Kauai Shores Hotel - Your Experience?

Question

Hello everyone, we’re looking to book a trip in Kauai at the end of April and considering this hotel. I am reading very mixed reviews - some excellent and others very negative. Of those of you who have stayed at this hotel recently, what was your experience? Do you have any photos of the rooms and bathrooms? (ESPECIALLY the bathrooms) Could you please share? Is the place clean? Is AC working well? Are there any bugs / cockroaches? (I’m terrified of them.) THANK YOU very much in advance.

Answer

The Kauai Shores Hotel in Kapaa is a budget-friendly, beachfront property that tends to draw mixed reviews because experiences vary depending on expectations, room choice, and the timing of the stay. Here’s a detailed summary based on recent guest feedback.

Cleanliness and Room Conditions:

Many guests report that the rooms are generally clean, with fresh linens and towels, but some note that the bathrooms are modest in size and occasionally show signs of age or wear, such as minor water stains or outdated fixtures.
Air conditioning works well in most rooms, though a few guests have mentioned that units can be a bit noisy or less powerful in some rooms during peak daytime heat.
Guests with a sensitivity to insects often report minimal issues, though being a tropical area, small geckos and occasional ants or cockroaches are possible. Most visitors found them manageable, but if you are very sensitive, requesting a top-floor room or one away from vegetation may help.

Location and Amenities:

The hotel’s location is excellent for beach access and walking to local shops, restaurants, and cafes along Kapaa’s main strip.
There is a small pool area and direct access to a sandy beach suitable for swimming and sunset views.
Parking is generally adequate for guests, and Wi-Fi is available, though speed and coverage can vary by room.

Guest Experience:

Many families and couples appreciate the relaxed, casual vibe, good value, and convenient location. It’s particularly appealing for those planning to explore the island with a rental car rather than relying heavily on resort amenities.
Some negative reviews mention occasional noise from nearby roads or other guests, minor maintenance issues, or rooms not having ocean views. Choosing rooms on higher floors or closer to the ocean can mitigate some of these issues.
Front desk staff are generally described as friendly and helpful, providing local tips and information about activities.

Overall Recommendation:

If your priority is a beachfront location with basic accommodations and easy access to local shops and restaurants, Kauai Shores can be a good choice. For those seeking luxury, modern finishes, or absolute peace and quiet, it may not meet all expectations. Checking recent photos and reviews on booking sites and requesting a specific room type upon booking can improve your experience.