Looking for a quick guide to the best hotels in Kauai?
Despite Kauai’s reputation for being hyper-local and a bit rugged, there are several amazing luxury hotels in Kauai that are worth checking out for your trip.
Before our Kauai trip, I did a TON of hotel research, because I tend to be pretty picky about hotels and go for design-forward boutique properties. However, what I found is that Kauai is a little behind in the design hotel scene compared to other destinations.
In many ways, the traditional Hawaiian tropical decor is all part of the charm, but I was determined to find luxury hotels in Kauai with a healthy mix of authentic Hawaiian style that also felt modern and refreshed.
I’m guessing you probably don’t want to spend top dollar on a place that looks like it hasn’t been updated in decades. So in this post, I’ll take you through the best hotels in Kauai and what you can expect from each so you can make the best pick for your trip!
Deciding where to stay in Kauai can make a huge impact on the quality of your trip, and these luxury hotels in Kauai are truly the best of the best; you’ll thank me on that inevitable rainy Kauai day when your hotel room becomes your sanctuary from the downpour.
Best Kauai Hotels at a Glance
Don’t have time to read the whole post? Here are my top hotel picks:
Best North Shore Hotel: 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
Best South Shore Hotel: Grand Hyatt Kauai
Best West Shore Hotel: Waimea Plantation Cottages
Best East Shore Hotel: Sheraton Coconut Beach
Top Sustainable Luxury Hotel in Kauai: 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is the newest luxury hotel in Kauai. It is absolutely gorgeous, and hands-down the most design-forward hotel on the island.
The hotel’s modern minimalism with an emphasis on sustainability shines across all 252 guest rooms and 51 suites. If you love soothing neutral tones and earthy textures in an elevated space, then you will fall in love with the 1 Hotel.
If you’re looking to base yourself in the heart of the North Shore and have the budget, then you won’t regret choosing 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay for your stay.
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay at a Glance:
- Location: The North Shore
- Best For: A romantic couples getaway or wellness-focused girls trip.
- Highlights:Â If you like modern decor and contemporary accommodations, 1 Hotel is the most spot-on place to stay in Kauai. Its design is completely unique compared to any other hotel on the island. Despite being ultra-luxurious, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay also revolves around sustainability and carbon neutrality. A stay here promises world-class wellness, and guests have access to incredible fitness programming and cutting-edge spa treatments. The ultimate bonus? 1 Hotel is one of the only resorts on Kauai that doesn’t charge extra resort or parking fees!
- Amenities: There are two on-site restaurants at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay focusing on farm-to-table cuisine. One of them is the seafood-focused Kauai Grill and the other is Makana Terrace, which serves classic Hawaiian fare. On property you’ll also find a serene spa, a picturesque golf course, direct beach access, a premier swimming pool with a swim-up bar, and even access to the hotel’s fully electric Audi e-tron.Â
Best Luxury Hotel in Kauai for Families: Grand Hyatt Kauai
I absolutely loved staying at the Grand Hyatt during my latest trip, and it truly is that ultimate resort feel where everything you could possibly need is right on property.
Not only is it stunning and right on the ocean, but it has a plethora of wonderful restaurant options right on site (just be sure to book your resos there in advance).
If you’re traveling with kids or a large party, this is a great option as there is so much to do for all ages. That said, I wouldn’t say it’s packed with children, so those looking to get away and enjoy a peaceful couples escape can definitely still find it here.
Grand Hyatt Kauai at a Glance:
- Location: South Shore (Poipu)
- Best For: Families, couples, big groups and World of Hyatt members.
- Highlights: The Grand Hyatt Kauai is home to the Anara Spa, which is the largest spa on the island. The treatment list is extensive and features tons of amazing massages and Hawaiian healing experiences. Though the massages are awesome, I recommend going all out with one of the body treatments like the Pineapple Papaya Hydration. For families with kids, the “water playground” as they call it is a huge selling point. It’s literally a massive lagoon-esque swimming pool featuring a lazy river, waterfalls, secret caves, and for adults there’s an adults-only pool as well.
- Amenities: Considering the fact that there are seven different restaurants across the property, food options are abundant and convenient on-site. Unlike most hotels, the massive swimming pool (which features everything from waterfalls to waterslides) is open 24 hours. There is also an 18-hole golf course, three tennis courts, and The Anara Spa and Salon.
Best Kauai Hotel for Large Groups: Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu
Autograph Collection resorts never disappoint, and the Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu is no exception. The rooms here have that more traditional tropical style without being tacky, and the suites and villas are incredibly spacious for those traveling with a group.
If you’re looking to stay close to town and enjoy a lot of shopping and good food, the Koloa Landing Resort is a great place to call home base during your stay in Kauai!
Though this is one of the top luxury hotels in Kauai, it feels a bit more like a luxury condo rental as most of the accommodation options are villas and suites. If you’re traveling with four or more people, this spot is ideal.
Koloa Landing at a Glance:
- Location: South Shore (Poipu)
- Best For: Families, large groups and Marriott Loyalty members
- Highlights: Koloa Landing Resort is a mere 10-minute walk away from the Poipu Shopping Village, putting guests right next to some of the island’s best shopping and dining! Plus, for families with young kids, Baby Beach is also just steps away from the property. Most luxury hotels in Kauai are a bit isolated and secluded, so those looking to walk a lot and explore on foot during their trip to Kauai will love the location.
- Amenities: Since most of the accommodations here are more similar to an apartment or condo, expect to find in-unit washers and dryers, spacious balconies, and full kitchens in the villas and suites. There are also four swimming pools and a super nice fitness center.
Read More: Don’t miss my ultimate travel guide to Kauai!
Best Boutique Hotel for Couples: Ko’a Kea ResortÂ
Ko’a Kea Resort is a stylish and charming boutique-style hotel located on the south side of the Island. Because it is a smaller, locally owned resort, guests always feel welcomed and fully taken care of at Ko’a Kea.
Between the sweeping ocean views, upscale furnishings, and the private Lanai space in every room, a stay at Ko’a Kea feels like visiting a longtime family friend.
If you’re looking for a more intimate, low-key hotel vibe, then this is your spot.
Ko’a Kea Resort at a Glance:
- Location: South Shore (Poipu)
- Best For: Couples and honeymooners (the hotel has been named one of the world’s most romantic resorts)!
- Highlights: It is hard to beat the location of the Ko’a Kea Resort. It sits in the center of Poipu Beach, one of the island’s most popular tourist destinations. With easy access to sunny beaches, Hawaiian boutique and souvenir shops, and even a local farmers market, everything you need is right at your fingertips. The hotel also offers great spa services, including both oceanside and in-room massages that are a must-try for any Ko’a Kea guests. For couples, they also offer private oceanfront dinners that you can book for a unique, romantic dining experience.
- Amenities: Every single room at Ko’a Kea boasts a private lanai (a private space with at least one wall open to the elements) for guests to enjoy their own personal slice of the beautiful Kauai landscape. It also has a beautifully maintained pool and beachfront views perfect for days filled with sand, sunshine, and swimming!
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Best Centrally-Located Hotel: The Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort Lihue
Located just steps from one of the most popular swimming beaches in all of Kauai, and five minutes from the airport, The Royal Sonesta is one of the easiest access resorts on the island.
Between the stunning, over-the-top pool, the in-room and communal amenities, and the prime location, The Royal Sonesta is always a great pick for an island getaway.
Royal Sonesta at a Glance:
- Location: East Side (Lihue)
- Best For: Couples, girls trips.
- Highlights: Many of the rooms are freshly renovated and boast light and bright interiors, tasteful furnishings, and sleek hardwood floors. I recommend requesting an ocean-view room upon booking, as not all guests are guaranteed the same stellar views.
- Amenities: The pool—just wow!! The pool is easily the coolest amenity here. It is designed in the shape of a lotus flower and features multiple waterfalls and fountains, as well as FIVE whirlpools. Lounge on a chair in the center island and enjoy the 360 water around you, or splash around for hours like a little kid. Other notable amenities include: Free shuttle service to and from the airport, an 18-hole golf course, four on-site restaurants (including the famous Duke’s restaurant) and a full-service spa.
Best Luxury Long-Term Stay: Timbers Kauai Ocean Club and Residences
Another beachfront favorite is Timbers Kauai Ocean Club and Residences, where you’ll find 47 private residences on site for those who want Kauai to feel like a home away from home.
With a wide array of rooms from two-bedroom suites to four-bedroom, apartment-style stays complete with kitchenettes, expansive living spaces, and balconies, Timbers is the perfect spot for travelers in larger groups or those looking for a longer-term visit.
I especially love the rooms with views of the perfectly manicured rolling greens and Pacific ocean!
Timbers Kauai at a Glance:
- Location: East Side (Lihue)
- Best For: Families and longer stays
- Highlights: Kalapaki Beach sits right below the resort, giving guests prime access to this stunning strip of sand! Be sure to take advantage of the infinity pool and deck, which has awesome unobstructed views of Kalapaki.
- Amenities: Timbers has it all covered for a comfortable and smooth sailing stay. The on-site restaurant is delicious and easily accessible, and the bar is open late and serves tasty tropical drinks. The array of activities is impressive, ranging from a beautiful golf course to a serene spa for adults to enjoy, as well as active ocean activities designed for family fun.
Best West Shore Accommodations: Waimea Plantation Cottages
The Waimea Plantation Cottages are located right next to the black sand beaches of Kauai. Though they’re not quite as lavish as some of the other luxury hotels in Kauai on this list, they are one-of-a-kind given their location, architecture, and unbeatable natural surroundings.
The plantation-period furniture creates a warm and cozy vibe in each cottage, and the spacious decks offer up ocean views that are truly luxurious.
Waimea Plantation Cottages at a Glance:
- Location: West Shore
- Best For: Adventurers, solo travelers, and couples.
- Highlights: If you’re looking to spend most of your time exploring the remote and untouched Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon areas, then Waimea Plantation Cottages are pretty much the only luxury option in the area. These oceanfront cottages blend comfortable accommodations with stunning scenery, and the incredible Waimea River Park is only a 10-minute walk away from the cottages.
- Amenities: In addition to the private and exclusive cottages, the grounds of the property are truly stunning on their own. There’s so much lush greenery throughout the grounds, and there’s also a nice pool with an ocean view available to guests. Each cottage comes with its own kitchen, and since the west side of Kauai is lacking in restaurants and eateries, being able to whip up your own meals is super important in the area.
Most Activities Offered: Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
The Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort provides the classic Hawaiian resort experience that many of us dream of. They really have thought of everything, especially since the hotel underwent a recent renovation.
Between the property’s luxurious ocean deck rooms and quite an extensive list of activities compared to other luxury hotels in Kauai, a stay at the Sheraton is guaranteed to relax and rejuvenate every time.
Sheraton Kauai at a Glance:
- Location: East Shore (Kapa’a)
- Best For: Families, couples, and Marriott loyalists.
- Highlights: The recent remodel of the 394 rooms has transformed the guest accommodations into the ultimate refreshed sanctuaries that elegantly call to mind the spirit of Aloha, with neutral and earth tones and tropical print accents. If you’re someone who loves to fill your schedule on vacation, then you’ll love the beach activities center, which is one of the biggest draws of this impressive resort. I highly recommend taking advantage of the many experiences they offer on-site like windsurfing, kitesurfing, snorkeling, surfing, and kayaking.
- Amenities: No matter the room size, each room enjoys noise-free air conditioning, ocean and mountain views, and private lanais. The shared amenities include a state of the art gym, two outdoor pools including a zero-edge infinity pool, and a delicious bar, restaurant and lounge to enjoy on site.
Best Affordable North Shore Luxury Hotel: Westin Princeville
If you want luxury up on the North Shore but can’t quite stomach the prices of 1 Hanalei Bay, then the Westin should be your go-to choice.
The Westin Princeville is located in one of the most gorgeous locations on the entire island, nestled on a dreamy cliff along the beaches of Princeville in Kauai’s North Shore.
What makes this spot unique is its villa-style accommodations that fit more guests than your average hotel room. This is a great place to gather and reunite with friends and family in one of the most beautiful locations on Earth.
Westin Princeville at a Glance:
- Location: The North Shore (Princeville)
- Best For: Couples, families and groups of friends.
- Highlights: Beyond being located in one of the prettiest areas on the island of Kauai, the accommodations here are villa-style, allowing for the perfect gathering space for families and large groups of friends.
- Amenities: A free shuttle will take guests anywhere within 2.5 miles of the property. There are three pools on property, a fitness center, and an on-site restuarant/bar.
Best Condo-Style Luxury Hotel: Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons
Last, but certainly not least, we have Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons. This villa-style resort features two and three-bedroom villas designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. The island-style decor brings all of the best tropical energy.
This is a great place to base yourself if you want to be centrally located between the South and North Shores, or if you plan on doing any of the scenic flights or helicopter rides over the island, as they all depart from Lihue.
I can easily imagine gathering here on vacation with family and friends! Each villa is equipped with multiple flat-screen TVs and a separate dining space that makes it feel like a home-style space to share with loved ones.
Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons at a Glance:
- Location: East Side (Lihue)
- Best For: Couples, Families, groups, and Marriott loyalists.
- Highlights: Be sure to check out the two-level pool deck at Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons. Not only is the pool heated to perfection and surrounded by the most comfortable chaise lounge chairs, but the views from the pools are unmatched. There is no greater joy than taking a dip while taking in views of the pacific ocean, tropical palm trees, and the rolling green hills of Kauai.
- Amenities: In addition to the impressive villa-style accommodations, the grounds of Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons are stunning and spacious. The pools, garden decks, golf course, and expansive balconies are so beautiful you will never need to leave the property! Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons is also one of the only resorts on the island that does not charge an additional resort fee, so guests enjoy all of the spa, fitness, and pool amenities at no additional cost.
Which of these best Kauai hotels is calling to you most? Let me know in the comments below!
Planning a trip right now? Make your life easier with this checklist of my favorite travel resources.
Booking Accommodations:
Over the last decade of travel, Booking.com has consistently been my favorite site for finding great deals on hotels, boutique inns, home rentals and more. Plus, they have an amazing filtering system making it super easy to find the best accommodation that fits your needs.
Booking Flights:
Skyscanner is always the first place I look to compare and contrast routes and find the best flight deals.
Find the Best Tours and Experiences:
Viator is always my go-to when searching for the best experiences around the globe. They have everything from group tours and private experiences, to airport transfers and much more.
Book Car Rentals:
Rentalcars.com and Discover Cars are my two favorite sites for booking easy and affordable car rentals in any country I visit. They make the process super simple and transparent, so you know you’re getting the best price.
Stay Connected:
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Don’t Forget Travel Insurance:
World Nomads has personally saved me thousands with their flexible travel insurance. Don’t leave for an international trip without this one!
Lastly, wherever you go. Don’t forget to check visa requirements, make sure your passport is up to date and purchase any travel adapters you might need on the ground!
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