Marked by stunning cliffs and sunsets over Hanalei Bay, Princeville is known as a luxury destination in a gorgeous setting. This resort community, which includes time shares and the Princeville Hotel, has two wonderful golf courses--the Prince and Makai courses--as well as a luxury spa and beach access. The nearby town of Hanalei has fun shopping and yummy dining. In the area, there is horseback riding, kayaking, zip lining, snorkeling and hiking. The new St. Regis Princeville Hotel is scheduled to open in the fall 2009.
Golf
The Prince Course, consistently rated the No. 1 golf course by Golf Digest, and the Makai Course are both on Princeville property and are not only challenging, but well-maintained and have spectacular views. Both courses were designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and do an excellent job of working within the natural landscape and beauty of the area while creating incredible challenges. You'll find yourself launching balls over the crashing Pacific and trying to avoid myriad sand traps, all on the same course. The courses have many elevation changes and there are multiple tee locations.
Princeville Golf Club
5-4280 Kuhio Highway
Princeville, HI 96722
www.princeville.com/golf.html
Princeville Spa
You'll find a variety of services, including wraps, massages and salt glows, using products specially made from island ingredients, including plumeria and Hawaiian plant oils. Facial products are Aveda. The spa also includes a fitness center and whirlpool.
Princeville Spa
5-4280 Kuhio Highway
Princeville, HI 96722
800-826-1105
www.princeville.com/spa.html
Princeville Ranch
A working cattle ranch, the Princeville Ranch does offer some outdoors activities, including horseback riding, kayaking and zip lining. The biggest payoff for a visit to the ranch, is the unspoiled wilderness. Whether horseback riding, hiking or kayaking, the guides at the ranch will point you to the best waterfalls (depending on the season) and you'll quickly find yourself surrounded by the lush flora and fauna.
Princeville Ranch Stables
PO Box 888
Hanalei, HI 96714
808-826-6777
www.princevilleranch.com
Princeville Ranch Adventures
P.O. Box 224
Hanelei, HI 96714
888-955-7669
www.adventureskauai.com
Around the Area
The town of Hanalei is certainly worth the 10-minute drive. This tiny town is made up of local restaurants and shops. About 15 minutes past town, at the end of Highway 56 is the access to the NaPali Coast hiking trails and Kee Beach, which has decent snorkeling when the water is calm.
About The Author
J.D. Chi is a professional journalist who has covered sports for more than 20 years at newspapers all over the United States. She has covered major golf tournaments and the NFL as well as travel and health topics. Chi received her Bachelor of Arts in professional writing from Carnegie Mellon University and is working toward a master's degree in journalism.
