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Better than the 5-star resorts... Yes. In some ways, the Kauai Shores Hotel has a leg or two up on the 5-star resorts. Nowhere else on the island were we able to find a hotel with true beachside dining or a true beachside stay. The big resorts have patios, decks, large pool areas, railings, shrubbery, and other barriers separating you from the shore (in some cases, you can't even see it unless you walk down to it), but KSH delivers a nostalgic and authentic Kauaian time on every level. Not only can you dine near the shore of the ocean, but you can do yoga, and you can walk from your hotel room, onto some grass, onto some sand, and then be in the water in a matter of seconds. There's no walking through lobbies, walking through gates, across patios, pool areas, through other gates, through shrubbery, and the hotel itself is devoid of all of the corporate/branded trappings, distractions, and annoyances of the big resorts as well. It's just a pure Kauai experience. The hotel is somewhat retro but clean, and the staff we interacted with, especially Richell at the front desk and Jennelle and the two Sofias at the restaurant were fabulous. While the rooms were basic (no fancy marble bathrooms), they were also clean, and the beds were comfortable. If you're tired of the stuffy and corporate environment the 5-star resorts offer and are looking for a truly relaxing, peaceful, and joyful time, try KSH next time you go to Kauai.

William M