Kauai, the “Garden Isle,” is Hawaii’s oldest island, forged by volcanic activity over 5 million years ago. Its rugged cliffs, lush waterfalls, and pristine beaches have enchanted visitors since Polynesian voyagers first landed centuries ago. Today, it’s a peaceful retreat blending natural beauty with relaxed charm. Below are the top 10 oceanfront condos across four standout towns—Princeville, Poipu, Kapaa, and Lihue.
Princeville: The Luxurious North Shore Haven
Princeville, perched on Kauai’s verdant North Shore, overlooks Hanalei Bay and the Na Pali Coast. This resort community, carved from plantation lands in the 1960s, is famed for its golf courses and tropical splendor.
1. Puu Poa
Built in 1981 by Stark-Gray Associates, Puu Poa features 56 two-bedroom condos across three 4-story buildings on 8.06 acres. Sitting on a bluff above Hideaway Beach, these oceanfront homes range from 1,352 to 2,079 square feet, with spacious lanais or an atrium. First-floor units often boast sunken living rooms and the largest layouts. Ceiling fans cool the interiors, with some owners adding split A/C. Amenities include a pool, tennis court, and BBQs, while short-term vacation rentals are allowed. A steep trail leads to secluded Hideaways Beach, perfect for snorkeling, or take an easier path to Puu Poa Beach for calm swimming.
2. Pali Ke Kua
Developed in 1972 by Inter-Mack, Pali Ke Kua offers 99 one- and two-bedroom units in 13 buildings (2- and 3-story) across 6.89 acres. Perched on a Princeville bluff just 100 yards from the ocean, these condos (717 to 1,200 square feet) feature lanais, with some one-bedrooms including lofts and two-bedrooms spanning two floors. Most are Fee Simple, though some remain Leasehold until 2039. With ceiling fans, a pool, spa, restaurant, and BBQs, it’s ideal for short-term rentals. Enjoy ocean views and easy access to Hideaways Beach or the longer sands of Puu Poa Beach.
3. Alii Kai at Hanalei
Alii Kai at Hanalei, built in two phases (1974 by LFRCC of California and 1980 by Alii Kai Princeville), comprises 115 two-bedroom units in 14 2-story buildings on 14.77 acres. Just 70 yards from the Pacific, these condos (886 to 1,086 square feet in Phase I; 1,020 to 1,037 in Phase II) feature lanais, with wraparounds on corner units. Ceiling fans are standard, some with added A/C. Amenities include two pools, a kids’ pool, jacuzzi, tennis court, and BBQs, with vacation rentals permitted. Ocean views abound, and Sealodge Beach or the unique Queens Bath (summer only) are nearby.
4. Cliffs at Princeville
Opened in 1980, Cliffs at Princeville spans 21.16 acres with 202 one- and four-bedroom units in 10 3-story buildings. About 130 yards from the ocean, this resort-style property offers condos from 917 to 1,864 square feet, with two to three lanais. Most are one-bedrooms, some with lofts, while four-bedrooms are two-story. Ceiling fans cool the walk-up units, and amenities include a pool, two jacuzzis, tennis and pickleball courts, a putting green, and more. Vacation rentals are allowed, with Sealodge Beach a short trek away and stunning bluff views on-site.
Poipu: The Sunny South Shore Gem
Poipu, on Kauai’s sun-soaked South Shore, is renowned for its golden beaches and gentle waters, like Poipu Beach Park, ideal for snorkeling and turtle spotting. A resort hub since the 1970s, it offers a mix of luxury and leisure.
5. Kuhio Shores at Poipu
Built in 1973 by Kauai Securities Ltd., Kuhio Shores at Poipu is an L-shaped, 4-story building with 76 one- and two-bedroom condos on 1.72 acres. Just 15 yards from the surf, these units (732 to 1,091 square feet) feature covered lanais and mostly unobstructed ocean views, some up to 180 degrees. Ceiling fans are standard, with some split A/C, and two elevators serve the upper floors. BBQs are the main amenity, and short-term rentals are allowed. Lawai Beach and Prince Kuhio Beach are steps away for surfing, while Baby Beach offers calm swimming.
6. Whalers Cove at Poipu
Developed in 1987 by Poipu Equities Inc., Whalers Cove at Poipu offers 39 one- to three-bedroom condos in two 4-story buildings on 2.27 acres. Curved along the oceanfront, these units (1,179 to 2,060 square feet) feature lanais, with two-bedroom/two-story layouts being most common. Ceiling fans cool the interiors, and an elevator per building aids access. With a pool, spa, and BBQs, plus vacation rental options, it’s a serene spot. Baby Beach is 200 yards west for snorkeling, and Kiahuna Beach lies a mile east.
7. Poipu Kapili
Poipu Kapili, built in 1980, spans 4.85 acres with 60 one- and two-bedroom condos in seven 2- and 3-story buildings. Just 35 yards from the ocean across Hoonani Road, these units (1,098 to 1,837 square feet) offer one or two lanais. One-bedrooms are single-level, while two-bedrooms vary. Ceiling fans dominate, with some A/C added, and elevators are in 3-story buildings only. Amenities include a pool, two tennis courts, concierge, and BBQs, with short-term rentals permitted. Kiahuna Beach and Baby Beach are under a mile away.
8. Makahuena
Constructed in 1979, Makahuena features 79 two- and three-bedroom condos across five buildings (2, 3, and 4 stories) on 3.87 acres. Sitting 30 yards from the Pacific, these units (1,113 to 2,538 square feet) offer one or two lanais, with ceiling fans and some split A/C. All walk-up buildings, it includes a pool, spa, tennis court, and BBQs, with vacation rentals allowed. Castle Resorts manages the front desk. Brennecke’s Beach is half a mile west, and Shipwreck Beach, great for swimming, is three-quarters of a mile east.
Kapaa: The Vibrant Coconut Coast
Kapaa, on Kauai’s Coconut Coast, mixes plantation-era charm with coastal energy. Known for its bike path and palm-lined shores, it’s a lively east-side base near the Wailua River.
9. Waipouli Beach Resort
Built in 2006, Waipouli Beach Resort offers 198 one- to three-bedroom condos in 4-story buildings along Kapaa’s oceanfront. These modern units feature full kitchens and lanais, with interiors averaging 800 to 1,300 square feet. A standout fantasy pool with slides, waterfalls, and a lazy river anchors the property, alongside a spa and dining options. Short-term rentals are allowed, and the beach offers calm waters for swimming or kayaking, with Kapaa’s shops steps away.
Lihue: The Central Hub with Coastal Charm
Lihue, Kauai’s east-side hub, is home to the airport and historic spots like the Kauai Museum. Quieter than tourist-heavy areas, its oceanfront condos blend scenic charm with easy access across the island.
10. Timbers Kauai
Opened in 2018, Timbers Kauai Resort features 47 luxury two- to four-bedroom residences in 3-story buildings overlooking Nawiliwili Bay. Spanning 1,900 to over 3,000 square feet, these oceanfront condos offer expansive lanais, premium finishes, and access to two infinity pools, a golf course, and on-site dining. Vacation rentals are permitted. Kalapaki Beach, ideal for swimming and paddleboarding, is a short stroll away.
Kauai’s oceanfront condos reflect the island’s untamed beauty—from the North Shore’s misty cliffs to the South Shore’s golden sands. Each spot has its own rhythm, whether it’s the quiet of a bluff-top lanai or the hum of waves just steps away. It’s less about choosing the “best” and more about finding the one that feels like yours.
I am interested in moving to Kauai in a year. I am 74 and only want to rent long term. I’m thinking a 2-3 bedroom house or condo might be what I’d need. Thank you.