Pono Kai, Kauai

Pono Kai Resort, located in the historic town of Kapaa on Kauai's east side, offers a picturesque 12-acre property with meticulously manicured grounds and a koi pond. The resort is within walking distance of various restaurants, shops, and grocery stores, and is just 15 minutes from Lihue Airport. Guests can enjoy numerous on-site amenities, including a pool, hot tub, tennis and pickleball courts, workout room, BBQ facilities, herb garden, and a 7-mile multi-use coastal path. The resort also provides free parking, 24-hour front desk service, and an activities desk for arranging island adventures.

In addition to its convenient location and extensive amenities, Pono Kai Resort is situated along the scenic Ke Ala Hele Makalae walking and bike path, providing easy access to the beautiful coastline and nearby attractions. With a range of activities and facilities available, Pono Kai Resort is an ideal choice for vacationers seeking a relaxing and enjoyable stay on the Garden Isle of Kauai.

Pono Kai Average Rates


As of July 2024, the average price of a 1 bedroom unit at Pono Kai is $337. The average price of a 2 bedroom unit is $507. Note that prices vary depending on the specifc unit and season (holiday rates are usally much higher), and the averages don't include Hawaii's 18% accommodation tax or cleaning and booking fees. Visit the rentals page to see specific unit rates.

Pono Kai's Best Rentals

View All 37 Pono Kai Rentals (with vacancy and search options)

What Do Guests Think? An AI Analysis of 1000 Guest Reviews


Reviewer Portrait

The following executive summary is based on a comprehensive and impartial AI analysis of guest reviews. Keep in mind that all units are individually owned, and review scores among units can vary considerably.

It seems like guests have had a positive experience staying at the Pono Kai condo resort on Kauai. Many appreciate the central location, which allows for easy access to restaurants, shops, and sightseeing spots. The oceanfront views and proximity to the beach are highlights for many, with guests enjoying sunrises and the sound of waves from their units. The resort's amenities, including pools, family activities, and well-maintained grounds, are well-received. Units are described as clean, comfortable, and well-equipped, offering everything needed for a pleasant stay, including beach gear. Some guests mention minor issues such as noise from neighboring units or the need for updates in some condos, but these do not seem to detract significantly from the overall positive experience. The convenience of walking and biking paths, as well as the friendly and responsive property management, are also appreciated. Overall, guests recommend Pono Kai for its beautiful location, comfortable accommodations, and the excellent value it provides for a memorable stay on Kauai. This summary is based on a comprehensive analysis of 1000 guest reviews.

Recent Pono Kai Reviews


Very nice condo, kitchen had more than enough supplies as well as outdoor equipment for sitting ocean side. However, only reason not five stars is the bed on one side is pretty sunken. Perhaps flip mattress? We have stayed at pono Kai several times snd really enjoy closeness to town, and relaxed atmosphere of the area. Maholo
Mark L.
April 2024

The location was awesome. It was steps from a Sandy beach. The condo was very clean and had everything needed to be comfortable. The furniture was a little used, but okay. Centrally located. Close to grocery store and restaurants. Would stay here again.
sherri f.
April 2024

Property was well maintained, staff was helpful and pool and hot tub were great with outdoor games.
Diane C.
April 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was adequately helpful. The vacation rental was very clean. I was more than happy with the location. I was satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Location was fabulous. Located on the East coast both the North and South shore were a short drive away. The bike path outside our unit provided a wonderful morning walk. With an ocean front condo we were disappointed with the obscure sliding glass door. We could only enjoy the views when the slider was fully open. Unfortunately we had stromy weather on two of our days and the rains were so strong along with a hole in our porch gutter, our porch flooded and flowed into our living room. Thus we were required to keep our slider close and our beautiful ocean view was completely obscured. What a bummer!
Holly O.
April 2024

We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Kauai thanks in large part to this wondearful, centrally placed condo. The property was in a great town with tons of food options, including a wide variety of food trucks. We really enjoyed the tennis/Pickleball facilities, as well as the pool and hot tub. The unit itself has a great oceanfront view, and was very spacious to accommodate our group of seven. The loft was a hit with the kids, and the master bedroom is simply amazing. The kitchen was well stocked, which made for a very pleasant experience preparing a few meals. Doing laundry on the first floor was a little weird since their hours were limited to 8 AM to 10 PM. Not to mention you had to get changed at the front desk to utilize quarters but that would literally be my only concern with an extended stay. We stayed a week and I would highly recommend this to friends.
Brandon A.
April 2024

My husband and I wanted to stay in Kapaa due to its central location. The condo was nicely updated and had everything we needed plus more. Great oceanfront location! Enjoyed the sunrises, ocean breezes and sounds of the waves. BBQ area was perfect. Condo was very clean, spacious and comfortable. We will stay here again!
Debra S.
April 2024

My husband and I stayed at this property for our honeymoon and it was amazing! the location was perfect and the property itself was clean, equipped and made it feel like home. We enjoyed the local shops/restaurants we could walk to and of course the private beach just steps away. We definitely will be staying here in the future when we come back!
Katie B.
April 2024

I loved the staff they were super helpful and friendly but I didn’t like that my room wasn’t ready when we got there. It took them 1 1/2 for our room to be cleaned and ready but when we got in our room smelled so clean and fresh.

April 2024

Pono Kai has always felt like a second home to us; relaxing and comfortable. We notified vacasa that the screen and patio needed attention and this was dealt with the next day. the location is accessible to the bus routes and grocery store so we didn't rent a car.
Mary M.
April 2024

This was a beautiful and comfortable place to stay! Perfect location!
Chelsea R.
April 2024

Well appointed one-bedroom unit; listing and info in unit needs updating. Resort is well-kept and convenient. It’s located right on the beach walk with a terrific ocean view. Listing mentions ac in living room which appears to have been removed some time ago.
tom m.
April 2024

The owners have supplied everything you’d possibly need to enjoy your stay! Lovely furnishings! Also, the location is very convenient to travel on the island, plus a short walk to the town of Kapa’a.

April 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Perfect place to stay in Kapaa. Clean, reasonably priced, helpful staff leading up to and during the stay. Very accommodating in traveling with a small child.
Sally C.
April 2024

From the moment you walk through the door, you feel ease and excitement. The view from the balcony is amazing. The unit is clean and very well stocked! I would check in before hitting the grocery store as many staples have been left behind. Salt, pepper, oil, condiments, cling wrap etc. The grounds at Pono Kai are very well kept and the staff is friendly. It was above my expectations and it really made for a wonderful vacation. I would stay in this unit again without a doubt.
Alison M.
April 2024

My wife and I totally enjoyed your condo in Kauai.We had our daughters and their spouse's with us and there was plenty of room. The walking/bike path was a big plus ,we used the path many times a day along with rental bikes we had. The condo was in a good location for all of our adventures. Would highly recommend this place for all. Thank You for the fun memories!!
PAUL R.
April 2024

The host was super understanding of my payment blunder and called me to confirm I was indeed coming. I so appreciate that he didn’t cancel my reservation for my mistake. The dual zone air conditioning was a life saver because it gets stuffy. The condo smelled musty like it isn’t used a lot. The apartment had everything we needed including beach towels, shampoo and conditioner, beach chairs. We saw whale spouts off the lanai. The Murphy bed was really comfortable though the king bed mattress was quite squishy. Whatever the case, we really liked the condo and would stay again. Note: I’m a picky traveler with regard to my accommodations and the view plus location plus super host makes it a great choice.
Erin L.
March 2024

We had an excellent vacation at this property! The location is great; kind of right in the middle for all the sights AND right on the beach. The property was clean and comfortable and had everything we needed, except a working cooler. The zipper did not zip closed. Not a big deal though. Definitely a good stay!!
Lori W.
March 2024

Can’t beat this oceanfront location. Took the provided chairs and umbrella to the beach. Easy walk to awesome bakery/coffee spots, grocery & dinner options from cool food trucks! Centrally located to explore the East side.
Clarisse G.
March 2024

We loved sleeping to the waves each night, this is our 2nd time here, Thank you Stephanie for offering your place for others to stay at.
mary p.
March 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was very clean. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Loved location and unit Condo was well -equipped with all we needed both in the kitchen and for the beach.. Great location right at water and bike path. Kapaa town was a short walk away.One drawback from ground floor unit. Noise from people walking upstairs was fairly noticeable, but did stop by about 9 p.m. so didn’t disturb sleep. I would definitely stay there again.
Chris L.
March 2024

Beautiful, clean grounds just steps from the ocean. The sun rise in the morning is the most amazing sight. It was our daughters 14th birthday- the resort offers plenty of activities, the unit is just steps from the pool, with laundry and bbq's just steps away from the unit. Jared is a fantastic host to deal with, answers questions almost immediately- and offers many tips on restaurants and things to see and do. Overall 11/ 10 rating. The absolute only negative i could possibly say is the patio chairs could use cushions. However, that by no means had any real impact on our vacation. The room was fully stocked with boogy boards, snorkels, lawn chairs and a cooler for snacks and drinks. I would recommend this property and unit to anyone i know who would like to visit the beautiful island of Kauai. Thanks Jared!
kelly d.
March 2024

We are returning guests and enjoy this superb property immensely. The location is perfectly situated adjacent to a five mile oceanside pathway and it is a short stroll to the quaint town of Kapaa. The resort grounds are very well maintained with a pool, hot tub, games area and koi ponds to enjoy. The oceanfront unit is always immaculate and kept in pristine condition. The unit has everything we have needed including a well stocked kitchen, good air conditioning and a comfy bed. Additionally, beach chairs, coolers and umbrellas are also available. Kathleen is the most helpful owner. She has went above and beyond for us on many occasions and we thank her for sharing this little piece of paradise with us.
linda k.
March 2024

We loved our stay! The condo was beautiful and very comfortable. We loved the location on the island and being so close to the ocean.
Jeanie B.
March 2024

Location was beautiful and perfect
TERRANCE F.
March 2024

This was a lovely condo with a ton of amenities. Just as advertised. The condo owners provided a list of recommended activities and restaurants and they were all great recommendations (although one or two restaurants seem to have closed down). I may suggest a couple extra pillows for each of the king beds but besides that, everything was ideal. We loved Kapa’a and will book this condo again if it’s available!!
Kendal B.
March 2024

We enjoyed the condo and resort with being able to walk on the great path as well as go down to the beach. It rained our last day so we got to see the famous rainbows out the back side (the sun rises on the front side).
Karen D.
March 2024

The location and view of this condo is outstanding. It's a good area with a great view, great beach, and plenty of dining options. We would stay here again. Two things i would like to note that could use improvement but arent deal-breakers or enough to signifigantly hurt this review: 1) There is no deadbolt or chain keeper on the door for security. A hotel style door latch or chain keeper would give extra piece of mind for security. The keypad style lock is nice to have but I would have liked both. 2) The condo while cleaned, could really use a deep cleaning. There was quite a bit of dust on the cabinets in the bathroom, there was quite a bit of grit in the rugs in the bedroom, and the water pitcher in the fridge was dirty in the inside. All these things can be easily fixed with a simple deep clean of the condo. Overall, this condo is in a prime location and even of you find a more modern condo, if it doesn’t have the ocean view and great beach like this one, you will regret not staying here.
Nathan F.
March 2024

Ocean view
Sherry
March 2024

We really enjoyed this location and the condo. It was perfect location for swimming in the ocean.
Chrissy B.
March 2024

We had a fantastic week in this unit. The kitchen was well outfitted with cooking equipment and well stocked with necessities. The addition of recreational items was very much appreciated. It was apparent that the hosts have provided a well thought out and planned unit and if we return to this location, we would definitely try to book this unit again.
Carrie N.
March 2024

Sunrises every morning, chilling while listening to waves. Middle of the island so equally accessible to north and south.
douglas R.
March 2024

Rented this condo 6 nights for our honeymoon in February, we were greeted with leis and champagne in a clean/updated condo. It was more than we could ask for with the price we paid. Owners were very nice and communication was excellent through the process and during our stay. Kauai is beautiful and this relaxing little condo on the beach helped contribute to our perfect honeymoon. Would definitely stay here again, highly recommended.
Hunter C.
March 2024

The property was clean, the pool and hot tub were great additions after a long day, and the location was ideal for kicking around the island. Everything was clean, neat, and well-organized. There were beach items we could use, and that was a great bonus as well. Loved this property.
Troy L.
March 2024

The unit itself was nice. Check-in was seamless. The view from the unit was beautiful, just like the picture. The walk right by the ocean was exceptional. Access to restaurants nearby were walking distance. The complex itself seemed very tired.
Jane T.
March 2024

We were pleasantly surprised at all the recreational activities available. Equipment for everything from horseshoes to croquet and board games were available at the pool. The view was just like the photos. The unit was clean and well set up. We had a little trouble figuring out the tv/streaming service.
Leslie Z.
March 2024

This nice one bedroom condo was in a well maintained complex on the east side of the island. We felt we were close enough to drive anywhere we wanted to go. We loved our waterfront view, walk-out porch and walking path only steps away. We enjoyed both the beach and the pool. Owner was very responsive. Thanks!
Karen D.
March 2024

Swam every day. Sensational beach just steps from our condo. Biked, ran and walked the 4 mile path. It was the best.
William E.
March 2024

Good location and property was spacious. I’d stay there again. Sound does travel from upstairs so bring earplugs.
BENJAMIN H.
March 2024

Everything was great! We had a great time!.
Ben M.
March 2024

Enjoyed our stay!! Good communication with owner. Check in was easy. Well stocked kitchen and bathroom. Perfect location. Amazing view from the patio!! Thank you for having us!!
Jan B.
March 2024

Great property! Central location in Kapaa within walking distance of downtown. Beautiful views of sunrises over the cove. Very good amenities. Loved it!!
Julie M.
March 2024

A bit dated & well used but over all, well maintained. Cleaning crew could use a refresher as what to be expected,(dirty base boards, coffee cup rings on counter tops). Grounds are well kept and very attractive. I would stay here again. Thanks and Aloha.....Fred & Judy
Fred W.
March 2024

We have stayed here many times and have rented here also really like the pool nice beach when the trade winds arnt blowing Hate the roosters to mant roosters
Edwin A.
March 2024

Unit very well updated. Ocean front with very nice view. Kitchen well equipped, we had everything we needed. We do recommend this rental. We may come back next Year.
Louise H.
March 2024

We had an absolutely wonderful time staying here! The kitchen was extremely well stocked and made it incredibly easy and fun to cook meals at home. The balcony has a stunning view of the water and looks directly east, making it perfect for drinking coffee and watching the sunrise. The condo is literally steps away from the ocean, and the surf was very calm while we were there. While we also made our way to other beaches, on multiple occasions we simply stepped outside and spent many hours right on the beach by the property. While the resort doesn’t provide full amenities to private condos, we were able to use the pool, jacuzzi, and hammocks; and that was perfect to us! The location is very walkable to a number of restaurants, bars, and shops, and the beach walking path offers beautiful views. While I’ve previously stayed in Princeville, Kapa’a offered a really central location for day trips both north and south, which helped minimize time spent in the car and maximized time enjoying our trip. Donna was also a fantastic host and helped us within minutes during a minor issue. Overall, we had a great time in this location and would recommend it!!
Ivy G.
March 2024

Great location, check-in is a process as you have to check in with front desk. Took 20 mins. Place is very nice and great views, but furniture is dated and a drawer was missing the front.
Adam S.
March 2024

This place is 'top' notch! Loved the location, the ocean view, the walking path, and the comfort of the condo! We will be 'be-backs for sure! Mahalo to the outstanding hosts for an AMAZING Paradise vacation! 😊
Dana W.
March 2024

You could hear all the footsteps from unit above. Sometimes until after midnight and early morning. VERY ANNOYING and disruptive to sleep!!
Sandy K.
March 2024

View as advertised, amazing. Door lock broke on day 2 but Donna was very responsive and got it fixed in a couple of hours. Coffee provided and kitchen well equipped with spices etc.
Hubert M.
March 2024

Property is dated but we knew that going in. What we didn’t know was that the dishwasher was NOT working and for three days we went without one. Then we spent almost two full days in our condo while they attempted to replace the dishwasher with a new one. The microwave has some sort of electrical malfunction going on in behind the control panel and it “Zaps & Sparks”, was able to take a video to send to owner and manager. The owner was unwilling to compensate us for any of our inconvenience and loss of time while on our holidays. For that reason alone, we will NEVER rent B-306 again!
Cheryl B.
March 2024


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