Kauai has many beautiful resorts and hotels. Most tourists stay either on the north shore near Princeville, Poipu on the south side, or Kapaa/Wailua on the east coast. Splitting your stay between the north and south is a great way to experience much of what the island has to offer. While staying in Poipu you'll be closer to Waimea canyon (75 minute drive to the top) and Polihale state park. Waimea canyon is one of Kauai's must see attractions. The north shore offers miles of uncrowded beaches with mountains and waterfalls as the backdrop. Below are some ideas on places to stay. 

Puu Poa condos are located next to the St. Regis hotel in Princeville. These large luxury condominiums are right above Hideaways beach and have amazing views of the Pacific. They feature large private lanais. Puu Poa is for people appreciate comfort and space and want to be right on the ocean. In the winter months you can spot whales right from your unit. 

Kuhio Shores is one of Kauai's favorite oceanfront condominiums. Situated just a few feet from the water's edge in Poipu, Kuhio Shores is ideal for people who want to be right on the ocean and walking distance to beaches and snorkeling. Lawai beach, a great snorkeling site, is beside Kuhio Shores. There's also a surf break called PK's in front of the condo, but it's not suitable for beginner surfers. Kuhio Shores is somewhat similar to Kona Reef on the Big Island in that both resorts are right on the ocean. Some units at Kona Reef are less than 25ft from the ocean! 

Also located right on the ocean is Poipu Shores, a luxury condominium resort a 5 minute walk to Poipu Beach. This is one of the most dramatic locations on Kauai with waves hitting the lava rocks just feet from the resort. Ground floor units often see ocean spray from their living rooms during periods of high surf. Fortunately the trade wind blow the sea spray away from the building. Look at the photo gallery of this lovely Poipu Shores Condo and you'll see what we mean (it's on the Rates & Reservations page). 

Located almost next to Poipu Shores is Nihi Kai Villas. The mature grounds of this resort feature fruit trees and many interesting plants. There a couple tennis courts, a nice BBQ area, and a pool and kids wading pool. Some of the units at Nihi Kai Villas have amazing ocean views, sweeping down the coastline past Poipu Beach. Nihi Kai is located almost next to Brennecke beach. 

If you don't need ocean views but have a desire for a very comfortable, air conditioned units, take a look at Regency at Poipu Kai Resort. Spacious and inviting, these newer condos are part of the large Poipu Kai Resort which has a 9 court tennis facility. The resort grounds are large but Regency is a short walk from Poipu Beach Park, Brennecke Beach, and Shipwreck beach and the Hyatt Resort. 

Poipu Sands is another condo development within the Poipu Kai resort, located right beside the Hyatt and Shipwreck beach. The units are large, and some offer ocean views. Poipu Sands has a lovely pool and its own tennis court (guests can also take advantage of Poipu Kai Resorts' tennis courts, located a 10 minute walk away). The resort features huge lawn that kids will love. 

If you're looking for a small, private, quiet and luxurious resort in Poipu Whalers Cove is the answer. The resort features very large 2 bedroom units with large lanais, and all have ocean views. Whalers Cove has a wonderful heated pool, a hot tub, and BBQ area. The resort is nearby Baby beach and about a 7 minute walk from Lawai beach. Popiu Beach park and Kiahuna beach are a 5 minute drive away. 

One of the newest developments on Kauai is Koloa Landing. The first phase of development has just been completed. Koloa landing features large, spacious, luxury accommodations. The grounds are still being developed, but 2 swimming pools are already complete. 

The following map of Kauai will give you a good idea where all the beaches are located. You'll notice that poipu has several nice beaches. 

For interest sake, you may be curious to know what the most luxurious condo development in Hawaii is. The answer is Wailea Beach Villas on Maui, located beside Wailea beach. Units range in price from $900 - $2100/night! Some of the units are 3100 sq ft.