Tell me about Poipu Shores condos.

Question

I've been scouring places to stay on Kauai. I bumped into Kauai Shores last evening. Pleasantly surprised. I read some reviews and it could be a contender.

We've looked at WBR and were about to book when it fell through. It was an Airbnb. I was overwhelmed with disappointment. I can't go into it on here. So I turned to a different rental company. The cost was going to be a LOT more for a unit directly next to the one that fell through.. I just can't justify it. So disappointing.

Moving on... bumped into Kauai Shores. No middle man. Book direct with the hotel. Kitchen not available there.

Still moving on.... saw Poipu Shores. Looks quite good to me.

What's the best way to rent there? Parrish, etc.? Price will dictate if it's an option.

What I've noticed is, the crazy amount of extra fees that get tacked on to condos. What starts out to be a decent price, ends up being crazy.

Thanks for any help. Planning for next September.

Torn between Kauai, big island, Maui. Picking 2. About 2 weeks total.

Answer

Poipu Shores is a great property to consider if you’re looking for an oceanfront condo experience on Kauai’s sunny south shore. It’s dramatically perched right over the water, giving you some of the closest ocean views you'll find anywhere on the island. If you like falling asleep to waves, watching turtles from your lanai, and being close to Poipu’s best beaches, it’s definitely worth serious consideration.

Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide whether Poipu Shores fits your plans—and the smartest ways to book without getting slammed by excessive fees.

What Poipu Shores Is Like

Poipu Shores is an older but well-maintained oceanfront condominium complex. Units vary widely in décor because they’re individually owned, but the best feature is universal: unbeatable proximity to the ocean.

Many units are just feet from the water, and the sound of the surf is a major part of the experience. Turtles are often visible from the lanais, and in September you get great sunsets plus reliably sunny weather.

Location: Right next to Brennecke’s Beach and Poipu Beach Park—both great for swimming, boogie boarding, and turtle watching.
Atmosphere: Quiet, relaxed, not resort-y. No high rises, which fits what many visitors want on the South Shore.

Amenities:

Who it suits: Travelers wanting a peaceful, oceanfront condo with kitchen facilities and a home-like feel.

Best Ways to Rent at Poipu Shores

There are three main ways to book, and each comes with different pros and cons. Because you’re concerned about fees (understandably!), here’s how they compare:

1. Parrish Kauai – One of the largest and most reliable management companies on Kauai. They manage many Poipu Shores units. Their units tend to be well-maintained, and photos are usually very representative.
Expect: Higher nightly rates, cleaning fees, and reservation fees. Quality is usually consistent.
2. Suite Paradise – Also manages Poipu Shores units. Often slightly more affordable than Parrish. Generally good about upkeep.
Expect: Standard cleaning + admin fees, usually a bit less expensive overall.
3. VRBO or Direct Owner Rentals – This is where you can sometimes score the best deals because owners have flexibility. If an owner self-manages, fees may be lower, and you may avoid some of the corporate add-ons.
Expect: More variability in décor, responsiveness, and policies. Very transparent on fees (VRBO shows everything upfront before booking).

Fee Awareness

You are absolutely right—condo rentals on Kauai can be surprising once fees show up. Almost all condo stays will include:

a cleaning fee ($200–$350 typically)
a reservation or admin fee ($50–$100 with management companies)
taxes (~17% total in Hawaii)

The best way to control costs is to:

look for self-managed VRBO units (usually fewer add-ons)
book longer stays (cleaning fee gets spread over more nights)
avoid booking through third-party booking engines attached to management companies (they sometimes add another layer of fees)

Poipu Shores vs. Kauai Shores vs. WBR

Since you’re comparing these properties, here’s a quick contrast:

Poipu Shores: Best for oceanfront condos, quiet stays, full kitchens, and walking access to Poipu beaches.
Kauai Shores (Coconut Coast): Hotel-style, vibrant, newly renovated, good value, but no kitchens and not the same intimate oceanfront vibe. More of a social, upbeat property.
Waipouli Beach Resort (WBR): Luxury condo resort. Amazing kitchen amenities, upscale rooms, a beautiful pool—but price can be high, and fees add up quickly.

If WBR fell through and the alternative price was suddenly far higher, Poipu Shores offers a great "middle ground": more charm and direct ocean experience than Kauai Shores, but often much more affordable than WBR.

For September Travel

September is one of the best months to visit Kauai: fewer crowds, mellow ocean conditions on the south shore, and excellent weather. Poipu Shores availability is usually good in September, so you’ll have choices among units if you start looking now.

Final Thoughts / Island Choice Advice

For two weeks and choosing two islands, your options depend on what you enjoy most:

Kauai + Maui: Best if you love beaches, dramatic scenery, and a relaxed pace.
Kauai + Big Island: Best for variety; combine lush Kauai with volcanic landscapes and snorkeling on the BI.
Maui + Big Island: Best for whale season or those who prefer developed-but-beautiful destinations.

Poipu Shores fits beautifully into a Kauai + Maui or Kauai + Big Island plan, especially if you want a quieter, ocean-forward home base.