difference in day passes...coconut Sheraton and 'sonesta??

Question

We just used the Sheraton for the second time, plane took off at 11, and really didn't like it. Had to wait for an hour to get a chair with some shade. There were many people who had just left a book and towel and didn't come back for hours. We paid $50 each and sat around trying to find a place in the shade. The pool is very noisy there, and the front desk could not be bothered checking us in. Asked where the towels were, they have them to us last year at the front desk , and the lady pointed in the direction...no one seemed to care that we couldn't get a chair for a couple of house (we had 8 to wait>>). It was kind of miserable, as we had hopes of maybe getting a nap.

Anyone tried the Sonesta/?? Thinking that may be nicer next time. Thank you for your input.

Answer

It’s very understandable that your experience at the Sheraton Coconut Beach left you frustrated—day passes can be a great way to enjoy your last day on Kauai, but only if the resort is organized and has enough seating. Many travelers report similar issues at the Sheraton: difficulty finding shaded chairs, noisy pool atmosphere, and inconsistent staffing at check-in. The resort is popular with day-pass users, which means it can feel unusually crowded.

If you’re comparing the Sheraton Coconut Beach with the Sonesta (formerly the Kauai Shores Hotel), the differences are noticeable in atmosphere, layout, and day-pass experience. Below is a detailed breakdown to help you decide whether the Sonesta may offer a better experience next time.

Key Differences Between Sheraton Coconut Beach and Sonesta Kauai Shores Day Passes

While offerings change by season and availability, the general experiences at each property typically differ in the following ways:

Sheraton Coconut Beach Resort – Larger, busier property with a more active pool. Higher chance of crowded seating and fewer shaded options. Day passes are often oversold.
Sonesta Kauai Shores (Wailua) – Smaller, quieter, and generally more relaxed atmosphere. Better for people seeking shade, rest, and more mellow surroundings.

Sheraton Coconut Beach: What Travelers Commonly Report

Hard to find shaded loungers, especially mid-morning to early afternoon.
Pool area tends to be loud and family-oriented, not ideal for napping or relaxing.
Check-in for day passes not always smooth—front desk can feel rushed or uninterested.
Day passes sometimes sold without capacity control, resulting in overcrowding.
You may end up walking around a long time trying to secure a place to sit.

Sonesta Kauai Shores: What Makes It a Better Fit for a Relaxing Layover

Calmer pool environment with fewer loud groups and more “chill” atmosphere.
More shade options from umbrellas, palm trees, and quieter corners past the pool area.
Smaller resort layout makes it easier to access restrooms, restaurant, and amenities without long walks.
Better beach frontage for strolling or sitting in natural shade if you don’t need a pool chair.
More attentive staff, according to many guests using day passes—check-in tends to be smoother.

Other Day-Pass Alternatives on the East Side

If neither Sheraton nor Sonesta feel perfect, a few other east- or south-shore options may provide a better balance of quiet atmosphere and available seating.

Koloa Landing Resort (Poipu) – One of the best pool complexes on the island. Large enough that finding space is rarely a problem. More expensive, but extremely comfortable for long layovers.
Hilton Garden Inn (Wailua Bay) – More affordable, quieter, simpler pool area with consistent shade.
Royal Sonesta Resort (Poipu) – Different from the Coconut Coast Sonesta; relaxing and premium, with more chairs and better poolside organization.

Tips to Improve Your Next Day-Pass Experience

Arrive as early as possible—morning check-in gives you the best chance at shade.
Ask specifically for shaded areas or umbrellas when checking in; some resorts will assist.
Choose smaller, quieter resorts for layover days instead of large, family-heavy properties.
Call the property the day before to confirm availability and ask about expected occupancy.

Bottom Line

If your goal is a quiet, shaded spot to relax or nap before a flight, the Sonesta is typically a better choice than the Sheraton Coconut Beach. It offers a calmer environment, easier access to shaded chairs, and friendlier, more attentive staff. Many travelers choose Sonesta specifically because the Sheraton day-pass experience has become too crowded.

difference in day passes...coconut Sheraton and 'sonesta??

More Kauai Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions