15 Stylish Boutique Hotels on Kauai, Hawaii in 2024

an oceanside boutique hotel in Kauai with palm trees and flowers
Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach via Booking.com

Looking for the best boutique hotels on Kauai, HI? Then I’ve got the guide for you.

When thinking about places to stay in Kauai, you may be considering whether to go with a boutique hotel in Kauai or a regular hotel. But what is truly the difference? 

Well, in my ventures I have found that a boutique hotel offers a more personalized, unique, and intimate experience alongside a distinct boutique style. They have a smaller room count with higher attention to detail for each, while a normal hotel is usually larger, with standardized “cookie cutter” decor for their rooms.

No doubt, the best hotels in Kauai are these luxurious hidden gems. I want to make sure that your next excursion into the wild and overgrown “Garden Island is the best it can possibly be so you can make the most of your precious vacation time. 

experience the verdantly green mountains of na pali coast from one of the best boutique hotels on Kauai
Na Pali Coast in Kauai, Hawaii

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So whether you are a hiking enthusiast looking to hit up Kalalau Trailhead and make your way to the hidden Hanakāpī‘Ai Beach, or in the mood for some rest and relaxation at a Kauai island health spa located at your perfectly curated boutique hotel, one of these fantastic accommodations below is sure to fit your needs.

No matter if you are staying in Hanalei Bay, Princeville, Lihue, Poipu, or Waimea, I have found 15 boutique hotels on Kauai that truly stand out among the rest.

I have included both small luxury hotels and larger boutique resorts in this list for a good balance of recommendations.


TOP PICK
Best Boutique Hotels on Kauai, HI
Photo Credit: Booking.com

Koa Kea Resort, Kauai

Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach is the best boutique hotel in Kauai because of its beachfront location, delicious dining and range of amenities.

Where to Stay in Kauai, Hawaii

When considering where to stay in Kauai, it is important to look at what each side of the island, city, and town have to offer you, as you are sure to have a personal preference on what makes a place the best area to stay in Kauai for you.

Kauai North Shore

By far the best place to stay on Kauai’s North Shore is near the majestic Hanalei Bay. This leaves us with two spectacular options, Hanalei itself and Princeville. Hanalei is closer to the beach and has a more local-town vibe to it, whereas Princeville is more like one big resort.

The North Shore areas of Kauai offer up a stunningly beautiful and rugged region, known for its towering sea cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush verdant valleys that offer visitors a glimpse of Hawaii’s untouched natural beauty.

Kauai South Shore 

Kauai’s South Shore is a sun-kissed paradise that boasts some of the island’s most popular beaches and a range of outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

And Poipu, Kauai, is where to stay – a charming and picturesque town perfect for relaxing on the beach, swimming, snorkeling, and surfing.

tiered waterfall falling into a lagoon surrounded by greenery an excursion you can take from the top hotels in Kauai

Kauai East Side

When researching the best places to stay in Kauai you are sure to have come across Kapa’a, Wailua, and Lihue. These vibrant towns are encompassed by lush and verdant hills that are known for their stunning waterfalls.

Kapa’a is a charming town known for its laid-back atmosphere and eclectic shops, while Wailua is a historic town by the Wailua River, which offers visitors the opportunity to kayak, hike, and explore the surrounding rainforest. 

Lihue, on the other hand, is the commercial center of Kauai and is home to the island’s main airport.

Kauai West Side

Also known as the “sunny side of the island, this stunningly beautiful region is home to Waimea Canyon, stunning beaches, and the charming town of Waimea, making it top of the list when thinking about where to stay on Kauai for those seeking to explore Kauai’s natural wonders and cultural attractions

If you are a hiking enthusiast, then I think this is the best area to stay on Kauai.

15 Best Boutique Hotels on Kauai, HI

From small luxury Kauai boutique hotels to expansive luxury Kauai resorts, all of the best hotels in Kauai on this list have something special to offer. From handpicked experiences to upmarket wellness spas and everything in between. Let’s dive in!

Best Boutique Hotels on Kauai’s North Shore

1. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay 

Kauai Area | Hanalei Bay, Princeville

wood four post bed and low seating in a spacious oceanfront suite in Kauai
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay via Booking.com

Rating: 9.1 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples, wedding parties, those with pets, hikers

Location | This luxury hideaway to the north of Hanalei Bay is by far the best hotel in Kauai, in my book. Surrounded by Kauai’s most stunning hiking trails, with the ocean at its feet, and just east you will find the resort town of Princeville. 

Features & Facilities | With a commitment to sustainability and brand-new facilities you can enhance your mind with their staple stress reduction activities guided by wellness professionals and indulge in the fresh cuisine that is locally sourced and sustainably farmed. 

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay offers daily horseback trail riding lessons and booking exhilarating sailing tours is two great ways to enjoy your stay. 

This unique place to stay in Kauai will also welcome your fur-family. Meaning you can partake in Hanalei Bay’s best pet shops, dog parks, and grooming salons, to really pamper your puppy! 

Rooms | When thinking about the best hotels in Kauai for a honeymoon these rooms immediately come to mind. 

The wild heart of Kauai has been captured by the designers as they brought thoughtful touches of nature brought into each room via volcano grey rock and real wood accents, making for a truly romantic setting at this boutique hotel in north shore Kauai.


2. The Cliffs at Princeville 

Kauai Area | Hanalei Bay, Princeville

multi floored white washed boutique resort in Kauai perched on the green cliffs with mountains in the background
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | The Cliffs at Princeville via Booking.com

Rating: 8.4 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Families, large families, wedding parties

Location | Sitting at the northern tip of Princeville, these luxurious vacation rentals are tucked away near the historical Gazebo landmark. And it is only a hearty 1.5-mile walk to Sealodge Beach where you can enjoy some secluded snorkeling. 

Features & Facilities | Enjoy yoga at the Ocean Bluffs, take informative botanical tours, and try your hand at Lei Making at The Cliffs at Princeville.

Or head off the property by taking advantage of the Tesla EV car-sharing service and go explore the town. If you do go out, I recommend taking a stop by The Spot, a great place to grab some local grub, located in the Princeville shopping center.

Rooms | When distinguishing between hotels in north shore Kauai, you can’t forget about looking at larger housing too. 

Here at The Cliffs, the condos are their main accommodation in this part of Kauai, Hawaii. With a classic and clean vibe that will make you feel at home, and not just one but two Lanais (balcony) for making the most of the sun all day long. 

The Cliffs also offer a four-bedroom suite, perfect for larger families, as well as smaller one-bedroom suites for a bit more privacy. The Cliffs remind me of some of the beautiful boutique resorts in Maui.


3. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

Kauai Area | Princeville

Kauai luxury resort hidden away behind palm trees with stone path in the foreground
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas via Booking.com

Rating: 8.2 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Families, solo, couples

Location | On the east side of town and concealed from the other Kauai north shore resorts in the area, yet still within close proximity to the Princeville shopping center.

Features & Facilities | For fresh farm-to-table Island cuisines, head down to Nanea Restaurant and Bar, and please do yourself a favor by enjoying their rich desserts. 

Once you are fed take a stroll along the large resort lawns at The Westin with the family and watch the sunset from the three centrally located pools

Rooms | Indulge in the soft color tones of these spacious villas and enjoy sleeping in one of the most comfortable beds you will ever have the pleasure of napping in, making this the best place to stay the night in Princeville. 

The two-bedroom villa offers a kitchenette with everything you need to host a dinner party, with separate living and dining areas, and an excellent lanai for sipping wine under the stars.

Are you still trying to decide on what island to stay on? Check out these boutique hotels in Hawaii, USA for inspiration.


4. Hanalei Bay Resort

Kauai Area | Hanalei Bay, Princeville

modern white washed boutique apartment in Kauai with wood furniture and rattan floor mat
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | Hanalei Bay Resort via Booking.com

Rating: 9.1 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Families, large families, wedding parties, golf enthusiasts

Location | Where better to stay in Princeville, Kauai, than a suite that is only 12th of a mile away from Puu Poa Beach? And the close proximity to the Princeville Makai Golf Club also makes this a perfect stop on the golf lover’s bucket list.

Features & Facilities | Take a dip in the lagoon pool that overlooks Hanalei Bay or work up a sweat at the nearby golf clubs. Then flag down a free golf cart valet and take a ride to the fire pit or hit up the spa and wellness center to relax at one of the nicest hotels in Kauai. 

I recommend making a reservation for Happy Talk Lounge, Hanalei Bay Resort‘s most inviting place to sit and taste some local flavors.

Rooms | When it comes to rooms, I recommend “Suite 9304, 5, 6. This privately owned add-on to the resort provides guests with a balcony with far-reaching sea views and a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and a stovetop. 

This way you can bring your whole family to this boutique hotel in Kauai as if it were their home away from home. But if that is not your style, HBR also offers some larger two-bedroom condos and other unique privately owned rental units. If small intimate, yet scenic abodes are your jam, try staying in one of my favorite boutique hotels on Hawaii Big Island.


Best Boutique Hotels on Kauai’s East Side

5. The ISO

Kauai Area | Kapa’a

Kauai boutique hotel room with wood entertainment cabinet and large bed with ceiling fan
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | The ISO via Booking.com

Rating: 8 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Families, friend groups, hikers

Location | The ISO is only a 12-minute drive from the Lihue Airport and within walking distance of both Waipouli Beach and Fujii Beach

If you are traveling with kids, or just have a sweet tooth, then I highly recommend taking the short jaunt from The ISO up to the shopping center and hitting up Wailua Shave Ice for a cold tasty treat.

Features & Facilities | As one of the newest of Kauai’s boutique hotels you can expect clean and fresh facilities and fun at every turn. 

Offering not just yoga but also Tai Chi on the large green lawn that overlooks the ocean. As a guest, you will also have access to Bull Shed Restaurant next door, a five-star experience that was recently awarded ‘#1 Restaurant on Kauai’.

Rooms | All of The ISO rooms offer an elegant yet energizing vibe, but I have to recommend the ‘One-Bedroom Ocean View’ suite. I just adore the soft blue of the vaulted ceiling in that room! 

And if you are wanting to make your own breakfast, instead of the complimentary Grab & Go style breakfast, this room has plenty of space for pancake making. Since Kapa’a offers such easy access to the local hiking trails, I think this is one of the top hotels for hikers on Kauai.


6. The Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort

Kauai Area | Lihue

modern spacious suite with sectional couch and two plush chairs with water and mountains in the background
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | The Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort via Booking.com

Rating: 8.6 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Wedding parties, couples,  friend groups,

Location | A mere five-minute drive from the Lihue Airport, with Kalapaki Beach a quick jaunt down the grounds, you can’t beat the location. Stroll into the near my shopping district and be sure to swing by Aloha Liege Waffles & Espresso for your mid-morning boost.

Features & Facilities | When looking for Lihue hotels for your Kauai vacation, why not opt for the most well-awarded AAA diamond luxury hotel in Lihue, The Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort? 

Featuring the largest one-level pool in Hawaii, the luxurious Alexander Day Spa & Salon, and four amazing restaurants settled around the grounds. You won’t want to leave!

Rooms | Relish in the classy contemporary room design offset by gorgeous hardwood floors and artistic marbling. 

You can even have the staff at The Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort dress your stay up with some special add-ons by requesting the Romance Package when booking. Then start each and every day with a sumptuous breakfast (upon request) and indulge in your walk-in shower before heading out for some real pampering.


7. Timbers Kauai Ocean Club & Residences

Kauai Area | Lihue

yellow painted three story Kauai boutique hotel perched on a large infinity pool with loungers and Kauai coastline
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | Timbers Kauai Ocean Club & Residences via Booking.com

View on Booking.com

Best For | Golfers, wedding parties, couples, solo, families

Location | This five-star hotel on Kauai is an 8-minute drive from the airport, located right on the Kaua’i Lagoon. It is a 20-minute walk to Kalapaki Beach but the Jack Nicklaus Ocean Course at Hokuala is right next door and offers a world-renowned golfing experience. 

Features & Facilities | Take the complimentary airport shuttle and get started on your much-needed rest and relaxation. 

Drop the kids off at this luxury Kauai hotel’s keiki club, then float atop the world in the two-tiered infinity pool, before enjoying stunning views and elegant farm-to-table dining at Hualani’s.

Rooms | From exquisite bridal suites, to fully furnished residencies, I can guarantee that there is a room perfectly suited to your vacation needs. 

Each room at Timbers is a unique place to stay in Kauai and features a unique mid-century modern interior design style. Some rooms include luxuries such as private pools, large indoor-outdoor living spaces, and open-air showers. I love this Lihue coast hotel!

If family fun is the goal, also consider staying in one of these family-friendly Waikiki beachfront hotels.


8. Kauai Beach Resort & Spa

Kauai Area | Lihue

expansive Kauai boutique resort with green space, two organically shaped pools and palm trees throughout
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | Kauai Beach Resort & Spa via Booking.com

Rating: 9.1 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Families, wedding parties, golfers

Location | Kauai Beach Resort & Spa is a six-minute drive north of the Lihue Airport. This Resort hotel in Kauai is right next door to the Wailua Golf Course and Lydgate Beach.

Features & Facilities | Slide in and take a dip at one of the four pools and two hot tubs, or watch the kids as they fly down the water slide. 

Then stay the night at Kauai Beach Resort & Spa and delight in the nightly live entertainment whiles sipping a cocktail. If you are an early riser then partake in the daily beachfront yoga classes before heading off to breakfast at the Naupaka Terrace restaurant.

Rooms | The deluxe two-bedroom Ocean View Suite is perfect for a family looking to stretch out and have their own quiet space. 

With all the comforts of home plus a lovely lanai for watching the ocean waves meet the blue sky. Each suite offers up a simple Transitional design style and plenty of room to get comfortable.


Best Boutique Hotels on Kauai’s South Shore

9. Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach

Kauai Area | Poipu

brown stone three level boutique hotel in Kauai with palm trees and ocean to the left
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach via Booking.com

Rating: 8.5 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples, honeymooners, small wedding parties

Location | On the eastern tip of the island, about a 25-minute drive from Lihue Airport, sitting in a well-populated location near the rim of Poipu. With a golf course on either side and within walking distance of Poipu Shopping Village and Kiahuna Beach.  

Features & Facilities | Voted one of the top three most romantic hotels in Kauai, Koa Kea Resort is perfect for honeymooners! 

And how could it not be? With a lei greeting on arrival and a bottle of private-label wine awaiting you in your room, the romance begins on day one. 

They even have an amazing customizable honeymoon registry set, where you can plan out the perfect vacation plan to partake in with your lover.

Rooms | Designed in a tastefully understated coastal style and featuring stunning marble bathrooms, you will love making the choice to stay at this Poipu hotel in Kauai when upgrading to the deluxe oceanfront guest room

Get things steaming up with the luxurious dual-shower and elegant deep soaking bathtub. Trust me, once you walk in it really is easy to see why this is one of the best hotels in Kauai for couples.


10. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

Kauai Area | Poipu

expansive Kauai resort with multiple green roofed buildings and lagoon in the foreground
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa via Booking.com

Rating: 9 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Wedding parties, large wedding parties, couples, friend groups

Location |  Encompassing Shipwreck Beach and next door to the Poipu Bay Golf Course. You can find this luxury hotel in Poipu Kauai, about a 24-minute drive from Lihue Airport.

Features & Facilities |  From Luau to lazy river, this Kauai luxury hotel’s really got it all. 

Start your day at Seaview Terrace for breakfast and cocktails, then head down to the beach for some sun and sand. I highly recommend spending some time getting pampered at Anara Spa and enjoying a romantic dinner at Tidepools’ enchanting floating bungalows on the lagoon. 

Rooms | With a soft sandy color tone and beautiful blue accents, you may think your room is a sunny beach all on its own here at one of the best hotels in Poipu Kauai. Feel the feng shui, and settle into the perfectly pretty Presidential Suite, featuring pink wall marbling and a roomie walk-in couples shower

And though, yes, all of the suites are stunning, I would also like to point out that the smaller rooms offered here also have quite a bit of charm and are definitely worth a stay if you feel like you may not need an entire full-size kitchen on your vacation. I mean, that’s what the restaurants are for, am I right?


11. The Lodge at Kukui’ula

Kauai Area | Poipu

comfortable Kauai lodge with dark brown wood and rattan furniture and ceiling fan
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | The Lodge at Kukui’ula via Booking.com

Rating: 9 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Families, large families, golfers, tennis lovers 

Location | Right on the green of Kukuiʻula Golf Course, on the western edge of Poipu, about 30 minutes from the Lihue Airport. And only six minutes to ‘Beach House Restaurant – Kauai’ for some romantic dining as you watch the sunset behind the waves.

Features & Facilities | A great location for the entire ‘Ohana, spend a day at the makai pools and let the kids revel in the Keiki waterslide or congregate in the game room lanai. 

Are you and the fam into tennis? I hope so because this south Kauai hotel offers every kind of tennis under the sun from beach tennis to table tennis, pickleball, and more

And if golf is more your speed then grab a set of the back nine for not only some sport but also Whale Watching at Sunset.

Rooms | Book a bungalow or splurge on one of the 4-bedroom club villas. Featuring elegant and playful styles with beautiful wood and stone accents.

 After a long day out, come back to relax in the open-air shower, and then consider ending your day with a Lomi Lomi Massage and Acupuncture at the spa, followed by a customized Omakase Dinner.


12. Kiahuna Lani at Poipu

Kauai Area | Poipu

people enjoying a large organically shaped pool with tropical plants in the foreground
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | Kiahuna Lani at Poipu via Booking.com

Rating: 10 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Families, honeymooners, anniversary celebrators

Location | Tucked away from the rest of Poipu, about 28 minutes from the Lihue Airport, this small luxury hotel is Kauai’s hidden gem. Sitting along the formidable fourth tee of the Kiahuna Golf Course, you can see everything happening on the green.

Features & Facilities | With access to the Poipu Beach Athletic Club, a stay at Kiahuna Lani at Poipu offers you the addition of a hot tub, pool, fitness center, and much more. 

If you are in the mood for some home cooking then request a grocery delivery and whip up something special in the full-sized kitchen or if you would prefer to rest and relax then why not reserved a private chef to do the cooking for you? 

Rooms | Less of a room and more of a full three-bed, three-bath home for you and your loved ones to really experience the joys of living in Hawaii. 

The tongue & groove vaulted and transitional Mediterranean interior design lends itself to both a romantic setting for two or a more homey feel for the whole family. Enjoy the luxury of a private open-air lava rock shower and in-home massage service to bring paradise right to you.


13. Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu

Kauai Area | Poipu

balcony with furniture overlooking a Kauai boutique hotel grounds with pool and greenery
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu via Booking.com

Rating: 9 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Families, large families, wedding parties

Location | This Kauai accommodation sits near downtown Poipu, about 25 minutes from the Lihue Airport. Within walking distance of Da Crack Mexican Grinds and Bubba’s Burgers, two favorite places for the locals to grab some lunch.

Features & Facilities | Bask in the aquatic playground as you lounge by the poolside BBQ, linger in the infinity pool until dark, and then splurge on island S’mores at the Marketplace fire pits, trust me you don’t want to miss out. 

Then start the next day off right at The Spa at Koloa Landing, where you can pamper your skin utilizing indigenous wild ingredients. And top it all off by watching the sunset with a drink in hand at Holoholo Grill.

Rooms | These luxury villas were designed by local stylist Sarah Lambson, when you walk in you will find them boasting an elegant take on real wood nature design. 

Be it a Penthouse Suite or a Deluxe Studio, you can get straight to your vacation upon arrival as a fully stocked pantry will be waiting for you upon request. This eliminates the need to run back and forth into town, and just start whipping up your favorite snacks in these beautiful chef’s kitchens.


14. Waimea Plantation Cottages

Kauai Area | Waimea

small red painted Kauai cottage with white roof and front patio
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | Waimea Plantation Cottages via Booking.com

Rating: 8.9 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Families, friend groups, small wedding parties

Location | After a 45-minute drive from the Lihue Airport, you will arrive in the unique geological locale of Waimea

The almost desert-looking reds mixed in with the forestry of the island are quite a sight and make it easy to imagine why this area is so well known for its paniolo history (Hawaiian cowboys).

Features & Facilities | Take a stroll down this private Waimea hotel’s Kauai lava strikingly beautiful black-sand beach

Try your hand at some friendly activities from volleyball or shuffleboard, then once you have worked up an appetite head on over to Chicken in a Barrel and enjoy some of that local paniolo-inspired grub. 

Rooms | These historic Hawaiian cottages have been kept up with love and care, and are some of the most authentic lodgings in Kauai Hawaii

Each cottage has its own unique boutique design and layout, but you can be confident that each and every one of them come with a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable private lanais

This makes them easily one of the coolest hotels in Kauai.


15. Luxury Beachfront Home in Haena

Kauai Area | Hanalei Bay, Haena

large luxury apartment in Kauai with vaulted ceiling and white beams looking onto greenery and ocean
Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, HI | Luxury Beachfront Home in Haena via VRBO.com

Rating: 5 / 5 | View on VRBO.com

Best For | Beach lovers, couples, friend groups

Location | Take an exhilarating drive up to the hotels on Kauai’s north shore, about an hour and 5-minute drive from the Lihue Airport, and then choose to stay at this lovely secluded beachfront home. With beaches on either side and a thick lush forest surrounding, you will think you walked into paradise.

Features & Facilities | Stock up your new home-away-from-home’s fridge and take full use of the large kitchen

Partake in nearby horseback riding or grab a whale-watching tour then stop by Napali Art Gallery & Coffee House for a unique experience before heading back to your private part of the beach.

Rooms | With decor featuring art from all over the world and rich Brazilian cherry hardwood flooring, it has a charm that the bigger Kauai hotels on the north shore can’t beat. The beautiful wood architecture reminds me of the boutique hotels in Hawaii Big Island I stayed near Volcanoes NP.

I personally love the elegant white accents on the vaulted ceiling and the view from the lanai to the ocean below. And though the home is locally owned, you can request concierge services and an on-island personal assistant.


Best Boutique Hotels on Kauai Map

map fo best boutique hotels in Kauai Hawaii

Best Boutique Hotels Kauai Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most luxurious hotel on Kauai?

The most luxurious hotel in Kauai is definitely the 1 Hotel in Hanalei Bay. With expansive suites overlooking Hanalei Bay, this is the perfect place to spend time relaxing. 

Enjoy meals with locally sourced ingredients and indulge in a day of pampering at the onsite wellness spa. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is truly a step above the rest when it comes to sustainability.

What is the best hotel in Kauai for families?

The best hotel in Kauai for families in Timbers Kauai. This small resort offers programs and clubs for kids while the adults play or lounge by the pool. Timbers Kauai also has a world-class golf course and beaches right at its doorstep. 

What are the best hotels in Kauai for couples?

Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach is the most romantic hotel on Kauai for couples. Honeymooners will arrive here with a traditional lei greeting and a bottle of private-label wine. Book the deluxe oceanfront suite with a luxurious dual shower and deep-soaking tub for ultimate romance. 

What are the best unique places to stay in Kauai?

One of the most unique places to stay on Kauai is Waimea Plantation Cottages. Set in the unique geological locale of Waimea, these historic Hawaiian cottages are the epitome of authentic living on the islands. Make sure to take a stroll along the private black sand beach.

What location is best to stay in Kauai?

Hanalei Bay on the north shore of the island is the best place to stay in Kauai. Known for its towering sea cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush valleys, it’s the best place to enjoy the wild nature of Kauai and relax at a cliffside boutique hotel

For hikers, I would recommend the south side of Kauai and for beach lovers, the town of Poipu fits the bill.

What part of Kauai has the most to do?

The south shore of Kauai has the most activities for tourists and experiences the sunniest weather. Enjoy the island’s most beautiful beaches in and around Poipu, and take part in activities like kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkeling. 

You can also find a plethora of great boutique hotels and resorts on the south shore.

Why is Kauai the best place for vacation?

Kauai is the best place to vacation because of its abundance of natural and wild beauty, dramatic landscapes and picturesque white sand beaches and stunning waterfalls

Kauai is also one of the best islands in the Hawaiian archipelago for hiking through rugged and scenic terrain and maintains that untouched feeling that most tourists are looking for.

What is the best month to visit Kauai?

The best time of year to visit Kauai is during the shoulder months of April to mid-June and September – December. While Kauai is one of the rainiest of the Hawaiian islands, you are more likely to experience sunnier conditions during this time, as well as fewer tourists and more economical prices on tours and boutique hotels

As the weather on Kauai is always unpredictable, make sure to pack appropriately.

How many days is enough in Kauai?

7-10 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Kauai, especially if it’s the only island you are visiting. 7 days is great for travelers looking for a relaxing holiday at one of the cliffside boutique hotels (1 Hotel in Hanalei Bay is my favourite!). 

Spending 10 days is great for visitors seeking more adventures throughout the island like hiking, snorkeling and some of the top day tours.

Do you really need a car in Kauai?

If you want to make the most of your trip to Kauai, I recommend renting a car. Yes, of course, you can make it around the island via public transportation but services are limited, especially in rural areas. 

For maximum flexibility and to experience all the island has to offer, renting a car will give you the ultimate Kauai adventure.

Is Maui or Kauai better?

Maui offers a more balanced island experience between a plethora of activities, city life and scenic natural experiences like the road to Hana and the sunrise volcano trek.

While Kauai offers a more laid-back carefree and family-friendly atmosphere with stunning natural landscapes for hiking and various water excursions.

Best Boutique Hotels on Kauai, Hawaii Conclusion

I hope you’ve found this curated list of the best boutique hotels in Kauai helpful. Whether you are planning a special occasion, are traveling with family or are a couple just looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, staying in a Kauai boutique hotel is the answer.

From dramatic cliffs, white-sand beaches, wild and verdant landscapes and a plethora of water activities, Kauai has something for everyone.

Hawaii Travel Planning Guide


Is it safe to rent a car in Hawaii?

Absolutely, it is safe to rent a car in Hawaii. In fact, renting a car in Hawaii is the best way to see and explore the islands.

What is the best way to book my Hawaii accommodation?

I always use booking.com for all my accommodations worldwide, and Hawaii is no exception. I stayed in some really epic places on my adventure around the islands.

For more cozy apartment-style accommodation try VRBO (better and safer than Airbnb).

What are the best day tours in Hawaii?

Taking a day tour around the islands of Hawaii is a great way to experience the top attractions and learn from a knowledgeable guide.

I highly recommend these Hawaii day tours:

What is the best site to buy flights to Hawaii?

For finding cheap flights to Hawaii, I recommend booking through Skyscanner.

Can you drink tap water in Hawaii?

Yes! You can drink straight from the tap in Hawaii. All water has been strictly tested by the Department of Water and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), so you can feel safe doing so on all islands in the archipelago.

If you plan to do a lot of hiking in Hawaii, I recommend bringing my favourite self-filtering water bottle with you, just in case.


More Hawaii Hotel Guides

Top Boutique Hotels in Hawaii, USA
Best Kauai Boutique Hotels
My favourite Maui Boutique Hotels
Fabulous Waikiki Boutique Hotels
Best Big Island Hawaii Boutique Hotels

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