Traveling to Kauai as a backpacker is exciting. Finding the right place to stay can make a huge difference in my experience.
The island has a relaxed vibe and is full of natural beauty. This makes it perfect for those who love adventure and exploring.
I want to find the best hostels on Kauai that offer comfort, a friendly atmosphere, and good value for my money. I’ll share what I’ve learned to help other backpackers like me have a great stay on this beautiful Hawaiian island.
Open Gate Hostel Hawaii
I stayed at Open Gate Hostel Hawaii, and it felt refreshingly different from most hostels I’ve visited. The building stands on top of cooled lava flow, giving the whole place a wild and unique vibe.
I felt like I was part of the Big Island‘s landscape. The hostel runs off-the-grid and uses eco-friendly practices.
I enjoyed having full access to the well-stocked kitchen, including a stove and fridge. Every morning, I drank their complimentary coffee and ate fresh fruits picked straight from the garden.
WiFi covered the whole property, so I stayed connected easily. The open, friendly environment made it easy to meet people or enjoy some privacy.
If I wanted to explore, the staff suggested tours or hikes around the volcano, local night markets, and quiet beaches.
Rating: 4.7 (107 reviews)
Location: 12-2278 Piilani Road Kalapana Vacationland, Pāhoa, HI 96778
Contact: (808) 494-9982
Website: Visit Website
KAUAI BEACH HOUSE HOSTEL, LLC
I stayed at Kauai Beach House Hostel and loved how close it was to the ocean. I could fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up with the sunrise right from their open terrace.
Shops, restaurants, and nearby beaches were within walking distance, making everything easy for me. The hostel has a treehouse vibe and overlooks a calm blue lagoon.
I met travelers from all over and enjoyed the social, laid-back atmosphere, especially in the communal outdoor kitchen. It was easy to make friends and plan adventures together.
I chose a private room for more privacy, and it felt safe with secure key entry. The dorms looked comfortable too, with both single and double beds.
The Beach Room with a full-size bed gave an extra touch of comfort right by the ocean. The hostel is about 15 minutes from the airport, which was very convenient.
Staff answered my questions quickly by phone.
Rating: 3.7 (326 reviews)
Location: 4-1552 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746
Contact: (808) 720-5636
Website: Visit Website
BackPackers Hawaii
I recently stayed at BackPackers Hawaii while exploring the North Shore, and it was a fun experience. The hostel sits right by the beach, making it easy to swim or relax by the ocean.
I enjoyed falling asleep to the sound of the waves at night. There are different choices for where to stay, from dorm rooms to private beach studios and even whole cabins.
I met other travelers as well as a few locals, which made my trip more interesting. The atmosphere felt relaxed and welcoming.
This hostel is a great spot if you’re into surfing or want to spend lots of time outside. The beach is just a short walk away, and the area around the hostel is beautiful.
The free WiFi helped me keep in touch with family and share photos from my trip.
Rating: 3.8 (277 reviews)
Location: 59-788 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Contact: (808) 638-7838
Website: Visit Website
What to Expect When Staying in Kauai Hostels
When I stay at a hostel on Kauai, I notice it’s different from a hotel. These hostels keep things simple and social, perfect for travelers like me looking to meet others without spending too much.
Common Amenities for Backpackers
Hostels in Kauai often have practical perks for easy island living. I usually see shared kitchens stocked with pots, pans, and utensils, so I can cook my own meals and save money.
Laundry machines are available for a small fee, which helps after a long hike or beach day. Wi-Fi is almost always available and helps me plan daily activities or connect with friends and family.
Lockers or secure storage give me peace of mind for my belongings. Bath towels, bed linens, and reading lights are often provided, but sometimes I bring my own just in case.
Some hostels have outdoor lounge areas with views of the ocean or mountains. This makes it easy for me to relax, enjoy the sun, and chat with other guests.
At places like the Kauai Beach House Hostel, I love how close I am to the water and can hear the waves at night.
Here’s a quick list of typical amenities:
- Kitchen and dining space
- Laundry facilities
- Free Wi-Fi
- Lockers or secure storage
- Common rooms or patios
- Basic linens and towels
Hostel Culture and Community
Staying in a hostel on Kauai is a great way to meet other backpackers and solo travelers. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and I often make new friends from around the world.
Most hostels invite guests to hang out together in common rooms, kitchens, or outdoor spaces. I often see groups gathering for dinner or sharing travel tips about local hikes and beaches.
Sometimes hostels organize group trips or evening events, but most gatherings happen naturally. The staff are usually laid-back and helpful, giving local advice or helping me book tours and activities.
The Kauai Beach House Hostel stands out for its social vibe, making it easy to connect with others.
Mutual respect, sharing chores, and keeping noise down at night help everyone have a good experience. Because the hostels are smaller and more personal than hotels, it feels more like staying in a big, welcoming home.
Tips for a Great Hostel Experience on Kauai
Packing wisely and respecting others are keys to having an easy and enjoyable stay at any Kauai hostel. I always focus on what I bring and how I interact with others to help make my trip smooth and stress-free.
Packing Essentials for Hostel Life
Having the right items makes a huge difference in a shared space. I always pack a padlock for lockers, since hostels often offer secure storage but not locks.
A small flashlight or headlamp helps me move around without disturbing others after dark. I use a quick-dry towel because traditional towels are bulky and slow to dry in Kauai’s humid weather.
Earplugs and an eye mask help me sleep well, even if roommates are up late. I rely on a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during hikes and beach days.
Here’s a quick list I swear by:
- Travel-size toiletries
- Flip-flops for showers
- Phone charger and power adapter
- Lightweight backpack for day trips
- A few plastic bags for dirty or wet clothes
Staying organized helps me keep my space tidy and respectful of others’ comfort.
Travel Safety and Etiquette
For safety, I always lock up my valuables when I leave the room. I never risk losing my passport or cash.
I keep a copy of my ID in a safe spot. This helps if something goes wrong.
I am careful with my belongings. I avoid leaving things lying around.
That helps everyone feel comfortable.
When I stay in hostels, I try to be quiet at night or early in the morning. A simple “good morning” or “hello” can start friendly conversations.
If I need to cook, I clean up right after. This way, everyone can use the kitchen.
I respect others’ space and follow house rules. A little kindness can turn strangers into travel buddies.
