If you’re traveled much you already know that a great way to save money and meet interesting people is by staying in a youth hostel. When I travel the globe, especially when solo, it is what I look for first. Finding a hostel associated with Hostelling International is a good idea for guaranteed high standards in both facilities and service. Independent hostels are a bit more risky, but if you read the reviews carefully, you can get a pretty good idea of what you’re going to get.
A great site to locate hostels is hostelworld.com. They really do cover the world. A quick search of Hawaii will reveal properties in Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island of Hawaii. Unfortunately they show nothing for Kauai. So….?
Doing a google search: Hostels Kauai, I found one hostel listed in Kapa’a. I haven’t stayed there so can’t give a fair review. The reviews online are mixed. If you’re on a budget and you can get a reservation it might be a good choice:
There just are not a lot of budget hotels on the island. On my first visit to the island, I spent one night at the Tip Top Motel. Typical rate is $100/night. They have a great café attached.
3173 Akahi St. Lihue. Located in the heart of Lihue, this place has been around more than 100 years. I thought it was fine.
People don’t come to Kauai though to be downtown. Not being able to find an affordable place to stay I camped out. I find camping to be the best value on the island. Read my Kauai Camping Guide. County camping permits are usually $3/per night for adults. State campgrounds are inexpensive and one of my favorite private campgrounds, Kumu Camp at Anahola has very reasonable rates
Remember also that Kauai lacks a good bus system, so you’re probably going to want to rent a vehicle. Rental car rates are also not cheap.
If you want to be on the beach, I mean right on the beach, camping is the way to go. I know the option I offer is not for everybody, but you might find that it is a good option for you. I rent out 4x4s with rooftop tents and camper vans. Read over my website carefully and see if this might be a good alternative for you. Thanks for reading. I hope you’ll come to love Kauai as much as we do.
