Kauai: the Garden Isle, where lush landscapes and stunning beaches come together like the perfect tropical smoothie.
If you’re planning a family vacation to this paradise, you might be wondering where to stay to ensure both the kids and the adults have a blast. Whether you're all about the resort life or you prefer the cozy comforts of a vacation rental, Kauai has something for every family. Let's dive into some top picks, and weigh the pros and cons of each.
Vacation rentals offer a fantastic alternative to traditional hotels for families visiting Kauai. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons:
More Space: Vacation rentals typically offer more room than hotel rooms, including multiple bedrooms, living areas, and often private outdoor spaces, ideal for families that need room to spread out and relax.
Home-Like Comforts: With amenities like fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and multiple bathrooms, vacation rentals provide the comforts of home. Those homey amenities make vacation rentals some of the best places to stay in Kauai with family.
Local Experience: Staying in a vacation rental often means being in residential neighborhoods rather than tourist hotspots, which can offer a more authentic experience of Kauai.
Variable Quality: Unlike hotels, which have standardized amenities and services, vacation rentals are individually owned and managed, so the level of comfort and cleanliness can differ significantly from one property to another.
Book your stay at a professionally-managed property, like the vacation rentals from Starry Night Lodging to feel confident in the quality of your experience before you even arrive. Here are a few of our favorites:
Location: Koloa
4 Beds | 3 Baths | 10 guests Guests
Elegant Design: Kauai Sunset Hale features a sophisticated and stylish design with homey finishes, creating a comfortable retreat for guests.
Idyllic Setting: Nestled in the picturesque Poipu area, the property is just a 5-minute walk to Poi’pu Beach, famous for it's snorkeling and wildlife.
Spacious Living Areas: The home’s expansive outdoor and indoor living spaces make it an excellent choice for families or groups, providing plenty of room to relax and socialize.
Access to Resort Amenities: This location also includes a complimentary family pass to the Poi'pu Beach Resort located less than a mile away. The resort includes pools, fitness facilities, tennis, pickleball, restaurant and poolside bar – all free for guests staying at this vacation home!
Location: Anahola
2 Beds | 2 Baths | 6 Guests
Stunning Sunrises: The Kauai Aliomanu Sunrise Haleby Starry Night Lodging lives up to its name with breathtaking sunrise views over Aliomanu Bay, offering a picturesque start to your day.
Direct Beach Access: Just steps from the sandy shore, this bungalow provides convenient access to the beach for morning strolls, sunbathing, or a dip in the ocean.
Cozy and Intimate: Perfect for couples or small families, the bungalow's intimate setting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, ideal for a peaceful getaway.
Location: Kapa’a
1 Beds | 1 Baths | 2 Guests
Charming Local Vibe: Starry Night Lodging’s ‘Hale Iki’ Kapa’a Cottage exudes a cozy, island-inspired charm with its vibrant decor and traditional Hawaiian touches, offering an authentic local experience.
Convenient Location: Situated in Kapa’a, the cottage is centrally located, providing easy access to nearby shops, restaurants, and scenic spots, making it a great base for exploring the island. It’s an easy 5-minutue walk to the beach and the kid-friendly Keiki cove.
Relaxing Outdoor Space: The property features a lovely private deck and shared garden and outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying Hawaii’s beautiful weather and unwinding in a tranquil setting.
Location: Kapa’a
2 Beds | 1 Baths | 4 Guests
Bright and Cheerful Atmosphere: ‘Melemele’ Kapa’a Cottage from Starry Night Lodging stands out with its sunny, vibrant decor and inviting ambiance, creating a cheerful and uplifting environment for your stay.
Convenient Access: Located in the heart of Kapa’a, the cottage provides easy access to a variety of local dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making it a practical choice for exploring the area as a family.
Well-Equipped Kitchen: The cottage features a modern, fully equipped kitchen that makes meal preparation easy and enjoyable, making it one of the best places to stay in Kauai with family
Resorts offer a wealth of amenities and conveniences, making them a popular choice for families vacationing in Kauai.
All-Inclusive Amenities: Resorts typically provide a range of amenities designed with families in mind, including swimming pools, kids’ clubs, organized activities, and on-site dining options. These features help keep children entertained and give parents some much-needed relaxation.
Family-Friendly Activities: Resorts often host a variety of family-oriented activities such as cultural workshops, game nights, and themed events, offering entertainment that caters to all ages.
Higher Costs: Resorts can be more expensive than vacation rentals, particularly when factoring in additional costs such as dining, activities, and resort fees. Families should be mindful of these potential expenses when budgeting for their trip.
Less Space and Privacy: Hotel-style resorts may offer less space in your private room or suite compared to vacation rentals.
Less Local Flavor: Staying in a resort often means being somewhat insulated from local life. While you get access to amenities and services, you might miss out on the authentic local experience that vacation rentals or smaller lodgings can offer.
Weigh these benefits against the potential downsides to be sure that the resort aligns with your family's preferences and vacation goals when you’re choosing the best place to stay in Kauai with family. Here are a few of the best resorts around the island to check out:
Location: Poipu Beach
Family-Friendly Amenities: With its sprawling pools, lazy river, and even a waterslide, your kids will be in aquatic heaven at the Grand Hyatt Kauai.
Tons of activities: The resort offers activities your kids will love, from hula dancing to ukulele lessons.
Dining Options: Multiple restaurants cater to all tastes, including kid-friendly menus.
Location: Kapa’a
Prime Oceanfront Location: Situated directly on Coconut Beach, the Sheraton offers stunning ocean views and easy access to sandy shores, perfect for beach-loving families.
Family-Friendly Amenities: The resort features a range of amenities including a kids' pool, family activities, and on-site dining options that cater to all ages.
Cultural Experiences: Guests can enjoy Hawaiian cultural activities and events, adding an educational and entertaining element to your stay.
No matter where you choose to stay in Kauai, you’re in for an unforgettable family adventure. Whether you go for the luxury of a resort or the charm of a vacation rental, you’ll have the island's natural beauty and laid-back vibe at your fingertips.