Ready to explore the gorgeous Hawaiian islands?
Vacationing in Hawaii is a dream for most people. The island’s stunning beaches, enchanting islands, and fantastic culture ensure a visit here is going to be grand and unforgettable.
Go on a budget travel or splurge in an exclusive luxury property, there’s a hotel to fit the type of travel you want to have. While there are countless resorts to choose from, the Grand Hyatt and The Lodge are both Kauai’s best.
The former is one of the largest hotels in Hawaii, offering everything for honeymooners and families. The latter is a private country club where you can be a part of the local community while experiencing high-end luxury. Both are rated as among the top Hyatt resorts in the world!
If you’re looking for more info, check out this Grand Hyatt Kauai vs. The Lodge at Kukuiʻula comparison.
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Quick Glance: Grand Hyatt Kauai vs. The Lodge at Kukuiʻula
| Grand Hyatt Kauai | The Lodge at Kukui’ula | |
| Location | Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii | Koloa, Kauai, Hawaii |
| Getting There | About 25 to 30 minutes from Kauai Lihue Airport (LIH). You can rent a car from the airport or take a bus/shuttle. There’s also a taxi but it might get expensive. | The best way is to take a car, which will be around a 26-minute drive from (LIH) Kauai Lihua Airport. |
| Room | 602 rooms and suites | 40 rooms and suites (bungalow houses) |
| Amenities | Beach access, golf course, swimming pool, kid’s club, tennis court, library, fitness center, spa, and sauna | Access to the golf course, swimming pool, meeting room, communal farm, and game room |
| Food and Dining | 7 restaurants and bars, in-room dining, private dining | 2 restaurants |
| Staff and Guest Services | Friendly and attentive crew. Will always assist with anything you need. | The staff is approachable and friendly. They will treat you like a club member. They’ll help you settle and enjoy your stay |
| Price | Cash rates start at $750 to $1,740 per night (average $950) | Pay in cash starting at $1,200 to $2,548 per night (average $1,450) |
| Points Redemption | Yes, it’s possible to this Category 7 resort by exchanging 25,000 to 35,000 Hyatt points per night. | You can book this Category 8 property on points starting at 35,000 to 45,000 Hyatt points per night for a standard room. |
The Details: Grand Hyatt Kauai vs. The Lodge at Kukuiʻula
Grand Hyatt Kauai
Grand Hyatt Kauai – Presidential Suite Lanai. Image Credit: Grand Hyatt Kauai
One reason why the Grand Hyatt Kauai counts as the best Hyatt resort in the United States is that it’s not just a popular destination for Continental U.S. travelers, but also a favorite for locals.
Location
Easily accessible from Kauai Lihue Airport (LIH), it takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes when taking a car, a bit longer if you opt for public transport or a shuttle. There’s no complimentary transfer from the hotel but transport isn’t a huge issue in the area.
The Grand Hyatt Kauai is in Poipu, a beautiful tourist town with lovely beaches, a vibrant shopping area, and abundant bars, cafes, and restaurants to visit.
Although the resort has an onsite beach, it’s not advisable for swimming because of the strong currents. It’s also known for rip currents which can be dangerous. However, it is picturesque and great for morning or sunset strolls.
Luckily, the popular Poipu Beach is just a 5-minute drive from the resort but it can be reached on foot for around 20 minutes. The area is a fantastic spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Room
Grand Hyatt Kauai – Alii Suite Living Room. Image Credit: Grand Hyatt Kauai
With over 600+ rooms and a multitude of amenities, the Grand Hyatt Kauai serves as the largest employer in the region. Not only that, it’s even counted as Hawaii’s finest, drawing travelers from far and wide to the resort.
Starter rooms begin at 500 square feet. These are comfy spaces where you can lounge on a king bed dressed in white linens. Serving to frame the bed is a wooden carved headboard.
Underfoot, carpeted floors tie the room together while highlighting the rich wood furniture. The chairs come with seafoam green seats while a private lanai opens to a view of the gardens or the waters in the distance.
Each room has modern amenities including a 65-inch flatscreen TV, a small fridge, and a Nespresso machine. Walk to the bathroom for a decadent marble escape with enormous walk-in showers. High-end TOTO toilets as well as Coco Mango toiletries complete the space.
For the suites, the starter room measures anywhere from 866 to 1,084 square feet. These spaces come with a separate bedroom, living space, balcony, dry bar, soaking tub, and dining table.
Amenities
Grand Hyatt Kauai – Lobby Atrium. Image Credit: Grand Hyatt Kauai
Aside from the room, the Grand Hyatt Kauai delivers when it comes to guest amenities. Even though the resort is popular with couples and honeymooners, it’s also a brilliant place to bring kids and the entire family.
One of the biggest highlights of the property is the 3 swimming pools available for visitors to use. There’s also a saltwater manmade lagoon and a lazy river where kids (and kids at heart) can laze around all afternoon.
If you want to bask in the ultimate escape, treat yourself to a treatment or two at the Grand Hyatt’s Anara Spa. This glorious spa is one of the largest spas on the island with a whopping 45,000 square feet of space. Some of the things you can enjoy here include a 25-yard lap pool, several treatment rooms, and indoor and outdoor showers to accommodate multiple guests at any one time.
Right next to the spa is the resort’s fitness centers. No surprise, it’s also one of the biggest fitness areas on the island. Filled to the brim with cardio machines and weights, you’ll easily find the right equipment here. Daily classes are provided indoors and outdoors as well.
Walk to the beach if you want views of the water. It’s not safe for swimming as the waters are too rough but it’s ideal for long scenic walks. For some adult time, you can drop off the kids at the kid’s club to keep them busy.
And finally, if you love playing golf, you’ll be happy to know that Poipu Bay Golf Course is just a few minutes. The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and serves as a great spot to practice swings whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player.
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Food and Dining
Grand Hyatt Kauai – Ilima Terrace. Image Credit: Grand Hyatt Kauai
Dine in any of the 6 restaurants and bars available at the property. The signature restaurant, Tidepools, offers cuisine infused with Hawaiian flavor. Each meal uses only locally-grown ingredients to ensure top quality at every bite. While dining, you can relish a scenic view of the lagoon.
Daily breakfast is at Ilima Terrace, an open-air restaurant serving a buffet spread each morning. For cocktails and sushi, head to Stevenson’s Library. It has a remarkable 24-foot-long koa bar while delivering fantastic views of the property.
The Seaview Terrace is the best space if you want a non-heavy breakfast. Think pastries, fresh morning coffee, or delicious tea. Have kids? You can grab classics like burgers, smoothies, and tacos at the Hale Nalu Poolside Restaurant.
For those who want to experience a Hawaiian Luau, the Grand Hyatt Kauai provides an authentic luau where you can enjoy a buffet dinner, as well as an open bar and lots of entertainment.
Lunch, as well as cocktails, are also served at Captain’s Bar. There’s also in-room dining available so you can order in the comfort of your room.
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Staff and Guest Services
The guest staff is wonderful and thoroughly accommodating. They promptly answer questions as well as requests.
Price
For paid rates, the standard room starts at $750 to $1,740 per night with an average of $950.
Points Redemption
Yes, you can book a free night here on points. The Grand Hyatt Kaua is a Category 7 which requires 25,000 to 35,000 Hyatt points for a standard room.
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Who Is It For?
The Grand Hyatt Kauai can readily accommodate different kinds of travelers. Honeymooners will love the resort’s numerous amenities including dedicated adults-only spaces. However, the property is best suited for families with kids in tow as there are many things to keep kids entertained.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Gallery
Grand Hyatt Kauai – Water Slide. Image Credit: Grand Hyatt Kauai
Grand Hyatt Kauai – Tidepools. Image Credit: Grand Hyatt Kauai
Grand Hyatt Kauai – Seaview Terrace. Image Credit: Grand Hyatt Kauai
The Lodge at Kukuiʻula
The Lodge at Kukuiʻula – Spa. Image Credit: The Lodge at Kukuiʻula
One of the most premium private vacation rentals in Kauai, the Lodge at Kukuiʻula gives you a chance to experience what a true luxury stay in an exclusive club feels like.
Location
The Lodge at Kukuiʻula is on the southern shores of Kauai. It’s the only private club on the island, occupying around 1,010 acres of land.
To reach the club, renting a car is the best option. Although there’s public bus transport, it can take longer close to an hour. However, by private car, it will be around 35 to 45 minutes only.
Room
The Lodge at Kukuiʻula – Living Room. Image Credit: The Lodge at Kukuiʻula
Unlike regular resorts, there is no hotel here. Instead, guests looking to stay will be housed at various vacation rentals rented out by private homeowners. A total of 40 bungalows, cottages, or villas containing anywhere from one to four bedrooms are available here.
Bungalows serve as entry-level spaces. You can rent 1 to 3-bedroom bungalow homes depending on the size of your group. Each home has an open plan with a dedicated living room, kitchen, and bedroom. There’s a big living room sofa and chairs, perfect for hanging out and relaxing.
The kitchen is equipped with a myriad of appliances like a fridge, coffeemaker, stove, and microwave. Also available are a good amount of storage cabinets, utensils, and more.
Inside the bedroom, the usual arrangement is a large king bed. However, if you have kids and opt for another bedroom, it’s possible to have a bunk bed or twin beds inside.
Each bungalow or cottage has a balcony or lanai with private seating. There are dining chairs indoors as well as outdoors for al fresco dining. Of course, the bathrooms are spacious and come with all the amenities you can expect from 5-star luxury accommodation.
It’s worth noting that since it is a private club, everything is cashless. There’s no pressure to provide a tip to any of the staff or pay for meals or use an amenity on the spot. Guests can put everything on their account and settle the balance right before leaving.
Amenities
The Lodge at Kukuiʻula. Image Credit: The Lodge at Kukuiʻula
As a guest, you are entitled to use all of the club’s amenities. This includes full use of the Makai Pool Complex which is only steps away from The Clubhouse.
The pool complex is exquisitely large and overlooks the gorgeous ocean waters. At the top is the infinity pool lined with loungers so you can sunbathe anytime you want. Right below is another swimming area, the saltwater lagoon. It has beach entry access and is close to the Makai Grill and Bar.
Speaking of beaches, guests can choose between two main beaches – Poipu Beach and Kukui’ula Harbor Beach.
Poipu Beach is considered one of the best beaches in the U.S. and is only a 5-minute drive from the resort. This is a public beach so expect a lot of people as well as hawkers. It is a wonderful place to swim and hang out though. Plus, you might spot the occasional sea turtle on the sand as well.
Closer to the club is the Kukui’ula Harbor Beach. This is only a short walk from The Clubhouse and is a lot smaller compared to Poipu Beach. It’s a chill area for hanging out and a quick swim but it’s usually a launching area for kayaks and sailing trips.
Those into fitness and relaxation will love the Hilani Spa and Fitness Center. This is an 18,000-square-foot facility with intimate indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, a dedicated Pilates and yoga studio, and outdoor garden showers.
Outside, you can swim in the lap pool or try the steam shower, sauna, as well as cold plunge pools. There’s also a host of modern gym machines you can use.
Inside the spa, there’s a plethora of treatments available. Take your pick from massages, facials, body massages, and more.
However, where the Lodge at Kukuiʻula shines best is on its golf course. Dubbed one of the best golf resorts to book on points, the resort has an 18-hole Tom Weiskopf-designed course considered one of the best in Hawaii. Everything was designed to follow the movement of the land through coffee fields and hillsides.
Food and Dining
Technically an amenity, the Lodge at Kukuiʻula has what they call The Farm. The farm is run by local farmers at the resort where guests can visit and harvest their own fruits and vegetables to use. This 10-acre farm grows seasonal herbs and vegetables which you can gather to make salads or as ingredients for dishes when you get to your bungalow or cottage.
If you don’t want to head to the farm yourself, they also have a farmstand with fully stocked produce right by The Clubhouse so guests can easily drop by and take their pick of items.
As for restaurants, there are two on the property. The signature restaurant Umele Kitchen + Bar is right by the Clubhouse. You can dine on delicious, fresh cuisine composed of ingredients sourced from the club’s farm area. The restaurant also boasts themed nights so guests can expect an assortment of dishes.
Those in the mood for grilled everything can head to The Makai Grill. This eating area offers lunch and snacks (perfect when you’re at the pool) and BBQ-themed dinners every Sunday.
Staff and Guest Services
The club staff are warm and friendly. And they are always attentive to each guest, treating them like any other club member.
Price
Cash bookings at this club start at $1,200 for base-level accommodations to $2,548 per night for larger spaces. The average night is $1,450.
Points Redemption
Yes, you can book this hotel on points. It’s a Category 8 property so you can exchange 35,000 to 45,000 Hyatt points per night.
Who Is It For?
Couples and vacationers looking for exclusivity (and looking to play a great game of golf!) will love staying at The Lodge at Kukuiʻula. While it’s not a full-service resort or hotel, it provides you with everything you need for a grand stay.
The Lodge at Kukuiʻula Gallery
The Lodge at Kukuiʻula – Makai Pools. Image Credit: The Lodge at Kukuiʻula
The Lodge at Kukuiʻula – Makai Pool. Image Credit: The Lodge at Kukuiʻula
The Lodge at Kukuiʻula – Dining. Image Credit:
Best For: Which Resort Should You Go For?
| Winner | What Makes It Great | |
| Best for Food | Grand Hyatt Kauai | With several restaurants to choose from, it’s the best choice if you like having options during mealtimes. |
| Best for Pools | Grand Hyatt Kauai | The Grand Hyatt Kauai has a magnificent pool complex with a lazy river, saltwater lagoon, and several pools. |
| Best for Spa | The Lodge at Kukuiʻula | Although Anara Spa at the Grand Hyatt is beautiful, The Lodge at Kukuiʻula’s Hilani Spa is more intimate and has great facilities. |
| Best for Beaches | Tie | Both have easy access to the stunning Poipu Beach. |
| Best For Adults | The Lodge at Kukuiʻula | This club is quieter and provides a private space for adults to enjoy. |
| Best for Families | Grand Hyatt Kauai | Families will adore the Grand Hyatt Kauai for its extensive facilities for adults and kids. |
| Best Location | Tie | These two resorts are reachable from the airport within 35 to 45 minutes via car. |
| Best for a Calm Vacation | The Lodge at Kukuiʻula | This is better for a quieter, calmer vacation with the family or with a partner. |
| Best for Diving or Snorkeling | Tie | Hailed as one of the best beaches in the U.S., Poipu Beach is perfect for snorkeling. It’s reachable within minutes from both properties. |
| Best for Service | The Lodge at Kukuiʻula | The staff is attentive, treating guests like they’re club members. |
| Most Exclusive | The Lodge at Kukuiʻula | Because it’s a higher-end property and provides a rare exclusivity compared to the Grand Hyatt Kauai |
Wrapping Up
A trip to Hawaii is a dream experience for many. But choosing the right resort can make or break your vacation.
To ensure everything goes as planned, take your pick between the Grand Hyatt Kauai and The Lodge at Kukuiʻula. These two amazing properties provide full amenities, excellent rooms, and of course, extra perks to guarantee a fun-filled trip.
The Grand Hyatt Kauai is a large chain facility with over 600 rooms. It’s a sprawling complex with several restaurants, a pool section, and fantastic amenities to boot!
On the other hand, The Lodge at Kukuiʻula is a club resort, unlike any other property. You rent beautiful vacation homes in a private club where you can join and use all of their facilities just like a member. A stunning golf course, a spa, and an exquisite pool complex ensure guests will love staying here.
Safe travels!