What to expect: Relaxation is the focus here. The oceanside setting, the pool, the views, and tropical gardens shading the rear of the buildings all contribute to the peaceful ambience.

Amenity highlights: Location, location, location. Castle Poipu Shores is situated right on the Pacific Ocean, so it can be fully appreciated, and whales can be counted during their winter migration season.

Insider tip: A mile away, the pretty one-story Poipu Shopping Village presents free Polynesian music-and-dance shows twice weekly.

One of Kauai's most prestigious and spacious beach front resorts. Poipu Kai Resort features economy studios, one, two, three, four and five bedroom condos and villas. Seventy acres of tropical gardens and verdant lawns connect its two beach accesses; Brennecke Beach-Poipu Beach Park and Shipwreck Beach. Resort grounds feature nine tennis courts, tennis pro shop, seven swimming pools, three jacuzzis, and a restaurant. Furnished as complete vacation homes. Poipu Kai Resort accommodations are equipped with cable color TV, HBO, VCR/DVD combo, CD player, washer and dryer, plenty of extra linens including beach towels and phones with data port, voice mail and automated wake up features. Ceiling fans augment the cooling trade winds. Each kitchen has a full-sized refrigerator with ice maker, large range, oven and microwave, all the convenient small appliances and enough dinnerware for a party. Each unit has at least one private lanai (studios - no lanais), perfect for breakfast alfresco, or sharing a sunset.