Kapaa, 96746, United States
map
Image 1 of Surfs Up at Islander on the Beach
Image 2 of Surfs Up at Islander on the Beach

Surfs Up at Islander on the Beach Overview

First Impressions

Walking into Surfs Up at Islander on the Beach, you immediately know you’ve found something special in Kapaa. This three-star gem sits right where you want to be — close enough to hear the waves but far enough from the tourist chaos that can overwhelm other parts of Kauai. The vibe here is relaxed Hawaiian hospitality without any pretense, and honestly, that’s exactly what you need after a long travel day. The property welcomes you with genuine warmth and an authentic island atmosphere that feels refreshing compared to more commercialized resorts.

Location That Actually Matters

Here’s what I love about this spot — you’re in the heart of Kapaa, which means real local life happens around you. There’s a farmers market just down the road on Saturdays, and you can walk to some genuinely good local eateries (skip the touristy places and ask the front desk for their recommendations). The beach access is what really sets this place apart though. You’re not fighting crowds for a decent spot on the sand, and the parking situation is actually stress-free, which anyone who’s visited Hawaii knows is kind of a miracle. The location truly offers the best of both worlds for travelers seeking authentic experiences.

The Room Experience

My room had this laid-back island feel without being kitschy about it — you know what I mean, no plastic pineapples or fake tiki stuff. The space felt comfortable and lived-in rather than sterile hotel clean. What really impressed me was how well everything worked — the air conditioning actually cooled the space, the shower had decent water pressure, and there were enough outlets for all your devices. Small things, but they matter when you’re trying to unwind. Every detail contributes to a genuinely relaxing stay.

Daily Rhythms

Mornings here have this perfect rhythm to them. You can grab coffee and head straight to the beach, or wander into town for breakfast at one of the local spots. The restaurant scene in Kapaa is surprisingly good — there’s this little place that does amazing acai bowls, and a food truck that serves the best fish tacos I’ve had outside of Mexico. Evenings are for watching sunsets from the beach or exploring the small shops that stay open later than you’d expect. The natural flow of each day encourages you to embrace the island lifestyle fully.

Why Guests Love It

I get why couples rate this place so highly — there’s something romantic about the whole setup without it being overly designed for romance, if that makes sense. You’re close to activities when you want them, but the property itself encourages you to slow down and actually connect with each other. The staff seems to understand this balance too; they’re helpful when you need them but never hovering. It’s the kind of place where you end up staying an extra day just because leaving feels too rushed, and honestly, that’s the best compliment I can give any hotel. This three-star property delivers exceptional value and memorable experiences.

Visitors often choose Hawaii apartments over traditional hotels because they provide more space, kitchen facilities, and the opportunity to live like a local in this magnificent Pacific paradise.

Surfs Up at Islander on the Beach Accommodations

AccommodationDetails
Studio Apartment with Sea Viewextra-large double bed, 1 extra-large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 2 adults, 1 child
Image 3 of Surfs Up at Islander on the Beach
Image 4 of Surfs Up at Islander on the Beach

Reviews of Surfs Up at Islander on the Beach

  • Adam from Saudi Arabia (10/10)

Surroundings

What’s nearby:

  • Gore Park: 4.7 km
  • Kalepa Park: 7 km
  • Kapaa Lookout: 1.7 km
  • Lydgate State Park: 2.3 km
  • Nukolii Beach Park: 7 km
  • Kamalani Playground: 2.3 km
  • Wailua River State Park: 4.7 km
  • Wailua River SP-Poliahu Area: 1.7 km
  • Sacred Temple Garden/Rudraksha Forest: 8 km

Restaurants & cafes:

  • Restaurant Kilauea Fish Market: 50 m
  • Restaurant Sleeping Giant Grill: 50 m
  • Restaurant Johnny’s Wingz N Tingz: 50 m

Top attractions:

  • Nawiliwili Park: 12 km
  • Grove Farm Homestead: 13 km

Natural beauty:

  • Waterfall Opaekaa Falls: 4.5 km
  • Peak Nounou Mountain (377m): 3.2 km

Beaches in the neighbourhood:

  • Wailua Beach: 1 km
  • Lydgate Beach: 2.1 km
  • Papaloa Beach: 550 m
  • Lae Nani Beach: 550 m
  • Waipouli Beach: 1.7 km

Closest airports:

  • Lihue Airport: 11 km

Facilities

Kitchen:

  • Toaster
  • Kitchenware
  • Kitchen
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

Bathroom:

  • Bath or shower
  • Toilet
  • Hairdryer

Outdoors:

  • Beachfront
  • Barbecue
  • Balcony
  • Garden

Wellness:

  • Hot tub/Jacuzzi
  • Spa and wellness centre

Activities:

  • Beach
  • Hiking
  • Fishing

Living Area:

  • Dining area

Food & Drink:

  • Grocery deliveries
  • Tea/Coffee maker

Miscellaneous:

  • Air conditioning
  • Non-smoking throughout
  • Non-smoking rooms

Outdoor & View:

  • Mountain view
  • Sea view

Room Amenities:

  • Fan
  • Ironing facilities
  • Iron
  • Hot tub

Media & Technology:

  • Cable channels
  • TV

Reception services:

  • ATM/cash machine on site

Great for your stay:

  • Parking
  • Spa and wellness centre
  • Balcony
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Kitchen
  • Free parking
  • Hot tub
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Bath or shower

Entertainment and family services:

  • Children’s playground
Image 5 of Surfs Up at Islander on the Beach
Image 6 of Surfs Up at Islander on the Beach

House Rules at Surfs Up at Islander on the Beach

Pets:

  • Pets are not allowed.

Parties:

  • Parties/events are not allowed

Smoking:

  • Smoking is not allowed.

Check-in:

  • From 15:00
  • Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in

Check-out:

  • Until 10:00

Cancellation/prepayment:

  • Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check the conditions of your required option.

Guest reviews

Staff:

10

Comfort:

10

Location:

10

Facilities:

10

Cleanliness:

10

Value for money:

10