When planning a visit to Hawaii, you’re faced with the decision on what island you should visit. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, great beaches, and a laid back atmosphere, the island of Kauai is a great destination. And with its beachfront access and central location, the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay is one of the best family hotels for a visit to the Garden Isle.
Family-Friendly Hotel in Kauai, Hawaii
The Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay is the only Hilton property on Kauai, and opened in 2016. The property was extensively renovated from a previous non-branded motel, but it would be hard to know since the remodel was massive. In lieu of a few exterior spaces, and the elevators, the hotel feels fresh and modern.
Location is what I think makes this property one of the best hotels for families traveling to Kauai. It’s located on the central area of the eastern shore, only about 15 minutes from the Lihue airport. That means it’s a great jumping off point for exploring Kauai. Head south to visit Poipu or venture to Waimea Canyon, or north to go the famed north shore of Kauai.
Why the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Works for Families
- Great room options for families: book standard rooms, suites, or even one of the on-site cottages. My king standard ocean-view room had a pullout sofa and ample space for suitcases, an important feature for families.
- Free WiFi: My family likes to stay connected when we are at our hotel, and the WiFi at the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai is included in the room cost and good. I had fast speeds and connecting is easy since it’s an open network, no sign-on required.
- Lydgate Beach & Park: The property sits adjacent to the Lydgate Beach and Park. That means you have a lifeguard-manned state beach right outside your door.
Why the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Doesn’t Work for Families
- Breakfast is not included: the onsite breakfast has a flat fee of $22. With a paying adult, ages 4 and under eat free and kids 5-12 years old are $12. For a family, this can add up fast.
Room Cost
Rates range around $150-$230 per night. There is a resort fee of $22 per night. It includes: arrival Aloha shell lei greeting, Mai Tai or soft drink each evening (max 2 per day/room); Hawaiian cultural sunrise ceremony (3 days weekly); 2 hour Ke Ala Hele Makalae bike ride (2 per stay); use of a cooler & beach mat, and local & 1-800 calls.
Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Hotel Details
One of my favorite features is the open-air lobby. It makes a great impression and welcome for a Hawaii stay. Inside the lobby you’ll find great lounging seating areas and the on-site dining restaurant, the Garden Grill. All the colors are standard Hilton Garden Inn branding with verdant greens and rich, warm wood.
The property is fairly compact, so it’s easy to move around. There is a nice sized business space adjacent to the restaurant and meeting spaces for small parties.
Lydgate Beach
Another reason the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay is a great family hotel is Lydgate Beach. This long, golden sand beach sits in front of the hotel. All beaches in Hawaii are public access, so here you have a lifeguard-manned state beach practically on property.
Lydgate Beach also features a small rock lagoon that is popular for families with small children, as well as for snorkeling. Kids will love the large wooden fort playground structure, called Kamalani, plus ample picnic benches and play space (get a peek of the play structure in the video posted at the top of this article).
Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Rooms
There are many room configurations, but the basics are standard, suites, and cottages. Standard rooms feature Suite Dreams® by Serta beds, 46-inch LCD TV, complimentary WiFi access, a mini-fridge, microwave, Keurig coffee system and an iron/ironing board. Suites have the same amenities, just offer more space, great for families.
If you’re looking for extra space, consider one of the onsite cottages. These are closest to the beach access and feature two-rooms with a separate living area with sofa bed. Plus they have a kitchenette with sink.
For families, one of my favorite room features was the ample number of plug outlets. My king bed room had 16, yes, SIXTEEN, plug in ports!
Dining at the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay
The Garden Grille is the only restaurant on property. It is situated inside the main lobby and has lovely open-air seating. It also features a nice bar seating area.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at the Garden Grill. Breakfast is the most popular dining time as most people venture out to eat and explore for the other meals. If you’re dining at the Garden Grill, be sure to look at the artwork on the walls. It’s done by a local artist, Mike Field, and after my visit, I’m now saving some pennies to buy a Mike Field art piece on my next trip.
Breakfast is a buffet, but include the opton to order fresh eggs, omelets, or French toast. Whether you eat from the buffet, special order, or both, the price is $22. The property does not allow restaurant meals to be taken back to the rooms.
You’ll also find a grab ‘n go pantry store in the lobby, so you can grab some simple snacks and shelf-stable light meal options.
Traveling Mom Tip: Hilton Honors Gold and Platinum members receive a voucher for free breakfast.
Its central location, variety of room options, and family-friendly beach make the Hilton Garden Inn is a great hotel for families in Kauai, Hawaii. This Garden Isle is a lovely Hawaiian island to choose for a relaxing, outdoor vacation.
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