Princeville is a charming resort town, known for its excellent golf course, relaxing beaches and pretty gardens. It comprises a serene community of condominium developments and hotels, with a scenic backdrop of dramatic, emerald-green mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Stay for a few days in one of the many lodgings to get a better understanding of this friendly and upscale commune.
For an overview of the topography, go to the Hanalei Valley Lookout. See the patchwork of taro fields in front of the verdant mountains and waterfalls. Try the local dish of poi, which is a good accompaniment for salmon.
Play a few rounds at the acclaimed Makai Golf Club. Travel through the course on the Makai Golfboard, an individual motorized scooter that carries golf clubs. Play the spectacular seventh hole and enjoy the outstanding views of the Pacific Ocean. Take the cart tour for excellent photo opportunities, such as the Queen’s Bath tide pool. A little east is the iconic Kilauea Lighthouse.
Take advantage of the year-round warm weather by windsurfing along the white sandy stretch of Anini Beach. Go snorkeling here to see the colorful fish, rays and octopuses. Visit Hideaway Beach for its brilliant blue-green water. The driest month is June.
Travel west to the Limahuli Gardens and Preserve and take a guided tour to learn about the tropical vegetation and its importance to early Hawaiian settlers. Relax beside the Limahuli Stream that flows through the gardens. Nearby is Nā Pali Coast State Park, with its mazy paths that wander through the rainforest. Embark on the Kalalau Trail to reach secluded Kalalau Beach.
The town is located on the northern coast of Kauai Island. Fly to Lihue Airport from other destinations in the United States and drive northwest for 45 minutes to get here. Get around the small town on foot or horseback.
Princeville is a serene and upscale community with excellent golf and spectacular views.