Situated on the southern shore of Kauai, the Hawaiian town of Poipu draws thousands of visitors every year. As an Oahu local, I’ve been lucky enough to visit Poipu a number of times and have always found something new and exciting to do!
In Poipu, you can surf the waves at Shipwreck Beach, try amazing Hawaiian-fusion food at the renowned Eating House 1849, and explore the Mahaulepu Heritage Coastal Trail. It’s a thriving hub of fantastic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and great shopping.
Thanks to the steady stream of visitors, Poipu is also home to hundreds of unique Airbnbs and vacation rentals. Whether you’re seeking a cozy, romantic getaway for two or looking to splurge on a luxury oceanfront home for sixteen, there is a Poipu Airbnb for every taste and budget. In fact, there are so many cool Airbnbs in Poipu that just picking the best one can be overwhelming.
To make planning your Kauai vacation a snap, I’ve compiled my list of the 12 best Airbnbs in Poipu. Read on to discover a few of my top picks – from beachy cottages to expansive villas. Aloha!
Note: If you’re still deciding where to stay on the island make sure you check out my list of the best Airbnbs on Kauai.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).
Top 10 Things To Do in Poipu
- Spend the morning catching waves at Shipwreck Beach. This beach is a popular surf spot for locals and tourists alike.
- Spot Hawaiian green sea turtles at Brennecke’s Beach. Just remember that they are endangered, so make sure to give them their space!
- Browse The Shops at Kukui’ula. Buy a piece of local Hawaiian artwork, have dinner at Eating House 1849, and finish off your visit with a scoop of Lappert’s Hawaii ice cream.
- Drive by the Old Koloa Sugar Mill. For many years, Hawaii was one of the biggest producers of sugar in the world. The Old Koloa Sugar Mill is one of the only pieces of evidence left of this time period.
- Hike the Maha’ulepu Heritage Coastal Trail where you’ll find turtles, monk seals, golden ‘ilima flowers, and ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs.
- Spend a day at Poipu Beach. Relax on the golden sand and maybe even do a little snorkeling in the calm ocean waters.
- Savour a delicious acai bowl from Little Fish Coffee. Add a hot cup of local Kauai coffee to make it a perfect breakfast.
- Learn about Hawaiian history at Prince Kuhio’s birthplace. Before the Hawaiian Kingdom was overthrown in 1893, Prince Kuhio was set to take the throne after his mother, Queen Liliuokalani. Instead, he served as Hawaii’s congressional delegate for twenty years!
- Wander through the blooming local plants of Allerton Garden. If the botanical garden seems familiar it’s because scenes from Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean were filmed there.
- Watch the Spouting Horn shoot water over 100 feet into the air. There are a number of factors that need to be present for this unique natural phenomenon to occur.
Why Stay in an Airbnb in Poipu
There are lots of advantages to opting for an Airbnb in Poipu. For starters, you’ll have much more freedom to choose the exact location you want to stay in – right near the beach, in the posh community of Koloa, or in a quiet local neighborhood.
Plus, there are so many fun and unique Airbnbs to choose from in Poipu! Stay in a Hawaiian-style cottage, a modern condo, or a sprawling oceanfront villa. You can pick a vacation home that perfectly fits your vibe and style.
Most Airbnbs are significantly more spacious than hotel rooms. And they often offer cool extra amenities like private pools, bikes, and beach gear. It’s also more cost-effective to stay in an Airbnb than at a hotel, especially in Poipu, where hotels can be quite spendy – especially during high season.
And, if you’re traveling with friends or family, you’ll find yourself paying for multiple hotel rooms. But with an Airbnb, you and your group can split the price of a single large vacation home.
Of course, one of the greatest perks of staying in an Airbnb in Poipu is connecting with a local host before you even land on Kauai. Airbnb hosts are very friendly and love sharing local tips which are indispensable in Hawaii. Find out about hidden beaches, secret hikes, and delicious restaurants that you might otherwise overlook.
Search Poipu Hotels and Vacation Rentals
The 12 Best Airbnbs in Poipu
Best Poipu Airbnbs for Couples and Solo Travelers
1. Hale Minoaka: New Hawaiian-Style Cottage
Situated in the lovely Poipu Beach Estates, Hale Minoaka is an inviting one-story Hawaiian cottage. It boasts a full kitchen, a cozy living area, and a bedroom with a comfy queen-sized bed. And let’s not forget about the pair of bikes, outdoor shower, and vast assortment of beach gear you’ll have at your disposal.
Nature is embraced in every aspect of this charming Poipu Airbnb – fitting since Kauai is known as “The Garden Island”. Wander around the beautifully landscaped property, run your fingers along the smooth inlaid river rock on the shower walls, and curl up under the cozy flower print comforter.
Hale Minoaka is just a short drive from Poipu’s top attractions as well as many of the best eateries in town – including Da Crack, Makai Sushi, and Waikomo Shave Ice. Yum!
2. Nature-Inspired Beachfront Condominium
This beachfront condominium is arguably one of the best Airbnbs in Poipu! Between the tasteful design and the perfect location, you really can’t ask for more.
The simple, yet elegant nature theme pervades through every aspect of this modern condo. Live potted monstera plants, greenery-inspired pillows, and taro leaf photos dot this adorable home. Add a cozy king bed, a balcony with ocean views, and a well-appointed kitchen, and you might be tempted to never leave!
In addition to all of the lovely perks of the condominium itself, you’ll also have access to the Poipu Beach Athletic Club which includes a gym and a pool with a waterslide – a real winner if you’re traveling to Kauai with kids.
As for the location, this beachfront condominium is just steps away from one of Poipu’s stunning beaches and several delicious cafes. You can easily walk to Kiahuna Beach, Little Fish Coffee, and the Kauai Juice Company.
3. Tropical Retreat in the Poipu Beach Estates
As one of the top-rated Airbnbs in Poipu, you should definitely consider a stay at this tropical retreat if it happens to be available! Complete with upscale interior design, a prime location, and an accommodating host, this Poipu vacation home is truly a gem.
This modern getaway boasts large glass windows, sleek white kitchen cabinets, and quartz countertops. You’ll see these contemporary touches throughout the home – from the king-sized bed in the bedroom to the stainless steel kitchen appliances and the comfy outdoor patio area.
Last but certainly not least, the kindness, thoughtfulness, and attentiveness of the host, Jessica, are often mentioned in this Airbnb’s many glowing reviews. If anything goes wrong on your trip or if you’re simply looking for local recommendations, she will be there to help you out!
This tropical retreat is situated in a brand new neighborhood bordering the Kiahuna Golf Course. So if you’re hoping to get in a round or two of golf while you’re in Kauai then this might be the perfect Poipu Airbnb for you!
4. Luxury Beach Cottage in Koloa
Built in 2018, this luxurious beach cottage is one of the newer vacation homes in Poipu. It seamlessly combines modern amenities with quaint Hawaiian touches. Wake up in a comfy memory foam king-sized bed, lounging in the bamboo chairs, admiring the island-inspired prints, and even try playing the ukulele.
You’ll also love the high-end stainless steel kitchen appliances, large walk-in shower, and modern split-unit air conditioning. Plus, the owner provides lots of beach gear including towels, coolers, lounge chairs, and even boogie boards!
This luxury beach cottage is situated in the elegant neighborhood of Koloa. For those who love shopping, you can head to The Shops at Kukui’ula. Or, if you prefer some fun in the sun, you can walk to Baby Beach. And for the history buffs, pop on over to Prince Kuhio’s birthplace.
Best Poipu Airbnbs for Small Groups and Families
5. Hale Kailani Cottage
Hale Kailani, which translates to “the house of heavenly waters,” is an adorable two-story Airbnb in the Poipu Beach Estates. When you step through the front door of this inviting white cottage with large windows and a perfectly manicured lawn, you’ll feel right at home.
The Hale Kailani has two bedrooms with one queen bed and one double bed, a well-stocked kitchen, and a spacious living room. Throughout this lovely vacation home, you’ll notice the blues and greens of Kauai’s natural landscape – from the throw pillows in the seating area to the photos of the island’s lush mountains and relaxing beaches. Even the provided beach towels are blue and green!
While this Airbnb can technically accomodate six people, I think that would be a little tight. Hale Kailani is better-suited for a small family or group of four.
Like many of Poipu’s best Airbnbs, Hale Kailani is within walking distance of The Shops at Kukui’ula. Plus, all of the major attractions of Poipu are within a ten-minute drive, including Poipu Beach, Allerton Garden, and the Spouting Horn.
6. Modern Island Sanctuary
As you walk under the wooden Japanese torii gate to enter this modern island home, you’ll notice it’s a little different from the other vacation rentals on the island. In Japanese culture, a torii gate typically symbolizes a transition from the ordinary to the sacred – and that’s exactly what happens when you enter this Airbnb. This calming oasis has everything you could possibly need to make your Kauai vacation as relaxing as possible.
Snuggle up in one of the four cozy beds, prepare a meal with the many stocked oils and spices, and grab everything you need for a day at the beach. Between the lovely seats by the kitchen, the blue couch in the living area, and the chairs on the outdoor patio, you might be tempted to spend all of your time in Poipu in this home.
If you decide to venture out, you won’t have to go far. It should come as no surprise that this Poipu Airbnb has an amazing location with sweeping views of the Kiahuna Golf Club. Play a few rounds of golf, dine at Eating House 1849, or chill out on Poipu Beach – all just minutes away from home!
7. Hale Luna: A Hawaiian-Style Home
Hale Luna is definitely one of the most unique Airbnbs in Poipu! This Hawaiian-style home draws inspiration from Hawaii’s days of sugar and pineapple plantations. With wooden furniture and traditional Hawaiian quilted pillows, you’ll get a little glimpse of the island’s history.
Hale Luna is equipped with three comfy queen-sized beds, a fully stocked kitchen, a living room, a dining area, and an especially inviting outdoor patio area. You can even pick fresh tropical fruits right off the trees in your backyard!
This amazing Poipu Airbnb is centrally located so you can easily stroll through Allerton Gardens, grab lunch in Poipu, and hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Coastal Trail – all in a single day. Or, if you’d rather have a fun day enjoying the sand, sun, and surf, it’s equally close to several of Poipu’s gorgeous beaches.
8. Beach-Themed Condo with Pool Access
This bright and airy beach condo in Koloa enthusiastically embraces an island theme. The tropical colors, beautiful ocean photos, and coral and shell-inspired bed runners will immediately put you in a Hawaiian holiday frame of mind.
But this condo has more to offer than just its cool island design. Pick one of the three comfy bedrooms as your own, spend your mornings sipping coffee on the outdoor patio, and cook up a meal in the upgraded kitchen complete with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.
Booking this Poipu Airbnb also gives you access to several shared amenities in the Pili Mai condo complex. Take a refreshing swim in the pool, relaxing in the hot tub, or grill up a seafood dinner on the outdoor barbecues.
You’re in Hawaii, so of course, you’ll want to spend some time at the ocean. Luckily you’ll be near Poipu Beach, Brennecke’s Beach, Lawai Beach, Shipwreck Beach, Kiahuna Beach, and Baby Beach. When it comes to breathtaking Hawaii shoreline, you’ll be spoiled for choice!
Best Poipu Airbnbs for Large Groups and Events
9. Kukui’ula Club Villa
If your group is planning to splurge on your Hawaiian vacation then the Kukui’ula Club Villa might just be the Poipu Airbnb you’re looking for.
Kukui’ula markets itself as a luxury retreat for those hoping to embrace the laid-back island lifestyle – and that’s a fitting description for this spectacular vacation home. You can wake up late in a plush bed, jump in the outdoor lava rock shower, and then enjoy the ocean views from your stunning wood-accented living area before taking a dip in your private pool.
Beyond the villa, but still on the Kukui’ula resort property, there is an expansive pool complex, a golf course, tennis courts, a working farm filled with fresh produce, and even a lake stocked with bass.
This Kukui’ula villa is located in Koloa, the most lavish neighborhood of Poipu. You can embrace the life of luxury by perusing The Shops at Kukui’ula or playing a round at the Kukui’ula Golf Course. Or, just spend the whole day lounging at your expansive Villa – you are on vacation after all.
10. Mahana Makai: Contemporary Home in Koloa
Mahana Makai is another stunning Poipu Airbnb located in the posh Kukui’ula Resort Community. And just like the Kukui’ula Club Villa, this epic vacation home is the perfect way to splash out for an unforgettable trip to Kauai!
The Mahana Makai, which means “seaside retreat” in Hawaiian, seamlessly blends the indoor with the outdoor. Almost every room in the house opens to the manicured lawn and inviting blue swimming pool outside. With an open floor plan and big sliding glass doors, you’ll enjoy the refreshing sea breeze all throughout the home.
The Mahana Makai boats 4 bedrooms, a huge living area, and an expansive lanai so you’ll have plenty of room for everyone. You’ll love the ultra-plush king-sized beds, state-of-the-art kitchen, and gas fireplace.
And as impressive as the inside of Mahana Makai is, there is even more to appreciate on the outside. Swim in the private pool, cool off in the lava rock outdoor shower, and whip up a scrumptious meal on the barbeque!
As if the luxurious amenities of this home weren’t enough, Mahana Makai also boasts a prime location! Make the short walk to see the turtles on Lawai Beach, learn a bit of Hawaiian history at Prince Kuhio’s birthplace, and wander The Shops at Kukui’ula.
11. Hale Kailani in the Poipu Beach Estates
Hale Kailani is unquestionably one of the coolest Airbnbs in Poipu! With sleeping arrangements for 16 and a unique swimming pool with three rock waterfalls, you’d be hard-pressed to find a Poipu vacation home more splendid than this one.
If you’re planning a wedding, family reunion, or just a Hawaiian vacation with 15 of your best friends, Hale Kailani is a great choice. This sparkling new home boasts an open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, and loads of natural light. And don’t forget to take advantage of the high-end kitchen, private pool, and sunny outdoor seating area.
This Kauai Airbnb is also just steps away from The Shops at Kukui’ula. While there, wander around the extensive farmer’s market, peruse the many boutiques and restaurants, and grab a flavor-packed scoop of ice cream from Lappert’s Hawaii.
12. The White Ginger
Run by a lovely local ohana (Hawaiian for “family”) of 8, The White Ginger is filled with unique, thoughtful touches. Relax in the beautiful soaking tub, devour a delicious breakfast while sitting on rustic wooden bar stools, and smell the fresh ocean air on the 2 comfy lanais.
The thoughtfulness continues throughout the rest of the home, including 4 light and airy bedrooms with premium linens, an open kitchen, and a beautiful vintage hardwood dining table. The house is even arranged with several conversation-friendly nooks so you can bond with friends and family during your stay. You’re sure to make lasting memories during your time at The White Ginger.
As an added bonus, because the owners have 6 children of their own, this Poipu Airbnb has everything you need if you bring your little ones along. Read to your kids at night from the home’s collection of children’s books, keep them entertained with the toy collection, or spend a day at the Poipu Beach Athletic Club’s pool. You can even ask the hosts for babysitter recommendations so you can have a kid-free date night in Poipu.
The White Ginger is right next to The Shops at Kukui’ula which is full of boutique shops, local art galleries, and delicious dining. And if you’re hoping to get out into nature, Poipu Beach, Shipwreck Beach, and Mahaulepu Heritage Coastal Trail are all within a short 10-minute drive.
That’s it – 12 of the best Airbnbs in Poipu! Do you have a favorite vacation rental in Poipu? Let us know in the comments below.
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