Kauai north and south

Question

Hi! We are planning on visiting Hawaii in late August. We are planning on 5 nights on Kauai and 4 on Maui. I love the beauty of the North Shore and have found that the Hanalei Bay Resort seems like a good fit for us for beaches, proximity to hiking, etc. I also want to spend a day each at Waimea Canyon (lookouts and hikes) and Poipu Beach( walking, possible snorkeling and Mahaulapu hike) . My biggest concern is not having accommodations close by for restrooms and changing. Any input on how accessible restrooms might be would be great vs staying in Poipu area for 2 nights and a nice and clean but reasonable place. (For Maui planning on Kaanapali Beach resort.) Thanks so much!

Answer

It sounds like you have a fantastic trip planned to both Kauai and Maui! Kauai is known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty, and both the North Shore and South Shore offer a lot to explore. I’ll address your main concerns about accommodations, restrooms, and convenience, as well as provide some suggestions for your itinerary.

Kauai: North Shore (Hanalei Bay Resort) The North Shore of Kauai is absolutely beautiful, and Hanalei Bay is a great spot for enjoying the beach and hiking. The Hanalei Bay Resort is a solid choice for being close to both the beach and some fantastic hikes, such as the Kalalau Trail. However, since you’re concerned about restroom access during your activities, here’s some guidance:

Restrooms on the North Shore: There are several beaches and areas around Hanalei Bay where you can find public restrooms. Hanalei Bay itself has restrooms near the beach park, so that would be convenient for when you're spending time at the beach. The nearby Hanalei Town also has public restrooms in some areas, though they can be a bit sparse in more remote hiking spots.
Restroom Access for Hikes: For the Kalalau Trail, there are restrooms at the trailhead near Ke’e Beach. However, there are no restrooms on the trail itself, so it’s advisable to use the facilities before heading out. The same applies to other hikes in the area—some may have restrooms at the trailhead, but none along the way, so plan accordingly.
Alternatives to Hanalei Bay Resort: If you're concerned about restroom access, you might also consider staying at a more central location like Princeville. There are a variety of rental properties and resorts that are close to both the beaches and the main town amenities, which might give you easier access to public facilities throughout the day. There are also some great restaurants and shops in the area where you can easily find a restroom if needed.

Kauai: South Shore (Poipu Beach Area) Poipu is a great choice for a more relaxed, sunny beach experience. The beaches are lovely, and it’s an excellent base for exploring some of Kauai’s best spots. Here’s what you need to know about staying in Poipu:

Restrooms at Poipu Beach: Poipu Beach Park has well-maintained public restrooms, which is convenient for beachgoers. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic, and the restrooms are clean and accessible.
Snorkeling and Maha'ulepu Hike: Poipu is also close to great snorkeling spots, like at Poipu Beach or nearby Lawai Beach. The Maha'ulepu Trail, which is beautiful and easy to moderate, doesn’t have restrooms directly on the trail, but there are public restrooms at the nearby Shipwreck Beach parking area, which is a good starting point for the hike.
Poipu Accommodations: Staying in Poipu for 2 nights would be a good idea if you're looking for a more accessible area with the amenities you need. The Poipu area has plenty of vacation rentals, resorts, and hotels within walking distance of the beach, making it easy to pop back to your accommodation if you need a restroom or to change. Some great options include Koa Kea Hotel & Resort and the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa.

Comparing North vs. South Shore for Your Stay If your main concern is restroom access and proximity to amenities, staying in Poipu might be the more convenient choice for the southern part of your trip. While the North Shore is stunning and more remote, Poipu has more developed infrastructure, including more frequent access to restrooms and the convenience of being close to dining and shopping options. Here’s a comparison:

North Shore (Hanalei): Great for scenic beauty, hiking, and beaches. However, restroom facilities are less frequent on hikes and at more remote locations. Ideal for those who want a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere and are okay with planning ahead for restroom stops.
South Shore (Poipu): More developed with frequent access to restrooms, especially around the beaches and hiking areas. A good base if you're looking for convenience, good food, and close access to both beaches and amenities. Ideal if you don’t want to worry as much about restroom locations.

Maui: Kaanapali Beach Resort Kaanapali Beach is a great choice for your Maui stay. It’s known for its beautiful beach, great restaurants, and shops, and there are plenty of accommodations that are steps from the sand. If you’re interested in a more relaxed resort experience with easy access to beaches and dining, Kaanapali will be a great base for your Maui exploration.

Additional Recommendations: While in Kauai, be sure to check out Waimea Canyon (there are several lookout points along the road, and some trails offer great views), and consider taking a boat tour along the Na Pali Coast for an unforgettable experience. As for your hikes, the Maha'ulepu Trail and Waimea Canyon offer great opportunities for easy to moderate hikes that give you fantastic views without requiring too much strenuous effort.

Overall, you’re looking at a good balance of natural beauty and convenience. If easy access to restrooms and facilities is a priority, I would recommend staying in Poipu for your southern stay, with Hanalei Bay or Princeville for the north, depending on your preference for seclusion versus convenience.

Enjoy your trip to Kauai and Maui – it sounds like a fantastic adventure!