12 Tropical Kauai Vacation Rentals For Your Next Hawaiian Adventure

Just 152 steps from the ocean, this sugar plantation-style cottage is teeming with tropical energy and ready to be your little slice of paradise. The Nene Nest is located in Kekaha on the west — and sunniest — side of Kauai! The lavish garden lanai, complete with a private lawn area, is perfect for those early risers looking to feel the gentle Hawaiian breeze with a cup of coffee in hand. Step inside French doors from the lanai to the thoughtfully designed, airy interior with 9-and-a-half-foot ceilings, giant windows, and original crown molding! Curate your favorite dishes or give a local recipe a try in the fully-equipped kitchen, featuring stainless steel appliances and a tasteful backsplash. The Nene Nest’s neutral, earthy decor is sprinkled with beachy floral accents, light oak finishes, and tropical ceiling fans for seeking solace after the sunshine.

Kekaha is considered a true Hawaiian town out of the way of tourists and a splendid location to immerse yourself in the culture of Kauai. Hear grocery-store conversations in the native Hawaiian language, plan to stop for lunch at the Lodge at Kokee, or experience hiking at the exhilarating Waimea Canyon.

Hale Blue Hawaii is a spacious, sun-drenched two-story villa that is perfect for families and just a stone’s throw away from the funky town of Hanalei. The villa boasts a furnished deck and two private lanais off of both bedrooms so you can enjoy the seaside breeze from sunrise to sunset. An open floor plan with stunning wood-paneled ceilings provides a seamless transition as you move from the living area to the tiki-hut kitchen and breakfast bar. From the contemporary drop fixtures, wooden floating shelves, and stainless steel appliances, the well-appointed kitchen is sure to revitalize you. 

Hale Blue Hawaii is exceptionally furnished and designed around dimensional shades of blue.

With top-notch features within the villa and a plethora of on-site resort amenities, this wonderfully convenient accommodation is a great option for those who are looking for a family-oriented, walkable stay. Walk over to the Westin Resort, take a short drive to explore the one-of-a-kind Hanalei, or venture to the Kilauea Lighthouse for a breathtaking view. 

Poipu’s newest upscale neighborhood features a brand new island cottage within walking distance of the famous Poipu beaches. Hale Minoaka is small but mighty accommodation, featuring a fully stocked kitchen, two beach cruisers, and an outdoor shower. Observe the eclectic artwork and island-style furnishings around the home for a true Hawaiian feel. The updated kitchen — adorned with modern light fixtures, subway tile, and walnut cabinets — is the perfect intimate setting for a romantic getaway. Sip some Kona Coffee at the breakfast bar or while lounging in the accent chair, thoughtfully placed by the window for relishing in the sunlight.

Crafted from a place of love, Hale Minoaka has everything you need to enjoy your stay and create Kauai memories to last a lifetime, all the way from beach gear to toiletries. Make the most of your trip by walking over to Poipu Beach, Moir Gardens, and the Poipu Shopping Village! 

This charming coastal cottage, surrounded by swaying palm trees and a black sand beach, is spectacularly located for all that west Kauai has to offer. The beachfront Waimea Beach Cottage offers privacy and peace, from the cozy interior to the spacious backyard. The front deck is perfect for soaking in the ocean views, and the open area pergola patio is nestled in the private backyard and ready to supplement an evening of outdoor relaxation. Step inside the cozy living room that is absolutely to die for with bamboo shades, a beachy jute rug, and a plush sectional. Throughout the home, you will find that the stunning interior design makes for a seamless transition as you move from the kitchen, living room, and bathroom. The laundry area is enclosed just to the right of the home so you won’t be bringing the beach inside! Also included is a variety of beach gear for your use. 

Stroll across the black sand beach up to Waimea State Recreational Pier for spectacular sunset views, or take a short drive to Kekaha Beach Park to watch local surfers ride the waves!

Stay close to popular locations and two beaches at this luxury accommodation! The two-story standalone oceanfront Princeville Villa is completely renovated with exotic hardwood floors, endless windows, and two large lanais. With all of the amenities you’ll need for a fantastic stay, this villa is extraordinarily comfortable while also providing dynamic views of the surrounding landscape. The open floor plan combined with the villa’s many windows makes for spectacular views from any area of the home. The kitchen, family room, and lanais provide spectacular views of waterfalls rushing through the Hihimanu, Namolokama, and Mamalaho mountains. You can sit in the breakfast room to overlook the ocean or dine al fresco on the upper lanai for some fabulous ocean, mountain, and Hanalei Bay views. From the lanai, you could even get lucky and marvel at a double rainbow spreading across Kauai’s lush greenery.  

Located directly across the street from the renowned sunset benches, you can experience breathtaking views of Bali Hai just steps from the Princeville Villa! For the outdoor connoisseur, Hideaway Beach is within walking distance and one of the best snorkeling spots. If hitting the town is more your style, Hanalei Bay is minutes away and is surrounded by shopping and restaurants. 

Nestled in the peaceful and tropical Wailua Valley, this island oasis is a must-stay for those who seek ultimate privacy and comfort while still being centrally located to all that Kauai has to offer. The Sleeping Giant Cottage got its name from residing in the shadow of the legendary Sleeping Giant Mountain, and it sure is dreamy! This up-to-date cottage has the finest details in mind for your stay — with a fully-equipped modern kitchen, screened-in lanai, spacious front porch, and a plunge pool! That’s right, the cottage has a private swimming pool placed in a beautiful, botanical garden–like setting and will surely be your go-to activity for lounging or cooling off in your piece of paradise. 

The Sleeping Giant Cottage boasts a central location that cannot be beat. Honor the cottage’s namesake by heading to the Sleeping Giant Trailhead for hiking, or catch some rays at Wailua Beach and then grab dinner in the town of Kapaa!

Private beach access, beautiful rainforest views, and outdoor dining… need I say more? Anini Ohana is a remarkable, immaculately designed guest cottage adjacent to 1,500 acres of naturally preserved land. This cottage features large windows surrounding the bright and airy living room that connects to the kitchen via a walk-up breakfast bar. Multiple entries surround the home for your convenience, so you can enter into this Hawaiian-country getaway from anywhere that you please. With neutral-colored, comfortable furnishings, Koa-wood cabinets, and a private wet bar, Anini Ohana is the perfect accommodation for your ohana! 

Best of all is the private beach access just 85 short steps away from your door. Anini Beach is known for its calm waters and is swimmable throughout the entire year. Whether you’d like to barbecue in the rainforest out back or make use of the home’s beach equipment for an adventure at Anini Beach, this cottage is sure to impress. 

As you venture out, be sure to visit Princeville Botanical Gardens, Kauai Mini Golf, and Hanalei Valley Lookout!

This island-style lodging is tucked away in Haena, just west of Kepuhi Point on the north shore of Kauai! In between abundant coastal towns and scenic snorkeling, the Beachcomber Bungalow provides peace and quiet in a convenient location with access to a dynamic mix of nearby activities. This beach house is wheelchair accessible, with a ramp leading through the detailed carved-wood entryway as well as roll-in showers in both bathrooms. The open floor plan is a comfort to all who enter, with beautiful hardwood and tile floors, high open-beam ceilings, and skylights for added luxury. Notice the woven bamboo panels and polished black bamboo accents on the walls of the home as you take in your stunning accommodation. Make yourself at home in the fully equipped open kitchen featuring handmade Hawaiian hardwood kitchen countertops.

Kepuhi Point Beach is just steps away and is perfect for evening strolls, seasonal swimming, and falling asleep to the ocean’s lullaby. Explore Maniniholo Dry Cave, Limahuli Garden, and the town of Hanalei for some delicious Hawaiian cuisine. 

This riverfront tropical escape is paired with an idyllic beach-town atmosphere and unbelievably breathtaking views of mountains and waterfalls. Dolphin Cottage 4 is a stilted contemporary plantation cottage located on the Hanalei River, promising fresh coastal air and the sounds of songbirds. Feel the sun on your skin in the quaint dining area with panoramic windows overlooking the turquoise river, or grill up a Hawaiian BBQ on the gas grill while reveling in the beauty of the mountains. From the baby blue paneled exterior and tropical-themed modern interior to the ceiling fans in each room, Dolphin Cottage 4 is sure to impress. 

This Kauai gem will inspire awe within you and instill a state of invigoration as you remain close to the beach and Kauai’s most popular beach town. Dive into the culture of the north shore at Hanalei Pier, Puupoa Beach, then dine at the on-site Dolphin Restaurant. 

An extraordinary mix of old Hawaii and modern luxury awaits you at The Sea Glass Cottage! Just steps from Poipu Beach, this custom-designed cottage, complete with a spacious lanai and abundant landscaping, offers all you need to make your visit to the Garden Isle an unforgettable one. Two master suites with plush king beds and tropical ceiling fans will make for a comfortable end of each day, as well as an indoor shower leading to a private outdoor shower for rinsing off under the starry Hawaiian sky. This beautifully furnished, airy abode seamlessly blends 21st-century style with the history of the tropics — from floral accents and stainless steel appliances to bamboo shades and Hawaiian wood accents! The large, covered lanai has an outdoor grill, a lovely outdoor dining area, and a place for lounging with your morning coffee. 

The Sea Glass Cottage provides beach amenities for your day on the waves at Poipu Beach. Walk over to Brennecke’s Restaurant after your beach day, get your shop on at the upscale Kukuiula Shopping Center, or experience a boat tour of the Napali Coast in Port Allen!

Enjoy this newly remodeled, picturesque beach home near the world-renowned Tunnels Beach! Hallor Hale is located on a peaceful cul-de-sac on the north shore of Kauai and features a newly updated interior with two lanais. You will be stunned by the high wood-beam ceilings, fresh and airy paint, and neutral color scheme. From the drop light fixtures to the contemporary kitchen, it is apparent that this island lodging was designed with luxury in mind. Floating shelves in the kitchen pair beautifully with the stainless steel farmhouse sink, and the open floor plan makes a breezy transition from the kitchen to the cozy, earth-toned living area. The main floor of the home has direct access to the lanai, and the rich hardwood floors and bright white ceiling fans undoubtedly embody floor-to-ceiling luxury. The upper-level bedroom has a spacious private lanai as well. After experiencing the beauty of Tunnels Beach, take advantage of the new outdoor shower and rinse off the golden sand. 

Check out the adventurous Kalalau Trail at Nāpali Coast State Park or have a day of surf and sun at Ke’e Beach! 

With tropical breezes and long-range ocean views, this exceptional two-story accommodation is ready to enhance your seaside stay! Aliomanu Palms is steps away from a glorious white sand beach and offers beautiful ocean views from the lower lanai, upper lanai, and living area. Vaulted ceilings add a distinctive flair to the Hawaiian-style living area, surrounded by windows for a panoramic glimpse of the deep blue. Best for larger groups, this home boasts three large bathrooms and can sleep up to eight individuals. You can dine at the beautifully staged indoor dining table, or al fresco on the upper lanai to the sounds of the tide. Of course, the interior of the home is sprinkled with ceiling fans, accompanying the Pacific Ocean trade winds to make for a gentle, salty breeze. Lounge on the lower lanai and private lawn to watch the waves crash over black ocean rock just outside your door. 

Observe playful dolphins from the shore at Anahola Beach Park, spend the day at Papa’a Bay Beach, or visit the historical Spalding Monument.