Best Places to Stay: Kauaʻi

This article was originally published on March 1, 2025, and was updated by Sarah Burchard Feb 17., 2026.

There’s something about Kauaʻi that stays with you long after you leave. Maybe it’s the dramatic cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast, where waterfalls tumble into the sea. Or the way roosters strut through beach parks like they own the place. Perhaps it’s the relentless green that seems to follow you everywhere or the hush of a rainforest trail after the rain.

Kauaʻi is quieter and slower-paced than Oʻahu and Maui. Here, it’s more about getting out in nature than lavish dinners or high-end shopping. Where you stay can shape your entire experience. The best places to stay on Kauaʻi may come at a higher price point but offer something unique in return. From exclusivity to wellness-focused luxury or the island’s most extravagant pool, you’ll find value in your stay and want to start planning your return before you leave.

You'll feel like a celebrity at this ultra-luxe Princeville resort overlooking Hanalei Bay. Come here for world-class wellness programs, unparalleled views of the Nā Pali Coast and exclusivity.

Highlights

• Athlete level fitness center

• Bamford Wellness Spa - Includes the latest in technology including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, sensory deprivation tanks and infrared sauna

• Vitality Kaua'i - Nutritional IV Therapy

• Views of Hanalei Bay and Nā Pali Coast

• Sunrise Nourishment Bar - Come here first thing in the morning for a green juice, smoothie or bone broth

• Complimentary daily selection of fresh whole fruits, including young coconuts for fresh coconut water

• Luxurious, cozy rooms you won't want to leave

Rooms from $1,257

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When they show you to your room and its a house. This is the experience at The Lodge at Kukuiʻula — a private club located amidst the exclusive Kukuiʻula community in Kōloa. Choose from plantation-style cottages, modern bungalows and spacious villas with seperate guest accommodations attached. Come here for privacy, peace and quiet and plenty of room for you and your family or friends.

Highlights

• Every bathroom in every style of house has its own outdoor shower

• Copious programs to choose from including water activities, yoga, fitness, cultural activities, meet-ups and more.

• Hiʻilani Spa - With sauna, steam room and hot and cold plunges

• The privacy of staying in your own cottage, bungalow or estate

• Daily complimentary breakfast and coffee

• Daily farm stand - complimentary produce grown at Kukuiʻula Farm

• Full kitchens with gas range in every home

• View of Spouting Horn from the lobby

• Premier golf course and pro shop

Homes from $1,393 (minimum 3-night stay)

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Grand Hyatt Kauaʻi Resort & Spa is one of those resorts you want to come to even if you are not staying there. Known for the lively happy hour scene at Stevenson's Library and incredible day spa — outfitted with rock-wall outdoor showers, private pool and cafe that anyone can reserve for the day, its a resort for everyone no matter what age.

Highlights

• Award-winning Anara Spa - Spend an entire day in this blissful sanctuary

• Sushi, cocktails and live music at Stevenson's Library

• Unique Hawaiian cultural activities

• Dine at Tidepools under a thatched-roof overlooking a waterfall and koi-filled lagoon.

• Access to Poipu Bay Resort Golf Course

• Located along Shipwreck Beach

Rooms from $918

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Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort truly stands out for its pool, though there’s much more to love. Being in Līhuʻe means you’re close to the airport and within easy reach of just about everything on the island. One day you can head west to Waimea Canyon and the next drive north to Hanalei, with roughly the same amount of travel time for both.

Highlights

• 26,000-square-foot pool (may be the largest on Kauaʻi)

• Cabanas on Kalapaki Beach (swimmable year-round)

• Poolside gazebos are great for enjoying a morning coffee while you watch sunrise

• 24-hour fitness center

• Beautiful beachfront path for morning strolls

• Some of the best lūʻau food we've tasted in Hawai'i

• Convenient central location

Rooms from $420

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