The beautiful island of Kauai in the Hawaiian archipelago is the fourth largest of the main islands. It’s famed for its natural beauty, beaches that will blow you away, and dramatic vistas of craggy cliffs. The so-called Garden Isle of the Aloha chain has some of the softest sand, the best snorkeling spots and parks in the state, and outstanding hotels and resorts. It’s a superb place for a family trip or romantic getaway. Kauai resorts go over and above to offer five-star hospitality. From the moment you arrive, you will be greeted with a warm aloha spirit and friendly smiles, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional amenities. Here’s the best resorts on Kauai for an unforgettable Hawaiian vacation.
Photo: Expedia
These Resorts in Kauai Offer the Best Packages for Your Hawaiian Vacation
How to get to Kauai
The easiest way to get to Kauai from the US mainland is by air. There are direct flights from major cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and Chicago to Lihue Airport. Or you can take a flight to Honolulu International Airport on Oahu and then hop on a short inter-island flight to Lihue Airport.
We hope you love the Kauai resorts we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.
Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu Autograph Collection
Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu Autograph Collection sits on the sunny South Shore. Situated on 25-acres of tropical foliage, it offers some of the largest accommodations on the island, from deluxe studios to three-bedroom villas. The resort features two outdoor pools, a superb spa, a state-of-the-art gym, on-site grocery store and poolside bar. The resort is situated close to many attractions such as the shopping malls, Shops at Kukui’ula and Poipu Shopping Village and the legendary Poipu Beach.
Overall, it’s a great all-rounder. It’s the number one option for couples want a romantic break or families who want a spacious villa and to explore nearby attractions such as Waimea Canyon State Park and Wailua River State Park.
Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu Autograph Collection: 2641 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI, 96756
Price per night: $1,159
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is a luxurious oasis on the white sands of Poipu. This classic Hawaiian resort offers guests 50 acres of lush gardens and pools, with ocean view dining and rooms with private lanais. The resort features an 18-hole championship golf course, the Anara Spa which blends traditional healing methods with island-fresh botanicals, a pool lagoon with snorkeling, kayaking in the bay, and yoga classes. There’s also superb range of restaurants to choose from such as the romantic open-air seafood and steak restaurant set over a lagoon and poolside lunches.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa: 1571 Poipu Road, Koloa, HI, 96756
Price per night: $918
The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas
This family-friendly resort might not have easy beach access — it’s atop a cliff in north Kauai — but it has four epic pools which make up for it. Located in the beautiful Princeville Resort, it offers guests an unforgettable Hawaiian experience with its luxurious villas and breathtaking views. The resort’s architecture is inspired by traditional Hawaiian design, featuring open-air lanais and tropical gardens. On top of the swimming pools on-site you’ll find a golf course, a spa, a gym, and superb restaurants. There are also plenty of activities to do around the resort, including exploring nearby beaches and hiking trails.
The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas: 3838 Wyllie Rd, Princeville, HI, 96722
Price per night: $511
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
On the east of Kauai Island, the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It also has easy access to some of Kauai’s numerous outdoor activities, such as Wailua Falls and Ke Ala Hele Makalae East Shore Beach Path for hiking or biking along the shoreline. The resort is the largest and nicest of the few on the this side of the island. It features 314 guest rooms and suites, many with its own private balcony or patio overlooking the ocean. The resort also offers an array of activities to enjoy during your stay, including a full-service spa, gym, outdoor pool area with cabanas and hot tubs, tented luau grounds, and a golf course.
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort: 650 Aleka Loop, Kapaa, HI, 96746
Price per night: $499
Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by Outrigger
Located in Poipu, this resort offers 42 cottage-style vacation condos with one- and two-bedroom units set on gardens and lawns that reach out to the sands of one of Kauai’s most popular beaches. The units vary in style, but all have full kitchens, private lanais and get a nice ocean breeze. On top of the standard resort facilities, guest are given complimentary access to the Poipu Beach Athletic Club.
Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by Outrigger: 2253 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI, 96756
Price per night: $496
Kauai Beach Resort & Spa
Centrally located between Kauai’s North and South Shores, Kauai Beach Resort & Spa is spread over 25 acres and is just minutes from the airport. It’s not only convenient but affordable. It sits on a beautiful beach that stretches for miles. The complex has four pools (one with a slide), a spa, hot tubs, several restaurants, and a gym. The resort is more compact than others found on the island, but its 350 rooms are modern and many have furnished balconies.
Kauai Beach Resort & Spa: 4331 Kauai Beach Dr, Lihue, HI, 96766
Price per night: $359
Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy
Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy is a beachfront resort located in Kapaa, Kaua’i, Hawaii. With swaying coconut palms, plumeria blossoms and tropical landscaped grounds, this resort is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Kauai. The resort has 108 units with full kitchens (in most condos) and there’s an excellent poolside bar and a popular seafood restaurant onsite. The amenities are good for the price point. There’s a gym, a tennis court, a spa, and grilling facilities. Overall, this is one of the best deals in Kauai.
Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy: 520 Aleka Loop, Kapaa, HI, 96746
Price per night: $328
What side of Kauai is the best to stay on?
The North Shore of Kauai is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets. Hanalei Bay is often ranked one of the best beaches in the US and offers a wide range of activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding.
The South Shore also has beautiful beaches, easily walkable streets, and lots of outdoor adventure activities. Poipu Beach is one of the most popular spots on the South Shore and is great for families looking for a fun day at the beach.
The East Side (Coconut Coast) is the most accessible part of Kauai and offers a variety of vacation rentals ranging from luxury resorts to cozy cottages. This area also has some great restaurants, shopping, and golf courses that make it perfect for those who want a super relaxing vacation on the island.
What is the most popular area to stay in Kauai?
The North Shore of Kauai is one of the most popular areas for visitors.
What is the best resort in Kauai?
One of the best resorts in Kauai is the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. This luxurious oasis features acres of lush gardens, multiple swimming pools, ocean-view dining, and rooms with private lanais. 