Are you looking for the best family hotel in Kauai?
When you ask my kids about how their trip to Kauai was, the FIRST thing they will tell you about was the stay at the Koloa Landing Resort. Not only has Koloa Landing Resort won the title for the “Best Pool in America” three years in a row, but they have luxury rooms with private lanais and are the best family hotel in Kauai for your next Kauai family vacation (in other words, it’s Mom approved!).
Disclaimer: While I share my own thoughts and stories about these experiences, should you click on the affiliate links, I may receive a small commission on that sale which helps fund Adventure Awaits.
The Best Family Hotel In Kauai | Adventure Awaits at Koloa Landing Resort
Koloa Landing Resort is located in Poipu Beach, in South Kauai, Hawaii. A short 20-minute drive from the airport brings you to a lush 25-acre property, touted as one of the Best Resorts in Kauai for families.
Koloa Landing Resort has recently undergone a 100 million dollar renovation upgrading everything from their rooms, their decor, as well as pools, restaurants and spa. As soon as you walk into the grand entrance you’ll get the perfect mix of warm Hawaiian air in a luxury setting overlooking the grand pools and incredible resort making this the best family hotel in Kauai. Jaws will drop (guaranteed)!
Book your stay at Koloa Landing Resort here!
Map of Koloa Landing Resort
Koloa Landing is spread out over 25 acres, providing you with ample activities to explore. When you’re not in your room you can enjoy many of the resort amenities which include: three pools, with waterfalls and lagoons; a walkway to the ocean; an amazing fitness centre; soccer field; volleyball court; golf putting green; spa and more!
22 Reasons Why Koloa Landing Resort is the Best Family Hotel in Kauai
1. Location
The Island of Kauai is a truly special island, unlike the others in Hawaii. Kauai is the oldest and the only unconquered island, providing it with a rich cultural heritage. There are also development restrictions in place stating that no buildings can be taller than a coconut tree (or 4 stories). This helps keep developments smaller and more intentional, allowing the majesticness of the mountains and the sea to remain protected and an integral part of the island.
The island itself is quite remote, with most of it only accessible by boat or by air. Geographically intriguing the island has a huge canyon in the middle of it that is a sight to be seen, and some of the best beaches in the world. The north Na Pali Coast is a mountainside like no other, with jagged edges cascading sharply towards the sea.
Koloa Landing Resort is the perfect base camp for exploring Kauai. Located in the middle of the southern portion of the island you can make day trips up to the north region including Princeville, Kilauea, and our favourite Hanalei (of which the famous song, Puff the Magic Dragon was “from”). You can also head west and visit Kakaha, and Waimea or head into the largest city, Lihue. With so many wonderful day trips on the island of Kauai, the location really is excellent for parents looking for family-friendly resorts in Kauai.
2. Award Winning Pools
For three years in a row, the Koloa Landing Resort has won Best Pool in America by USA Today. There’s no wonder, with a family lagoon pool that is 6100 square feet, an adult-only tranquillity pool at 200 square feet, and a 350,000 main pool for all guests to enjoy, there are lots to explore. What I love the most about these pools is not only that they are picture perfect for vacations, but there’s also a lot of variety in each keeping the whole family entertained. Let’s dig in:
Family Lagoon Pool
When looking for the best family hotel in Kauai the Family Lagoon Pool at Koloa Landing Resort is the place to go! Standing in front of the pool you feel like you’re in a magazine, but the splashes and the giggles from the deck will have you realizing this is real life! With 6,100 square feet of beautiful blue water surrounded by lush palm trees overhead, all you need is sunscreen on and you’re ready to make a splash. The hard decisions will come when you have to decide between heading over to the in-pool island, the meandering lagoon, the basketball hoop, the tidal pool, or hanging out on the deck and soaking in the Hawaii sun.
Main Pool
The whole family will love the main pool at Koloa Landing Resort. The pool meanders its way through the resort inviting guests to come and explore the waterfalls, infinity edge pool, and our favourite, the swim-through grotto. This pool is one of the largest on the island of Kauai at 350,000 gallons.
There are waterslides for riders that are over 48” high to check out, an infinity edge, and multiple jacuzzis. Pools are open daily from 7:30 am – 10 pm meaning you can spend all day at the pool if you want, or start early and end late, the choice is up to the family!
Tranquility Waterfall Pool (Adults Only)
If serious relaxation is the theme for the day adults can head over to the Tranquility Pool for some sunbathing and H2O therapy. Guests are invited to indulge in some locally sourced poolside seafood, or better yet head to the spa and finish up with a soak or a splash! (As I did, and I can tell you, it was divine!).
If you’re travelling with littles they are not able to visit this pool if they are under 18 years of age.
Pool Tip for Parents
If the pool is going to be a major part of your vacation (which it should be, look at it!) and you are travelling with littles, I recommend booking a room on the ground floor. This will give you the ability to run right from your room to the pool and makes it easy to head back to your room if you forgot anything or need a refill (for example water, snacks or sunscreen). We had a corner suite with a huge lanai overlooking the pool and it was perfect for our family (and we will definitely try to book that again), truly making the Koloa Landing Resort the best family hotel in Kauai!
3. Poolside Cabanas That Give Back
If you’re looking to splurge but also give back to the local community, then booking Cabana No. 8 at Koloa Landing Resort is a great investment. When you book Cabana No 8, not only do you get a luxury poolside experience complete with views of the pools and the Pacific Ocean, but you’ll also take part in the Cabana 8 Program. The Cabana 8 Program charges guests $300 USD for the Cabana rental for the day and proceeds from the booking go to support the Kauai Charity Walk, which raises money to support a variety of Kauai not-for-profit organizations.
What’s included with Cabana No. 8 Rental:
- Cabana Rental from 7:30 am to 10 pm.
- Space for up to 6 people.
- Lounge chairs to relax and soak up the sun.
- A flat-screen TV for keeping up with sports or entertainment.
- An overhead fan to support a cooling breeze throughout the day.
- A mini-refrigerator so you can stock up on refreshing beverages.
To book your cabana, I highly recommend contacting the concierge before you arrive to reserve, as they book up quickly.
4. Incredible Rooms: Deluxe Studios, Villas, and Penthouse Suites
While I have no proof, I feel like the rooms at Koloa Landing Resort were designed with the goal of being the best family hotel in Kauai. Each room is so well designed aesthetically but also functionally that it makes you feel like you have a Hawaiian home welcoming you with a warm hug and never wants you to leave.
With 5 different types of rooms to choose from, you can select the size of the room that works best for your group. From simply elegant studios to the whole shebang penthouse suite, here’s a summary of the rooms and what to expect at this family-friendly resort in Kauai.
Deluxe Studios
When it comes to hotel rooms, size matters. The Kauai Deluxe Studios at Koloa Landing are nearly twice the size of a standard hotel room measuring 500 square feet. Guests will enjoy a king-size, pillow-top bed, sofa with a queen pullout, kitchenette with cooktop (perfect for breakfasts and snacks), microwave, fridge, coffee maker, and all of the traditional comforts you’d expect like A/C and wifi.
Mom hack: Even the studios come with a full-size washer and dryer! (meaning you can pack less (aka carry-on). Or do your laundry before you head home and not have to do it upon your return (that’s one of my favourite travel hacks, as there’s something less chore like when folding laundry on a lanai!).
Villas at Koloa Landing Resort
The Villas are what Kauai family vacations in Kauai are made of. Designed for families, friends, or even multiple families travelling together, these villas are Hawaiian homes filled with luxury. Villas come in 1, 2, and 3-bedroom layouts ranging from 800 square feet to 2700 square feet (time to invite the grandparents!).
Inside you will find a grand luxury-style experience with a large sitting room and open-concept kitchen, both of which look out over the private lanai. I’ll be honest, my cooking skills didn’t live up to the gourmet kitchen, but that’s no different than at home. With floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open out onto your Kauai paradise, it feels like every room in the villas has a view and you’ll struggle to want to stay in your retreat or head out into the sun.
Actual Kid Quote, “My room is HUGE Mom! There’s a massive bed, a TV, a Patio, and a bathroom with TWO sinks! Come and see!”
When we first checked into our room at the Koloa Landing Resort we quickly found ourselves in this room, which we thought was the master bedroom… no, this was the kids’ room! A full second master suite makes this hotel perfect for families travelling with big groups, or multi-generations. The kids loved being “far away” (down the hall) from us, and “staying up late” to watch TV.
Penthouse Suite
If you’re into the ultimate in luxury and privacy then the Penthouse Suite was made for you. At 3600 square feet, four rooms (2 are master bedrooms), 5 bathrooms, and 3 private lanais, this paradise overlooks Mother Ocean giving you a once-in-a-lifetime experience every morning you wake up. This is extravagant and it’s the largest suite on the island of Kauai.
Book your stay at Koloa Landing Resort here!
5. Dreamy Master Bathrooms – “We Could Have a Party in Here!”
Our master bathroom was something like I have never seen before… His and her matching sinks on opposing walls, a huge walk-in shower, a deep soaker tub that could fit the whole family and a private toilet room. The whole family had fun getting ready in there, I’ve never seen a master bathroom so big!
Actual kid quote, “We could have a party in here!”
6. Full Family Friendly Kitchen – “Mom, I’m hungry!”
We are an allergy family, with 50% of us having more allergies than we care to list, so we need to be able to cook all of our own meals when we travel. This executive, luxury kitchen was fully stocked with everything we needed and more (including a blender and a rice cooker!).
7. Private Lanais
We loved that our lanai windows fully opened up and our living room could transform into an indoor/outdoor space. The kids loved that they could run from our room out onto the field and play all of the games that were set up for them (football, soccer, volleyball and mini golf). Whether you have a beautiful balcony lanai like this one or a ground-floor one that sweeps out onto the grass, you’ll enjoy the livable indoor-outdoor lifestyle that is Kauai.
Actual Kid Quote, “It’s bigger than our backyard!”
The kids loved being able to sneak out of their rooms in the morning and hang out on the lanai. The whole lanai was actually bigger than our backyard at home, so the kids were absolutely spoiled!
8. Spotting Turtles On The Beach At Koloa Landing Resort
Koloa Landing Resort is located right across the street from the beach. A quick 5-minute stroll brings you face-to-face with huge waves, big swells, and if you’re lucky, a turtle or two! (Watch for them feeding in the rocks!) The kids loved exploring the tidal pools, finding small fish, crabs, and anemones, and of course, spotting turtles. Another reason why this resort is the best family hotel in Kauai.
Turtle Tips: Did you know that touching a turtle can cost you a $100,000 fine? Learn where the best places are to see turtles in Kauai as well as how to practice safe viewing in this comprehensive article.
9. World Class Beaches – Poipu Beach
The travel channel once dubbed Poipu Beach “The best beach in America”. Located a 3-minute drive from Koloa Landing Resort, Poipu Beach is a perfect family-friendly beach where you can build sandcastles, go snorkelling, or try out watersports. Not only is the view above the water stunning but below the waves you can see beautiful marine life in the crystal clear waters.
10. Sunsets and S’mores
Does it get any better than combing sunsets and s’mores? Every Tuesday and Thursday guests are invited to the Marketplace fire pits to enjoy s’mores cooked up over an open fire. Traditionally a camping treat, this is taking s’mores to a whole new level with the campfire and surrounding scenery. Sign up at the concierge, the chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers await!
Mom story: As Canadians we grow up with s’mores like we grow up with hockey, it’s just part of our DNA. So I’ll never forget the first time I saw a little girl from Italy experience her first s’more… it was as if she had never had dessert before. Oooey gooey goodness next to a warm fire. A “life is divine” delicious moment!
11. Concierge for Adventure Seekers Finding Family Things To Do In Kauai
If your family is like us and loves to get out and explore while on vacation Koloa Landing Resort has a dedicated concierge who will help you find the best family things to do in Kauai during your Kauai family vacation. Whether it’s finding the best local hike, going ATVing through the forests, ziplining high in the sky, searching for dinosaurs on one of the island’s famous scenes, sailing the seas and swimming with Nemo, or going on a mountain tubing adventure, their educated team will help you plan the perfect family adventure on Kauai.
12. Spa at Koloa Landing Resort
It was a few days into our Kauai family vacation at Koloa Landing Resort and Dad offered to take the kids to the pool and for lunch so I could sneak over to the spa. The renovated spa welcomes guests into a 4000 square foot Kauai sanctuary, inviting you into one of their 5 private treatment rooms. Before heading for my service I was able to enjoy the pre-treatment suite and then indulged in a luxurious massage (let’s just say I was in a zen moment for the rest of the day). If you are looking to splurge they also have Kauai’s only all-copper Ofuro Japanese soaking tub as well as couples treatment rooms!
Book your stay at Koloa Landing Resort here!
13. Sunset Wall
One of our favourite things to do when we travel is to catch the sunset, specifically when we are in different countries. Koloa Landing has a sunset wall which sits at the edge of the property and is the perfect spot for you to soak in the sun as it kisses the ocean goodbye for another day.
14. Hanging With The Locals – Why DID the chicken cross the road?
A few years ago there was a hurricane that broke open a farmer’s large lot of chicken coops. Ever since then, the population of chickens and roosters has been on the rise and you’ll see them roaming all over the island and through all of the properties. The kids loved seeing all of the chickens, while I’ll admit, I did get tired of the “Why did the chicken cross the road?” jokes…
15. Fitness Centre
If you’re like me and you enjoy exercising while you’re on vacation, Koloa Landing’s fitness centre is a clean and modern facility that is great for getting your sweat on (after all, have to stay big and strong to keep up with the kids right!). From treadmills and cardio equipment to free weights and machines they have everything you need to stay in shape on site.
16. Stock Your Pantry
Some flight times are not ideal, especially if there are delays. For that reason, I love the “stock your pantry” service that is available at Koloa Landing Resort. You can order a few items to hold you over or have your whole menu planned out and fridge stocked for you when you arrive. When travelling with littles this makes for an easier transition, especially if you land late at night and want to have food in the pantry for your first-morning breakfast on the lanai.
17. Holoholo Grill
The quintessential Kauai family vacation moment is sitting poolside in your bathing suit and ordering surf and turf from the poolside restaurant. The Holoholo Grill is a partnership with Sam Choy and brings a delectable selection of food right to the poolside at Koloa Landing Resort. Just check out some of these incredible menu items:
18. Volleyball
When travelling with older kids it’s always great to find ways to meet other travellers, make new friends, and have fun, and volleyball is the perfect way to do that. A popular sport in Hawaii you’ll often find people setting up nets on the beach and inviting others to join in. At Koloa Landing, they have nets set up for your family to enjoy and welcome others to hop in and play a round or two!
19. Putting Green
For the golfers in the family, Koloa Landing Resort has a putting green ready for you to practice your short game! This is also a fun activity for older kids to join in with their parents, perhaps before heading out to the links on one of Kauai’s 9 golf courses.
20. Weekly Activities
From hula lessons to art classes, cultural explorations and fitness classes, each week guests are invited to check out one of the activities to learn more about Hawaiian customs, and culture, as well as have fun and meet other guests.
21. BBQs
There are multiple BBQ pits on the pool decks around Koloa Landing Resort, perfect for grilling up burgers for the family. One of the things we loved the most about the BBQ was the chance it gave us to meet up with other families, share stories, get adventure recommendations, and just let the kids play.
22. Not Wanting to Leave – “I don’t want to go home!”
Koloa Landing Resort, the best family hotel in Kauai, left us spoiled every day -with an amazing room, amazing amenities, and a family experience like nothing we’ve ever had before. None of us were ready to leave and when we get asked, “Would you go back?,” the question isn’t “if” – it’s WHEN! We’d love to bring everyone back with us too… while we do our best through videos and pictures, we really think this place needs to be experienced in person!
Book your stay at Koloa Landing Resort here!
Activities to do While Visiting Kauai
The Koloa Landing Resort is the best family hotel in Kauai and makes for the perfect home base while exploring these exciting adventures that I highly recommend!
Discover the Culture, Sights and Sounds of a Luau
Dive into the culture and flavours of Kauai at a luau! Enjoy the entertainment of the Polynesian hula dancers while indulging in culinary delights. This experience also includes a train ride on the Kauai Plantation Railway, a craft market featuring local artisans and a traditional imu ceremony.
Book your tickets to the Luau Kalamaku here!
Super Raft Adventure
Explore the Na Pali Coast of Kauai from a 37-foot voyager boat. Catch a glimpse of spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and humpback whales. Weather permitting, put on snorkel gear and explore the caves and sea life up close.
Book your Na Pali Coast Super Raft Adventure here!
Kayaking and Hike Adventure
Enjoy a guided 6.4km kayak tour down the Wailua River then explore the lush rainforest on a moderate 2.4km hike to Uluwehi Falls, where you will learn about the local flora and fauna. An adventure not to be missed.
Book your Secret Falls Kayak Hike in Kauai tour here!
Zipline Through Lush Forests
Take your adventures to new heights on this 8-track zipline tour over and through the forests around the Waita Reservoir. See the island of Kauai from a different perspective! A fun and exciting adventure for the whole family.
Book your Koloa Zipline in Kauai experience here!
Getting Around Kauai
Navigating the island of Kauai is easy and straightforward. While you might not require a rental car for your whole time on the island, having one on the days you want to explore the island outside of the resort is highly recommended.
Book your Kauai car rental here!
So now you can see what makes Koloa Landing so special and why it is the best family hotel in Kauai. And while I wish that 22 reasons could summarize the whole experience it really is one that needs to be enjoyed in person!
So book your room, pack your bags and get ready for the whole family to experience Aloha in Kauai!
