Ali’i Kai Resort is located on the north shore of the island in the upscale community of Princeville, some 30 miles from the island’s airport, and in an area that can only be called paradise.
The North Shore, Kauai
While you can fly directly to Kauai or via Honolulu on an inter-island air route, it still is the least visited of the larger islands – and the least developed. Much of the island is rural and even more of it is pure wilderness. This has led many to consider it the most beautiful place on earth.
While some parts of the island are still only accessible by sea or air, it’s also the laid-back atmosphere, culture and wealth of attractions and amenities found in its small towns that definitely make it a must-visit destination.
Recognized as one of the premier ocean view resort communities in the world, Princeville is the ideal location to enjoy the natural beauty of Kauai while surrounded by carefully planned landscaping, architecture and all the amenities you could wish for.
So, if rugged mountains, lush taro fields, white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and tropical flowers are your thing – you won’t be disappointed. In fact it’s hard to believe that so much natural beauty can be found in this small area of the island.
Hanalei Bay
The wonderful north shore of Kauai is home to the towns of Kilauea, Haena, Hanalei, Anini, and the upscale community of Princeville. Here, you can surf, snorkel, or swim in the turquoise waters of Hanalei Bay, visit historical landmarks, wander through quaint shops, enjoy relaxing spa treatments, play at some of Kauai’s premier golf courses, and enjoy a meal at some of Kauai’s finest local eateries.
During the summer, the calm waters of Hanalei Bay are ideal for stand-up paddle boarding, sailing, kayaking, surf lessons and fishing from the historic Hanalei Pier. While other north shore activities include kayaking the Napali, zipline tours and horseback riding adventures. During the winter months, watch the the experienced water-men and women ride the giant swells of the winter’s Pacific Storms.
Key places to visit on Kauai’s North Shore
- The Na Pali Coast – 17 miles of amazing coastline only accessible on foot, air or boat
- Daniel K Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse – wildlife sanctuary and whale watching point
- Hanalei Town – with its green taro fields, colorful shops, galleries and restaurants
- Lumahai Beach – the epitome of the picture perfect beach and the setting for the film South Pacific
- Ke’e Beach – ideal for sunbathing and the farthest you can drive on the north shore
- Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens- nonprofit botanical gardens with amazing sculptures
- Limahuli Gardens – one of the most bio-diverse valleys in the Hawaiian Islands and home to dozens of endangered plants and birds
- Waioli Mission House and Church – Take a trip back in time to the arrival of the missionaries on Kauai
7 Reasons why you should vacation in Kauai
Kauai’s other must visit places
If you can drag yourself away from the north shore, then there are plenty of other amazing places to visit on Kauai.
The east side is known as the Royal Coconut Coast because of the groves of coconut palms that grow in its resort areas. The most populated district on the island, this area has historic places, amazing beaches and memorable attractions.
Lihue maybe the government and commercial center of the island, but it’s also the cultural and historical area and is rich with places to visit and activities to enjoy.
On Kauai’s south shore you’ll find sites with cultural, historical, and geological significance alongside beautiful beaches and amazing towns. Accessed by driving through a tunnel of trees, the warm and beautiful south shore offers perfect beaches, charming boutiques and Pacific Rim cuisine that’s just delicious.
Finally, there’s the west side of Kauai which feels like a world away from the resorts of the south shore. Here you’ll find historic sites, quaint small towns and famous spectacular natural wonders. There’s great hiking, panoramic views and wildlife – while Hanapepe is the island’s art capital.
Key places to visit on Kauai
- Wailua River State Park (East Side)
- Fern Grotto (East Side)
- NouNou Mountain (East Side)
- Kapaa Town (East Side)
- Lydgate Beach Park (East Side)
- Opaekaa Falls (East Side)
- Kalapaki Beach (Lihue)
- Ninini Beach lighthouse (Lihue)
- Wailua Falls (Lihue)
- Alekoko Fishponds (Lihue)
- Kilohana plantation (Lihue)
- Grove Farm Homestead Museum (Lihue)
- Kauai Museum (Lihue)
- Poipu Beach Park (South Shore)
- Spouting Horn (South Shore)
- Old Koloa Town (South Shore)
- Koloa Heritage Trail (South Shore)
- Allerton Garden (South Shore)
- Waimea Canyon (West Side)
- Kokee State Park (West Side)
- Waimea Town (West Side)
- Hanapepe Town (West Side)
“The Kalalau Trail, through Kauai’s impressive Na Pali Coast, is the finest coastal hike in the world.”
– National Geographic Magazine