Four distinct pools including a sand-bottom one for kids
75-foot lava tube waterslide that actually picks up speed
Convenient central location between North and South shores
Quick Take: A tired but lovable resort currently undergoing major surgery—expect construction walls, rooster wake-up calls, and a 'lobby' that is currently a ballroom.
Reviewed by @jetsetjeni: I stayed here for a few nights and the views blew me away. Watching the sunset over the ocean from the terrace was unforgettable. Definitely the most relaxing part of my Kauai trip.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
The hype
Families love the pool variety and slide, but everyone agrees the rooms feel damp and the walls are paper-thin.
Reality check
The 'ocean view' often means 'pool view with a sliver of blue in the distance,' and the feral chickens will wake you up before your alarm.
You have kids who could spend 8 hours a day in a pool
You plan to explore the whole island and just need a central base
You want a resort feel without the $800/night Poipu price tag
Cleanliness & Maintenance
6.5
Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Some guests report daily service, others say they had to beg for towels.
Bathroom hygiene: Major weak point. Frequent complaints of mold in grout, hair in drains, and rust on fixtures.
Maintenance: Struggling. Peeling paint, broken ice machines, and 'musty' smells are common complaints.
Linens & towels: Average. Towels can be scratchy and sometimes stained; pool towels are rationed strictly.
Odors & scents: Damp/Musty smell is prevalent in older rooms; hallway smoke from neighbors is an occasional issue.
Sleepability™
5MODERATE
MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
Feral roosters (everywhere on property)
Construction machinery (until Spring 2026)
Hallway noise due to large gaps under doors
Before you book
Good to know
Valet parking is ~$39/night, self-park is ~$29/night—garage fills up fast.
Resort fee is ~$35-$41/night and includes yoga, cultural classes, and Wi-Fi.
No microwave in standard rooms, only a mini-fridge.
What to pack
Water shoes (if you attempt to wade in the rocky surf)
White noise machine (to drown out the roosters)
Reusable water bottle (filling stations available throughout)
Room Genie
Best picks
Signature Oceanfront rooms (recently renovated, best views)
Top floor of Building 2 (better views, slightly less hallway noise)
Rooms to avoid
Ground floor rooms near the pool (privacy issues and noise)
Mountain View rooms that actually just face the parking lot or roof
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a renovated 'Signature' room on a high floor in Building 2 or 3, facing away from the active construction zone if possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the beach swimmable?
No. The currents are strong and the bottom is rocky. Go to Lydgate Beach Park (5 min drive) for safe swimming.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the pools are generally comfortable, but the sand-bottom pool can feel cooler.
Can I walk to restaurants?
No. You are isolated at the end of a long driveway. You must drive to Lihue or Kapaa for food.
Is there a resort fee?
Yes, expect to pay around $35-$41 plus tax per night.
Are the rooms renovated?
Only the 'Signature' rooms are fully refreshed. Standard rooms still have older furniture and wear.
Is there EV charging?
Yes, there are EV charging stations available for guests.
Insider Tips
✨
The 'sand bottom pool' is great for toddlers but can get gritty—rinse off before hopping into the other pools.
✨
Skip the hotel breakfast buffet ($35+) and drive 5 mins to Konohiki Seafoods for musubi and bento.
✨
Check-in is currently in the ballroom due to lobby construction—follow the temporary signs.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'feral chickens' are not a joke—they are everywhere, including by the pool, and they are loud.
💡The hallways are open-air, which means humidity and noise travel straight to your door.
💡The 'Mountain View' is often just a view of the parking garage or a flat rooftop.
💡You have to wear a wristband to use the pool, and they actually check.
💡The drive into the resort is a beautiful tree tunnel, one of the most photogenic spots on the property.
Local Playbook
Map
See where OUTRIGGER Kaua'i Beach Resort & Spa is located and what's nearby.