Travel Diary, Trip Planning, United States

Budget-Friendly Stays on Kauai

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kapa'a garden apartments in kauai

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.

look for vacation rentals that offer free perks

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!
Kapa'a Bike Path is one of many reasons we chose to stay here

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

book sale sign and books at Kilauea Book Sale in Kauai
Stay in Kilauea just for their bakery, which has the best little book sale

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
Budget-friendly lodging in or near Kilauea
Kekaha Beach, photo courtesy of pawel.gaul from Getty Images Siganature

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

shipwreck beach in poipu kauai
Shipwreck Beach, a quiet rest away from Poipu's condos

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

Hanalei, photo courtesy of Backyard Productions

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

condos on golf course in Princeville Kauai
Princeville condos, photo courtesy of 3bugsmom from Getty Images Signature

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

beach camping at anini beach kauai
beach camping at Anini Beach

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.

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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Let's Talk Travel, Trip Planning

Family Trips within Driving Distance

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Family Trips with 5-8 hour drive 

LET’S TALK TRAVEL 

Dear Clare: Do you know any good places (within 5-8 hours driving distance) that would be good for a family trip with children? I would prefer something that is not a normal “tourist” attraction. ~ Leah

Dear Leah: I’ll give you three options in opposite directions, that way you can choose what suits your interests. 

Visit New Braunfels & San Antonio Texas

If history, caves and watersports sound appealing, look west at New Braunfels. Skip the waterpark and go straight to the river for tubing or kayaking. Look at Texas State Tubes in San Marcos for a less crowded experience. The Natural Bridge Caverns are a popular attraction, but they’re worth it in my opinion and they offer aerial rope courses, zip-lining and a maze. If this sounds too pricy or crowded, look at the Cave Without a Name in nearby Boerne. If old ruins are your thing, hop over to San Antonio for a day. Walk or bike the Missions Trail which is 16 miles roundtrip and about 2.5 miles between each stop. If you can squeeze it in, stop at Hot Wells of Bexar County, a free walk through an abandoned resort hotel. Find lodging at Airbnb or Vrbo or stay at Holiday Lodge on Canyon Lake.
mission concepcion san antonio texas
Mission Concepcion, San Antonio. Photo by LeVan Smith III on Unsplash

If you want to incorporate hiking into your family trips, see my posts about Winter Hiking in Texas and Texas Hiking Weekend Getaway

Speaking of hiking, visit Arkansas

If hiking and the beautiful gardens are calling, look north to Arkansas. You can stay put in one area, like Hot Springs, or hit the hotspots with a road trip. If I had 6 days, this is what I would do. Start in Hot Springs to visit Hot Springs National Park and stretch your legs by hiking the trails directly behind the park. Make sure to go inside Fordyce Bathhouse. End the day at Garvan Woodland Gardens, which has something fun for all ages whether it be beautiful nature walks, a giant tree house or fairy houses. Stay at Gold-Inn Hot Springs or rent an Airbnb. We did this as a multi-generational trip and you can read about it at What I Learned on a Family Trip.
Garvan Gardens
Head north toward Dardanelle and take your pick of hiking at Petit Jean, Mt. Nebo or Mt. Magazine State Parks. Petit Jean and Magazine have affordable lodges (including yurts). Extend more nights here or keep on going to Bentonville. Stretch your legs at the free Devil’s Den State Park along the way. In Bentonville, visit Crystal Bridges Museum of Art, an architectural masterpiece with 4 miles of trails through 120 acres of forest. Not into art? Skip Bentonville and stay at Buffalo Outdoor Center in Ponca so you can hike or canoe the Buffalo River (my personal favorite). It’s an 8.5-hour drive home from Ponca, so consider reversing this trip if you prefer the long drive at the beginning.
Buffalo River, photo courtesy nps.gov

Visit Florida’s Emerald Coast

If this all sounds too hot or exhausting for family trips, look east to Florida’s Emerald Coast which stretches from Pensacola to Panama City. Look at quieter beaches at one of these state parks: Gulf Islands National Seashore, Grayton Beach, Henderson, Deer Lake or Topsail Hill Preserve. If you want real dunes, go with Deer Lake or Topsail Hill. If you want to truly escape, drive to Shell Island. This hidden gem near Panama City is a local favorite for those who can do without restroom facilities. For non-beach activities, look at Man in the Sea Museum or Air Force Armament Museum. You may also like trail riding with Western Pleasure Riding Stable, a great way to see wild Florida with some safe distance from snakes and gators. Your challenge with this trip is finding affordable lodging. Expect to pay around $250/night, unless you get lucky and find a campsite available at one of the state parks. This trip is best planned far in advance so you have more lodging options.
Photo by NATHAN MULLET on Unsplash

For quick family trips, visit Mississippi Coast

If looking for a quick beach getaway, look at the Mississippi coast. The water isn’t as pretty but the beaches at Pass Christian, Long Beach and Gulfport are pretty and have great boardwalks for biking or rollerblading. You can rent kayaks to add some adventure or visit the Mississippi Aquarium. Long Beach is my favorite beach and Ocean Springs has the best food scene, including the famous Tatonut (where people wait an hour in line for a donut). You can read more about this getaway at Why We Love the Mississippi Coast.
gulfport mississippi beach sunset
Mississippi coast sunset
Good luck and bon voyage!
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Let's Talk Travel, Trip Planning

Airbnb vs Hotel, how do you choose?

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Pelican Inn muir beach airbnb vs hotel

How do you choose between Airbnb vs hotel?

LET’S TALK TRAVEL

Dear Clare: What are your thoughts on house rentals like Airbnb vs. hotel? Which option is usually cheaper? How do you find good houses that are clean and in safe neighborhoods? ~ Denice

Dear Denice: I get asked this question a lot and my answer is always “it depends.”

Reasons to stay in a hotel instead of Airbnb

Hotels are best if you’re only staying a night or two. They’re also nice when visiting unfamiliar countries, where you want help with transportation and dining suggestions. My go-to site for hotels is Booking.com. I love their search features, reviews and easy cancellation policies. They include small inns and bed and breakfasts, which offer helpful assistance without the mass tourism feel. When I book travel overseas, I often use Booking because I can reserve several locations a year in advance and cancel the extra reservations once I’ve finalized my plans.
haus hepi obertraun austria
View from our balcony
Preferred site is Booking.com and you can read about some of our favorite stays at Haus Hepi in Austria or the Pelican Inn in California.

Reasons to stay in an Airbnb instead of hotel

If you want to feel like a local or crave privacy, skip hotels and look for houses or private rooms within a house. This type of lodging is also preferred if you want household amenities, such as full kitchen, laundry, and outdoor living. My favorite site is Airbnb, so I’ll focus on that one, but you can always check listings on VRBO (sometimes they’re cheaper). Just like hotels, there is a huge range of rentals available through Airbnb. Prices range anywhere from $30 for a private room in someone’s house to $3000+ private estates. You’ll find cabins, apartments, tree houses, house boats, farm stays and more. I once stayed in a converted boat hut in Faroe Islands. It had a composting toilet and tiny kitchen, but its location directly on the ocean with private hot tub made it one of our most memorable experiences.
lamba boathouse faroe islands
View from hot tub
Preferred sites are Airbnb or VRBO and you can read about our stay in a Faroe Islands boat hut.

Is Airbnb cheaper?

As with all things travel, cost will be determined by how much luxury you want and whether or not your location is in high demand. You will get more bang for your buck with an Airbnb if you stay longer. Nightly rates are often cheaper than hotels, but Airbnb adds cleaning fees and those add up quickly. We typically spend most of our trip at an Airbnb but may stay a night in a hotel close to the airport. You should also factor in cost savings of staying in a house with a kitchen — not eating out for every meal saves a lot of money! With most trips, I look at Booking and Airbnb to see if anything strikes my fancy. You can’t go wrong with either choice. 

Are Airbnbs safe and clean?

I’m glad you asked about the cleanliness and safety. I often hear people say they prefer hotels because they’re more trustworthy. I couldn’t disagree more. My worst experiences with lodging were hotels. Like anything else, the quality of your stay depends on the management of that site and whether or not it meets your expectations. Once you narrow down your search to a few options, read the reviews. They are full of details including extras like “they have bicycles and canoes” or “the owner greeted us and invited us for coffee.” If you’re still in doubt, especially about the neighborhood safety, use Google Maps. Airbnb doesn’t give an exact address until you reserve, but it does show enough detail for you to find the block on Google Maps. Click on Street View to see real photos of what’s nearby.
Have a question about travel or want destination suggestions? Go to my Contact page and submit your question.
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