Poipu Shores

Hotel Description

You know what? Poipu Shores isn’t going to blow you away with fancy lobbies or white-glove service, but honestly, that’s kind of the point. This low-key condo resort sits right on the southern coast of Kauai, and I mean *right* on it – you can literally hear the waves from most units, which is either going to lull you to sleep or keep you up depending on how you feel about ocean sounds at 2 AM.

The property feels more like a neighborhood than a hotel, actually. It’s this spread of two-story buildings with that slightly weathered look you get when salt air meets concrete for decades. The units themselves are hit-or-miss – some owners have clearly put money into renovations while others are stuck somewhere in the early 2000s with tired furniture and those weird tropical-print bedspreads. But here’s the thing: even the dated ones usually have killer ocean views, and you’ll spend maybe 20% of your time inside anyway. The kitchens are legit functional (not those sad hotel kitchenettes), which matters because eating out every meal in Poipu will drain your bank account fast. I learned that the hard way.

What really sells this place is the location and the vibe. You’re walking distance to Brennecke’s Beach, which locals will tell you is better for bodysurfing than the more famous Poipu Beach Park – though honestly, both get pretty crowded during peak season. The pool area is nothing fancy, but it faces west so you get these incredible sunset views while kids splash around. Parking is actually decent here, which might sound boring but trust me, after trying to find a spot at some of the other Poipu properties, you’ll appreciate it. The whole setup feels very… authentic Hawaii residential, if that makes sense. Like, you’ll see the same maintenance guy every morning watering plants, and the front desk person (there’s usually just one) will remember your name by day three. It’s that small-scale feeling that big resorts can’t fake, even when they try. Sure, don’t expect 24-hour room service or a spa, but if you want to feel like you’re actually living in Hawaii for a week instead of just visiting a hotel that happens to be in Hawaii, Poipu Shores gets it right.

Early hotels booking in Hawaii is essential during major events like the Ironman World Championship, as accommodations fill up quickly with visitors eager to experience the islands’ renowned surfing culture and tropical beauty.

Rooms

• Apartment with Sea View with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 2 × 2 single beds for 4 adults
• Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed, 2 × 2 single beds, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 6 adults

Reviews

• Anne from United States (3/10)

  The location and ease of this property, Poipu Shores, was amazing. Can’t beat the oceanfront and hearing the crashing waves all night (it is loud if that bothers you). You are paying for location. The Kauai-sourced gifts at check-in (Kauai granola and chocolate covered macadamia nuts) were much appreciated. I loved watching the sea turtles every day!

• Mhras from Japan (8/10)

  眺め。波の音。海亀。プライバシー。目の前が崖なので遮るものがなく、ベッドルームからの眺めは特に素晴らしく、波の音に癒されながら、毎日10数匹の海亀を見ながら過ごした。アメニティも余分にあって、洗濯用、キッチン用洗剤もあり、洗濯機、洗濯乾燥機、食洗機もあり、１週間の滞在で不自由することなく過ごすことができた。バーベキューグリルもすぐそばにあって、毎朝グリルでソーセージなど焼いて便利だった。

• Adam from Australia (7/10)

• Jill from United States (9/10)

• Ella from United States (8/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities