – Waimea
Staying in Waimea
Waimea feels different from the rest of Kauai — quieter, drier, and more remote. It’s the gateway to Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park, two of the island’s most dramatic natural landmarks.
The area doesn’t have the resort density of Poipu or Princeville, but that’s exactly its charm. You’ll find small inns and local spots surrounded by open landscapes and red-earth cliffs.
Hotel Recommendations in Waimea
Luxury Stay – Waimea Plantation Cottages
A historic collection of restored plantation homes set among palm trees and ocean views. Each cottage is individually designed, offering privacy and a nostalgic island atmosphere.
It’s perfect for travellers looking for peace and a sense of old Hawaii.
Mid-Range Stay – The Inn Waimea
A small, comfortable inn located near the town’s shops and restaurants. It offers a homey alternative to larger properties and is convenient for exploring Waimea Canyon and the west coast beaches.
When You Should Stay in Waimea
This side of the island stays warm and dry most of the year, making it ideal for hiking or sightseeing at Waimea Canyon when other parts of Kauai get rain. If your trip focuses on outdoor adventure rather than beach lounging, this is the best base.
Why You Should Stay in Waimea
Waimea gives you easy access to the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” endless hiking trails, and scenic drives that showcase Kauai’s rugged beauty.
The coastline here also offers some of the island’s quietest beaches, ideal for those who want solitude, photography, or sunsets without crowds.
What to do in Kauai
Once you’ve chosen where to stay, it’s time to experience what makes Kauai so special.
From exploring Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast to relaxing on Hanalei Bay or kayaking along the Wailua River, there’s no shortage of things to enjoy.
To help you plan your trip, I’ve put together a full guide covering the island’s best attractions, outdoor adventures, and hidden highlights — you can read it here: Things to Do in Kauai
6. Conclusion
Kauai may be small, but every side of the island feels different. The South Shore offers sunshine. The North Shore delivers lush landscapes and quiet beauty. The East Side provides convenience with a local touch. The West Side opens the door to the island’s wild interior.
Where you stay will shape your experience — whether that’s days spent by the beach, hikes through mountain valleys, or time exploring small coastal towns.
Each region has its strengths, and with the right timing and preference, Kauai rewards every traveller with something memorable.
If it’s your first time visiting, Poipu is often the most balanced choice — sunny, scenic, and easy to explore from. But wherever you base yourself, the island’s natural beauty and laid-back pace make it hard to go wrong.
FAQ: Where to Stay in Kauai
What is the best side of Kauai to stay on?
That depends on your priorities. The South Shore (Poipu) is generally considered the best all-round choice — it has great weather, beaches, and plenty of dining and resort options. It’s especially convenient for first-time visitors who want a balance between comfort and accessibility.
Which side of Kauai is best for beaches?
The South Shore offers the most swimmable beaches with calm conditions, like Poipu Beach and Shipwreck Beach. The North Shore has stunning stretches such as Hanalei Bay and Tunnels Beach, but the waves can be strong in winter, making them better suited for confident swimmers and surfers.
Which side of Kauai gets the most sun?
The South Shore is the sunniest part of the island year-round. If you’re visiting during Kauai’s wetter months (November to March), staying here gives you the best chance of consistent beach weather.
What is the best place in Kauai for couples?
Couples often prefer the North Shore, particularly Hanalei or Princeville, for its dramatic scenery, quiet atmosphere, and luxury resorts like 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay. It’s perfect for travellers seeking privacy, nature, and romance.
What is the best place in Kauai for families?
The South Shore (Poipu) is the top choice for families. It has calm beaches, family-friendly resorts, and easy access to restaurants and attractions. The East Side (Kapaa & Wailua) is another good option for families who want a central location and shorter drives to different parts of the island.
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