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 December 2024, the average price of a 1 bedroom unit at Pono Kai is $333. The average price of a 2 bedroom unit is $588. 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 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


Great location and amazing ocean views.
Niki B.
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

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

Beautiful place and even more beautiful island
Caleb M.
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

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

We were impressed with the thoughtfulness of the host, as evidenced by the amenities provided for our comfort. And the kitchen! I love to cook and the kitchen had small appliances, cookware, tableware and gadgets galore. Very nice!
Mark C.
August 2024

I would have given this place higher rating if the living room furniture was minimally comfortable. The 2 wicker chairs are so uncomfortable, they belong outside or something; they were awful. The couch was very small and uncomfortable as well. So, our family couldn't even sit in the living room comfortably. I just don't understand why the owners can't realize that people spend this much money on a condo, why wouldn't they think they'd like to be comfortable after a long day of being out and about. All they would have to do is get a sectional or even a couple of recliners and would make this so much better. On the flip side, I'm so glad there was A/C, even though it was inconsistent, we still were able to stay cool. So, don't believe anyone that tells you that you don't need a/c in Hawaii, as they are either not being sincere, or they are used to sleeping in high humidity outside or something. If you are used to sleeping warm or lots of humidity, then you'd be fine. This location was very good as a base, in that we could go north or south and cover alot of ground. That and there were numerous affordable eating locations that were really good. I would have liked to stay in the north, as it's prettier, but affordable restaurant selections were hard to find, and the area seemed to be very crowded. FYI, beach is really not optimum for swimming, as the water is not clear, lots of debris swirling around; but is great for the sounds and view.
Alan H.
August 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was more than happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Lovely condo, incredible view and very well equipped! This condo has everything you could wish for. Very comfortable beds and A/C works great. Would definitely come back with my family again. Thank you!
Lisa B.
August 2024

Loved the location. Lots of stores and places to eat within walking distance. The view was amazing! Unfortunately the beach isn’t super swimmable (pretty rough), but still nice to walk and play in the surf a bit. The pool, albeit not fancy, our 6yo thoroughly enjoyed. Feeding the fish in the morning was also a highlight for her.
Jessica S.
August 2024

No complaints. Had what we needed. loved sunrise and walking along the coast. Good location. We’d stay there again.
Danielle N.
August 2024

This place was great! We would definitely stay here again! It was very clean. Lots of activities on the grounds (pool, ping pong, corn hole, chest, mini golf). We watched the sunrise the 1st morning and went for a walk in town and got some great coffee. Another morning we enjoyed a bike ride. This place has everything you need (beach towels, beach chairs, boogie boards, cooler w/ ice packs in freezer). The AC worked great! We ate off the porch one night and enjoyed the ocean front scenery.
Christi K.
August 2024

Good resort for working on the island for 2+ weeks.
John M.
August 2024

great spot, killer vibes
Sean C.
August 2024

Not our first time staying at the Pono Kai, and once again did not disappoint.
Dave P.
August 2024

We loved our stay at Pono Kai. The location was perfect for exploring all parts of the island. The town of Kapaa has lots of shops & good eats. The sea breeze coming in through the window every morning and night was perfect. There was no need for AC. Very clean and check in/check out were very easy. Would definitely stay again!
Cecilia K.
August 2024

A truly fabulous top floor location with an unobstructed ocean view. Married on Oahu 50 years ago and visiting often since this was our first visit to Kauai. We will be coming back and hope we can book this spot again...definitely a gem. Mahalo for sharing with us. We now start our next 50 years.
Sam M.
August 2024

Beach front! Fit my family of 5 great. Had all the beach accessories we needed.
Ann D.
August 2024

The property was all its review said it was and more. Things were clean, accessible and comfortable. We will definitely be back!
Jeff G.
August 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: Location, view and room were wonderful! 2 things I would correct there were no dressers in the rooms. The rug by the kitchen sink is a tripping hazard for senior citizens like us.
Don K.
August 2024

Stayed 10 days in this beautiful condo, great location with tons to do within 15 minutes. Everything you could want was provided. Lots to do on the property and the beach across the street is very peaceful. Great communication and very clean.
Jerry M.
August 2024

Everything listed and more. Beautiful condo, incredible clean and every beach accessory you could think of and more. Definitely will be staying again!
Cheryle E.
August 2024

Nicely updated unit. Had everything we needed. Great communication. Thankful for air-conditioning in July! Unit away from ocean. Minimal breezes. We had trouble getting to a BBQ grill. Not enough available for each bui building
Deb w.
August 2024

Beautifully landscaped grounds and a great location made this property ideal for us. The pool, all the sports activities available on the grounds and the games provided in the condo made this the perfect place for our 8 year old granddaughter. The kitchen was well supplied with everything we needed to fix most of our meals. We enjoyed the large size of each of the rooms in this condo and really appreciated the air conditioning and the full sized washer and dryer. We would stay here every year if we could financially do so.
Marilyn F.
August 2024

The only complaint we have is the oven doesn't heat up fast at all and takes a while to cook anything. We weren't sure if you were aware or not. Also the cleaning instructions need to be given before the stay as we weren't aware there couldn't be any sand in the condo. We would have been more careful from the start. I swept the whole place before leaving which in my opinion the cleaning feee should have covered that. Other than that it was great. We loved the view, the location and the condo was perfect for our family of 6.
Kristy D.
August 2024

Perfect place to stay while enjoying the island!!!
Denise R.
August 2024

Condo is located in a great central location, access to both sides of the island, close to shopping, just far enough from the airport. Nice complex, with a pool & hot tub, games available on the property. Also you can sign up for a nice chair massage by Kimo. The condo has literally everything that you need. It wasn’t hard to settle in & make ourselves at home. The extra touches go a long way in making you feel right at home. The view from the deck is really wonderful. Sunrises are extra special. The walking path is a bonus and the beach is right thetr when you walk out to the walking path I didnt swim there,but it's a nice place to hang out. You can walk io all kinds of shopping, restaurants and other activities. Shirley was wonderful to work with, very responsive and super nice!
M P.
August 2024

We stayed here about 5 years ago and came back again. Great area to stay, quiet, beautiful and clean. Had a lovely ocean view from our lanai, area in the middle and easy to get to Princeville and to Poipu. Easy walk to restaurants, food trucks, etc in that area. Bike rentals close by with a nice wide bike lane alone the beach…price is right and would stay here again
Debra F.
August 2024

We really enjoyed our stay at Pono Kai. It was nice having a full kitchen and we cooked breakfast every day and dinners a few times to save some money for our other adventures. The traffic in Kapa’a town is a little crazy but that’s not their fault. It’s nice being, halfway in between the north and the south so when you choose, which way you wanna go you’re already halfway there.
Rick C.
August 2024

The property was very well maintained. Lots of things to do.The unit was great except for thhe two bikes parked in the front room that wasn't shown on any photos. I spent alot of money for the unit wasn't happy it was bike storage. the front room.the front roomsituated
Richard H.
August 2024

Not workingWe had no Airconditioning for 5 days of our stay☀️ Very uncomfortable☀️ Property manager made excuses for the air conditioner not working properly☀️ She should not be a property manager. I can’t recommend this place to stay!!!
James L.
August 2024

My family and I were here to celebrate my 50th birthday and we had the best time! The condo was everything we wanted and needed. It was clean, modern, comfortable and welcoming. The location is perfect for exploring the island and the views are top notch. We enjoyed watching the sunrise from the lanai every morning of our stay. Would 100% come back to this property.
COLLEEN L.
August 2024

This condo had everything! It was probably the best stocked of any we’ve stayed, with beach toys, sunscreens, condiments, etc. The location is great, easy walk to lots of restaurants and halfway between the north and south beaches.
Carol R.
August 2024

Great location. Nice size. 1 day they repaired siding on out unit and there was hammering for 4 hours. Also upstairs guests were very loud w little kids jumping. Pool and amenities were great. Kitchen well stocked. Great pool and beach supplies for use.
Carrie Y.
July 2024

Nice overall. Great location and ocean view
Don K.
July 2024


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