Where to Stay on Kauai

Overview of Unique Places to Stay in Kauai.

Let's get a lay of the land that is Kauai. The island of Kauai has four major geographic areas to select from when choosing where to stay. In order of popularity (by our account), they are:

1. The South Shore- including Koloa, Lawai, and Poipu

2. The North Shore- including Princeville, Hanalei, and Kilauea

3. The East Coast- including Kapaa, Wailua, and, in this case, the county seat of Lihue

4. The West Side- including the towns of Waimea and Hanapepe, staying on the West Side is much less popular than the other locations)

OK, that may not seem that simple. However, not that difficult because it's hard to make a terrible choice in Kauai. But each area on Kauai has its unique flavor and atmosphere - including its attractions and sights to see.

Kauai Transportation Options

Transportation on Kauai is varied, allowing for a tailored travel experience.

• Car Rentals: Renting a car is favored (we recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental), offering freedom to roam the island's diverse locales.
• Public Buses: The Kauai Bus covers several routes, though it has limitations in schedule and coverage.
• Shuttle Services: Some resorts offer shuttles to key destinations for a hassle-free commute.
• Bicycling: With scenic trails, biking is a delightful option with rentals available island-wide.
• Taxis and Ride-Shares: Convenient for short distances, taxis and ride-shares like Uber and Lyft are operational.
• Walking: In compact areas like Kapaa and Hanalei, walking is a pleasant way to explore the surroundings and mingle with locals.

Considering the transportation options in advance can help visitors make the most of their Kauai experience, whether they prefer the flexibility of a rental car, the eco-friendliness of biking, or the convenience of public transit.

Local Kauai Customs and Visitor Etiquette

Understanding and adhering to local customs and etiquette is a crucial part of immersing oneself in the Hawaiian culture, which is deeply rooted in respect, tradition, and the spirit of 'ohana (family). When visiting Kauai or any part of Hawaii, it's important to show respect for the land (‘āina) and local residents.

• Greetings: It's customary to greet others with a friendly "Aloha" which means hello, goodbye, and love.
• Shoes Off Indoors: It’s a common practice to remove one’s shoes before entering someone’s home.
• Respect the 'Aina: Show respect to the land by not littering, staying on marked trails, and not taking anything from natural sites.
• Don’t Rush: The pace of life is slower in Hawaii; embrace the relaxed pace and don’t rush.
• Respect Sacred Sites: Many areas in Hawaii are considered sacred; obey posted signs and keep a respectful distance.
• Driving Etiquette: Drive with aloha; let others merge, and wave a thank-you (or practice your best 'shaka' sign) if someone lets you in.

By adhering to these simple yet significant customs and practices, visitors can contribute to preserving the local culture and enjoy a more authentic and welcoming experience during their stay in Kauai.

We hope this article has helped you narrow down your choices for where to stay on Kauai. For more details about each accommodation on the island, we recommend visiting our Kauai Accommodations page.

Best of luck as you continue to plan the Hawaiian getaway of your dreams! 

Staying on Kauai: The Ultimate Guide for Every Type of Traveler

We’ve got a great selection of lodges, campsites, and resorts to suit every type of holidaymaker.

Best place to stay for families:

• Kauai, one of the most desirable islands in Hawaii, offers a wide range of activities for families on vacation. From water sports to scuba diving, Kauai has it all. The following areas provide the best deals and space for families: Poʻipū, Hanalei, and Princeville.

Best place to stay for Beach Bums:

• For the best beaches, head to Poʻipū, Hanalei, Princeville, or Līhuʻe. 

Best places to stay for camping:

• The island host 13 Hawaiian campgrounds scattered in different areas. The campgrounds include beach campsites to mountain cabins. Some of our top recommendations include Na Pali Coast Wilderness Park, Haena Beach Park, and Hanalei Beach Park., 

Best place to stay for luxury seekers:

• Beyond its gorgeous oceanfront location, Līhuʻe also has an extensive collection of luxury restaurants and an award-winning spa.

Best place to stay for backpackers:

• We recommend Kapaʻa as a great location. It’s close to beaches and hiking trails and is surrounded by mountains and forests. It is also very affordable.

Best place to stay for surfers:

• For the best waves, head to the North Shore. We recommend checking out Hanalei Bay, North Shore. This stunning beach offers the best water activities besides surfing.  

Best place to stay for couples on a romantic getaway: 

• Poʻipū and Princeville both offer couples the opportunity to experience the relaxing landscape of both islands.

Best place to stay for adventurer seekers:

• Head to Hanalei for its central location. It makes a great base for the Nāpali Coast. Or consider Waimea for quick access to Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe State Park. 

In summary, you really can’t pick a bad location to stay on Kauai. The island is truly welcoming no matter where you stay and ultimately the location you pick comes down to personal preferences. We hope our guide above has helped you select where to stay on Kauai.

For more information on the island of Kauai, be sure to read over our Kauai Weather article, and knowing When to Visit Kauai.