A four-story building that could not be any closer to the ocean if it tried, Kuhio Shores is a condominium complex in a quiet area of Poipu on Kauai’s south shore. Kuhio Shores’ 72 one- and two-bedroom condos are independently owned, meaning they vary in decor and amenities. Kuhio Shores’ small size, dedicated owners, and legions of repeat guests create a warm sense of community throughout the property, where it feels as though everyone knows everyone. Don’t expect a pool, spa, restaurant, or on-site workout facility here; the draws are the proximity to the surf and the laid back-vibe. You won’t find a condo unit closer to the water on Kauai, but the Aston at Poipu Kai has multiple pools and larger rooms for comparable rates. 

Aston at Poipu Kai is a mid-range condo-complex comprising individually owned one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom units. Rooms are spacious, with full kitchens and large lanais, but most do not have air-conditioning. It's quiet, and perhaps a bit boring, with not much to see or do on the property, save for a few small pools and a couple of tennis courts. Though a few rooms have fantastic ocean views, the nearest swimmable beach is about a 15-minute walk from the hotel. Considering there is no restaurant, spa, or workout facility, some travelers may find the daily “amenity fee” a bit steep. For a beachfront option in this price range with restaurants and a fitness center, consider Kiahuna Plantation -- but note that its rooms tend to be more dated than the ones here.

One of several resorts on Kauai's Poipu Beach, the Sheraton Kauai offers 394 basic rooms (all with private balconies) and solid, if not spectacular, amenities -- a fitness center, three eateries, a spa, two small pools that aren't quite as nice as those at pricier resorts -- all at attractive rates. And the hotel sits on a long stretch of gorgeous, calm oceanfront. A popular pick on Poipu Beach, the Sheraton often has an amusement-park atmosphere; for visitors looking for peace and quiet, the Kauai Beach Resort may be a better fit.

A 115-unit south shore condo fronting Poipu Beach with limited service and varying decor, though plenty of open space, the Castle Kiahuna offers a similar experience to Outrigger Kiahuna, which is part of the same Kaihuna Plantation; both have access to the pool, golf, and tennis across the street, but service here doesn't quite match that at the Outrigger.