Princeville (Kauai) Travel Guide

Tucked along the lush north shore of Kauai, Princeville captures the spirit of Hawaiian beauty with its cascading mountains, golden beaches, and palm-lined ridges overlooking the Pacific. This charming coastal town blends outdoor adventure with luxurious relaxation, inviting travelers to experience a slower, more scenic side of the island.

With access to extraordinary hikes, championship golf, botanical gardens, and calm bays for snorkeling and paddling, Princeville is a destination for travelers who crave nature with a side of comfort. The surrounding landscapes and rich culture offer countless moments of exploration and rejuvenation.

Best Places to Visit

Explore these stunning attractions that showcase Princeville’s natural beauty and local charm.

• Na Pali Coast – Famous for dramatic cliffs and lush valleys, this coastal stretch is perfect for hiking or seeing by boat.
• Hanalei Bay – A crescent-shaped beach with calm waters and mountain backdrops ideal for relaxing or kayaking.
• Queen’s Bath – A naturally formed tide pool with crystal-clear water, great for viewing when surf conditions are safe.
• Princeville Botanical Gardens – Home to tropical plants, cacao tasting tours, and educational walks about native flora.
• Anini Beach – A calm shoreline known for excellent snorkeling and windsurfing thanks to its protective reef.
• Kalalau Trail – A rugged, scenic hiking path that hugs cliffs above the ocean on the north shore.
• Hanalei Town – A walkable village with shops, cafés, art galleries, and access to nearby beaches.

Things To Do

Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, Princeville has something for everyone.

• Hike the Kalalau Trail – Trek across jaw-dropping terrain with ocean views and forested valleys.
• Snorkel at Anini Beach – Discover coral reefs and colorful marine life in calm, shallow waters.
• Take a Na Pali Coast boat tour – Sail past towering cliffs and sea caves while spotting dolphins and turtles.
• Golf at Princeville Makai Golf Club – Play on lush greens with views of Bali Hai and the blue Pacific.
• Stroll through Princeville Botanical Gardens – Learn about tropical plants and taste fresh cacao and honey.
• Shop local in Hanalei – Pick up handmade crafts, apparel, and fresh fruit from farmers markets and boutiques.
• Kayak the Hanalei River – Paddle through the heart of Kauai’s verdant landscape with taro fields and mountain scenery.
• Join a food tour – Sample poke bowls, fresh seafood, and locally grown produce with expert guides.

Where To Stay

From budget-friendly condos to luxury resorts, Princeville offers excellent lodging options.

• Hanalei Bay Resort – Family-friendly accommodations with pools, tennis courts, and beach access.
• St. Regis Princeville Resort – An upscale escape with ocean-view rooms and a renowned spa.
• Princeville Oceanfront Villas – Affordable, self-contained villas with full kitchens and sweeping views.
• The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas – Spacious studio and one-bedroom villas perfect for couples and small families.
• Pali Ke Kua Condos – Cliffside units with lanais and full kitchens near Hideaways Beach.
• Hale Moi Condos – Convenient studio rentals for travelers looking for budget comfort.
• Sea Lodge Princeville – Ocean-facing condos with a relaxed atmosphere and easy beach access.
• Alii Kai Resort – Condominiums with private balconies and tropical landscaping.

Best Accommodations

Enjoy comfort, scenery, and service at these top-rated Princeville stays.

• The St. Regis Princeville Resort – High-end luxury with an infinity pool, spa services, and gourmet dining.
• Hanalei Bay Resort – Scenic resort with laid-back charm and a perfect location near the beach.
• Pali Ke Kua – Spacious condos featuring private lanais and full kitchens, great for families or groups.
• The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas – Offers studio to two-bedroom options with resort amenities.
• Hale Ohana Bed & Breakfast – Intimate lodging surrounded by tropical gardens with home-style breakfast.

Scenic Road Trips

Explore the north shore and beyond with these unforgettable drives.

• Kuhio Highway (Route 56) – Follow the coastline from Princeville to Hanalei and Kilauea Lighthouse.
• Waimea Canyon Drive – Drive to the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” with colorful ridges and deep valleys.
• Koke’e State Park Drive – A forested mountain route with picnic spots, native birds, and sweeping views.
• Koloa Heritage Trail – A historical loop through plantations, temples, and lava rock monuments.
• Kalihiwai Ridge Drive – A tranquil backroad with views of mountain peaks, farmlands, and the ocean.

Best Beaches

Princeville’s shoreline offers everything from surf breaks to quiet coves.

• Hanalei Bay Beach – Two miles of soft white sand with room to swim, paddle, or simply unwind.
• Hideaways Beach – A peaceful beach accessed by a steep path with great snorkeling in calm waters.
• Queen’s Bath – A tide pool surrounded by lava rock; beautiful, but requires caution due to wave activity.
• Puu Poa Beach – Gentle waters and golden sands near luxury resorts make it ideal for families.
• Anini Beach – A quiet haven for snorkeling, windsurfing, and picnicking thanks to its wide reef.

Must-Visit Mountains

These peaks and lookouts frame the majestic landscape of Princeville.

• Mount Waialeale – One of the wettest places on earth, blanketed in emerald foliage and flowing waterfalls.
• Namolokama Mountain – Distinctive with vertical cliffs and cascading waterfalls, best viewed from Hanalei.
• Hihimanu Ridge – A jagged spine of earth rising behind Hanalei Bay, popular among advanced hikers.
• Kalalau Lookout – A jaw-dropping viewpoint over the Napali Coast’s deep valleys and forested cliffs.
• Makana Mountain (Bali Hai) – Featured in classic films, this pointy peak is a visual icon of Kauai’s north shore.

Must-Try Restaurants

Princeville’s culinary scene is rich with fresh flavors and relaxed elegance.

• Bar Acuda – Stylish tapas spot with a menu focused on locally sourced ingredients and bold Hawaiian flavor.
• Piazza – Cozy Italian eatery with wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, and intimate outdoor seating.
• Nalu Health Bar & Cafe – Wholesome smoothies, acai bowls, and wraps made with farm-fresh produce.
• Tiki Iniki – Retro tiki bar serving creative Polynesian fare and colorful cocktails in a lively setting.
• Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant – Renowned for ultra-fresh seafood and sushi, right beside the Hanalei River.

Best Time To Visit

Princeville’s climate is pleasant year-round, but some months offer ideal conditions for exploring.

• April to May – Enjoy warm days, light crowds, and blooming landscapes.
• September to October – Ideal for travelers seeking quiet beaches and good hotel rates.
• Mid-December to March – Whale-watching season with higher prices and more visitors.
• May to September – Drier months with consistent sunshine, perfect for beach outings.

Transportation Tips

Getting around Princeville is easiest with a personal vehicle.

• Rent a car – The best way to explore Princeville and the rest of Kauai freely.
• Drive carefully – Roads are narrow and winding with pedestrian and animal crossings.
• Arrive early – Popular attractions have limited parking, so earlier visits help avoid congestion.
• Consider biking – Short distances in town are manageable with rentals available nearby.
• Use airport shuttles – Some resorts offer transfers to and from Lihue Airport.
• No rideshare – Uber and Lyft coverage is sparse, especially outside Lihue.
• Fill up on gas – Stations are few and far between on the north shore.
• Respect local signs – Heed warnings for tide pools, trail closures, and restricted areas.

Things To Know

A few insider tips go a long way in Princeville.

• Ask about discounts – Many businesses offer reduced rates for residents and extended stays.
• Watch the weather – Rain showers are frequent, especially in the mountains, so stay flexible.
• Be respectful – Follow posted signs, avoid trespassing, and observe sacred sites with reverence.
• Book ahead – Popular tours and restaurants fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons.

What to Pack

Comfortable, climate-appropriate gear is key for enjoying Princeville’s outdoors.

• Lightweight clothing – Breathable fabrics will keep you cool in the tropical heat. Opt for quick-dry materials when planning hikes or water activities.
• Sturdy hiking shoes – Trails can be slippery or muddy. Good grip and ankle support make for safer treks.
• Swimwear and cover-ups – Many beaches and pools invite spontaneous swims. Pack multiple sets for flexibility.
• Snorkeling gear – While rentals are available, bringing your own gear ensures a better fit and hygiene.
• Sun protection – High-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses are musts against strong UV rays.
• Rain jacket – Sudden showers are common. A compact poncho or jacket will come in handy.
• Insect repellent – Especially useful in garden settings or near rivers at dusk.
• Casual evening wear – Many restaurants have a laid-back dress code, but neat clothing is appreciated.

Facts & Info

• Country: United States
• Capital: Honolulu (State Capital)
• Largest Metropolitan Area: Honolulu
• Time Zone: Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HAST)
• Currency: US Dollar (USD)
• Population: Approximately 1.4 million (Hawaii statewide)
• Airports: Lihue Airport (LIH) services Kauai
• Universities: University of Hawaii System (main campuses not on Kauai)
• Religion: Majority Christian; mix of other faiths including Buddhism and Hawaiian spiritual traditions

Estimated Costs

• 3-Star Hotel Room: $250–$400 per night
• 1 Bedroom Apartment Rental: $150–$300 per night (vacation rental)
• Rental Car: $50–$70 per day
• Public Transit Ticket: $2 per ride (limited service)
• Take Out Meal for Two: $25–$40
• Sit Down Dinner for Two: $60–$100
• Draft Beer: $6–$8

FAQs

1. Is Princeville good for families?
Yes, many resorts and beaches in Princeville are family-friendly with gentle waters and kid-friendly amenities.

2. How far is Princeville from Lihue Airport?
Princeville is about a 45- to 60-minute drive from Lihue Airport, depending on traffic.

3. Is Queen’s Bath safe to visit?
It can be dangerous during high surf conditions, so always check wave reports and signage before going.

4. Are there grocery stores in Princeville?
Yes, there’s a Foodland and several markets offering local produce and essentials.

5. Can I explore Kauai without a rental car?
It’s possible but limiting. A rental car offers the best access to beaches, hikes, and attractions across the island.