Castle Po’ipū Shores

Hotel Description

You know what’s funny about Castle Po’ipū Shores? The name makes it sound way more fancy than it actually is – and honestly, that’s part of its charm. I mean, it’s not really a castle (obviously), but this oceanfront property sits right on Po’ipū Beach, which is basically prime real estate on Kauai’s sunny south shore. When you pull up, it looks like one of those classic Hawaiian condos from the ’80s that somehow aged really well – the kind where the salt air has weathered everything just enough to give it character.

The rooms are solid 3-star territory, which translates to clean and comfortable without any pretense of luxury. What you’re really paying for here is location, location, location – I could hear the waves from my room at night, and honestly, that’s worth more than marble countertops any day. The kitchenettes are actually useful (not just decorative like some places), which is clutch because Po’ipū can get pricey for dining out every meal. There’s this little ABC Store about a five-minute walk away where you can grab basics, though I’d recommend hitting up the Big Save in Koloa for real grocery shopping – it’s maybe ten minutes by car and locals shop there, so you know the prices are reasonable.

Here’s the thing that really sets this place apart though – you’re literally steps away from some of the best snorkeling on the island. Po’ipū Beach Park is right there, and the protected cove on the left side (facing the ocean) is where all the green sea turtles hang out. I saw more honu there in one afternoon than most people see in a whole vacation. The beach gets busy during peak season – we’re talking December through March and summer months – but early mornings are magic. Around 7 AM, you’ll have the place mostly to yourself except for a few joggers and maybe some locals walking their dogs. The property itself has this low-key vibe that I really appreciated; there’s no over-the-top tropical lobby music or pushy activities coordinators trying to sell you luau tickets. Just palm trees swaying, that constant sound of waves, and the smell of plumeria drifting around the grounds. Parking was surprisingly easy – each unit gets a spot, which is more than I can say for some of the fancier resorts up the coast. Check-in was smooth, though the front desk closes early (I think around 6 PM?), so don’t plan on any late arrivals without calling ahead.

The 8.0 rating makes total sense to me – it’s not perfect, but it delivers exactly what it promises. If you’re the type who needs a spa and three restaurants on-site, look elsewhere. But if you want to wake up to ocean views, walk to one of Hawaii’s best beaches in your flip-flops, and have a clean, comfortable base for exploring Kauai’s south side, Castle Po’ipū Shores gets the job done. Plus, you’re perfectly positioned for day trips – Waimea Canyon is about 45 minutes away, and the cute little town of Hanapepe (where they filmed some scenes from Lilo & Stitch, actually) is just down the road.

Rooms

• 2 Bedroom Ocean Front Suite with 2 large double beds for 4 adults, 3 children
• 2 Bedroom Deluxe Ocean Front Suite with 2 × 2 single beds, 1 extra-large double bed, or and 1 large double bed for 4 adults, 3 children
• Deluxe Suite with 2 × 1 double bed, 2 × 2 single beds and 2 × 1 large double bed for 6 adults, 5 children

Reviews

• Michał from Poland (8/10)

  Beautiful apartments on sea shore with private pool. Room better than expected , very clean and well equipped. Friendly people from reception.

• Sylvia from Canada (9/10)

  The location is fantastic. Very comfortable updated condo. Staff were above & beyond with our dealings with office!

• Richard from United States (7/10)

  YOU COULD LOOK DOWN ON THE OCEAN AND SEE THE BETIFUL WAVES.. A SHORT WALK RO THE BEACH AND SEE THE TURTLES.

• Adonna from United States (8/10)

  The view, the turtles, the pool, the balcony, the location!

• Roxana from Germany (9/10)

  Spacious and wonderfully located. Just a short walk from a wonderful beach with a natural pool which is great for small children… complete with turtles and seals! We also enjoyed watching the turtles swimming whilst breakfasting on the balcony.
  
  Kitchen was very well stocked. Communication by SMS before and during the stay was great.
  
  There’s a sign to remove shoes which we would always do anyway, but the floor was really filthy when we arrived in the evening. The cleaner came first thing in the morning to clean it. Everything else was very clean and all efforts were made to rectify the problem quickly.

• Marcia from United States (8/10)

  Location was fabulous unit was nicely decorated beds were comfortable kitchen utensils were great

• John from United States (7/10)

  The location was spectacular but the unit was different from what we expected. Be sure to check with the wonderful person who greeted us and see the actual unit you are renting. The owners made the appropriate adjustments and promised a refund.

• Ernest from United States (8/10)

  Great location with good parking. Staff was friendly and helpful.

• Mark from United States (9/10)

  Excellent location. Just yards from the ocean and short walking distance to the beach. It was great to get up, have breakfast on the lanai and watch the waves and listen to the birds. We had minor problems with the shower head and it was fixed immediately. There were nice extra touches like books, boogie boards, beach chairs and beach towels provided for our use.

• Travis from United States (9/10)

  Ocean view, short walk to Poipu beach, very room and updated review. Had everything needed for a family of four. Still affordable enough for a romantic get away for two.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities