Hotel recs in Poipu

Question

Hi- we are officially coming to Kauai mid/late June. I’ve been looking at the Grand Hyatt, Koloa, and the Sheraton. We want something on or a very short walk to a swimmable beach. It looked like maybe the Hyatt beach was not swimmable. Also looking for a pool that has a lot of sun & where we don’t need to get up crazy early to get a good pool chair. I’m not sure how much hotel parking is, but we will probably have a rental car for at least a couple days. Thank you!

Answer

It’s exciting that you’ll be visiting Kauai in June! Both the Grand Hyatt, Koloa, and the Sheraton are great options in Poipu, and each offers its own perks. Let’s go over what you’re looking for—swimmable beaches, pools, and parking—and compare these hotels.

Grand Hyatt, Koloa: The Grand Hyatt is a beautiful resort with a sprawling property and incredible amenities, but as you mentioned, the beach directly in front of the hotel (Shipwreck Beach) is not the best for swimming due to strong currents and waves. However, it’s a beautiful spot for walking and sunsets. The resort is located near Poipu Beach, which is a very swimmable and family-friendly beach just a short drive or walk away. As for the pool, the Grand Hyatt has one of the most impressive pool areas on the island, with multiple pools, waterfalls, and a lazy river, and plenty of sunny spots. You’ll likely need to get up early for a pool chair during peak times, but the area is large enough to accommodate guests, and the hotel’s ample space means you can find a place to relax without feeling cramped. The parking fee at the Grand Hyatt is about $30/day, but it’s a great base if you want a luxurious stay with good amenities.

Sheraton Kauai Resort: The Sheraton is another great option that offers direct access to a lovely, swimmable beach, the famous Poipu Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches in Kauai, and it's perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and even beginner surfing. The Sheraton has a beautiful, open-air pool area with plenty of sun, but like the Hyatt, it can get busy during peak hours. The pool area is less sprawling compared to the Grand Hyatt, but it’s very well-maintained. The Sheraton has plenty of beach loungers and shaded areas, so getting a good pool chair is usually easier than at larger resorts. Parking at the Sheraton is around $25 per day. It’s a solid option if you want easy access to both the beach and a pool, and you can walk right to Poipu Beach from the property.

Koloa Landing Resort: This is another property worth considering in Poipu. It’s a more modern option with spacious villas and a great location for beach access. Koloa Landing is a short walk from the beach, and while it doesn’t have direct beachfront access like the Sheraton, it’s located near several good beaches. The resort’s pool area is huge, with multiple pools and a large sun deck, making it easier to find a chair without having to rush in the morning. The resort also has a laid-back vibe, with a focus on relaxation and enjoying the sunny, warm weather. Parking at Koloa Landing is about $25 per day, and it’s a great option for families looking for spacious accommodations and good pool facilities.

In summary, here’s a comparison:

Grand Hyatt: Luxury, great pools, not ideal for swimming right in front of the hotel, but close to Poipu Beach. Pool can get crowded, but plenty of space to relax. Parking fee: ~$30/day.
Sheraton Kauai Resort: Direct access to a swimmable beach (Poipu Beach), nice pool area, less crowded pool compared to the Hyatt. Parking fee: ~$25/day.
Koloa Landing Resort: Modern, spacious villas, close to beaches, large pool area with plenty of sun. Pool area is easy to access without early morning rush. Parking fee: ~$25/day.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for direct beach access and a more relaxed, quieter pool scene, the Sheraton Kauai is probably your best bet. However, if you're drawn to a larger, more luxurious property with more extensive amenities (and don’t mind a short drive to the best beach), the Grand Hyatt is an excellent choice. Koloa Landing provides a nice middle ground with spacious villas and a great pool area. Each of these resorts has its perks, so it will depend on your preference for beach access, pool size, and overall vibe!

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