Kauai offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to luxury resorts, but there’s no reason to spend all of your money to stay here. On Kauai, outdoor activities are where you want to spend your dollars. The best area to stay in Kauai depends on your personal preferences and travel plans, so we’re providing this guide to make it easier for you to determine which town is best for you. And we’re only including lodging that’s less than $300 per night (including fees but excluding tax).
Finding short term rentals in Kauai that are legal
Hawaii refers to short-term rentals as transient vacation rentals and they must get permits and keep those permits renewed. The best site we’ve found to search for lodging that’s been verified is HawaiiGaga — their listings are all on VRBO but this site includes details about the condos and resorts, as well as the permit numbers. Use Airbnb for different options but make sure they have a permit (you’ll see a TVR# in the listing).
The Government of Kauai lists all TVRs on their site and you can check to see if your lodging is in compliance. This level of research is really only necessary if you’re staying outside the resort areas of Princeville, Kapa’a or Poipu.
Budget-saving tips for Kauai lodging
Whether you’re traveling solo, for a honeymoon or as a multi-generational family, there are certain things to look for in lodging that will save you money.
- Book lodging with a kitchen or kitchenette. Unless you plan on holing up for a week in your room (we see you honeymooners), then you won’t need a large fridge because you’ll want to buy fresh as often as possible. Fresh produce stands and farmer’s markets are almost daily around here.
- Let go of the requirement for a hot tub and pool — you can easily get that back home and there’s an entire ocean of water just waiting for you. If you’re going to splurge for water, do it for the beach access.
- Look for lodging that has a clothesline and settle for not having a washer/dryer. The old-fashioned way of washing in a sink or shower is really not difficult, well-seasoned travelers do it all the time!
- Before beginning your search, prioritize your “must haves.” If walking directly from your room onto the beach is the most important, write that down. Is quiet privacy more important? Do you want something unique that’s unlike anything you can get back home or would you prefer something that feels familiar?
- Make a budget for total accommodation costs and stick to it! Limit search results so you don’t see those only-billionaires-stay-here places. It’s cruel and unusual punishment, save yourself the heartache.
- Start looking several months in advance — the good ones always book up early!
Where to stay in Kauai
Kapa’a
Located on the east shore, Kapa’a is a central location with easy access to both the north and south shores of Kauai. If you want to explore the entire island and stay in one place, this is it! Everything is within walking distance, which is good because the worst traffic jams on Kauai happen here. Beaches, food trucks, live music and great shops are all here and they’re frequented by a good mix of locals and tourists.
Stay in Kapa’a if you want…
- Casual vibe with a mix of families, energetic surfers and retirees
- To explore the entire island and stay in one place
- To walk or bike the Kapa’a Bike Path and Mt. Nounou (Sleeping Giant)
- To hike and kayak the Wailua River
- A good selection of affordable lodging within walking distance of a beach
- If you love food trucks and health food stores
- To surf Kaelia Beach
Budget-friendly lodging in Kapa’a
- Kapaa Garden Apartments, $192-$270 per night
- Toyota 4-Runner and Camping Gear, $150 per night
- Torrey’s Guest Suites, $201 per night
- Kauai Kailani Condos, $230-$260 per night
- Kauai Shores Hotel, $296 per night (pool + free breakfast)
Kilauea
The quieter side of the north shore, Kilauea feels more like an old historic town back in the states, one that’s been re-gentrified and has a little extra posh while still maintaining its unique character. Cute shops and eateries can be found in historic buildings and some of the wealthiest people live close by so there’s a different crowd here, but one that we found to be very welcoming. Great beaches are nearby but you’ll need to drive to them.
Stay in Kilauea if you want…
- The feel of a charming small town where you can mingle and hang out in cafes
- To spend most of your time on the north shore
- To visit the Kilauea Lighthouse and tour the north shore gardens and farms
- Plantation-style North Shore Cottage, $261 per night
- Hale Maluhia, $195 per night (direct access to Anini Beach)
Kekaha
Located on the far southwest side of the island, Waimea offers a more authentic Hawaiian experience. This area is ideal for those looking to explore Kauai’s native history and culture or who want to spend several days hiking the Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park. The beach here is quiet and perfect for lounging or watching sunsets but due to strong waves and currents it’s not safe for water activities.
Stay in Kekaha if you want…
- To hike Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Parks for more than one day
- To feel like a local and be surrounded by locals instead of tourists
- To spend most of your time on the south shore
- To lounge by the beach with little desire to get in the water
- Spend time hanging out in Waimea and Hanapepe
Budget-friendly lodging in Kekaha
- Nene Nest, $315 per night (slightly over budget but it has 2 bedrooms)
- Hale La’akea Plantation, $280 per night
Poipu
Located on the sunny south shore, Poipu is a popular resort destination for its beaches, shopping, golf courses and dining options. While we disliked the resort vibe, Poipu is a great choice for families with small children and it’s close to the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail.
Stay in Poipu if you want…
- Beaches that are toddler-friendly
- To spend most of your time on the south shore
- To hike Mahaulepu Trail and explore the area on horseback with CJM Country Stables
- Resort amenities and to be surrounded by fellow tourists
Budget-friendly lodging in Poipu
- Prince Kuhio Condo, $270 per night
Hanalei
Located on the north shore, Hanalei is a charming town with a laid-back vibe and access to some of the best beaches on the island. It’s a great choice if you’re planning to hike the Kalalau Trail or kayak Hanalei River but it’s far from everything else and it’s expensive. Hanalei and Princeville also get the most rain.
Stay in Hanalei if you want…
- To visit the gardens and farms on the north shore
- To Hike Hanakapi’ai Falls and Kalalau Trails
- To kayak, paddleboard or fish along Hanalei River
- The surfer-dude vibe with cool places to socialize
Budget-friendly lodging in Hanalei
- Hanalei Beach Suite, $247 per night
Princeville
Located on the north shore, Princeville is known for its luxurious resorts, golf course and stunning views of Hanalei Bay. If you want to feel like you’re in a luxury resort that you could find anywhere else, then by all means stay here. Otherwise, stay somewhere with a little more Hawaiian flare and experience what makes Kauai unique.
Stay in Princeville if you want…
- A luxury resort that feels separate from the rest of the island
- A quiet romantic getaway with resort amenities
- To only spend time on the north shore
- To feel like you’re a prince or princess
Budget-friendly lodging in Princeville
- Second-story Sandpiper Village Condo, $244 per night
- Princeville Bungalow, $277 per night
- Yoga House, $263 per night
Camping options on Kauai
If you really want to save money and sleep directly on the beach or in the forest, then Kauai has a few camp sites that you’ll want to book in advance and these are the ones we recommend. Permits and beach safety are a concern on Kauai so read this camping guide before making any decisions.
- Cabins at Kokee State Park, $206 per night (basic but includes kitchen)
- State Park Primitive camping, $30-35 per night
- Anini Beach, $3 per adult per night (shady trees and rainy days)
- Salt Ponds Beach, $3 per adult per night (lots of sun)
Why we didn't include Lihue
You can certainly find excellent lodging at an affordable price in Lihue, but this is the main town with the airport and cruise ship ports. It’s also home to the mega shopping chains (Walmart and Costco) and lies inland more than on the coast. In short, it’s a cool town with cool people and a fabulous farmer’s market but it lacks the beautiful views and slower vibe that most people come here to experience.
Ready to start planning your next vacation to Kauai? Read our Hiking and Slow Travel Guide for Kauai and get our personal stories at A Louisiana Woman’s Impressions of Kauai.
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