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 February 2025, the average price of a 1 bedroom unit at Pono Kai is $325. The average price of a 2 bedroom unit is $534. The average takes into account Hawaii's 18% accommodation tax as well as the cleaning and booking fees rentals charge. Also note that prices vary depending on the specifc unit and season (holiday rates are usally much higher). Visit the Pono Kai Rentals page to see specific unit prices for your dates.

Pono Kai's Best Rentals

View All 39 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


This place was beyond our expectations. Perfect location, right on the beach. Excellent sunrises. Quiet and the beds were so comfy. It’s located in the middle of everything we did. We had no complaints. We’d definitely recommend it and would stay again for sure.
Liz H.
October 2024

The condo is in a great location. Beautiful view and stocked with anything you could need. Would definitely stay again
Tameka A.
October 2024

We spent 8 wonderful days on Kauai in this beautiful condo and absolutely loved it! The view from the lanai is incredible and the sunrises each morning were stunning! It was a great place and truly a home away from home. The condo is centrally located with many great places to walk to, as well as a great path along the ocean that we walked on each day. Stephanie was great with communication and addressed a small issue immediately when contacted. It’s easy to see why this place is so highly rated! Mahalo for an unforgettable dream vacation! Lauri & Ray 😊
Lauri A.
October 2024

The property is a bit dated. The grounds are kept well. The unit was a little shabby, especially the bathrooms. The bedrooms are large, but the living area is smaller than the pictures make it look. Our biggest issue was that the door code we were given did not work, so upon arriving late at night, we had to call the property manager and get a code to the lockbox to let a key (that was difficult to use)…and there was only one key, so we could never separate from the friends we were traveling with. But the kicker was when I messaged the manager the same night we arrived, I NEVER heard back from them for the remaining four days we were there. Terrible customer service in my opinion. Think I’ll be avoiding Vacasa rentals in the future. Otherwise the island was beautiful and we’ll be coming back to Kauai soon.
Jeffrey P.
October 2024

Super place with all one needs! A bit noisy sometimes being on the ground floor but all in all we would definitely come back again!
Dr Larry D.
October 2024

Good
Karen Z.
October 2024

Very nice condo. Location was beautiful. Condo was clean and as-advertized. Excellent amenities. Liked the grab bars in the bathroom. The bed was a bit too soft for us but not a big deal. We enjoyed staying there very much
Ken L.
October 2024

We've stayed at Pono Kai several times and this unit was the nicest of all having been remodeled and being on the ground level puts the Ocean seconds away and such a beautiful view.
Michael S.
October 2024

Great location. Rooms all had fans and AC. Bed was too soft for me but others might like. The apartment is dated and we had issues with the sliding door but other than that everything was fine. Property is great. Pool,hot tub, walking distance to shops and restaurants. I would stay here again.
Liz D.
October 2024

Loved this condo and its central location! Wonderful amenities that were very much appreciated…. Wagon, beach chairs, umbrella, cooler, beach towels, ice maker! And the view was amazing. The manager immediately handled any inquiries or issues! Thank you!!!
Sheryl S.
October 2024

Beautiful place with so many amenities!
emily h.
October 2024

This property was in a good location, on the beach, with a sidewalk along the beach. It was a short walk along the beach walking path to Kapaa restaurants and shops. Safeway was a short drive away, and Kapaa was a central location for exploring the island. The apartment rental was as advertised. Very comfortable. We could see the sun rise every morning from our balcony.
Heather C.
October 2024

The View of the Ocean every Morning.
Dylan H.
October 2024

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Pono Kai condo. The photos and description of the property and amenities were spot on. Use of the beach equipment, bikes, etc. made the trip even better. Lena was an excellent property manager and provided a clear and useful instruction sheet of the condo. Our only complaint would be the early checkout time of 10:00am. The only non-stop flight off Kauai was 10:00 pm. We had a whole day to kill without a place to come back to which forced us to spend more time at the airport than we would have liked. Other than that, our trip was fantastic!
Jeff S.
October 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: Great location with beautiful view of the ocean. This is centrally located on Kauai for easy access to all locations on the island. Also, walking distance to lots of great food places, groceries and shopping. We recommend Kountry Kitchen for breakfast, lava lava beach club for supper, both walking distance along a beautiful beach path. The rental condo was perfect for us. It comes with a surprisingly well stocked kitchen including a vitamix blender and even a coffee grinder so you can purchase local (amazing) whole bean coffee. Also the unit is stocked with a washer and dryer. There are multiple options for beach chairs, a beach umbrella, beach bags and even a cooler. There are ice packs in the freezer. The condo looks to have been recently renovated and was very well done. The views from the balcony make for a perfect sunrise every morning! The unit was very clean when we arrived. We would definitely stay here again!
Andrew L.
October 2024

We loved our stay! Loved waking up by the ocean and taking a morning swim. Our hosts were very accessible and accommodating.
Dan & Joan K.
September 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: We loved the location and definitely recommend this unit! Sitting on the patio in the morning is the perfect place to be. The property is spacious and inviting. Several restaurants/shops are within walking distance and the path out back is a nice stroll, morning or evening. Great communication, plus easy and personable checkout.
Ronda R.
September 2024

Rating Details: 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: The rental worked out great! Good location, walk to town, great view, clean, beds comfy, rental staff easy to work with. We had a wonderful stay.
John G.
September 2024

The place’s location and the view were very nice. However the place needs upgrading. The bathroom was not very clean especially the toilet. Linens on the bed were old and was not even ironed but It was changed immediately when it was addressed. I am not sure if I will stay at this place again.
Cecille
September 2024

Great property, great view, great people. Was greeted with aloha, felt the aloha the whole stay and it was to say our final aloha.
David O.
September 2024

Awesome Location, beautiful condo. Loved it.
Steve C.
September 2024

Had a great time Accommodations were exceptional
Donna V.
September 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: great place with lots of activity options.well stocked unit close to shopping etc.
Eva e.
September 2024

From the sofa you can see the ocean. Beautiful and comfortable. Sun rises to die for.
Jerri H.
September 2024

Very nice property. Very clean. The ocean front view was amazing!
Nancy K.
September 2024

This unit was the perfect location, clean and close to shopping/ restaurant. Great walks along the ocean! Groundskeepers were always out keeping the place looking great.
Foy S.
September 2024

Good
Donna R.
September 2024

Great location and amazing ocean views.
Niki B.
September 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was very clean. I was very happy with the location. I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: WOW! The view and sounds of the ocean can be heard from inside this unit. It was absolutely not necessary to be outside. This was a real plus and allowed us to soak up all the ocean had to offer, an element we will truly miss! For the discerning traveler, unit A-307, was exceptionally well stocked with impecable attention to detail (Tommy Bahama and island-decor items). Especially enjoyed the welcoming pineapple discretely placed in the refrigerator, a really nice touch. The condo included necessary items one may need while on vacation and in exploring the island. We could have easily left our toiletry bag at home (and hairdryer). Additional touches included necessary beach items, such as chairs, umbrellas, towels, and even a cooler to pack and take along on our days journey out exploring. Everything was clean and in great condition. We would certainly book this unit again, and hope to do so. Only downfall, steps. Three floors up and an additional flight to the master suite loft.
James P L.
September 2024

The property is not well maintained. There is rust on the light fixtures in the bathroom, rust on ceiling fans, there was dirt behind the hamper in the bathroom, the tub was filthy, 2 electrical outlets do not work, and the bed is beyond well worn (there is a 3-inch topper on a very old mattress). The view from the Lenai, breathtaking.
Angela L.
September 2024

We have stayed at Pono Kai for over 15 years and always love it. Normally we have the kids with us and get a 2 bedroom. This time we didn’t take the kids, so we rented the 1 bedroom with Murphy bed in the parlor. To say we were pleased is an understatement. The condo was spacious, clean and the air conditioner worked great. Russ our host was INCREDIBLE with communication and we extended our stay there as we loved it that much. It is hard having family come visit for dinner as the resort itself only always registered guests in the pool area so be aware of that rule. Recommend this condo 100%
Katy H.
September 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: This was a great condo with everything you could need. It was so nice to step right outside your sliding door and walk to the beach, shops, etc....We would definitely stay here again! A perfect 10!
Daniel W.
September 2024

The unit is in a very convenient location with direct access to beach and easy walking distance to food/shopping. Plenty of trash bags, paper towels and toilet paper to last the entire week stay. Random condiments and pantry items left in kitchen (we did not use but someone may appreciate it). Beach equipment and beach towels available in unit. The grounds of the resort (Pono Kai) were great! Tons of games, walking paths, grills and fire pits. There was only one key for the unit which wasn’t a huge deal but there was another couple with us so we had to coordinate plans in order to keep unit locked. Condo was tidy and somewhat clean but could certainly use a deep clean. The bathtubs appeared to have not been scrubbed in a long time. Would not be comfortable putting a child in them to bathe. There are a ton of fans which we loved in the spare room with no A/C. Guest book with recommendations was a nice touch.
Sadie M.
September 2024

Where do I began ? This place was awesome! Any Human Being will love this place !
Syron J.
September 2024

it was a dump and super hot in the bedroom, 3 forks in kitchen, the bath and kitchen not very clean and the entire kitchen leaves a lot to the imagination, needs help. if you saw up close pics, you would laugh, peeling stick on's, uneven and tired and old. The staff that came to help was a few days later and gave us a fan that didn't do much, i ended up purchasing a fan at Walmart that worked. that place is way too expensive for what you get. Thankfully it was only a week. The staff that came to assist was super nice and helpful, but the owner really needs to update that place and do a deep clean!
Tracy H.
September 2024

We can’t say enough about our stay. The condo was super convenient to dining, shopping, groceries, and activities. The upgrades inside were fantastic and the daily sunrise from the lanai was amazing. Shirley was an incredible host checking in on us during a week of uncertainty weather wise.We would love to come back.
Stacey R.
September 2024

Very well appointed thank the owner for great stay . Corporate should of said more about construction to building along with unit above. A number of days no access from slideing door
Daniel P.
September 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: This condo is perfect for a Kapaa stay. The oceanfront view is spectacular and close enough to be lulled to sleep by the ocean yet far enough off the bike trail. The condo is extraordinarily clean, roomy and comfortable! Well appointed with great beach gear. Comfortable beds and the air was very nice to have on humid nights in August. Walking distance to food and sundries. The grounds are beautiful with lots to do there (pool, croquet, volleyball, fire pits, koi pond etc). The only thing we’d add would be a few basic spices for cooking!
Christine V.
September 2024

We loved the condo - it was beautiful and the photos don’t do it justice. The place was very clean, the kitchen had everything you would want. The host has thought of everything! And the view was gorgeous! The property was also very nice and well maintained. The location on the island was super convenient for exploring the entire island. We would definitely stay here again!!
Joan M.
September 2024

It was located right on beach practically. The only thing is be prepared to hike all your luggage a little ways.
Richard D.
September 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: This condo is perfect for a Kapaa stay. The oceanfront view is spectacular and close enough to be lulled to sleep by the ocean yet far enough off the bike trail. The condo is extraordinarily clean, roomy and comfortable! Well appointed with great beach gear. Comfortable beds and the air was very nice to have on humid nights in August. Walking distance to food and sundries. The grounds are beautiful with lots to do there (pool, croquet, volleyball, fire pits, koi pond etc). The only thing we’d add would be a few basic spices for cooking!
Christine V.
September 2024

Love the location but the place needs updates. I paid for a place with AC and the AC didn’t work when we got there. We were without AC for3 days and it was miserable. I feel the price I paid was too high for all problems we had. Won’t be staying here again.
Maria K.
September 2024

This is our second stay at this property. It is clean, bright and in an ideal location. Well stocked with food prep utensils. The shower is large and easy to use. Would stay here again.
Darrel K.
August 2024

Perfect location to everything. Clean plenty of parking. Loved it
Donna C.
August 2024

Super
BRITTA MARTINA CHRISTIANE K.
August 2024

Overall, the condo was very nice and clean. The only exception were the bathroom mats that were dirty. I had to use the towels as floor mats. The condo came with beach chairs, umbrella, towels, and few other items that we didn’t use. The view was nice and right off the boardwalk.
Bob N.
August 2024

Pono Kai is a great location on Kauai. Lots of things to do close to where you are. We stayed 7 days and didn't use a full tank of gas. Yet we were doing something everyday! The lighthouse at kileaua, bike path, Smith family luau, Capt Andy's star BBQ coastline Cruise, Wailau kayak adventure, and one day enjoying the facilities @ Pono Kai & Beach! Love every minute celebrating my wife's birthday week! Mahalo!
Terry H.
August 2024

We enjoyed our time in Kauai. What a beautiful place, We drove all the way from Poipu to the edge of the North Shore. Thís room is centrally located and perfect for that. The weather wasn't great but we made the most we could of it. The bed is small (full size) and the mattress and pillows are the pits. Needs a good upgrade there! Thanks
Russell E.
August 2024

Other than the hurricane, the stay here was great
SHARON T.
August 2024

Excellent-Lots of good shopping and restaurants close by
Donna S.
August 2024


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