Accommodations for mid-February

Question

Although I booked our flights a while ago, with the holidays and an unexpected death in the family, planning went on the back burner.

We are an active couple in our late 50s that are very seasoned travelers but have never been to Hawaii. We will be spending a week in Maui prior to our week in Kauai. We will have a rental car and plan to do some hiking, exploring and eating.

From previous research, it seems the southern or eastern parts of the island is where to look for Winter visits. We would prefer a condo and I have checked Parrish but there is no availability for our dates. Want to stay under $4K for the week. Although we prefer a condo, Costco offers several hotels options worth considering.

I would appreciate thoughts on condos and these hotel options from Costco: Aston Islander, Hilton Garden Inn Wailea Bay, Aston at Poipu Kai and Royal Sonesta.

Answer

It sounds like you've got a great trip planned, and Kauai is a fantastic choice for exploring and hiking! With your preferences for a condo and a budget under $4K, there are a few options to consider, both for condos and hotel options through Costco. Below is a breakdown of the different accommodations you mentioned, along with some additional suggestions for your stay in mid-February:

Since you’re planning to do a lot of hiking, exploring, and eating, staying near the southern or eastern parts of Kauai is ideal. The Poipu area on the south shore is especially popular due to its sunny weather, proximity to beaches, and great access to local attractions. For hiking, you’ll also be near some of the island's best trails, including the iconic Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast.

Here’s a breakdown of the options you mentioned:

Aston Islander on the Beach: Located in Kapaa on the eastern shore, this property is a good mid-range option. It’s right on the beach, making it convenient for beach walks, and it has a laid-back vibe. The rooms are condo-style, which is great for longer stays, and it offers a kitchen to help you save on dining out. While the area isn’t as sunny as the south shore, it’s centrally located, making it a good base for exploring the island. You’ll be close to hikes, including the Sleeping Giant trail, and some local restaurants and shops. It’s a bit more budget-friendly, which could leave room for more activities.
Hilton Garden Inn Wailea Bay: This is a hotel option that may be appealing if you’re looking for resort-style amenities but prefer a more manageable budget. Located on the sunny south shore of Kauai, this hotel offers a convenient location near beaches and shops. It's not a condo, but the rooms are modern and comfortable, and you can expect a nice pool and good service. While it lacks kitchenettes, the hotel has on-site dining and a great location for exploring the southern part of Kauai. The Wailea Bay area is ideal for walking and enjoying nearby restaurants, but it’s a bit further from some of Kauai’s hiking trails.
Aston at Poipu Kai: This is a fantastic condo option in the Poipu area, which is known for its sunny weather and beautiful beaches. Aston at Poipu Kai offers spacious condos with full kitchens, which is perfect for cooking meals after a day of hiking. The property is just a short walk from Poipu Beach, which is great for snorkeling and relaxing. The area has plenty of dining options, and you’ll be close to some of the island’s best hiking and scenic spots. This would likely be a great choice, especially for your budget, as it provides a great balance of location and comfort.
Royal Sonesta: The Royal Sonesta is another hotel option that offers a more luxurious stay, often with beautiful views and more extensive resort amenities. However, it tends to be a more expensive option and may not offer the same kind of "homey" feel that a condo provides, especially for a week-long stay. If you prefer hotel services like room service, a pool, and on-site restaurants, it could be a good choice, but be mindful of your budget as it may be on the higher end of your price range. It’s located in a great area, but as with the Hilton Garden Inn, you may be further from the island’s hiking spots.

Based on your preferences for a condo and proximity to hiking, here are a few additional recommendations:

Waikomo Stream Villas: This is a smaller, quiet property in Poipu that offers spacious, comfortable condos with kitchens and a more residential feel. It’s close to beaches, restaurants, and hikes, making it a great base for your trip. The location is quieter than the larger resorts but still within easy reach of all the action.
Poipu Kapili: Another excellent condo option in Poipu, Poipu Kapili offers beautifully maintained condos in a tranquil setting. You’ll be within walking distance of the beach and close to several local dining options. The property is well-rated for its peaceful atmosphere and well-kept grounds.

In terms of location, Poipu is certainly a top choice for the southern shore, with easy access to beaches, dining, and hiking. The area around Kapaa on the eastern shore is also a good option if you're looking for a more central location with a bit more variety in terms of local shops and restaurants. Both areas offer plenty to explore, but Poipu offers a bit more in terms of sunshine and convenience to hiking spots.

Ultimately, if you're seeking a condo-style experience with easy access to beaches and hiking, I would recommend the Aston at Poipu Kai or looking into Waikomo Stream Villas or Poipu Kapili for a great balance of location, price, and amenities. Enjoy your trip to Kauai!