Kauai, Hawaii is an absolutely magical place. It's called the Garden Isle and as soon as you arrive, you'll know why. Lush greenery surrounds you everywhere you go! It is less commercialized and crowded than many Hawaiian islands, which make it the perfect place to get away for your next family vacation. If you want to save some serious time searching for places to stay in Kauai, you've some to the right place! Below, I have put together my list of the absolute BEST family friendly vacation rentals in Kauai.
I highly recommend you split your time in Kauai between the north shore and the south shore to really get the best that Kauai has to offer. So, I've listed my top 10 places to stay on the north & south shores. Be sure to check out my article Visiting Kauai, Hawaii With Kids to learn exactly what I recommend for things to do, places to eat, what to pack, etc….it's your ultimate Kauai family travel guide!
I absolutely LOVE vacation rentals like VRBO & Airbnb! In my opinion, vacation homes are hands-down the best lodging option for families. Sure, you could stay in a hotel, but there just isn’t enough room for a family of 4, 5, 6, or more to spread out in a hotel. These kid-friendly vacation rentals are just what you need!
I know it can take hours and hours to sift through the thousands of amazing properties. Not to worry! I’ve done all the research for you and narrowed it down to the top vacation homes in Kauai for families.
Please note:
- Some of the property names look a little strange – this is how they are listed.
- All photos courtesy of VRBO (unless otherwise noted).
PRO TIP: Once you click on a property and decide you love it, make sure to click on the heart to save it so you can easily find it again when you are ready to book. Create a list for each specific trip to keep everything organized. Be aware, the quicker you book it, the better. The best places get booked up FAST and you don't want to miss out on your favorite!
Top 10 Family Friendly Vacation Homes On Kauai's North Shore
The north shore is my personal favorite. I just love how chill it is. Princeville is the area I recommend because of the AMAZING sunset views you will see from there & it's just a short drive to Hanalei! The best part about this area is that there are so many places to choose from that have AWESOME views of the mountains & ocean! I've listed the homes in order of price starting with the lowest.
1. Pali Ke Kua #103: A/C Condo with Mount Makana & Sunset Views!
This one is a personal recommendation. I stayed here with my small family of three in March and the sunset view from the patio was perfection (I took that picture with my phone)! The location could not have been better and it was clean, comfortable, & well stocked. They also provided some extras like beach chairs, boogie boards, etc. – which was a HUGE bonus! I cannot wait to go back!
Bedrooms: 1
Beds: 2 (1 king, 1 sleeper sofa)
Bathrooms: 1
Maximum # of guests: 3
Click HERE to check it out.
2. Oceanfront Condo in Paradise with Stunning Views, Beach Access, & Bedroom A/C
This one is in the same condo complex as my first pick, but with a bit more space. Enjoy great views and fun island decor.
Bedrooms: 2
Beds: 3 (1 king, 1 queen, 1 sleeper sofa)
Bathrooms: 2
Maximum # of guests: 6
Click HERE to check it out.
3. Luxurious 3 Bedroom, 3 Bath Townhouse with Air Conditioning and Mountain Views!
Enjoy gorgeous mountain and waterfall views from this super-spacious townhome with plenty of space for 6.
Bedrooms: 3
Beds: 3 (2 king, 1 queen)
Bathrooms: 3
Maximum # of guests: 6
Click HERE to check it out.
PRO TIP: Make sure you have really good hiking shoes if you plan on hitting the trails while you are there. They can get really muddy & slippery!
4. Meticulously Renovated Oceanfront Condo Offers Every Amenity
Another great condo with an awesome view! Have breakfast on the patio and enjoy the sounds of the waves.
Bedrooms: 2
Beds: 3 (1 king, 2 double)
Bathrooms: 2
Maximum # of guests: 4
Click HERE to check it out.
5. Oceanfront Puu Poa Condo 311 W/AC, Lanai, Grill and WhiteWater Bali Hai View
Plenty of space inside & out with the over-sized patio.
Bedrooms: 2
Beds: 3 (1 king, 1 queen, 1 blow-up mattress)
Bathrooms: 2
Maximum # of guests: 6
Click HERE to check it out.
6. Hawaiian-style Oceanfront Villa – Outrageous Views, Beach Access, Ahh!
Stand-alone villa with stunning mountain views!
Bedrooms: 3
Beds: 3 (1 king, 1 queen, 1 twin)
Bathrooms: 2
Maximum # of guests: 5
Click HERE to check it out.
7. Hanalei Bay Resort Kauai Luxury 2 Bedroom North Shore Remodeled Condo
Wondering where to stay in Kauai with kids? Lovely condo with great mountain views and an awesome community pool!
Bedrooms: 2
Beds: 3 (2 king, 1 sleeper sofa/futon)
Bathrooms: 2
Maximum # of guests: 6
Click HERE to check it out.
8. Paradise Awaits! Exquisitely Remodeled State of the Art Condo
This 4th floor corner unit provides spectacular views from every angle. You'll love the simple, modern décor and dual king suites perfect for families or couples!
Bedrooms: 2
Beds: 2 (2 king)
Bathrooms: 2
Maximum # of guests: 4
Click HERE to check it out.
9. Aloha & welcome to beautiful Hanalei Bay Resort ocean view room 9104,5,6
WOW! Enjoy this stunning view from the patio, while laying in bed (any of the beds), even while soaking in the tub! Beautifully decorated. A truly remarkable place to stay!
Bedrooms: 3
Beds: 4 (3 king, 1 queen)
Bathrooms: 3
Maximum # of guests: 8
Click HERE to check it out.
10. 4,000sq ft. Modern Luxury Home w/Amazing Views, A/C & Pool. Laulea Kailani VIlla
If you are looking for privacy, luxury, and tons of space, this is THE place! Everything about this home is absolutely stunning! There are decks everywhere to enjoy the amazing views from and extra-large doors throughout to bring the outdoors in! If you want an awesome place to stay in Kauai with a pool, this place is perfect. This is the Hawaiian dream.
Bedrooms: 3
Beds: 3 (2 king, 1 queen)
Bathrooms: 3.5
Maximum # of guests: 6
Click HERE to check it out.
👍ARE YOU TRAVEL OBSESSED? Join ‘Our Travel Obsession' Facebook group!
Top 10 Family Friendly Vacation Homes On Kauai's South Shore
The south shore is home to one of the best beaches for snorkeling in the world – Poipu Beach. I've specifically selected properties close to Poipu Beach. Plus, this is the area where you'll find my favorite Mai Tai on the island (read this article to learn more about that). I've listed the homes in order of price starting with the lowest.
1. Rare Find w/ 2 AC! Newly remodeled #151, ideally located, Kiahuna Plantation
Nice condo just steps to the beach. We stayed in this complex in a very similar unit (though the exact condo is no longer available). It's in a convenient location close to beaches, shops and restaurants. The lawn just outside is perfect for the kids to run around on making this a super-kid-friendly vacation rental in Kauai.
Bedrooms: 1
Beds: 2 (1 king, 1 sleeper sofa)
Bathrooms: 1
Maximum # of guests: 4
Click HERE to check it out.
2. Alihi Lani #3 Oceanfront – 2 Bd/2Ba – New Air Conditioning
Beautiful ocean views and just steps to the pool. The kids can play in the pool while you enjoy sunsets from the patio. It's the perfect family vacation home in Kauai!
Bedrooms: 2
Beds: 3 (1 king, 2 twin, 1 sleeper sofa)
Bathrooms: 2
Maximum # of guests: 6
Click HERE to check it out.
3. Best Oceanfront – Walls of windows on famous surf and sunset, 2BR/2BA, A/C
Enjoy these gorgeous views from every angle. Two king beds are perfect for your family of four or two couples!
Bedrooms: 2
Beds: 2 (2 king)
Bathrooms: 2
Maximum # of guests: 4
Click HERE to check it out.
4. AC CONDO, CAN'T GET ANY CLOSER TO THE OCEAN THAN THIS
See & hear the ocean from every room – even while laying on one of two king beds! Enjoy watching whales, turtles and dolphins from your patio.
Bedrooms: 2
Beds: 2 (2 king)
Bathrooms: 1
Maximum # of guests: 4
Click HERE to check it out.
5. Closest Vacation Home To Poipu Beach – 100 Ft Away!!! Pool!!
Located just steps from two wonderful beaches. This place is all about location!
Bedrooms: 2
Beds: 2 (2 king, 2 mats for kids if needed)
Bathrooms: 2
Maximum # of guests: 6
Click HERE to check it out.
6. Alihi Lani 5 – Oceanfront – Sunset Views – Walk to the Beach – Air Conditioned
Large comfy patio to enjoy the sounds & 2nd floor views. This condo complex only has 6 units so the pool will never be too crowded. Prepare to see wildlife & beautiful sunsets!
Bedrooms: 2
Beds: 5 (2 king, 2 twin, 1 sleeper sofa)
Bathrooms: 2
Maximum # of guests: 5
Click HERE to check it out.
7. Stunning new home…..walk to Poipu Beach
Just down the road from the beach is this luxury vacation home in Kauai. This home is roomy & beautifully decorated. Relax on the huge patio & enjoy the ocean breeze. Hang out in the hot tub with a glass of wine. Big enough for your extended family! They've provided many extras including a crib for the baby. And…you'll never want to leave the outdoor shower fit for two!!
Bedrooms: 3
Beds: 6 (2 king, 4 queen bunks, 1 crib)
Bathrooms: 3
Maximum # of guests: 8
Click HERE to check it out.
8. STUNNING OCEANFRONT * Poipu's Best View * 3Bdm/3Bath Penthouse Poipu Makai Koloa
Another amazing view! Short walk to nearby beaches. Hear the waves crashing below and watch the ocean wildlife as you take in the amazing sunsets!
Bedrooms: 3
Beds: 4 (2 king, 2 twin)
Bathrooms: 3
Maximum # of guests: 6
Click HERE to check it out.
9. Marriott Waiohai- Beautiful resort on Poipu Beach
This property would be my #1 choice for where to stay on Kauai's south shore. It is literally steps to Poipu Beach. Plus, the property has a lounging area by the beach exclusive to guests – the PERFECT place to watch the sunset. They also have one of the only beach side bars in the area (the food & frozen Mai Tai's are awesome)! The grounds are beautiful and the pool is close to the beach as well. The location and space make it one of the best vacation homes in Kauai for families.
Bedrooms: 2
Beds: 3 (2 king, 1 sleeper sofa)
Bathrooms: 2
Maximum # of guests: 8
Click HERE to check it out.
10. OceanViews Luxury Home, Pool/AC walk to beaches
If you want a luxurious & spacious home for your big family, this is it! Three king beds! Your own private pool & hot tub. It's bright, beautiful, & spacious!
Bedrooms: 4
Beds: 6 (3 king, 1 queen, 2 twin)
Bathrooms: 4
Maximum # of guests: 10
Click HERE to check it out.
Now that you have a nice short list of the best vacation rentals for families in Kauai – which one will you choose?
What Makes My “Top 10 for Families” list?
As you can imagine, I look at a LOT of different factors, but SOME of the things I consider are:
- What area is the property in? Is it close to things you want to do when visiting the area?
- Does it have a washer & dryer? You can save yourself so much packing by having a washer & dryer and you won’t be stressed if the kids get messier than you expected.
- Does it have a kitchen? That way, you don’t have to eat out every meal (which can save a lot of money).
- What do the reviews look like? Reviews can tell you so much about a property. Never rent a short-term rental for your family without reading a few of the reviews.
- How many beds/bedrooms? One of the biggest reasons to rent an Airbnb instead of getting a hotel room is more space & more privacy.
- What's the view like? Depending on the area, a nice view is a must!
Still didn’t find what you were looking for?
Never fear! VRBO has so many properties you can search through. Click HERE to go explore more amazing family-friendly properties on your own and find YOUR perfect family friendly vacation home in Kauai. Want me to do it for you? I offer travel planning assistance as well. You can chill out & I'll do all the digging. Click below to learn more:
Don't forget to check out my article Visiting Kauai, Hawaii With Kids to see my recommendations for things to do in Kauai, places to eat in Kauai, what to pack for Kauai, etc….it's your ultimate family travel guide! Check out The ULTIMATE Vacation Packing List and Airplane Etiquette: Rules To Fly By as well!
Until next time…
About The Author
Jody Phifer has been a travel blogger & travel planner since 2019. With her husband and son by her side, she takes on incredible adventures all over the world. She especially loves hiking through the mountains & soaking in breathtaking views. Jody is passionate about sharing her experiences and love of travel, by offering valuable information and inspiration! Learn more about Jody here.
My Favorite Travel Booking Apps & Websites
⭐MY TRAVEL OBSESSION:
- Products & Services – My Travel Obsession's travel planning products, services, and freebies!
- What To Pack – See all of my personal favorite travel items.
- Travel Resources – Resources that I use most when planning, booking & traveling.
🏡FOR FINDING GREAT PLACES TO STAY:
- VRBO – My #1 recommendation for family-friendly lodging options.
- Expedia – My favorite for hotel bookings.
🚗FOR CAR & RV RENTALS:
- Discover Cars & Sixt – My favorite sites for rental cars worldwide.
- Turo.com – Rent a car from an individual owner – It's like VRBO for cars!
- RVShare – Rent an RV for your next family road trip!
🚁FOR ACTIVITIES, EXCURSIONS, & TOURS:
- Viator & Get Your Guide – The best sites to find and book activities & excursions.
- Gypsy Guide – An AWESOME audio tour app. ALWAYS check to see if they have a tour available.
🩺FOR TRAVEL INSURANCE:
- SafetyWing – The lowest-cost travel insurance out there. Several options starting as low as $42 for 4 weeks of coverage.
✈FOR FINDING GREAT FLIGHT DEALS:
- Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights) – My #1 recommendation for saving big $$$ on flights. Sign up for a free 14-day trial.
🥾FOR HIKING:
- AllTrails – THE APP for hikers. I recommend paying for the pro version so you can use the navigation feature while hiking.
Once you're done here, head to the homepage to explore or jump to one of these categories: Texas Travel ~ US Travel ~ International Travel ~ Travel Tips & Tricks ~ Travel Gear & Gadgets ~ What To Pack ~ Travel Planning ~ Shop