There's a good reason why Kauai is often referred to as the Garden Isle: This beautiful island is largely covered with lush greenery and tropical plants. As the oldest and arguably the most beautiful of the main Hawaii islands, Kauai offers something for everyone.
Luxurious resorts with sparkling oceanfront pools line the eastern shores, while the more remote parts of the island offer jaw-dropping waterfalls, colorful coastal cliffs, and the stunning Waimea Canyon. I wish that everyone should experience the unparalleled beauty of Kauai at least once in their lifetime. I lived in Hawaii for 6 years and explored the islands extensively. Here I'm sharing my favorite beachfront hotels and resorts.
Best Beachfront Resorts:
1. Indulge in Oceanfront Luxury at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa
Roughly 1 mile away from the Poipu Beach Park, the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa is a 5-star hotel with more than 600 guest rooms.
You can look forward to activities such as lei making, ukulele lessons, and a traditional luau. We found an excellent selection of on-site restaurants and tropically themed bars.
I was a very enthusiastic customer of the 45,000-square-foot spa.
You can also enjoy a game of tennis on one of the resort's courts, take a dip in one of the indoor or outdoor pools, or break a sweat in the well-equipped fitness center, which is open 24/7.
1571 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, Phone: 808-742-1234, Map
2. Soak Up Stunning Views at Hanalei Bay Resort
Nestled on 22 lush acres, Hanalei Bay Resort prides itself on its friendly service and excellent views of spectacular Hanalei Bay.
The beautiful beach is only a 5-minute walk away, and a complimentary golf cart shuttle service is offered to guests 24/7.
Surrounded by waterfalls and tropical gardens, the free-form lagoon pool is another great place to go for a swim.
You'll be happy to know that a second, smaller pool with a swim-up bar is available to adult guests.
I was planning on a family reunion here. Both one and two-bedroom condos are available for rent, and larger, privately owned units can sometimes be rented directly from the owners.
Hanalei Bay Resort, 5380 Honoiki Rd, Princeville, HI 96722, Phone: 808-826-6522
3. Relax in Tropical Comfort at Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort
Tucked away on the eastern shore of the island, Aqua Kauai Beach Resort boasts 25 acres of oceanfront luxury.
Everything you need for the perfect vacation can be found in the resort, including several excellent restaurants, live music and entertainment throughout the day, a fitness center, four swimming pools with waterfalls and a waterslide, and a spa offering massages and other beauty treatments.
The centrally located resort is also a great place to base yourself if you're interested in taking some day trips around the island.
I also loved that the forested northern mountains and the beautiful Waimea Canyon were within easy reach.
Kauai Beach Resort, 4331 Kauai Beach Dr, Lihue, HI 96766, Phone: 808-245-1955
4. If You Love Beachfront Bliss, Stay at Aston Islander on the Beach
Encompassing six beautifully landscaped acres on the Coconut Coast, Aston Islander on the Beach is an intimate hotel located right on the waterfront amid the palm trees.
The plantation-style thatched huts boast hand-carved furnishings, rattan furniture, well-equipped kitchenettes, and patios or balconies, while the beachfront common area offers guests a large pool, a hot tub, several barbecue areas, and a poolside bar with a daily happy hour and live music twice a week.
Rooms come with either a garden view or an ocean view, and a free shuttle is offered to and from the airport.
Aston Islander on the Beach , 440 Aleka Pl, Kapaa, HI 96746, Phone: 808-822-7417
5. Enjoy Family-Friendly Fun at Banyan Harbor Resort
Located minutes away from the airport and only a block away from well-known Kalapaki Beach, the Banyan Harbor Resort offers one-bedroom apartments and two-bedroom townhouses.
The tropically furnished condos all include living rooms, private balconies with stunning views, well-equipped kitchens, and dining areas, while the resort's outdoor amenities include a heated pool and barbecue areas.
You can find a wide variety of shops and restaurants within a 2-mile radius. Or you can head to the nearby Kalapaki Beach to swim, sunbathe, participate in water sports. If you want to stay active, take advantage of the tennis and shuffleboard courts on the beach.
Banyan Harbor Resort, 3411 Wilcox Rd, Lihue, HI 96766, Phone: 808-245-7333
6. Escape to Secluded Serenity at Hanalei Colony Resort
As the only resort on Kauai's remote north shore, the Hanalei Colony Resort offers the opportunity to truly escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
The resort sits on 5 acres of beautifully landscaped tropical gardens complete with water features, and it offers an on-site spa and three unique food and beverage outlets. I admired their luxurious pool area with a hot tub.
I took the complimentary shuttle to nearby towns. You'll have some of the north shore's most magnificent attractions. Free parking is offered at the resort for those who prefer to drive themselves.
Hanalei Colony Resort , 5 7130 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, Phone: 808-826-6235
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Why is Kauai referred to as the Garden Isle?
- Kauai is often called the Garden Isle due to its lush greenery and tropical plants that cover much of the island, offering stunning natural beauty.
- What are some of the best attractions on Kauai?
- The island features luxurious resorts with oceanfront pools on the eastern shores, while the remote areas offer jaw-dropping waterfalls, colorful coastal cliffs, and the stunning Waimea Canyon.
- Why should everyone visit Kauai?
- Kauai offers unparalleled beauty, making it a must-see destination for those looking to experience one of the most beautiful and unique islands in Hawaii.
- Where can I stay on Kauai?
- For accommodations, Kauai offers a variety of beachfront hotels and resorts, offering luxury stays with access to the island's natural beauty. Here are the island's best beachfront hotels and resorts.
Map:
Plan Your Trip