Hotels in Wailua

Wailua Wonders: Where Lush Landscapes Embrace the Sea

Wailua, located on the stunning island of Kauai, Hawaii, is a paradise where relaxation meets rich Hawaiian history. This captivating destination boasts the breathtaking beauty of Wailua Bay, with its shimmering waters and pristine beaches like Kalapaki Beach. Adventurers can explore the majestic Wailua Falls, while the nearby Point at Poipu offers stunning coastal vistas. Whether you're lounging on the shores or immersing yourself in the local culture, Wailua invites you to unwind and soak in the island's natural splendor. Experience the allure of Kauai in this serene haven, where every moment feels like a tropical escape. For the best hotel rates in Wailua, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Wailua

Some of the best places to stay in Wailua are Poipu, Nawiliwili and Hanamaulu. Wailua, Hawaii, is an excellent base for travelers exploring Kauai, with Poipu, Nawiliwili, and Hanamaulu offering unique experiences. Poipu is ideal for first-time visitors, boasting beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant dining options. Nawiliwili, a bustling harbor area, features a range of accommodations from budget to upscale. Hanamaulu provides a more laid-back atmosphere with charming inns and vacation rentals. Overall, each area has diverse hotel options, catering to various budgets and preferences for a memorable Hawaiian getaway. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Wailua:

1. PoipuOpens in a new window: Poipu is a stunning beach destination known for its golden sands and vibrant marine life, making it ideal for families and adventure seekers alike. With attractions like Poipu Beach, Lawai Beach, and Baby Beach, it's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Hotels here include Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and SpaOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel offering direct beach access and a range of adventure activities. Families will appreciate its child-friendly amenities like a playground and babysitting services. Another option is Ko'a Kea Resort on Po'ipu BeachOpens in a new window, also 4.5-star, which features business facilities alongside its beach theme, making it suitable for both leisure and business travelers. Lastly, The Lodge at Kukui’ulaOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star lodge, provides adventure sports like helicopter tours and snorkeling, with family-friendly amenities available.
2. NawiliwiliOpens in a new window: Nawiliwili is a picturesque harbor area that showcases the beauty of Kauai with its outdoor activities and scenic views. Notable nearby attractions include Nawiliwili Bay and Kalapaki Beach, perfect for water sports enthusiasts. The 4.0-star Marriott's Kaua'i Beach ClubOpens in a new window offers direct beach access and adventure activities like surfing and snorkeling, making it a great choice for beach lovers. The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort LihueOpens in a new window, another 4.0-star hotel, also provides business amenities alongside beach access, catering to a variety of travelers. For a budget-friendly option, Marriott's Kauai LagoonsOpens in a new window offers a comfortable stay with golf-themed experiences.
3. HanamauluOpens in a new window: Hanamaulu is a quaint coastal area that offers outdoor adventures and stunning beaches, including Kalapaki Beach. It's perfect for travelers looking to explore Kauai's natural beauty. OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & SpaOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star resort, is equipped with business facilities and offers various adventure activities like surfing and kayaking, making it versatile for different types of guests. For families, 2417 at Lihue Oceanfront ResortOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, features child-friendly amenities and golf experiences, ensuring a fun stay for visitors of all ages.

Things to do in Wailua for first time

Wailua is a stunning destination for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. With its breathtaking beaches, lush forests, and serene rivers, visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming. Spend three days immersing yourself in this tropical paradise and experiencing its diverse landscapes. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Wailua:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Lydgate Beach, a family-friendly spot perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Enjoy the calm waters and the beautiful scenery. After soaking up some sun, head over to Opaekaa Falls Overlook, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Finish your day at Smith's Tropical Paradise, a stunning botanical garden that showcases the beauty of Hawaiian flora. Stroll through the vibrant gardens, and perhaps catch a glimpse of some local wildlife as you explore the serene landscape.
• Day 2: Start your day at Nawiliwili Bay, a picturesque harbor where you can enjoy the stunning ocean views and maybe even catch a glimpse of some boats coming in. Next, venture to Huleia National Wildlife Refuge, a peaceful haven for birdwatching and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Finally, make your way to the Menehune Fishpond, a historic site that allows you to delve into the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii while marveling at the ancient fishpond's engineering.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at Kalapaki Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores or try your hand at water sports. After some fun in the sun, head to Hanalei Bay, known for its stunning landscapes and serene atmosphere—perfect for a leisurely stroll along the beach or a dip in the ocean. Conclude your day at Wailua Falls, a spectacular sight where you can admire the waterfall's beauty and snap some unforgettable photos, making for a fitting end to your Hawaiian adventure.

5 tips to find a great Wailua hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For budget-conscious travelers, the most affordable time to visit Wailua is in January, September, and November, when hotel rates are at their lowest. If you're coming from abroad, it's best to book your flight at least 5 months in advance to secure the best deals. A visit of at least 4-5 days is perfect for taking in the area's main attractions, including beautiful beaches and stunning islands. Wailua offers great value for money, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy an unforgettable getaway on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Wailua, exploring options on Hotels.com can be a great way to save. To uncover potential discounts on Wailua hotels, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on the site, where you might find reduced rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you're more likely to catch flash sales and special promotions, helping you snag the best prices.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Wailua.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Wailua is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving, taking the bus, biking, or walking to explore the area while saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Wailua and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

What to eat in Wailua

Here are some famous dishes in Wailua, Hawaii, United States of America:

• Poke: A quintessential Hawaiian dish, poke consists of diced raw fish, typically tuna, marinated in a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Enjoyed as a refreshing appetizer or main course, poke is often personalized with various toppings like avocado, seaweed, or spicy mayo, making it a fun and customizable dining experience. Local poke shops in Wailua often showcase fresh catch from the nearby waters, enhancing the authenticity of your meal.
• Kalua Pork: This traditional Hawaiian dish features pork slow-cooked in an underground oven called an imu, resulting in tender, smoky meat. Often served at luaus, kalua pork is a staple at family gatherings and celebrations, embodying the spirit of Hawaiian hospitality. Pair it with rice and a side of cabbage for a delightful meal.
• Lomi Lomi Salmon: A refreshing side dish made with diced salted salmon, tomatoes, and onions, lomi lomi salmon is a staple at many Hawaiian feasts. Its bright flavors and vibrant colors make it a perfect accompaniment to rich dishes like kalua pork, reflecting the island's emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Best time to go to Wailua

Wailua experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 71.6°F (22.0°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 78.4°F (25.8°C). March is usually the wettest month. January, March, and April are the peak travel months in Wailua, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.