Episode Details

Back to Episodes

Best Areas to Stay on Kauai— Ep 73

Episode 73 Published 8 months, 2 weeks ago
Description

Choosing the Perfect Area to Stay in Kauai: A Comprehensive Guide

In this episode, Marcie breaks down the key factors to consider when choosing where to stay in Kauai, Hawaii. She details the differences between the North Shore, South Shore, East Side, and West Side, providing insights on weather, beaches, accessibility, and overall vibe of each area. Marcie advises on the best spots depending on your travel priorities, whether you're looking for sunny beaches, dramatic scenery, central location, or solitude. The episode also offers guidance on making the decision easier with personalized consultations. Perfect for first-time visitors trying to navigate the diverse options of Kauai.

00:00 Common Mistakes When Booking in Princeville
00:18 Choosing the Right Area in Kauai
01:09 Why Poipu is Popular
02:31 Exploring the North Shore: Princeville and Hanalei
03:54 The East Side: Kapaa, Wailua, and Lihue
04:59 The Remote West Side: Waimea and Kekaha
05:36 Final Tips for Choosing Your Kauai Destination
05:59 Personalized Travel Consultations
06:53 Conclusion and Subscription Reminder

Who this episode is for: First-time Kauai visitors trying to decide where to base themselves across the island's very different regions.

What you'll learn: The character of Kauai's North Shore, South Shore, East Side, and West Side, and how weather, beaches, accessibility, and vibe should factor into your choice.

Places discussed:

  • Poipu (South Shore)
  • Princeville
  • Hanalei (North Shore)
  • Kapaa
  • Wailua
  • Lihue (East Side)
  • Waimea
  • Kekaha (West Side)

Activities discussed:

  • Choosing an accommodation area
  • Booking in Princeville (common mistakes discussed)

Marcie's recommendations:

  • Poipu (South Shore): consistently popular for sunny, reliable beach weather
  • North Shore (Princeville, Hanalei): dramatic scenery, but rainier and more remote — watch for common booking mistakes here specifically
  • East Side (Kapaa, Wailua, Lihue): central location, good accessibility
  • West Side (Waimea, Kekaha): the most remote and solitude-focused option
  • Match your area choice to your priorities — sunny beaches, dramatic scenery, central convenience, or solitude
  • Get a consultation for personalized help choosing the right area for your specific trip

Related Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes: 

Related articles:

Additional resources:

About Your Host: Marcie Cheung is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert who has visited Hawaii 40+ times and spent 20+ years as a professional hula dancer. Through Hawaii Travel with Kids, she helps families plan authentic, affordable Hawaii vacations that respect local culture while creating unforgettable memories.

Learn more at hawaiitravelwithkids.com

Connect: