(877) 465-2824 [email protected]

EXPLORE KAUAI

Kauai Vacation Guide – Which Side Of The Island Is Best For You?

Once you have your mind set that you want to vacation on Kauai, the next step is to figure out where you’re going to stay. Kauai is pretty small in size, so regardless of where your vacation rental is located, you’ll be able to visit every side in your rental car. However, each side of the island has its own highlights, great beaches to visit, and weather variations.

So before you pack your bags and hop on a flight to Kauai, we’ll help you decide which side of the island is the best for you.

Call us for a quick quote:

Waipouli A301

Which Side Of The Island Reigns Supreme?

Voted by readers of USA Today as one of the top 10 islands to visit in the United States, Kauai truly is a desirable place to vacation to. As mentioned above, each side of the island offers a little something different.

There’s a great selection of vacation rentals, farmers’ markets, luaus, and great activities for all skill levels and ages. Your budget, activity preferences, and personality will help you determine which side of the island reigns supreme.

After exploring the island for yourself, you’ll find that the entire island, with all of its uniqueness and diversity, makes it enjoyable, no matter what side of the island you choose to stay on.

Waipouli Beach Resort

North Kauai

Kauai’s stunning North Shore is an enchanting setting full of rugged mountains, heavenly beaches, sprawling taro fields, and spectacular sea cliffs.

The North Shore is home to Princeville and Hanalei, where you can indulge in world-class dining, local events and farmer’s marketings, shopping, and play at some of Kauai’s premier golf courses.

Learn more about North Kauai

Waipouli Beach Resort

East Kauai

Kauai’s East Side is sometimes referred to as the Royal Coconut Coast for the ample groves of coconut palms that grow along its resort areas.

Amongst the clusters of coconut trees you’ll find historic places, amazing beaches and memorable attractions.

Learn more about East Kauai

Waipouli Beach Resort

South Kauai

A short drive through a tunnel of trees, and highlighted by its perfect beaches, the warm and beautiful south side of Kauai is a sight to behold. The bustling town of Poipu also features unique boutique shops and delicious ocean-side restaurants. Other towns you’ll find on the south side include Old Koloa Town, Kalaheo, and Lawai.

Filled with golf, shopping, beaches, excursions, and sights, there’s never a dull moment on the South Shore of Kauaʻi — that is unless you just want to take a break and nap on the beach.

Learn more about South Kauai

How do I decide?

So, Where Should You Stay?

When determining where you would like to stay, ask yourself:

  • What is the purpose/goal of this trip?
  • What do I want to be close to?
  • Do I want access to a store 24 hours a day?
  • How much time do I want to spend driving to the activities and places that interest me?
  • How secluded do I really want to be?

Here at Kauai Exclusive, we have accommodations to meet everybody’s budget. Whether you’re looking for rooms for $150/night or you want to rent an entire private house, we have you covered. We have an extensive and diverse selection of vacation rentals on the north shore, east side, and south side of Kauai!

A couple taking a photo at the end of a hiking trail on the Napali coast.

Our on-island team is always here to help!

Call us at 877-465-2824 if you have any questions about finding the perfect place to stay on Kauai!