Best Kauai lodging for $500

Question

Our family of 5 is traveling to Kauai in late June. We are looking for a place with a kitchenette, enough beds for 5 people, scenic grounds, and access to a pool. I would like to be close to a beach, but not necessarily for swimming. I found two resorts in Kapaa that meet our general requirements and budget ($500/night), but it sounds like Poipu would be a more scenic or relaxing home base. The Pili Mau condos seem new and clean, but too far from the water. Kiahuna Plantation looks wonderful, but I have not been able to find an available unit in our budget that sleeps 5. I appreciate any suggestions!

Answer

It sounds like you're planning an exciting family trip to Kauai! With a budget of $500 per night, you're in a great position to find some wonderful lodging options that offer a kitchenette, ample space for 5 people, and access to a pool. While Kapaa has some great choices, Poipu indeed offers a more scenic and relaxed atmosphere, which is why it's so popular for visitors. Let’s go through some options that might work for your family.

Options in Kapaa Kapaa is a more central location on the island, which makes it a great base for exploring both the north and south shores of Kauai. If you're finding it hard to get availability at places like Kiahuna Plantation, here are a few other Kapaa options that might fit your budget and requirements:

Aston Islander on the Beach: This property is located right across from the beach, offering studios and one-bedroom suites with kitchenettes. The grounds are lush, and there's a pool with an ocean view. It’s a more affordable option and great for families looking to be close to the beach without paying top dollar. Some units can accommodate 5 people if you book a one-bedroom suite with a sofa bed.
Kauai Shores Hotel: This hotel offers a variety of rooms, including suites with kitchenettes. The property has a nice pool area and is located near the beach, making it a good fit for those who want to relax but not necessarily swim in the ocean. It’s a casual and affordable option with scenic grounds, close to both Kapaa and some lovely beaches.
Plantation Hale Suites: Located in the Kapaa area, Plantation Hale offers two-bedroom suites with kitchenettes, making it a great fit for a family of five. The property is just a short walk to the beach and has a pool for guests. It’s not as luxurious as some other places, but it offers a great combination of value, space, and convenience.

Options in Poipu Poipu is definitely a beautiful and more relaxing area to stay, and there are several great properties that might be within your budget, especially if you look for deals or book in advance. Here are some suggestions for Poipu:

Koa Kea Hotel & Resort: While this resort can be pricey, they occasionally offer specials that could bring the cost within your budget, especially for rooms with a kitchenette. This luxury boutique resort is situated right on the beach, and it’s known for its beautiful grounds and great amenities. If you're okay with stretching your budget a bit, this could be a wonderful place to stay for a family.
Poipu Kai Resort: This resort offers spacious condos and is very close to the beach, with access to walking paths and beautiful gardens. Many units have fully equipped kitchens, and the resort has pools, hot tubs, and tennis courts. They often have multiple-bedroom units that are perfect for families and may offer deals that bring the cost close to your budget.
Makahuena Resort: This is a condo resort located in Poipu, offering spacious units with full kitchens. It’s situated near a quieter beach, perfect for relaxation, and has two pools on the property. They have multi-bedroom units that would accommodate your family comfortably. It's a great balance between cost, space, and location.

Other Considerations If you're specifically looking for more space, some vacation rental homes may also be available within your budget. These often come with more flexibility and could provide your family with more privacy and access to a kitchen. Websites like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com can give you a wider variety of choices. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Consider Vacation Rentals: Look for homes or condos in both Kapaa and Poipu that provide more space for your family. Many of these rentals are near the beach, have kitchenettes or full kitchens, and are often more cost-effective for families when compared to hotels.
Book Early: Since you’re planning to visit in June, which is a busy time in Kauai, it’s important to book early to ensure you get the best options within your budget.

Final Thoughts In summary, you have a number of great lodging options in both Kapaa and Poipu. If you are leaning towards Poipu for its scenic and relaxed atmosphere, I would recommend trying the Makahuena Resort or Poipu Kai Resort as they provide excellent value, proximity to the beach, and spacious accommodations. If you’re more interested in central Kauai with easy access to both north and south shores, places like Aston Islander or Plantation Hale Suites are more affordable options that still provide a solid experience.

Make sure to check availability and read reviews to find a place that meets your needs for space, amenities, and budget. Have a wonderful trip to Kauai!