Anyone stay at Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort?
We just booked this place for next March (spring break). I read a lot of the reviews before booking and some of them were bad, but all resorts get at least a handful of bad reviews. Outrigger was a bit cheaper than the Sheraton and Marriott resorts, which we were also looking at, and I realize you usually get what you pay for. (We have been to Kauai before and stayed at the Sheraton about 11 years ago.)
A lot of them have to do with the food. We weren’t really planning on eating at the resort that often because yes, food at resorts is notoriously bad and overpriced. We also paid for a room with a pool/ocean view, as opposed to a garden view because garden view often = parking lot.
We are not really planning on spending a ton of time at the hotel, aside from a few afternoons at the pool. Otherwise, we’re going to be exploring the island. I was wondering if there’s anyone here who has stayed there recently and can give a firsthand account.
The Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort is a solid choice for those looking to experience Kauai without breaking the bank. While the reviews can be mixed, as you've noted, it’s a popular spot for families and travelers looking for a laid-back atmosphere and easy access to both the beach and island activities. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from the resort based on recent guest feedback:
- Rooms: Many guests have enjoyed the rooms, especially the pool/ocean view rooms, which offer beautiful views of the water and a bit more privacy than garden views. The rooms are typically clean, spacious, and updated, although they’re not as luxurious as higher-end resorts like the Sheraton or Marriott. The quality you get for the price is generally considered good.
- Food: The food at the resort has gotten mixed reviews. As you mentioned, resort food can be overpriced and not always up to expectations. While some guests have complained about the quality and pricing, others find it decent for a quick bite. If you're planning to eat outside the resort more often, you'll have plenty of options nearby in Lihue or other towns, which offer a wider variety of dining options.
- Pool and Beach: The pool area is often a highlight for guests. It’s large, with a nice view of the beach, and offers a relaxing atmosphere for spending a few afternoons at the resort. The beach itself is beautiful, though it’s not ideal for swimming due to strong currents. However, it’s great for beach walks, relaxing, or enjoying the view.
- Location: The resort is centrally located, which is great for exploring the island. You’ll be close to the airport (about 10-15 minutes) and not far from Lihue, where you can find grocery stores, shopping, and more dining options. It’s also a good base for exploring both the north and south sides of the island, though the North Shore is a bit of a drive.
- Staff and Service: Many guests have praised the friendly and helpful staff, although there are occasional complaints about slower service at the restaurant or front desk. Overall, the service is generally regarded as good for a resort of this price range.
- Resort Vibe: The resort has a more relaxed and laid-back vibe compared to some of the larger, more upscale resorts. It’s not overly flashy or packed with activities, which makes it a good choice if you want a more low-key experience. If you’re planning to explore the island more than stay at the resort, the Outrigger provides a comfortable and peaceful home base.
In summary, if you're looking for a solid, budget-friendly option with decent amenities and a good location, the Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort should meet your needs. It may not be as luxurious as the Sheraton or Marriott, but it offers good value for the price, especially considering the cost savings. Given that you’re planning on spending most of your time exploring the island, it sounds like this could be a great fit for your trip. The pool/ocean view is definitely worth it for the extra peace and quiet, and you'll have plenty of options for food and activities just outside the resort.
Hope this helps with your decision-making, and I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful time in Kauai!
