Where To Stay on Kauai

Set amid coconut groves on Kaui’s east coast, the historic town of Kapaa is filled with local boutiques and is less than 10 miles (16 kilometers) from the island’s international airport. The artsy downtown makes it a mecca for shoppers and artists, while adventure seekers love the town's proximity to kayaking and hiking opportunities along the Wailua River.  

Old Town Koloa is a quaint South Shore town with an old fashioned charm stemming from its plantation past. While the downtown’s rustic storefronts and historic attractions draw in history buffs and shopping enthusiasts, nature lovers find the area’s lush jungle surroundings just as enticing. With Koloa as a base, it's easy to visit secluded waterfalls and bamboo forests on an off-road tour or zipline through the jungle. 

The idyllic town of Princeville is distinguished by luxury resorts, golf courses, and white sand beaches. Princeville is an ideal jumping-off point for travelers looking to explore the iconic Na Pali Coast and dramatic scenery of Kaui’s North Shore. To see where the vibrant cliffs meet the sea, join a sailing trip that cruises the Na Pali Coast, snorkeling along the way. 

For a peaceful seaside vacation far from the upscale resorts and tourism-centric cities in Kauai’s other regions, head to the remote west side of the island to find Waimea. The historic port village is the gateway to must-see Waimea Canyon—nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Take a tour to visit the famous canyon alongside other attractions such as the monument that marks the spot where Captain James Cook first landed.