Top Rated Vacation Rentals in Kauai, Hawaii

Embarking on a family adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Kauai, Hawaii promises sun-soaked memories and tropical bliss. Yet, the last thing you want is to cramp your family’s style, quite literally, in a single hotel room. The key to an unforgettable family vacation lies not only in the scenic beauty that Kauai offers but also in the spacious and comfortable haven you choose to call home during your stay.

In this guide, I unveil the top vacation rentals on the island, designed with families in mind, ensuring that everyone has their own slice of paradise to unwind, play, and make the most of their Hawaiian getaway. From relaxing beachfront villas to charming cottages nestled in tropical gardens, these accommodations offer not only comfort and convenience but also a genuine taste of the Aloha spirit.

Bid farewell to cramped quarters and say aloha to the spacious retreats in the Garden Isle. Join us on a journey through the best family-friendly retreats that Kauai has to offer, and get ready to create lasting memories in this Hawaiian paradise. These are the top-rated vacation rentals for families in Kauai, Hawaii.

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Which Part of the Island Should You Stay On?

This fabulous map, created by Shaka Guide, is a great visual of the layout of Kauai. There are 5 main regions of Kauai: The North Shore, Na Pali Coast, Southwest Side, South Shore, and East Side. The South Shore is known to be the sunniest part of the island, while the lush North Shore has a rainforest climate, making it the wettest region. It is important to note that even though the North Shore is the rainiest part of Kauai, it usually does not rain all day. This is a tropical climate, where rain is likely, but passes quickly.

The cliffs of the Na Pali Coast take up the entire northwest part of Kauai, making it impossible to drive completely around the island. Driving from the southwest corner of Kauai, to the northern town of Princeville will take a little over 2 hours.

In order to cut back on driving times, I recommend that you stay part of your trip in the South Shore and part of your trip in the North Shore. This will give you the best access to your attractions with the least amount of driving time. If you don’t want to switch accommodations in the middle of your trip, I suggest you stay on the East Side in the town of Kapa’a.

For a full 8 day itinerary that includes switching accommodations mid-week, check out The Ultimate 8 Day Kauai Itinerary.

North Shore: Top-Rated Vacation Rentals

The North Shore is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches in Kauai. It is definitely the most beautiful part of the island. The North Shore also boasts stunning views of lush mountains and access to the Na Pali Coast by land. For a comprehensive list of the top North Shore activities in Kauai, click here.

These are the top-rated vacation rentals in the North Shore of Kauai.

Hawaii Life Rentals Pu’u Poa 302, 2 bedroom condo, Sleeps 4
5 Bedroom Home with Pool & Water Slide, Sleeps 18

Ocean Front 2 Bedroom Condo, Sleeps 6

Ocean Front 2 bedroom Penthouse Condo, Sleeps 4

Wyndham Bali Hai 2 Bedroom Villa, Sleeps 6

3 Bedroom House with Pool, Sleeps 6

3 Bedroom Oceanfront Penthouse, Sleeps 6
Oceanfront 2 bedroom Condo, Sleeps 4

2 Bedroom Beach Front Condo, Sleeps 4
2 Bedroom Plantation Style Condo, Sleeps 4
2 Bedroom Jungle/Mountain View Luxury Condo, Sleeps 5

3 Bedroom Jungle Mountain View, Walk to Tunnels Beach, Sleeps 4

South Shore: Top-Rated Vacation Rentals

The South Shore of Kauai is known to be the sunniest part of the island. It also has the famous Poipu Beach and easiest access to Waimea Canyon. These are the top-rated vacation rentals in the South Shore of Kauai.

3 Bedroom Oceanview House in Poipu, Sleeps 6

Poipu Beach Estates 3 Bedroom, Sleeps 7

2 Bedroom Pilli Mai Condo, Sleeps 6

5 Bedroom Luxury Home, Sleeps 12

Hale Ohana 5 Bedroom Beachfront Home, Sleeps 10

Kiahuna Beach 3 Bedroom Condo, Sleeps 9

2 Bedroom Poipu Makai Oceanfront Condo, Sleeps 4

4 Bedroom Pili Mai Condo, Sleeps 10

4 Bedroom Ocean View House, Sleeps 9

East Side: The Top-Rated Vacation Rentals

The East Side of Kauai is known as the Coconut Coast and most known for Wailua Falls and the Wailua River. Paddle boarding, Kayaking Tours and river tubing are all popular activities on the Wailua River. Waipouli Beach is a popular beach on the East Side. These are the top-rated vacation rentals on the East Side of Kauai.

Waipouli Beach Resort Luxury Oceanfront Condo, Sleeps 7
Waipouli Beach Resort Luxury 2 Bedroom Condo with yard, Sleeps 8
Waipouli Beach Resort Luxury 2 Bedroom Condo, Sleeps 8
Lai Nani Beachfront 2 Bedroom Condo, Sleeps 4
2 Bedroom Beachfront Condo Waipouli Beach, Sleeps 4
Oceanview Waipouli Beach Condo, 2 Bedroom, Sleeps 6

For more vacation rental options, check out VRBO.com, Expedia.com or Booking.com.