Find the Best Things to Do in Princeville
By Jade Eckardt
About Princeville
Photo courtesy of Jade Eckardt
In relation to both historic and modern times, Princeville is aptly named as traditionally it was a haven for the Hawaiian ali`i (royalty) and today is home to the island’s most luxurious hotel, world class golf courses, and high end homes and condos. At an incline from the top of the area where the shopping center boats shopping and eating, down through the rolling green lawns that make up golf courses and residential yards, and down to the high bluffs over looking secluded beaches, awesome sunsets, and the blue ocean, Princeville is a destination within itself.
See & Do
On Kauai's rugged North Shore, this basin of water is created during low tide when the surf is trapped among lava rocks and becomes a protected bathing pool. Warm, calm, and shallow, the Queen's Bath is at its best during the summer months. At other times of the year (and during high tide), the surf can literally be deadly, and the bath is closed to visitors completely during the winter. If you visit, remember to be careful, never dive into the pool, and know that the county closes access to the shore intermittently. Just past Queen's Bath is another similar formation, known locally as Prince Albert's Bath.
Eat
Well-known for serving fantastic steaks, CJ's Steak & Seafood is a North Shore institution, thanks to its savory selection of Black Angus beef. Prime rib and top sirloin, carefully trimmed and perfectly cooked, are favorites, although broiled chicken, roasted rack of lamb, and rich, barbecued pork ribs are also succulent. Fresh seafood is superb as well and ranges from sweet lobster tail to sauteed shrimp, crab legs, and the fresh catch of the day. Rolls, rice, and the salad bar are included with meals, which (although pricey) are nevertheless delicious.
Party
Enormous expanses of glass provide dramatic views of Hanalei Bay at this hotel lounge, the Living Room. From comfortable upholstered furniture, guests can watch clouds come rolling in or the sunset illuminate the dark sky. In the evening, nursing cocktails and munching on appetizers and sushi, folks marvel at the scenery and are regaled by the music of native Hawaii. Vocalists, pianists, hula dancers, and other entertainers accompany the majestic views with aural beauty, a lovely preface to a night of relaxation and pleasure.
Stay
At the bottom of Princeville nestled high on the bluff, the St. Regis Princeville Resort overlooks majestic Hanalei Bay and the lush green mountains backing the quaint town. From the basic rooms to the top of the line suites, each room offers luxurious accommodations that will provides a perfect night in paradise. For more budget friendly options, there is a seemingly endless amount of condominiums offering studio, to three bedroom accommodations. Try the Paniolo, SeaLodge, or the Cliffs at Princeville.
Shop
Nestled between the ocean and the lush green mountains, Ching Young Village is mostly made up unique and exotic gift shops along with stores that provide all the surf gear a beginner or professional could need. Another Hawaiian style outdoor shopping center where there is not main roof reaching over the entire center, the warm tropical breeze blows through as peaceful and small clusters of people browse through daily. You'll find a mix of visitors and locals here on any given day.