12 Best Resorts in Kauai, Hawaii

The Hawaiian Island of Kauai is one of the most popular to visit for vacationers in search of sun, sand, and nature. It’s locally referred to as “the Garden Isle” for its abundance of lush flora among miles of untouched mountains, valleys, rivers, and waterfalls. On its shores, sandy beaches and dramatic sea cliffs plunge into the Pacific Ocean, in which colorful fish, dolphins, and whales are resident.

Does that sound like your kind of island? If so, you’re in luck – spread among Kauai’s beaches, mountains, and nature are also quite a few luxurious resorts. The island has long been both a family vacation destination and a romantic getaway, but with a fraction of the tourists you’ll find on Oahu or Maui.

Like those on the other Hawaiian Islands, Kauai accommodations are rarely budget-friendly. That’s especially true if you’re looking at true resort atmospheres. Be prepared to adjust your definition of affordable to Hawaii prices when planning your dream trip to paradise, as the best Kauai resorts aren’t cheap.

Now, don’t let that last point scare you – just wait until you see the surreal swimming pools, luxurious spas, award-winning golf courses, and beautiful guest rooms the best resorts in Kauai have to offer. I’ve put together an honest list of them below based on my many trips to the island.

TL;DR

Best Kauai Resorts

1. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

Address: 1571 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756

The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa consistently ranks as one of the best resorts in Kauai. This luxury property is on the island’s south shore, near the Poipu resort area, on Shipwreck Beach. This should be an easy choice for anyone with World of Hyatt status, as this loyalty program is one of the most rewarding and consistent out there.

This expansive resort boasts lush gardens, multiple swimming pools, an ocean-fed lagoon, direct beach access, and both fine and casual dining. The Anara Spa is one of the most luxurious on the island, and a championship golf course is on-site. While all of this makes for a very romantic honeymoon or couples getaway, families are just as happy here, thanks to a lazy river and waterslides to splash in (there’s an adults-only pool, too.)

On top of all the fun and relaxation at the resort, its spot on the south shore is ideal for exploring the unique scenery. There’s a guided south shore hike that starts directly…