4 Best Hotels in The East Side, Kauai

Fronting an uncrowded stretch of beach, this three-story, primarily time-share condo resort is convenient and a bit more upscale than nearby properties. It's one of the better resort properties along this stretch of the Coconut Coast. The fully furnished one- and two-bedroom condo units, each with a private lanai, washer-dryer, and well-equipped kitchen, are housed in three buildings. They are decorated in rich woods, tropical prints, and Hawaiian-quilt designs. The 8-acre property looks out on the ocean and offers a heated pool with natural rock waterscapes, a day spa, a children's pool, an ocean-side hot tub, pool bar, and fitness center. It's within walking distance of shops and home to the excellent Hukilau Lanai restaurant.

Owners Charlie and Susan Hoerner restored a three-bedroom plantation home on Kapaa's Baby Beach to reflect the charm of yesteryear with the conveniences of today. Think plank flooring, gingerbread, and stained glass alongside a Wolf stove, Bosch dishwasher, and granite countertops. The orientation is due east; you won't have to leave your bed—or living room or lanai—to watch the sunrise, the whales breach, or the full moon rise. In addition to the main Sunrise Cottage, there's a cozy and more affordable bungalow called Moonrise Cottage in back that's perfect for honeymooners. Rent both (weekly rentals only) to sleep a total of eight. Credit cards are accepted via PayPal only.

A $50 million refurbishment of guest rooms and common areas has refreshed this resort, whose sprawling property fronts the sandy shore of Kalapaki Bay and offers a lovely view of dramatic Haupu Ridge. The grounds are lush and lavish, with tropical gardens, waterfalls, Greek statues and columns, and an enormous 26,000-square-foot swimming pool. This resort is a one-stop destination, with dining, shopping, a spa, golf, tennis, fitness center, and water activities of all kinds on-site; other restaurants, resort amenities, and shops are nearby. Most rooms have expansive ocean views and some have separate sitting areas. Five-night stays are required in peak season, and housekeeping is weekly. A $30 parking fee has been imposed, but there is a convenient free shuttle to the airport for those who want to avoid renting a car. The resort is a comfortable and convenient for families and people seeking a lively resort experience.

With an enviable spot along the Lihue coastline, 450 acres of landscaped grounds, and a choice of elegant homes and townhomes, Timbers Kauai caters to those who are seeking a self-contained resort experience with an air of exclusivity. Accommodations are available with two, three, or four bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, private lanai, and lovely views of the mountains, pool, or ocean. Full kitchens, washer-dryers, soaking tubs, walk-in showers, and sophisticated decor that hints at the tropics offer comfort and convenience. The resort features walking and biking paths, beach access, lagoons, a Jack Nicklaus–designed oceanfront golf course, two pools, four outdoor tennis courts, a spa, fitness center, and fruit orchards and vegetable gardens. Hualani's Restaurant is on-site, or have a chef whip up a custom meal in your kitchen. Parking and Wi-Fi are free.