Kauai vacation rentals
Book unique homes, vacation rentals, and more on Airbnb
Top-rated vacation rentals in Kauai
Guests agree: these vacation rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.
Vacation rentals for every style
Get the amount of space that is right for you
Popular amenities for Kauai vacation rentals
Kauai beach vacation rentals
Condo in Kapaa
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 255 reviewsBIG Ocean View, pool,Full Kitchen, King, WiFi, 203
Rental unit in Koloa
4.77 out of 5 average rating, 118 reviewsBeachcomber: Lanai, AC, and Short Walk to Beach!
Condo in Kapaʻa
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 140 reviewsSteps From Ocean Private Bedroom Pool Ground Floor
Villa in Koloa
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 104 reviews3BR villa with A/C, pool and 10min walk to beach
Home in Princeville
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 149 reviewsHawaiian-style Oceanfront Villa - Outrageous Views
Condo in Kapaʻa
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 176 reviewsBlue Ocean Breeze Entire Studio 1-minute to beach!
Condo in Kapaʻa
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviewsStylish Kauai Condo on the Beach
Condo in Koloa
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 104 reviewsOceanfront Ground Floor Steps To The Beach {A/C}
Private Kauai vacation rentals
Townhouse in Koloa
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviewsLuxury Poipu 4br Villa with AC Walk to the Beach!
Home in Hanalei
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 103 reviewsPristine and Charming - Walk to Beach and Town
Condo in Princeville
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 121 reviewsPlantation Princeville Luxury Condo
Townhouse in Koloa
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 216 reviewsPoipulani Paradise Villa..See Special:
Condo in Princeville
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 234 reviewsOceanfront Art Gallery, Views-O-Plenty!
Home in Princeville
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviewsPrinceville Paradise Home w/ AC - 4 BD 3.5 BA Home
Home in Princeville
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviewsMele Olina, Private Home-golf course & ocean view
Home in Koloa
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 111 reviewsPoipu Custom Home, Central AC & Pool/Gym
Kauai fishing vacation rentals
Condo in Koloa
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 49 reviewsQuiet Kiahuna plantation , New Remodel with AC
Rental unit in Princeville
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 46 reviewsCount the Waterfalls from Elegant Condo with AC!
Rental unit in Koloa
4.8 out of 5 average rating, 51 reviewsBeach Front Resort Condo - Newly Remodeled
Condo in Princeville
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 33 reviewsNewly Renovated, Modern Beach 70’s Surfer Vibes
Condo in Princeville
4.71 out of 5 average rating, 42 reviewsReduced Rate! 3 Bdrm Townhome Near Beaches & Golf
Townhouse in Princeville
4.79 out of 5 average rating, 39 reviewsFall special 15% off now till 12/20/24 Ocean, Suns
Condo in Koloa
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 47 reviewsLUX 1st floor condo 50 yds from Poipu Beach!
Your guide to Kauai
All About Kauai
Kauai’s reputation as the most tropical of all the Hawaiian Islands is well deserved. The verdant isle, which erupted into existence over 5 million years ago, is 552 square miles of emerald jungles, jagged volcanic spires, lush waterfalls, aquamarine pools, and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. If you’re the active type, there’s so much to do on Kauai — hiking, snorkeling, sailing, scuba diving, horseback riding, and much more. The island is also a mellower and less crowded experience when compared to either Oahu or Maui, and it’s not uncommon to find a stretch of beach or hiking trail to call your own.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Kauai
Vacationers will be pleased to know temperatures are pleasantly warm in Kauai year- round, peaking around August with an average of 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, reflective of the island’s lush greenery, it also drizzles and rains year-round. The dry season spans from April through October, with wetter storms arriving more regularly between November and March. But rain is often intermittent, allowing interludes of sunshine to peek through most days.
Despite its Garden Island moniker, Kauai hosts numerous microclimates to prepare for if you explore beyond the beaches. These microclimates span from shirt-soaking humidity in the tropical rainforests to arid heat on the southwestern side, where cactus can be common. It’s always a good idea to pack a light windbreaker, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen when visiting Kauai.
Top things to do in Kauai
Na Pali Coast Trail
Even if you don’t consider yourself much of a hiker, the first 2 miles of the 11-mile out-and-back Kalalau Trail deserve the effort. The views along this steep oceanside trail are spectacular, with a picturesque pocket beach and the hidden valley of Hanakāpī‘ai awaiting.
Waimea Canyon State Park
Imagine the Grand Canyon overtaken by a tropical jungle and you get a rudimentary sense of the awe-inspiring vistas visitors experience while surveying this majestic, red-tinged canyon.
Mount Waiʻaleʻale
Anyone approaching the sheer emerald walls of Mount Waiʻaleʻale, which reach upward 5,148 feet, shouldn’t expect to stay dry. Reputedly the wettest place on Earth and the originating source of all seven of Kauai’s rivers, Mount Waiʻaleʻale requires a special guide (or helicopter ride) to explore, but is a uniquely Kauai experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the weather in Kauai?
Kauai enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures typically ranging between 70°F (21°C) and 85°F (29°C) all year round. Rain is more frequent between November and March, especially in the north and east, while the south and west coasts are generally drier.
What are some of the best things to do in Kauai?
Explore the natural wonder of Na Pali Coast by boat or helicopter, immerse yourself in the tropical beauty of Waimea Canyon, or snorkel in the clear waters of Poipu Beach. Don't miss the chance to hike the Kalalau Trail for breathtaking views, or visit a traditional Hawaiian luaus to experience local culture and cuisine.
What is the best time of year to visit Kauai?
The most popular time to visit Kauai is during the summer months from April to October due to the warm, tropical weather. However, you may want to consider visiting in January for the Pacific Missile Range Facility's Discover Kauai Day, which is a community event featuring local food, music, and crafts.
What are the best places to stay in Kauai?
Popular areas to stay in Kauai include Princeville for its luxury resorts, Poipu for its beach access and family-friendly accommodations, and Kapaa for its affordability and central location. Lihue is also a popular choice due to its proximity to the airport and various amenities.
What are the best places to visit in Kauai?
Kauai has many scenic and historical sites to explore, such as the Fern Grotto, Wailua River State Park, and Kilauea Lighthouse. Consider visiting the Limahuli Garden and Preserve to see rare plants, or explore the Old Koloa Town for a glimpse into Kauai's sugar plantation history.
What are some hiking trails in Kauai?
For those who enjoy hiking, explore the stunning Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast, or take the Awa'awapuhi Trail that leads to a lookout over the valley. The Kuilau Ridge Trail offers lush rainforest views, while the Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail takes you along the sea cliffs and sand dunes of the south coast.
What are some family activities to do in Kauai?
Families can enjoy a range of activities in Kauai. Explore the National Tropical Botanical Garden, take a river kayak tour on the Wailua River, or enjoy a day on the sunny shores of Poipu Beach. The Kauai Children's Discovery Museum is also a wonderful place for kids to learn and have fun.
What are some of the best day trip ideas in Kauai?
Visit the coastal town of Hanalei with its stunning bay and historic pier or head to Kalaheo to explore the Kauai Coffee Estate. A trip to Polihale State Park offers a remote beach experience, while a visit to the Allerton Garden provides a tranquil setting with exotic plants.
Destinations to explore
- Rentals with a patio Kauai
- Rentals with beach access Kauai
- Kid-friendly rentals Kauai
- Beach condo rentals Kauai
- Fitness-friendly rentals Kauai
- Rentals with pools Kauai
- Rentals with a washer and dryer Kauai
- Apartment rentals Kauai
- Rentals with an EV charger Kauai
- Cottage rentals Kauai
- Rentals with outdoor seating Kauai
- Villa rentals Kauai
- Rentals with a fire pit Kauai
- Family-friendly rentals Kauai
- Resort rentals Kauai
- Condo rentals Kauai
- Rentals with a hot tub Kauai
- Serviced apartment rentals Kauai
- House rentals Kauai
- Hotel rentals Kauai
- Pet-friendly rentals Kauai
- Rentals with a kayak Kauai
- Luxury rentals Kauai
- Townhouse rentals Kauai
- Beach house rentals Kauai
- Beachfront rentals Kauai
- Rentals with a fireplace Kauai
- Monthly Rentals Kauai
- Waterfront rentals Kauai
- Cabins United States
- Treehouses United States
- Glamping United States
- Tiny Houses United States
- Beach Houses United States
- Campers and RVs United States
- Lakehouses United States
- Yurt Rentals United States
- Yurt Rentals United Kingdom
- Castle Rentals United States
- Houseboats United States
- Holiday Caravans United Kingdom
- Private Island Rentals United States
- Farm Houses United States
- Farm Cottages United Kingdom
- Cabin Rentals Australia
- Luxury Cabins United Kingdom
- Luxury Cabins United States
- Holiday Chalets United Kingdom
- Cottage Rentals United States
- Holiday Cottages United Kingdom
- Mansion Rentals United States
- Villa Rentals United Kingdom
- Holiday Bungalows United Kingdom
- Bungalow Rentals United States
- Condo Rentals United States
- Holiday Apartments Australia
- Holiday Houses United States
- Holiday Houses United Kingdom
- Private Holiday Rentals United Kingdom
- Big House Rentals United States
- Big Cottages Australia
- Large Villas United Kingdom
- House Rentals with a Pool United States
- Cabin Rentals with a Pool United States
- Villas with a Pool United Kingdom
- Apartments with a Hot Tub United States
- Holiday Cottages with a Hot Tub United Kingdom
- Beach Cabins United States
- Beach Condos United States
- Beachfront Rentals United States
- Beach Houses United Kingdom
- Beach Villas United Kingdom
- Coastal Cottages United Kingdom
- Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals United States
- Pet-Friendly Beach Rentals United States
- Pet-Friendly Cabin Rentals United States
- Dog-Friendly Cottages United Kingdom
- Luxury Dog-Friendly Cottages United Kingdom
- Things to do United States
- Art and culture United States
- Entertainment United States
- Sports activities United States
- Food and drink United States
- Sightseeing United States
- Nature and outdoors United States
- Wellness United States
- Things to do Hawaii
- Sightseeing Hawaii
- Sports activities Hawaii
- Nature and outdoors Hawaii
- Wellness Hawaii
- Art and culture Hawaii
- Food and drink Hawaii
- Things to do Kauai County
- Nature and outdoors Kauai County
- Wellness Kauai County
- Art and culture Kauai County
- Things to do Kauai
- Art and culture Kauai
- Wellness Kauai
- Nature and outdoors Kauai
- Family travel hub Tips and inspiration
- Family budget travel Get there for less
- Vacation ideas for any budget Make it special without making it spendy
- Travel Europe on a budget How to take the kids to Europe for less
- Outdoor adventure Explore nature with the family
- Bucket list national parks Must-see parks for family travel
- Kid-friendly state parks Check out these family-friendly hikes