Hotels in Lihue

Lihue: Where Island Serenity Meets Ocean Adventure

Lihue, the vibrant heart of Kauai, Hawaii, offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches and lush landscapes. As the island's main hub, it boasts attractions like the breathtaking Nawiliwili Harbor and the serene Kalapaki Beach, ideal for sunbathing and water activities. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Wailua Falls or venture into the enchanting trails of the Kauai Lagoons. With its rich cultural heritage and warm island spirit, Lihue invites travelers to indulge in local cuisine, experience traditional Hawaiian hula, and create unforgettable memories in paradise. Embrace the aloha spirit in this captivating coastal gem.

Discover great hotels in Lihue

Lihue, Kauai offers a range of hotel accommodations, from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts. Visitors can find comfortable guest rooms and amenities suited for families, couples, or solo travelers. Whether you prefer a charming hotel or a beachfront resort, Lihue has a variety of choices to enhance your Hawaiian getaway. Here are some of the best hotels in Lihue that our travelers love:

1. Kauai Shores HotelOpens in a new window: This inviting 3.5-star hotel offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for leisure travelers seeking an exceptional beachfront experience. With direct access to the beach, guests can indulge in thrilling activities such as tubing, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and horseback riding—all conveniently located nearby. The property boasts well-appointed accommodations that ensure a comfortable and memorable stay, with a focus on personalized experiences and curated adventures. Visitors appreciate the vibrant atmosphere, which harmoniously combines adventure with the tranquility of coastal living.
2. Aston Islander on the BeachOpens in a new window: This charming 3.0-star hotel is designed for leisure travelers who desire a beach-centric getaway filled with exploration and fun. With direct beach access, guests can dive into adventures like snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming, while also enjoying convenient bicycle rentals for scenic rides around the area. The hotel's inviting ambiance and recreational offerings create a delightful escape, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Lihue. The focus on creating memorable experiences resonates strongly with visitors eager for an active vacation.
3. Kauai Coast at the BeachboyOpens in a new window: This elegant 3.5-star hotel caters to leisure travelers looking for a sophisticated and adventurous stay by the beach. With direct beach access, guests can partake in activities like fishing, sailing, snorkeling, and swimming, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and excitement. The property features thoughtfully designed accommodations that prioritize comfort and style, ensuring an enjoyable retreat after a day of exploration. Visitors appreciate the seamless blend of luxury and adventure, creating a unique and memorable Hawaiian experience.

Top locations to stay in Lihue

When visiting Lihue, Hawaii, the standout areas to stay in are Kapaa, Wailua, and Nawiliwili. Kapaa is known for its beautiful waterfalls and charming atmosphere, while Wailua offers stunning beaches and excellent hiking opportunities. Nawiliwili is a vibrant harbor area with dining and shopping options. For first-time visitors, Wailua is the best choice due to its scenic beauty and outdoor activities.

1. KapaaOpens in a new window: Kapaa is a fantastic choice for travelers looking to explore stunning waterfalls and beautiful beaches. This charming town is known for its laid-back vibe and is perfect for leisurely strolls along the shoreline or through lush hiking trails. Don’t miss the scenic WailuaOpens in a new window Falls, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and great photo ops. The vibrant local arts scene and unique shops add to the charm, making it a wonderful spot for shopping and discovering local crafts.
2. Wailua: Wailua is a must-visit for those who appreciate nature and outdoor activities. The area features gorgeous beaches and hiking trails, including the famous Sleeping Giant trail, which offers panoramic views of the coastline. The Wailua River is perfect for kayaking and exploring the surrounding landscapes. With its rich cultural history and stunning natural beauty, Wailua is an ideal base for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
3. NawiliwiliOpens in a new window: Nawiliwili is a bustling harbor area that serves as a gateway to the beautiful island of Kauai. Known for its picturesque marina, Nawiliwili is perfect for enjoying water activities such as sailing and whale watching. The waterfront area also has a variety of shops and dining options, making it a convenient spot for travelers. The nearby Nawiliwili Harbor is often a stop for cruise ships, adding to the lively atmosphere and providing travelers with a unique experience of island life.

Things to do in Lihue

Lihue is a tropical paradise where stunning beaches meet lush mountains, inviting travelers to explore diverse landscapes. Enjoy exhilarating hikes through verdant forests, dive into crystal-clear waters for vibrant snorkeling, or take leisurely boat tours to soak in the breathtaking scenery. Don't miss the local festivals that celebrate the island's vibrant spirit!

• Lae Nani BeachOpens in a new window – Relax on the soft sands of Lae Nani Beach, where the gentle waves beckon you to unwind. This picturesque beach offers a perfect spot for sunbathing or building sandcastles with the family. The tranquil setting is ideal for a leisurely stroll along the shore, and you might even catch a glimpse of colorful marine life while wading in the clear waters.
• Wailua FallsOpens in a new window – Witness the breathtaking beauty of Wailua Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades dramatically into a lush pool below. Take a short hike to the viewpoint for a fantastic photo opportunity, or enjoy the refreshing mist that surrounds the area. The vibrant greenery enhances the scenery, making it an unforgettable stop for nature lovers.
• Kealia Forest ReserveOpens in a new window – Explore the lush trails of Kealia Forest Reserve, a serene escape enveloped in native Hawaiian flora. The reserve invites you to hike through its diverse landscape, where you can enjoy the sounds of chirping birds and the rustle of leaves. This peaceful environment is perfect for a family outing or a quiet moment in nature.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Lihue

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Lihue is from September to November, when hotel prices are typically lower. For a great value for money experience, it’s recommended to stay for at least 5 to 6 days. This duration allows you to fully explore the area's key landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions, including beautiful beaches, nearby islands, and various exciting excursions. You can enjoy activities like hiking, snorkeling, and participating in local festivals, making your trip both adventurous and enriching.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute hotel deals in Lihue, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find budget-friendly rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, increasing your chances of snagging the best hotel deal. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available through the app lets you compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're informed about any price drops or availability changes, so you can make the most of your last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in a Lihue hotel. For those seeking a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and sometimes better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend more affordable dates to help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but with Lihue's great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that still offers good connectivity. If you're interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, you can often find excellent value for your money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join for free and unlock exclusive savings on your next stay in Lihue! Enjoy member-only prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. As you advance through membership tiers, you’ll gain access to fantastic perks, including complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Start your journey to savings today!

Best time to go to Lihue

Lihue experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 71.6°F (22.0°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 78.4°F (25.8°C). March tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Lihue are March, April, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, February, October, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.