Welcome to Paradise: Finding the Best Resorts in Kauai
Kauai is a dream destination where lush green mountains meet golden sandy beaches and cascading waterfalls known as the Garden Isle of Hawaii. Choosing the right Kauai resort can take your experience to the next level whether you are planning a family adventure, a romantic getaway, or a solo retreat.

But with so many incredible options, how do you choose? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! From luxurious beachfront escapes to family-friendly havens, this guide will help you discover the best resorts in Kauai for your perfect island vacation.
Planning a trip to Kauai? The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa and The Westin Princeville are top picks for families, offering pools, beach access, and kid-friendly amenities. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay and Ko’a Kea Resort provide luxury and romance for couples. While Kauai doesn’t have traditional all-inclusive resorts, the Grand Hyatt Kauai and Koloa Landing Resort offer meal and activity packages. If you love beachfront stays, Sheraton Kauai Resort is a great choice. Stay in Poipu (south shore) for sunshine or Princeville (north shore) for dramatic scenery. No matter where you stay, Kauai’s best resorts promise an unforgettable island escape!
Why Kauai Resorts Offer the Ultimate Island Experience
Kauai resorts provide a more laid back, nature focused experience unlike the hustle and bustle of Oahu or the high-end glamour of Maui. You won’t find high rise buildings dominating the skyline. Instead, you will wake up to the peaceful sound of waves crashing on the shore breathtaking ocean views and lush gardens.
Resorts in Kauai cater to every type of traveler. Whether you are looking for Kauai family resorts packed with kid friendly amenities, secluded hideaways for couples or all-inclusive resorts where you do not have to worry about a thing Kauai has it all.
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Best Resorts in Kauai for Families: Fun for Everyone
If you are traveling with kids, you will want a resort that offers plenty of activities, spacious accommodations and easy beach access. Luckily Kauai is home to some of the best hotels in Kauai for families where both parents and kids can have an unforgettable time.
The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is one of the best Kauai resorts for families. This stunning resort in Poipu offers a massive saltwater lagoon, thrilling waterslides and a kids’ club to keep the little ones entertained. Parents can enjoy a luxurious spa day while the kids splash in the pools or take a hula dancing class.

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu is another fantastic option as family resort. This resort is perfect for families needing extra room with its spacious multi bedroom villas. The resort features several pools, BBQ areas and even an on-site marketplace making it feel like a home away from home.
If you want a beachfront resort where your family can step out onto the sand, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas is a fantastic choice. Located on Kauai’s north shore, this resort has spacious villa-style accommodations, perfect for large families. It’s one of the top resorts in Kauai for those who want a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Luxury & Romance: The Best Resorts in Kauai for Couples
For those seeking romance, Kauai’s best resorts offer dreamy settings with private balconies, oceanfront dining, and sunset views that seem too perfect to be real.
The Princeville Resort Kauai (now rebranded as 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay) is a favorite for honeymooners and couples looking for pure luxury. With cliffside views overlooking Hanalei Bay, a world-class spa, and an infinity pool with panoramic ocean views, it’s easily one of the best resorts on Kauai for a romantic retreat.

For a quieter, more intimate experience, Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach is a hidden gem. This boutique resort offers adults-only pools, beachside dining, and a world-class spa—perfect for couples looking to unwind in paradise.
The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is an excellent choice if you are looking for an all-inclusive feel. It offers package deals with meals, activities, and spa treatments that make it feel like a worry-free getaway while not fully all-inclusive.
Best Kauai Family Resorts on the Beach: Where Ocean Meets Adventure
Kauai family resorts on the beach are the way to go if you are dreaming of waking up to the sound of the ocean. The Sheraton Kauai Resort is an excellent option, located right on Poipu Beach. Families can enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, and nightly Hawaiian luaus, all just steps from their rooms.

For those who want a more laid-back beachfront vibe, the Hanalei Colony Resort on Kauai’s north shore offers a secluded peaceful stay. It is a fantastic choice for families who prefer a quiet, nature-filled retreat over a busy resort atmosphere.
Kauai All Inclusive Family Resorts: Stress-Free Travel
Some resorts offer meal packages and activity-inclusive deals that make your trip easier while fully all inclusive resorts in Kauai are rare. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa comes closest to an all-inclusive experience, with dining packages, water sports and spa treatments bundled together.

Another great option is The Cliffs at Princeville, which offers spacious condos with kitchens, so families can cook meals and enjoy the flexibility of a home-like stay with resort-style amenities.
The Top Resorts in Kauai Hawaii for Every Traveler
Whether you are looking for luxury, adventure or family-friendly fun these are the top Kuai resorts you should consider for your trip:
- Best Overall Resort: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
- Best for Families: The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas
- Best for Couples: 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay (formerly Princeville Resort)
- Best Beachfront Resort: Sheraton Kauai Resort
- Best All-Inclusive Feel: Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu
- Best Secluded Escape: Hanalei Colony Resort
Best Places to Stay in Kauai for Families: North vs. South Shore
Choosing between the north shore and south shore of Kauai can make a big difference in your experience. The south shore (Poipu area) tends to be ideal for beach lovers and families since it is sunnier year-round. This is where you will find some of the best resorts in Kauai for families, including the Grand Hyatt Kauai and Koloa Landing Resort.

On the other hand, the north shore (Princeville and Hanalei area) is known for its lush, dramatic landscapes. The north coast is an excellent option for those seeking adventure because it offers quick access to hiking, waterfalls, and the Na Pali Coast. For tourists who enjoy the outdoors and stunning scenery, resorts like 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay and The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas are ideal.
Final Thoughts: The Best Resort on Kauai for You
Kauai has a resort that fits your needs no matter what kind of vacation you are planning. From luxurious spa retreats to family-friendly beachfront escapes, the best resorts on Kauai offer an unforgettable island experience.
So, whether you are looking for the best Kauai family resorts, a romantic hideaway, or an all-inclusive family-friendly resort, you are sure to find the perfect place to stay in paradise.
FAQ
What is the best resort on Kauai for families?
The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is widely considered the best Kauai family-friendly resort, thanks to its pools, kid-friendly activities, and prime beachfront location.
Are there any all-inclusive resorts in Kauai?
Kauai doesn’t have traditional all-inclusive resorts, but some offer package deals, including meals and activities. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa and Koloa Landing Resort come close to an all-inclusive experience.
Which side of Kauai has the best resorts?
The south shore (Poipu area) is sunnier year-round, making it the best option for most travelers. However, the north shore (Princeville area) offers more dramatic scenery and a secluded feel.
What is the most luxurious resort in Kauai?
The 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay (formerly Princeville Resort) is the most luxurious option, offering stunning views, five-star service, and world-class amenities.
What is the best beach resort in Kauai?
For a beachfront experience, the Sheraton Kauai Resort in Poipu is an excellent choice, offering direct beach access and fantastic sunset views.