Hotels near Lihue

Question

Can anyone recommend a hotel near airport? We want to stay central and will drive north and south if we wish. Sheraton Coconut Beach, Outrigger?

Answer

Staying near Lihue is a practical choice if you want quick access to the airport, central location for driving both north and south, and convenient amenities. Lihue itself is small but has several hotel options along the eastern coast and nearby areas.

Hotels to consider near Lihue Airport:

Courtyard by Marriott Kauai at Coconut Beach – Located in Wailua, about a 10–15 minute drive from Lihue Airport. Offers modern rooms, a pool, and easy beach access. Central location makes it convenient for north shore and south shore excursions.
Kauai Shores Hotel – A smaller, beachfront property in Kapaa, roughly 10–12 minutes from the airport. Good for casual stays and walking to nearby shops and restaurants.
Waipouli Beach Resort – In Kapaa, about 10–15 minutes from the airport. Full kitchen suites, pools, and on-site dining. Convenient for exploring both northern and southern parts of the island.
Castle Kiahuna Plantation & Beach Bungalows – Located further south in Poipu, about 30–35 minutes from Lihue Airport. If you prefer resort-style amenities and a more southern beach experience, this is a good option, though not as central.
Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort – Near Poipu as well, about 30 minutes from Lihue. Offers full resort amenities and beachfront location, but further from central Lihue for day trips north.

Considerations:

For a centrally located base with easy driving access to both the north and south shores, staying in the Kapaa/Wailua corridor is ideal. It’s about 10–15 minutes from the airport and 20–40 minutes to popular beaches and attractions.
If you prefer resort-style amenities and beachfront luxury, Poipu area hotels like Outrigger or Sheraton Coconut Beach are excellent, but expect longer drives to the north shore (roughly 1 hour).
Parking and car access are generally easy near Lihue, which is helpful for a self-drive itinerary.

Summary Recommendation:

For convenience, central location, and shorter drives to both north and south Kauai, Wailua/Kapaa hotels such as Courtyard by Marriott Kauai at Coconut Beach or Kauai Shores are recommended. If your priority is luxury resort amenities and beachfront relaxation, Poipu options like the Outrigger or Sheraton Coconut Beach are excellent, but further from Lihue Airport and the island’s central area.