I have stayed at the Marriott's on several of the Hawaiian Islands. This was my favorite. The property is lovely and well cared for. The beach is a snorkelers dream. Just off the beach we saw a HUGE sea turtle (if you love Black Rock on Kaanapali for snorkeling you will enjoy this as well). If I had small children, I would prefer Kaanapali because the coral is tricky to navigate here on Poipu beach. It is a totally different situation than Maui though. It is more about seeing nature and a lovely beach than surfing lessons and walking the path to dinner like you can on Maui. Options are much more limited for dining than on Maui. We loved this property because we went to the store and made all our breakfasts, packed a lunch and went on adventures. Then we came back and ate dinner out. There's a little area nearby with some great restaurants. You are definitely on a quiet island. If you came for peace and quiet, you are going to LOVE this. We had a ground level room facing nothing, but we still loved it. If you sleep with your doors open, be prepared to hear the roosters crow from about 4 am on...they frustrated my teenager who wanted to sleep in. I love the Marriott resort on Maui at Kaanapali Beach, but it seemed pretty crowded and hectic after a week at the relaxed Waiohai. The rooms were nice and clean but not overly posh. Kitchens are perfect for a family or for anyone who prefers to cook a few meals rather than have to go out every time. The staff was very friendly and the freshwater pool by the ocean is lovely. I loved it! Good value if you consider the price of a family to eat out 3x day at a place without a kitchen.

Right off the beach, all the staff was super friendly,and helpful! We had our two young children and in laws with us, and it went very smoothly! We got the best room in the place I think. Right smack in the middle of the ocean view! Stop by the tiki bar for a drink and lunch. Drinks are "normally" priced for that area, but the lunch prices were very decent! Love and recommend this place highly!

First, for those that have never been to Kauai, it's the most laid-back and least commercial of the Islands. Make sure that is what you are there for. We have three kids ranging from 7-16, so nightlife isn't very important to us. We love Kauai, and have been there several times.

We have stayed at the Waiohai several times as well. There is just no beating it. The rooms are great and look to have been upgraded recently. The staff is very friendly, and it's hard to imagine a better locale. First, Poipu has more sun than other spots on the island (other than the West coast where you have to off-road to get there). Second, the beach is great. It's not very wide, but it's comfortable and there is much to do for the kids. There is a place where the kids can explore the rocks and find all sorts of creatures (I think "yuck" but they love it). There is laying out in the sunshine, swimming with reasonable waves and little current, and excellent snorkeling.

What makes this property unique is the fact you can walk out from your room, in a few steps be at the pool, and in about 20 more steps be at the beach. We went back and forth among the three with incredible ease. It can't be beat, and all three are excellent.

Ask for a map of the buildings, called Hales (say "Holleys"). Ask for ones close to the pool or with a view of the beach. They have always been accomodating of us, although that may be because we are Marriott timeshare owners.

This resort was perfect for a family trip to Kauai. The only change I would make is staying longer!