Best location to stay on Kauai for active travelers

Question

We are a multigenerational family of 12 who love to travel and like to stay active. We will want to dive, snorkel, zipline, are interested in waterfall rapelling, would love to flyboard, maybe try kiteboarding, enjoy parasailing and such activities.

We have always stayed on Maui and want to try Kauai. Also want to stay directly oceanfront where the sand is beautiful, direct entry into the ocean (not rocky/coral), and the water is good for enjoying things like paddle boarding.

Can you, please, advise as to the area of Kauai I should begin to look for a rental property that will accommodate our family?

Thank you!

Answer

It sounds like you're planning an exciting and active vacation in Kauai, and you're looking for the best area that offers a combination of beautiful beaches, water activities, and accommodations that can cater to a large, multigenerational family. Kauai is an excellent choice, and here are some top recommendations on where to stay based on your interests and needs:

Best Locations for Active Travelers:

Poipu (South Shore): Poipu is one of the best areas on Kauai for both ocean activities and family-friendly accommodations. The beaches here have soft sand with easy access to the water, making it perfect for paddle boarding, snorkeling, and other water activities. Popular beaches like Poipu Beach and Shipwreck Beach are excellent for swimming, and they offer great conditions for activities like parasailing and bodyboarding. Poipu is also close to a variety of adventure options like ziplining, ATV tours, and waterfall rappelling. This area is bustling with resorts, vacation rentals, and a variety of dining options.
North Shore (Princeville, Hanalei): The North Shore of Kauai offers dramatic landscapes, lush greenery, and some of the island's most beautiful beaches. While the beaches here can sometimes have more rugged terrain or strong surf, the area around Hanalei Bay is known for its calm waters, perfect for paddleboarding and snorkeling. This region also has great options for hiking, with trails that lead to stunning waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. There are also adventure activities like ziplining and kayaking in the Hanalei River, making it a great base for active travelers. The North Shore offers less commercial development compared to the South Shore, so you'll find more secluded properties and quieter beaches.
East Shore (Kapaa, Wailua): The East Shore of Kauai, especially around Kapaa and Wailua, offers access to both beautiful beaches and a variety of active pursuits. The coastline here is ideal for water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and kiteboarding, with Wailua Beach and Lydgate Beach Park offering safe and easy water entry. The East Shore is also conveniently located near the Wailua River, where you can take a kayak tour to Fern Grotto or go waterfall rappelling. This area offers a wide range of rental properties, from oceanfront condos to private homes, and is often more affordable than staying in Poipu or Princeville.

Water Sports and Activities to Consider:

Snorkeling: Poipu Beach and Hanalei Bay are excellent for snorkeling, offering clear waters and abundant marine life. You can also try snorkeling at Ke'e Beach or Tunnels Beach on the North Shore.
Scuba Diving: Kauai offers several great dive sites, including the Sheraton Caverns in Poipu and Niihau (which requires a boat ride and is known for its crystal-clear water and abundant sea life).
Ziplining: The South Shore offers ziplining tours, particularly around Poipu and Koloa, while the North Shore has a zipline over the beautiful Hanalei River.
Parasailing and Flyboarding: Both activities are available around the South Shore, with operators offering parasailing off the beaches near Poipu, while flyboarding can be done in the waters off the coast of Koloa.
Kiteboarding: The East Shore has some great locations for kiteboarding, especially around Kapaa, where the trade winds provide ideal conditions.

Accommodation Options for a Large Family:

Poipu Beach Resort Area: For families looking for a luxury stay with direct access to the beach, consider staying in Poipu at places like the Grand Hyatt Kauai or Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club. These resorts offer multiple pools, family activities, and direct access to the beach.
Princeville Area (North Shore): The North Shore has a range of luxury accommodations, including the St. Regis Princeville Resort (now known as the Princeville Resort) and various rental properties. These resorts provide stunning views of Hanalei Bay and access to some of the best hiking and water activities on the island.
Private Vacation Rentals: If you're looking for a more private and spacious option for your large family, consider renting a large house or villa on Airbnb or VRBO. The South Shore and North Shore both have beautiful homes with direct oceanfront access, often with amenities like pools, hot tubs, and full kitchens, which are ideal for large families.

Conclusion:

For your family’s active vacation, the South Shore (Poipu) and the North Shore (Princeville, Hanalei) are likely the best areas to stay. They both offer access to a wide range of outdoor activities, beautiful beaches for water sports, and a variety of accommodations to suit a large group. If you're looking for a combination of active adventures and relaxation by the beach, these areas will provide the best options for your trip to Kauai.

Best location to stay on Kauai for active travelers

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