Princeville

Princeville is a lovely resort town on Kauai’s dramatic northern shores that seems purpose-built to offer a stress-free escape from the modern world.

Visiting Hawaii for a bit of rest and relaxation? We know; you want the beautiful beaches, dramatic mountain scenery, and numerous leisure opportunities. Well, Princeville understands this. Stay in this resort town in northern Kauai and you can indulge in the many pleasures that the 50th state has to offer.

The community was purpose-built on the grounds of what was first a sugar plantation, then a cattle ranch. Some of the cowboy spirit lives on today, which you can experience for yourself while riding around Princeville on the back of a horse (bring your own Stetson).

The designers behind Princeville couldn’t have picked a much better location for their community. Kauai’s dramatically-ridged mountains form the backdrop to the town’s coastal setting, which overlooks Hanalei Bay to the west. Make sure you pour yourself a drink and face west at twilight for one of the best sunsets in Hawaii.

Naturally, there are the kind of beaches that lead to perfect Instagram shots – the kind that make your friends green with envy. No need to increase the saturation for photos of the perfectly golden sand and shimmering blue waters of Hideaways Beach or Puu Poa Beach. Seek out nearby Honu Cove, preferably on a day when the water is calm, to capture one of the most picturesque spots in the area.

Everything else in Princeville is crafted for your leisure – the hard part is choosing what to do with your time. There’s some of the best golfing on the island, where the tees come with spectacular views. Walking is another option. Stroll down Ka Haku Road to get a look at the waterfalls of Namolokama Mountain. All of this and we haven’t even mentioned the zip-line courses, off-road adventures, sea-kayaking excursions, or restaurants and bars scattered throughout the town!