Princeville

Princeville is a 9,000-acre unincorporated area mostly consisting of master-planned homes and condos on the north shore of the island of Kauai in Kauai County, Hawaii, United States. The population was 2,158 at the 2010 census, up from 1,698 at the 2000 census. Wikipedia.
When is your trip?

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Ready to plan your trip to Princeville? Organize and map your itinerary with our free trip planner.

Top attractions in Princeville

Queen’s Bath
1. Queen’s Bath
4.5
(3132)
Nature & Parks
Hiking area
Oceanside tide pool naturally carved into the rock & containing small fish & other sea life.
Slide 1 of 8
This is a nice pool in the rocks that you can swim in. The water is calm and warm in the summertime, but winter swells can easily suck you out. There are also fish in this pool, and access is by a rope trail that passes by a few waterfalls and is kind of steep.
Totally worth the short hike ( 0.8 Mile Round Trip ) to enjoy the scenery and crystal clear queens bath. Parking is tight so you might want to get there between 7 and 7:30 am to make sure you don’t have to wait for a spot. Water flows in from the sea into the bath/pool. A few spots to jump into the pool. We were told it gets scary and not safe for kids but second pool felt very safe. I could see it being the case if you swim in the first spot with the waterfall as it is open to the sea.
Queen’s Bath is one of Kauai’s most fascinating and picturesque natural spots — a lava rock tide pool with crystal-clear water and incredible ocean views. The short trail down (about 0.8 miles round trip) can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, so wear good shoes and take your time. The setting is stunning, but conditions can be very dangerous during high surf or winter months — waves can crash unexpectedly over the rocks. Always check the surf report before going and avoid entering the water when seas are rough. On calm days, it’s absolutely beautiful — a peaceful spot to sit, watch the waves, and enjoy one of Kauai’s most unique coastal landscapes. 🌊🌴☀️
Only for the brave. People have lost their lives here, so take this one seriously. The hike in is no joke — steep, muddy, and not for beginners. If it’s raining or you’re not experienced hiking on this island, wait for a dry day. Always check the tides — the water here moves fast, and those pools can fill up in seconds. But when it’s calm and the weather’s perfect, it’s pure magic — one of the most breathtaking experiences you’ll ever have. The hike in and out is intense but so worth it. Pro tip: Teva sandals are a must on the island — perfect grip, quick-drying, and they’ll get you through even the muddiest trails. 🌿🌊
There is a lot of differing information online about this place. First, the trail down to the bath takes about 10 minutes. I saw some places say a much as 25 minutes. I have a bad knee and I am not a hiker of any sort. Second, the area is not closed, or at least it wasn't in August of 2025. It is a stunningly beautiful area and WELL worth the drive from anywhere on the island. It's about an hour from Koloa and Poipu Beach, and 5-7 minutes from Halanei Bay and Pier. We did so much on the island and saw all the major spots. Because of concerns about crowds and parking, we almost didn't go to the North Shore. I'm so glad we did. Hanalei Bay and Queen's Bath were the highlights of the island for us.
must visit if you’re in Kauai. we parked in the neighborhood and it can be quite a wait for parking as there’s only a few spots. but it’s very worth it. it’s a small hike down, maybe 15 or so minutes. be prepared to get muddy if it’s rained recently and watch your footing. the views are incredible though and anytime we have visitors we take them there
Get there early! There are a total of 12 parking spots. We got there at 7:30 am and there were 2 spots left. It is a short hike to Queens bath but it is uneven ground so make sure you are able to hike. Go during low tide so you can swim in the bath. There were a ton of turtles in the ocean. This really is a must see.
One of the highlights of Kauai! There is a small parking lot and it’s worth waiting for a parking spot. The hike takes 10-15 minutes, you see two small waterfalls, and then you get gorgeous views of the ocean and lava rocks. The water creates these pools that you can swim in. Some of them are big and some are small. We even saw some teens jumping off the cliffs and into the deeper pools. Absolutely incredible and would highly recommend!!!
Princeville Botanical Gardens
2. Princeville Botanical Gardens
4.8
(483)
Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
Scenic spot featuring lush fruit trees & cacao orchards, plus fruit & chocolate tastings.
Slide 1 of 8
The tour was great! The gardens we're gorgeous with beautiful unusual plants. Troy was our guide. He was funny and informative. We were able to taste various fruits along the way. And we learned about chocolate manufacturing while tasting cacao fruit and various chocolates from around the world.
Wonderful experience! Our guide Ash was knowledgeable and engaging. The other guide Troy was also great and we enjoyed learning more about the chocolate processing from him. Beautiful grounds, lovely fruits and great guides! We really enjoyed it!
I really enjoyed this tour. And this is coming from someone who is not crazy about plants. But you can tell our guide Ash was passionate and I always love tour guides like that. The information I learned about plants, chocolate, ecosystems and our impact as humans is a lot more than what it was going in and that’s a win for me any day of the week. Not to mention you see beautiful flowers and try delicious fruits. Sure there are some mosquitoes in parts but it’s a tropical garden and the owners provide you a safe spray to keep them at bay so can you really complain.
This beautiful garden is not your typical tour and we so appreciate the owners who share their “yard” with others. The operation is well run and organized starting with email communications prior to entry and throughout the tour itself. Tour guides were very knowledgeable and friendly, answering the many questions from those of us not familiar with this environment. Tastings along the way were fun with the chocolate tasting being the highlight. Walking felt good but, as they are clear about, it does require a level of ability management the hills. We enjoyed the morning very much and highly recommend!
Went here on a family trip. We are of varying ages and it was perfect for us all. The hike uphill can be tiresome, however it is so worth it. Delicious fruit throughout the walk and the chocolate in the middle was perfect. So many beautiful plants to see, and our guide Troy was very knowledgeable
This was such a fun experience! We did the tour with chocolate tasting! Our guide was very knowledgeable and fun! The fruit tasting was great as well as the chocolate tasting! Such a beautiful place! It is by appointment/tour only!
What a beautiful, educational experience. Our guide was so knowledgeable about the plants and her enthusiasm was contagious. We especially enjoyed tasting all of the local products and the chocolate. We would definitely recommend this tour for anybody who loves nature and wants to learn more about Hawaii.
The guides were so engaging, had samples of the fruits as we passed by the plants, and the chocolate sampling told us about how chocolates differ from what part of the world they come from. My favorite was all the blooming trees and flowers. After our helicopter ride around Kauai, this was my #2 favorite place to go. If sold out, put yourself on the waitlist.
Pali Ke Kua Beach
3. Pali Ke Kua Beach
4.5
(4)
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Slide 1 of 3
Awesome concrete path to the beach-not nearly as treacherous as the other way down to Hideaway.
This is a neat little spot at the base of the Princeville cliffs, accessible through a path at Pali Ke Kua condos, or by a short swim from neighboring Hideaway beach. Generally private, with few or no other people there. Steep paved trail with several hundred feet of descent, the last bit of which is dirt until you hit the beach. Fairly narrow beach, with a lot of rocks at the east end, and overhanging trees create a pretty shaded and secluded feel. Decent snorkeling, depending on surf level and water cloudiness. Seems somewhat sheltered by reef, but not nearly as calm as Anini beach just up the road. There are two BBQ grills on a bluff just before you get to the beach if you want to grab some coals and roast burgers or freshly caught fish. There are better beaches on the island for snorkeling, and better beaches for sunbathing or letting the kids play in the surf. This beach feels more like a place to meditate and think, in a positive state of mind, immersed in the beauty that is Kauai.
(Translated by Google) An absolutely steep descent for extreme lovers. Non-slippery, comfortable shoes are a must. The nature is very beautiful and the ocean shore is strewn with boulders made of lava rocks. After overcoming all the obstacles, a small, unequipped beach awaits you below. (Original) Абсолютно крутой спуск вниз для любителей - экстремалов. Обязательно нужна не скользкая, удобная обувь. Очень красивая природа и берег океана усыпан валунами из пород лавы. После преодоления всех препятствий вас ждет внизу маленький необорудованный пляжик.
Princeville Center
4. Princeville Center
4.3
(1506)
Shopping mall
Shopping
Welcoming shopping complex featuring restaurants, apparel, a supermarket & other businesses.
Slide 1 of 8
Very cute little outdoor mall. Lots of food choices and shopping. Yes there are chickens! But there are cats too!
We were doing some day driving up from Poipu and ended up her for a restroom break before turning around in Hanalei town. The outdoor mall blends in well with the country surroundings with its plantation architecture and colors. It's made up of separate buildings with Foodland as a main anchor. Other tenants included Ace Hardware, local clothing companies, a bunch of real estate offices, gas station and US Post Office. A nice list of eateries were available including pizza, coffee shops, a Lappert's ice cream, Mexican, Chinese and Thai cuisines. We grabbed some coffee drinks at Lei Petite which were delish. Parking was plentiful. OVERALL: Nice little mall that serves its purpose well but is definitely not a shoppers paradise.
Great shopping center. Can find all kinds of food and necessities. Both local and tourists are among the customers. Mostly locals. Hawaiian shaved ice, pizza, poke and many other stores.
Foodland is ok. Not the best poke selection compared to other locations. Not much else going on here imo. Not to mention I got yelled at by an older woman for stopping my car in the parking lot to let her cross the street. She was yelling something at me and when I rolled down the window she lectured me about how she HATES when people stop to let her by. Although it technically adds to my overall experience here, the review mostly has to do with a bunch of mediocre shops. Again, Foodland was good. Staff was helpful and nice but not the biggest selection. Foodland ⭐⭐⭐⭐.
We went to the store here. Its a having grace on the island for families. Great selection great prices and amazing staff
Some great bars and restaurants in this area
Great spot for gifts and goodies. Our family stumbled across the spot on the way down to a Hanalei, and we found all kinds of food coffee drinks toys, fun things to buy.
Interesting little mall, conveniently located in Princeville. Has everything from groceries, gas, banking, a hand full of shopping and eating choices. We spent time here on a Saturday evening in June. There wasn’t much foot traffic sand most stores were open. We will definitely use it again for convenience when in Princeville.
Queen’s Bath
5. Queen’s Bath
4.5
(3132)
Nature & Parks
Hiking area
Oceanside tide pool naturally carved into the rock & containing small fish & other sea life.
Slide 1 of 8
This is a nice pool in the rocks that you can swim in. The water is calm and warm in the summertime, but winter swells can easily suck you out. There are also fish in this pool, and access is by a rope trail that passes by a few waterfalls and is kind of steep.
Totally worth the short hike ( 0.8 Mile Round Trip ) to enjoy the scenery and crystal clear queens bath. Parking is tight so you might want to get there between 7 and 7:30 am to make sure you don’t have to wait for a spot. Water flows in from the sea into the bath/pool. A few spots to jump into the pool. We were told it gets scary and not safe for kids but second pool felt very safe. I could see it being the case if you swim in the first spot with the waterfall as it is open to the sea.
Queen’s Bath is one of Kauai’s most fascinating and picturesque natural spots — a lava rock tide pool with crystal-clear water and incredible ocean views. The short trail down (about 0.8 miles round trip) can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, so wear good shoes and take your time. The setting is stunning, but conditions can be very dangerous during high surf or winter months — waves can crash unexpectedly over the rocks. Always check the surf report before going and avoid entering the water when seas are rough. On calm days, it’s absolutely beautiful — a peaceful spot to sit, watch the waves, and enjoy one of Kauai’s most unique coastal landscapes. 🌊🌴☀️
Only for the brave. People have lost their lives here, so take this one seriously. The hike in is no joke — steep, muddy, and not for beginners. If it’s raining or you’re not experienced hiking on this island, wait for a dry day. Always check the tides — the water here moves fast, and those pools can fill up in seconds. But when it’s calm and the weather’s perfect, it’s pure magic — one of the most breathtaking experiences you’ll ever have. The hike in and out is intense but so worth it. Pro tip: Teva sandals are a must on the island — perfect grip, quick-drying, and they’ll get you through even the muddiest trails. 🌿🌊
There is a lot of differing information online about this place. First, the trail down to the bath takes about 10 minutes. I saw some places say a much as 25 minutes. I have a bad knee and I am not a hiker of any sort. Second, the area is not closed, or at least it wasn't in August of 2025. It is a stunningly beautiful area and WELL worth the drive from anywhere on the island. It's about an hour from Koloa and Poipu Beach, and 5-7 minutes from Halanei Bay and Pier. We did so much on the island and saw all the major spots. Because of concerns about crowds and parking, we almost didn't go to the North Shore. I'm so glad we did. Hanalei Bay and Queen's Bath were the highlights of the island for us.
must visit if you’re in Kauai. we parked in the neighborhood and it can be quite a wait for parking as there’s only a few spots. but it’s very worth it. it’s a small hike down, maybe 15 or so minutes. be prepared to get muddy if it’s rained recently and watch your footing. the views are incredible though and anytime we have visitors we take them there
Get there early! There are a total of 12 parking spots. We got there at 7:30 am and there were 2 spots left. It is a short hike to Queens bath but it is uneven ground so make sure you are able to hike. Go during low tide so you can swim in the bath. There were a ton of turtles in the ocean. This really is a must see.
One of the highlights of Kauai! There is a small parking lot and it’s worth waiting for a parking spot. The hike takes 10-15 minutes, you see two small waterfalls, and then you get gorgeous views of the ocean and lava rocks. The water creates these pools that you can swim in. Some of them are big and some are small. We even saw some teens jumping off the cliffs and into the deeper pools. Absolutely incredible and would highly recommend!!!
Puu Poa Beach
6. Puu Poa Beach
4.6
(268)
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Slide 1 of 8
Beautiful beach shared with the Princeville Resort, great for snorkeling, rough for swimming. Lots of sea turtles! Public parking is limited to 8 spots, located just before the Princeville Resort guard stand. Cars were waiting for a spot to open, so we followed the advice from other reviews and used the resort valet... Cost: we paid for a drink to validate our parking slip and a tip for valet. You may get mixed information from resort guards, valet, and concierge but what I understand is they can't charge patrons to access the public beach but they can "charge" for parking at the resort which is $45-50 for 90min. However, parking can be validated at the beach bar and we were not held to an order minimum despite being told by some staff that it was $100. We felt ready to leave by the 90min mark but this didn't seem like it was strictly enforced. There are bathrooms and beach rentals by the bar which are available to the public. However the beach chairs and cabanas are reserved for resort guests only. We felt a little funny bringing our beach stuff through the hotel but the pathway is separate from the room halls and anyone we encountered was very friendly. All in all highly recommend!
What a beautiful beach! We found it to be very clean and pleasantly uncrowded. Its convenient location on the 1 Hotel property was a plus. We were also treated to beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and bay.
Snorkeling is great! Very rocky beach for a beginner snorkeler like myself. Only saw fish here but amazing variety!
Great little beach! Snorkeling was amazing, sunset… ah … see the pictures. And you can get drinks from the hotel bar.
It’s just super super pretty. Nice water, we were at the time without big waves. A decent place for snorkeling. They have a lot of renting things.
Beautiful coarse sand beach if you can find public parking at the lot nearby. Walk towards the guard booth and you’ll find the access path just to the left. The long path includes just under 200 steps down another path yhat takesyou to the beach. The water is shallow, warm, and great for snorkeling. Even saw a few turtles while we were there. Also one of the best spots on the north side to watch the sunset. Hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
My absolute favorite beach on the island. Secluded and calm waters during the summer.
Overrated beach... but here's how to visit this spot. Park at the beach access parking, walk to the main lobby, take the West elevators, take them down from level 9 to level 4, then walk over to the beach elevators at the other end of the hallway, the go down to level 1, exit and walk past the pool then the beach will be on your right
Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Learn more
What users say about the app

Other notable attractions

Hideaways Beach
Public beach
Nature & Parks
Fish Eye Kauai
Permanently Closed
Art gallery
Museums
Sealodge Beach
Beach
Sights & Landmarks
Tranquil beach accessible by a half-mile trail, with native vegetation, clear water & snorkeling.
Best-of categories in Princeville

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Princeville?

Get inspired for your trip to Princeville with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

Q&A about Princeville

The biggest pro for poipu for me was that it was the driest part of the island. For those beach days, Poipu was better. Princeville is also fantastic, but gets a lot more rain.
J
Jane Farrell
View 7 responses
I like to stay at the Courtyard Marriott Coconut Beach in Kapaa. It’s very reasonable, right on the beach, plenty nearby, and an equal drive up to Hanalei in the north and Poipu in the south. I’ve stayed there twice, and it was lovely both times.
K
Kenna Prohaska
View 19 responses

Weather in Princeville

Here's the historical average temperature in Princeville over a full year based on data compiled by NASA: for more details by month, see the weather in Princeville in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December
Monthly temperature highs and lows in Princeville
Ready to plan your trip to Princeville?
Use our free trip planner for the easiest way to plan your vacation. No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Add places from guides with 1 click

We crawled the web so you don’t have to. Easily save mentioned places.

Collaborate with friends in real time

Plan along with your friends with live syncing and collaborative editing.

Import flight and hotel reservations

Connect or forward your emails to get them magically added into your trip plan.

Expense tracking and splitting

Keep track of your budget and split the cost between your tripmates.

Checklists for anything

Stay organized with a packing list, to-do list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Get personalized suggestions

Find the best places to visit with smart recommendations based on your itinerary.
Plan on the go with our free travel app
With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.
Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.
Get the iOS app from the App StoreGet the Android app from Google Play

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Get the iOS app from the App StoreGet the Android app from Google Play
0 places saved to your trip to Princeville