Nature lovers will be at home with a Hawaii beach house on Kauai, an island known for the rainforest that covers most of its surface. Filled with dramatic peaks, steep canyons, and winding trails through lush forest near glistening waterfalls, Kauai is an ideal destination for outdoor adventurers. You can try everything from hiking and horseback riding to climbing and surfing, all within reach of your Hawaii house.
It's hard to beat the lush natural landscape of Kauai, but the Limahuli are giving it a good try with their beautiful terraced botanical garden, best experienced along the 1-mile looped trail. History buffs can step back in time at Grove Farm, a former sugar plantation whose main 19th-century house now serves as a museum. When you stay in a Kauai vacation rental, you shouldn't miss the Kauai Hindu Monastery which was bought by monks in the mid-60s. After a full day of sightseeing, swing by Tahiti Nui, an old fashioned tiki bar where the atmosphere is jovial and the menu extensive.
When you're stretched out on the white sand under a swaying palm looking out over the Pacific Ocean, it's hard to think about much else. That said, if you can muster the energy when you stay at a Kauai vacation rental, there's lots to do other than being a beach bum. Paddling along the Wailua River on rented kayaks is popular, as is hiking through Koke'e State Park. Alternatively, you can don a mask and flippers to explore the underwater world, or saddle up to gallop across the beach and up to a hidden waterfall for a dip and picnic.
The afternoon winter rains in Hawaii don't stop the vacationers nabbing Kauai vacation rentals, in an effort to escape the cold back home. This pushes the prices up, particularly over Christmas and New Year. Likewise, the summer is often busy with families whose kids are on break from school. If you're looking for a little peace and quiet, try to visit in spring or fall. Between April and June or September and November the prices have dipped, the beaches are emptier and the weather wonderfully bright and sunny.
If you're a birdwatcher, be sure to pack those binoculars because you're not going to want to miss the sight of more than 80 tropical birds that use the island to nest, many of which are endemic to Kauai. If you forget, fear not. You'll still be able to hear the morning call of songbirds, like melodious laughing thrushes. If birds aren't your thing, look to the ocean where the marine life can't fail to impress. There are few wildlife encounters that match up to snorkeling with sea turtles, or spotting the fin of a blue whale fluking.
The beaches in Kauai are one of its biggest draws. Vacation homes are available near places like Tunnels Beach, a low-key beach with picturesque vegetation and shallow reefs for snorkeling, and Anini Beach, a mellow beach with clear, calm waters ideal for young children. You’ll also enjoy Poipu Beach Park, a lively beach with swimming and snorkeling areas.
The nearest airport is in Lihue Airport (LIH), located 14 mi (22.5 km) from the city center.
Kauai has a tranquil atmosphere and beautiful locations to explore on a romantic retreat. Vacation rentals are within reach of places like Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, a lush, rugged area with hiking trails and campgrounds near waterfalls and tropical plants, and Waimea Canyon State Park, a mountain gorge with sweeping island views. Wailua Falls, a dramatic set of waterfalls known for its rainbows, is also great for couples.
From extravagant houses to simple log cabins, Vrbo has properties to suit every taste and budget. Pack your bags and check out these top vacation rentals in Kauai:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Kauai vacation rental for you.
Give these vacation homes a gold star! The following weekend getaways in Kauai have all received high marks from our satisfied guests:
You'll find plenty of studio apartments in Kauai. While they mightn't have the space of a mansion, they sure do pack a punch when it comes to location, character and convenience. Here are a couple of popular choices:
Swap the routine hotel experience for the comfort and character of your own digs. Even if you only have a handful of days to spare, you'll find short-term rentals in Kauai that have all the conveniences of home. Try these on for size:
Whether you've been an item for a few months, a year or forever, there's nothing like a romantic weekend getaway to stoke passions. If you're looking for a dreamy place to spend a couple of days with your honey, consider these escapes:
If your idea of a dream getaway is to bring all your friends with you, you'll be needing a whole bunch of space. Luckily, there are many vacation rentals in Kauai that will accommodate large groups, starting with these sprawling pads:
Whether you're planning a stay with friends and family, a big birthday party or even a wedding, we'll help you find your ideal property. Gather your best buddies and check out these large vacation rentals in Kauai:
You'll have your choice of houses with a pool in Kauai, so dig out your swimsuit and get set to spend your days splashing around. Here are some popular options guaranteed to entice you:
Get cracking on your guest list, because Vrbo has plenty of large family vacation rentals in Kauai that'll put out the welcome mat for your crew. These are just a taste:
Enjoy a swim in the morning, afternoon or even midnight — it's up to you when you stay in one of our Kauai escapes with an indoor pool. Best of all, there's room for your entire gang to join in all the fun.
If you're chasing more ideas and inspiration, check out the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to see our great selection of Kauai vacation rentals.