Best Kauai Resort: Find Luxury and Serenity on Hawaii’s Garden Isle
The “Garden Isle” of Hawaii, Kauai, is simply lush and a tropical paradise of emerald green landscapes, sparkling blue waters, breathtaking beaches, and cascading waterfalls. This island oasis is surely going to capture hearts of travelers seeking nature and serenity. But to really sample this magic, the best Kauai resorts can’t be left out in your itinerary. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront property, a family-friendly resort, or a romantic getaway, Kauai will have options that satisfy even the most discerning kind of traveler. In this article, we’ll point out and discuss some of the best Kauai resorts to help you with your planning for that perfect Hawaiian vacation.
Why Should You Spend Your Hawaiian Vacation on Kauai?
Kauai is the oldest and most northern of the Hawaiian Islands. Dramatic cliffs, valleys, beaches—this island is a nature lover’s heaven of more than 50 miles of white sandy beaches, numerous hiking trails, and many of the most wonderful natural wonders on earth, such as the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon. Beyond its natural beauty, Kauai hosts some of the most lush, serene, and yet one of the best resorts in Hawaii, blending both relaxation and adventure perfectly. Top 10 Best Kauai Resorts 1. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is one of the best Kauai resorts. This sprawling property, located on the sunny south shore in Poipu, offers luxury balanced by natural beauty. Beautifully landscaped gardens, a saltwater lagoon, and several freshwater pools with a lazy river and waterslide make this resort appealing for visitors. Traditional Hawaiian treatments will be available in the Anara Spa, and a few restaurants within the resort provide fine dining to casual poolside bites. The Grand Hyatt Kauai is perfect for families, couples, or anyone else looking to experience a little luxury on the Garden Isle.
2. St. Regis Princeville Resort (Now 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay)
Located on the beautiful north shore of Kauai, the St. Regis Princeville Resort—now operating as the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay—offers guests an experience that’s simply pure luxury. This resort overlooks Hanalei Bay and the majestic mountains of the Nā Pali Coast from its cliff perch. Some of the upscale facilities include an infinity pool, full service at the spa, and gourmet dining options. This resort enjoys a great location, as it serves as an excellent base to explore all the natural wonders along the north shore, with beaches, waterfalls, and hiking trails nearby.
3. Koa Kea Hotel & Resort
Koa Kea Hotel & Resort is a boutique resort right on Poipu Beach that will ensure a far more intimate experience and personal touch. It offers chic, modern rooms—many with ocean views—and a focus on wellness and relaxation. A center for relaxation, Koa Kea Spa has treatments focused on elements of the island itself, while on-site restaurant Red Salt is known for its creative cuisine and its seafood. Koa Kea is just right for couples who want to spend some intimate time together in a very calm and peaceful environment.
4. Hanalei Colony Resort
For those looking to stay a little more secluded, serious travelers wanting to get deeper into the actual Hawaii, the place that tops the list is the Hanalei Colony Resort on Kauai’s North Shore. This beachfront resort houses rustic charm but has modern comforts and has spacious condos with fully equipped kitchens and ocean views. Its location on the quiet, untouched beaches of Haena delivers peace, as most people want to turn off and get one with nature. Yoga classes are provided by the resort, together with a restaurant right on the beach, offering several of the island’s best hiking trails, featuring the famous Kalalau Trail.
5. Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection
Koloa Landing Resort is a luxury property centrally located in Poipu, featuring expansive villas with full kitchens, private lanais, and stunning views of gardens or the ocean. The three lagoon-style swimming pools include a family pool complete with waterslide and a serene adults-only pool. The spa offers many treatments, and the on-site restaurant features farm-to-table cuisine. Koloa Landing offers a luxurious home-away-from-home experience ideal for families, groups, or couples visiting Kauai.
6. Waimea Plantation Cottages
The Waimea Plantation Cottages will give you a truly unforgettable historical experience on the west side of Kauai. This resort has been charmingly designed in landscaped 27 acres with lush gardens and coconut groves and is done in plantation-style cottages. Each cottage is uniquely decorated, has a full kitchen, a private lanai, and modern amenities. The beachfront location provides stunning sunset views, and the resort’s immediacy to Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park makes it ideal for exploring Kauai’s natural wonders.
7. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas
The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas offers luxurious, family-friendly experiences along Kauai’s north shore. Villas come appointed with full kitchens, private lanais, and all comforts of home. Guests have use of multiple pools, which include a children’s pool and an infinity pool with ocean views, activities from golf to yoga, and cultural experiences that are great for families and larger groups.
8. Sheraton Kauai Resort
The Sheraton Kauai Resort fronts the popular Poipu Beach. This resort features a collection of rooms from garden-view rooms to oceanfront suites in its inventory. On-site amenities include a beachfront swimming pool, wellness spa, and several dining options, including a beachfront restaurant with fresh, locally sourced cuisine. Offering comfort and ease for those visiting the south shore of Kauai is the Sheraton Kauai Resort.
9. Timbers Kauai – Ocean Club & Residences
This oceanfront Hokuala resort features stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the mountain range of Ha’upu. There is space within the residences for full kitchens and private lanais, then the ability to access world-class amenities like an infinity pool, spa, and golf course. Timbers Kauai is perfect for travelers looking for an upscale and exclusive experience with all the comforts of home.
10. The Cliffs at Princeville
The Cliffs at Princeville is a family-friendly resort located on Kauai’s north shore. Spacious suites boast full kitchens, private lanais, and beautiful ocean or garden views. This family-friendly resort offers an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and a putting green, among other activities that guests may appreciate. Perfect for families or groups who want comfort and handiness in exploration around the north shore of Kauai, The Cliffs at Princeville would be an ideal choice.
Conclusion: Plan Your Dream Vacation at the Best Kauai Resort
Kauai is a destination that offers the traveler in search of natural beauty, serenity, and luxury exactly what they are looking for. From its beautiful ocean views to elegant accommodations, exceptional dining options, and world-class service, Kauai’s best resorts can serve all your needs for an unforgettable Hawaiian vacation. Whether planning a romantic retreat, family vacation, or solo getaway, the best of Kauai’s resorts will ensure your stay there is nothing short of extraordinary.
Plan your Kauai vacation to one of these top Kauai resorts for an unforgettable experience in Hawaii’s Garden Isle.