Kauai, often called the “Garden Isle,” is a spectacular destination for families seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. With its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and wide array of activities, it’s easy to see why so many families return year after year. Choosing the right accommodation is key to a successful family vacation, ensuring comfort and convenience after a day of exploring waterfalls, hiking trails, or building sandcastles.
Finding the Best Places To Stay In Kauai For Families means considering factors like room size, pool amenities, beach access, and proximity to kid-friendly attractions. We’ve had the pleasure of exploring many options across the island’s diverse regions – from the sunny South Shore to the dramatic North Shore and the conveniently located East Side. Our first-hand experiences have helped us curate a list of top resorts and vacation rentals that consistently delight both parents and children.
Whether your ideal family getaway involves lounging by an epic pool complex, having direct access to a calm swimming beach, or having the space and convenience of a multi-bedroom villa with a kitchen, Kauai offers fantastic choices. This guide shares our favorite spots, highlighting what makes each location and property stand out for a memorable family trip to this beautiful Hawaiian island.
Is Kauai a Good Island for Family Vacation?
Absolutely! Kauai is an excellent choice for families, offering a slightly more laid-back and less crowded atmosphere than some of the other Hawaiian Islands. Its natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures that kids of all ages can enjoy. From gentle beaches perfect for toddlers to exciting hikes and boat tours for older children, there’s something to engage every family member.
Beyond the scenery, Kauai provides fantastic opportunities for educational experiences, like learning about island ecology at botanical gardens or understanding local culture through luaus. Many family-friendly accommodations offer amenities tailored to children, such as dedicated kids’ pools, activity programs, and spacious rooms. The island’s focus on nature and community creates a welcoming environment for families looking to connect and create lasting memories together.
When is the Best Time to Visit Kauai with Family?
Kauai is known for its lushness, which means it receives more rain than other islands, particularly from October to March. For families prioritizing sunny beach days and drier conditions, the summer months (April to September) are generally ideal. This period offers warm temperatures and calmer ocean conditions, especially on the North Shore.
However, summer also coincides with peak tourist season, leading to higher prices and larger crowds. The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) often strike a good balance, offering pleasant weather, fewer visitors, and potentially better deals on accommodation and flights. Regardless of the time of year, you can find enjoyable conditions on Kauai by considering which side of the island you plan to stay on, as weather patterns can vary significantly from north to south.
How Many Days Should Families Spend in Kauai?
To truly experience Kauai without feeling rushed, we recommend families spend at least five full days on the island. This allows enough time to explore at least two different regions (like the South Shore and North Shore), enjoy various activities, and still build in relaxing pool or beach days. Traveling with kids often requires a slower pace, and five days provides flexibility.
If your trip is shorter, say 3-4 days, it’s still possible to have a wonderful time, but it’s best to focus on one or two areas to minimize travel time across the island. A longer stay of 7-10 days or more is fantastic if time and budget allow, enabling deeper exploration, more spontaneous adventures, and ample opportunity for downtime. The key is to balance planned activities with flexibility for what the kids are enjoying most.
Best Places To Stay In Kauai For Families: South Shore
The South Shore, particularly the Poipu area, is famous for its sunny weather and beautiful, family-friendly beaches. It’s a popular choice for families year-round, offering a great mix of resorts, vacation rentals, restaurants, and shops.
Koloa Landing Resort
Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, a Marriott property, is a consistently top choice for families on the South Shore, primarily due to its exceptionally spacious accommodations. Traveling with kids often means needing room to spread out, and their smallest studio rooms are a generous 500 sq ft, complete with a kitchenette and in-unit washer/dryer – a game-changer for family packing. Larger 1, 2, 3, and even 4-bedroom villas are available for bigger families or multi-generational trips.
Set on 25 acres near The Shops at Kukui’ula, the resort boasts legendary pools. The main lagoon pool has waterfalls, waterslides, and a grotto, frequently winning awards for being one of the best pools in the US. Beyond this showstopper, there’s a separate family lagoon pool and an adult-only tranquility pool, ensuring options for all energy levels.
Kids are made to feel welcome with special amenities like a welcome bag and twice-weekly S’mores nights. Sports facilities including a putting green, soccer field, and volleyball court offer plenty of on-site entertainment. While the resort isn’t directly beachfront, Poipu Beach is a walkable 10 minutes away, and the incredible pool complex often makes up for the lack of immediate sand access. Dining is limited to one poolside restaurant, but the kitchenettes in rooms and nearby dining options provide flexibility.
Enjoying some family fun on the putting green at Koloa Landing Resort, one of the best places to stay in Kauai for families.
Koloa Landing Resort Family Features:
- Activities: Putting green, soccer, volleyball, yoga, campfire S’mores, spa.
- Kid’s Club: No dedicated club, but various activities.
- Restaurants: Holoholo Grill (poolside), Gourmet Marketplace (snacks/groceries).
- Pools: Three pools: award-winning main Lagoon Pool, Family Lagoon Pool, adult-only Tranquility Pool.
- Nearby: The Shops at Kukui’ula, Poipu Beach.
Kiahuna Plantation
Kiahuna Plantation holds a special place for us, largely because it sits directly on Kiahuna Beach, arguably one of the best and least crowded family beaches on the South Shore. The convenience of stepping right onto the sand is invaluable with kids. Parking at this popular beach can be tricky, making beachfront accommodation a significant advantage.
This property features charming, one-story vacation rental units spread across lush grounds. Each unit is individually owned, leading to variations in decor and amenities, so reading reviews is highly recommended. The vibe is relaxed and beachy, with lanais opening onto green spaces.
While there’s no pool directly on the property, guests have access to the fantastic Poipu Athletic Club across the street. Though requiring a short walk, the club’s pool is a major highlight, featuring a waterslide, hot tub, and a zero-entry area perfect for younger children. Its quality surpasses typical vacation rental pools. The location is also within easy walking distance of Poipu Village shops and restaurants, including the popular Little Fish coffee/smoothie spot, reducing the need for a car for dining and essentials.
Inside a bright and airy vacation rental unit at Kiahuna Plantation, a great option among the best places to stay in Kauai for families.
Kiahuna Plantation Family Features:
- Activities: Beach access.
- Kid’s Club: None.
- Restaurants: None on-site, walking distance to Poipu Village.
- Pools: Access to Poipu Athletic Club pool (with waterslide, zero-entry).
- Nearby: Kiahuna Beach, Poipu Village shops/restaurants, Little Fish.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
For families seeking a full-service luxury resort experience, the 5-star Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa in Poipu is a grand option. This large property offers extensive amenities and activities that can keep a family entertained for their entire stay. While the oceanfront is often too rough for swimming, the resort compensates with an impressive multi-layered pool complex.
The pool area is a kid’s paradise, featuring a lazy river, a 150-foot waterslide, and a saltwater lagoon that mimics the ocean. Beyond the main pool area, there’s also an adult-only section. Rooms are spacious, starting at 500 sq ft, with larger suites available, providing comfortable space for families.
The Grand Hyatt excels in organized activities, offering daily Hawaiian cultural experiences like hula lessons and lei making. Camp Hyatt provides supervised fun for kids aged 3-12 (for an extra fee), allowing parents some downtime. Dining options are varied, with five restaurants on-site, most offering keiki (kids) menus. The resort also hosts a luau twice a week. While impressive, the size and popularity mean it can get crowded, especially around the pools.
The expansive saltwater lagoon at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, providing ample space for families to play and relax.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa Family Features:
- Activities: Hawaiian cultural activities, hydroponic garden tours, spa, fitness center.
- Kid’s Club: Camp Hyatt (ages 3-12, extra fee).
- Restaurants: Multiple on-site restaurants with kid’s menus (except Stevenson’s Library).
- Pools: Multi-level pool complex with lazy river, waterslide, saltwater lagoon.
- Nearby: Shipwreck Beach, Poipu Bay Golf Course.
Best Places To Stay In Kauai For Families: North Shore
The North Shore is famed for its dramatic cliffs, lush mountains, and stunning bays, offering a different, often more adventurous, experience. While rainier in winter, summer brings calm waters perfect for exploring. Princeville is the main planned community here, featuring resorts and vacation rentals.
1 Hotel Hanalei
Located within the upscale Princeville area, 1 Hotel Hanalei stands out not just for its luxury but also for its surprising family-friendliness. The hotel is perched on a cliff overlooking the breathtaking Hanalei Bay, offering some of the most stunning views imaginable. Its primary draw for families is the incredibly convenient direct access to Hanalei Bay beach, a rarity in Princeville.
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This access allows families to easily shuttle between the hotel’s multi-level pool area and the calm waters of the bay. Renting kayaks or simply playing on the sand is just steps away. The pool itself is designed with various levels and stairs, making it engaging for kids. The hotel also offers a dedicated kids’ program, Seedlings, for ages 6 and up, providing supervised activities and downtime for parents.
Dining includes a main restaurant, a terrace lounge perfect for sunset views, a pool restaurant with kid-friendly options like pizza and shave ice, and a cafe for quick, healthy bites. While luxurious, the seamless blend of stunning location, direct beach access, fantastic pool, and kids’ activities makes 1 Hotel Hanalei one of the best places to stay in Kauai for families looking for a high-end North Shore experience.
Renting a kayak on the sand in front of 1 Hotel Hanalei, offering families direct access to the beautiful Hanalei Bay.
1 Hotel Hanalei Family Features:
- Activities: Various hourly kid activities (crafts, nature), beach access, watersports rentals nearby.
- Kid’s Club: Seedlings (ages 6-12).
- Restaurants: Multiple on-site options including kid-friendly poolside dining and a cafe.
- Pools: Main multi-level pool (all ages), adult-only infinity pool.
- Nearby: Hanalei town, Anini Beach, Na Pali Coast access.
Hanalei Bay Resort
Also located in Princeville with sought-after beach access, Hanalei Bay Resort offers a more budget-friendly option compared to its luxurious neighbor, 1 Hotel Hanalei. This vacation rental community shares the same convenient path down to Hanalei Bay, a significant advantage for families wanting easy beach trips without driving and parking hassles.
The resort has a hotel-like feel with amenities including a front desk, restaurants, fitness center, and tennis courts. Its large, beautiful pool is a highlight, often less crowded than other resorts. It features a zero-entry side, excellent for toddlers and young children. There’s also a second, smaller pool on the property.
Accommodations range from studios to two-bedroom units, all individually owned. This means quality can vary significantly, from dated to nicely updated. Checking specific unit reviews and photos is crucial. Many units offer kitchenettes, useful for preparing simple family meals. While on-site dining is available, it’s generally considered functional rather than exceptional. Despite potential variations in room quality, the stunning grounds, great pool, and valuable beach access make Hanalei Bay Resort a compelling choice among the best places to stay in Kauai for families seeking value on the North Shore.
The easy beach path at Hanalei Bay Resort, providing convenient access to Hanalei Bay for families.
Hanalei Bay Resort Family Features:
- Activities: Tennis courts, beach access (shared path).
- Kid’s Club: None.
- Restaurants: Happy Talk Lounge, coffee bar, pizza restaurant (on-site).
- Pools: Large main pool (with zero-entry), smaller additional pool.
- Nearby: Hanalei town, Anini Beach.
Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas
Also situated in Princeville, the Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas provides a condo-style experience perfect for families. Located on the clifftops, it doesn’t have direct beach access, but it offers stunning ocean views and is a short drive from family-friendly beaches like Anini Beach (10 mins) and Hanalei Bay (20 mins). This is a great base for exploring the North Shore.
Accommodations include studios with kitchenettes and spacious one- and two-bedroom villas with full kitchens and in-unit washers/dryers. The ability to cook some meals and do laundry is a major convenience for families on vacation. The villas provide ample space for everyone to relax.
The resort boasts four pools, including a dedicated Keiki (kids) pool with shallow areas, a turtle fountain, and a mini waterslide – a big hit with younger guests. An added bonus is the Westin Family Kid’s Club for ages 5-12, offering supervised activities like crafts and games (for an extra fee). While there are on-site dining options, including a restaurant with a kid’s menu and a market, there’s no poolside food service, which is something to consider. Activities like cultural crafts, koi feeding, and nature walks add to the family-friendly appeal.
Best resorts on Kauai Anini BeachAnini Beach, a short drive from Westin Princeville and one of the calmest spots for families seeking the best places to stay in Kauai for families near the water.
Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas Family Features:
- Activities: Hawaiian cultural activities, fitness classes, koi feeding, nature walks.
- Kid’s Club: Yes (ages 5-12, extra cost).
- Restaurants: Nanea Restaurant & Bar, Wailele Bar, Princeville Market.
- Pools: Four pools: Main multi-level, Keiki pool, Nā Pali Plunge, adult-only Mālie Plunge.
- Nearby: Anini Beach, Hanalei Bay.
Best Places To Stay In Kauai For Families: East Side
The East Side, often called the “Coconut Coast,” is centrally located between the North and South Shores, making it a convenient base for exploring the entire island. It offers a mix of resorts and condos, often at slightly more accessible price points.
Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa
For families desiring a blend of beachfront access and the conveniences of a condo, Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa on the East Side is an excellent option. This property provides spacious condo units with kitchens, allowing families to prepare meals, alongside resort amenities including a stunning pool area right by the beach.
Units are primarily 1 or 2 bedrooms, well-suited for families. Like many condo resorts, units are individually owned, so quality and decor can vary. Booking through a reputable management company or Marriott Homes & Villas can help ensure quality standards. The true highlight is the pool area: a 2-acre “Fantasy Pool” featuring waterslides, a waterfall, a lazy river section, hot tubs, and even a shallow children’s beach area, rivaling pools at larger resorts.
Located on Waipouli Beach, guests have direct access to the sand and a walking path along the coast. While there’s a poolside snack bar, the resort lacks extensive organized activities or a kids’ club, making it more suitable for families who primarily want pool and beach time and are happy planning their own excursions. Its central location is perfect for easily reaching attractions both North and South.
Enjoying a morning walk along the beach path in front of Waipouli Beach Resort, offering beautiful views and easy access to the sand for families.
Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa Family Features:
- Activities: Fitness studio, spa, beach access.
- Kid’s Club: No.
- Restaurants: Oasis Bar and Restaurant (poolside).
- Pools: 2-acre Fantasy Pool with slides, lazy river, kids’ area.
- Nearby: Waipouli Beach, Waipouli Town Center, central location for island exploration.
FAQs About Choosing The Best Places To Stay In Kauai For Families
Finding the perfect family accommodation on Kauai can involve several considerations. Here are answers to some common questions.
What side of Kauai is best for families?
The “best” side of Kauai for families often depends on the time of year and what you prioritize. The South Shore (Poipu) is generally sunnier and drier year-round, with calm, family-friendly beaches and numerous resorts. It’s often preferred during the winter months when the North Shore can be rainier and have rougher ocean conditions. The North Shore (Princeville/Hanalei) is incredibly scenic, with stunning bays ideal for swimming and watersports in the calmer summer months. The East Side (Kapa’a/Waipouli) is a convenient central base for exploring the entire island and often offers more budget-friendly options.
What are the key features to look for in a family-friendly resort on Kauai?
When searching for the best places to stay in Kauai for families, look for properties that offer spacious rooms or multi-bedroom villas (especially with kitchens and laundry facilities), excellent pool areas (ideally with kid-friendly features like waterslides or zero-entry), easy access to calm swimming beaches, and on-site dining options or proximity to restaurants. Resorts with supervised kids’ clubs or planned family activities can also be a major plus for entertainment and giving parents a break.
Are vacation rentals or resorts better for families in Kauai?
Both vacation rentals and resorts have pros and cons for families on Kauai. Vacation rentals often provide more space (multiple bedrooms, living areas), full kitchens (saving money on meals), and a more ‘home-like’ feel. They can be great for longer stays or larger families. Resorts, on the other hand, typically offer more amenities (pools, restaurants, kids’ clubs, activities), on-site services (concierge, housekeeping), and a more traditional vacation experience. The best choice depends on your family’s size, budget, desired level of service, and preference for cooking vs. dining out. Many properties on Kauai offer a hybrid, with condo-style units within a resort setting.
Making Your Kauai Family Trip Memorable
Choosing one of the best places to stay in Kauai for families is a foundational step in planning a fantastic trip. The right accommodation provides not just a place to sleep, but a comfortable home base for adventure and relaxation. Kauai offers diverse options to suit different family needs and budgets, each providing unique access to the island’s natural wonders and activities.
Whether you’re drawn to the sunny beaches of Poipu, the dramatic beauty of Princeville, or the convenient location of the East Side, you’ll find properties designed to make your family’s stay enjoyable and hassle-free. Focus on what matters most to your family – be it an epic pool, direct beach access, spacious living areas, or engaging kids’ activities – and you’re sure to find the perfect spot to create cherished memories on the Garden Isle.