Princeville is a picturesque location on the North Shore of Kauai, with dazzling cliffside views overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Don’t pass up a chance to explore the area; there are many hidden gems here!
A Little Bit of Princeville History
Princeville was named in honor of Prince Albert Kamehameha, son of King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma, in 1860. Initially a coffee plantation, Princeville was later planted with sugarcane and, eventually, converted to a cattle ranch.
Today, Princeville is a 9,000-acre community of homes, condos, and resorts with much to discover.
Sunsets and Beaches
Princeville is an excellent location for sunset viewing. Check out Princeville Bar at Princeville Resort Kauai for prime views of the sunset, but be sure to arrive early, as tables on the lanai fill up quickly.
Maybe you’d like to take a dip in the ocean or lay beachside for a spell while you’re in Princeville. If so, Puʻu Poa Beach, accessible via the Princeville Resort or the Hanalei Bay Resort, is the way to go. Although small, it is a great place to unwind and is another terrific location for sunset viewing.
Shopping and Dining
You might just breeze past the Princeville Center without a second glance on your way to Hanalei, but then you’d be missing out on local keepsakes and great food. There are several businesses in this mall that sell one-of-a-kind items that make great gifts and souvenirs and are locally made like Island Soap & Candle Works. If you’re hungry, there are plenty of dining options from grab-and-go’s like Frederico’s FreshMex Cuisine to sweet treats like Lappert’s Hawaiʻi Ice Cream and Coffee.
Exploring Princeville
After filling up on these flavorful foods, consider taking a walk on the Princeville Path which starts at the mall and travels down Ka Haku Road, Princeville’s main corridor, about two miles to the end. The walk offers lovely views of Namolokama Mountain with its cascading waterfalls. Plus, you might see a native bird or two along the way like the Hawaiian goose (nene) or Laysan Albatross.
Golfing
Golfers, Princeville touts one of the best golf courses on the island. The Princeville Makai Golf Club has topped many golf course lists, including most scenic. Besides being blown away by the views, the course, which is a Robert Trent Jones, Jr., design, presents a fun challenge for the novice or experienced golfer.
Other Activities
Other activities offered in the resort areas include shopping, spa services, tennis, swimming, biking, scuba diving, hiking, kayaking, whale watching, deep-sea fishing, and helicopter tours. Nearby Princeville Ranch Adventures offers horseback riding, ziplining, atv, and nature adventures.
