Princeville Path Princeville
A scenic path on Kauai's North Shore, offering stunning Hanalei Bay views, abandoned resort ruins, and beach access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light over Hanalei Bay
Princeville Path Princeville
Best Time
Magical light over Hanalei Bay
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic path on Kauai's North Shore, offering stunning Hanalei Bay views, abandoned resort ruins, and beach access.
"Explore unique abandoned ruins and stunning Hanalei Bay views on this charming Princeville path."
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The path can be muddy and uneven; good footwear is essential.
🚗 Limited parking
Arrive early or consider walking from Princeville to avoid parking hassles.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hanalei Bay Views
Princeville Path
Panoramic vistas of the iconic Hanalei Bay, perfect for sunrise or sunset.
Abandoned Resort Ruins
Princeville Path
Explore intriguing concrete structures from a never-completed resort.
Access to Anini Beach
Princeville Path
A secret path leads down to the serene Anini Beach, ideal for gentle waves.
Queen's Bath
Near Princeville Path
A challenging hike to a unique ocean-filled swimming hole, once frequented by royalty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Princeville Path
Exploring Abandoned Resorts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The path can be muddy and uneven; good footwear is essential.
🚗 Limited parking
Arrive early or consider walking from Princeville to avoid parking hassles.
🗺️ Trailhead can be hidden
Look for the dirt parking lot near Nourish Hanalei or the Princeville entrance.
💧 Check water quality
Water at the end of the path can sometimes be murky with leaves.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The path can be muddy and uneven; good footwear is essential.
🚗 Limited parking
Arrive early or consider walking from Princeville to avoid parking hassles.
🗺️ Trailhead can be hidden
Look for the dirt parking lot near Nourish Hanalei or the Princeville entrance.
💧 Check water quality
Water at the end of the path can sometimes be murky with leaves.
📸 Drone-friendly views
Capture stunning aerial shots of the coastline and path.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Princeville Path to be a charming, short trail with beautiful views of Hanalei Bay and intriguing abandoned resort ruins. While parking is limited and the path can be muddy, the scenic rewards and unique historical elements make it a worthwhile stop for those in the area. Some note that water quality at the end can be variable.
"Easy trail on the old Club Med site with amazing views of Hanalei Bay. The place they recorded an Old Elvis movie with a lot of story. You also have access to Hanalei River. Trailhead is close to Nourish Hanaley. Restricted road so easier if you walk from Princeville."
Yuri Fernandes
"Trailhead is unmarked, but easy to access from the Princeville side via a dirt parking lot with space for 6 or so cars. Great views of the bay below."
Perpetual Voyager
"A nice short trail on the site of an abandoned resort that was never completed. Concrete ruins peek out from amongst a variety of local fauna and flora. There are some good views of Hanalei Bay from the end of the trail and you can access the St Regis hotel and beach if you leave the trail and head that way."
Rob Fisher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is often unmarked but can be accessed from a dirt parking lot on the Princeville side, near Nourish Hanalei. Some suggest walking from Princeville resorts for easier access.
Parking is very limited, with space for only about 6 cars. Arriving early or walking from Princeville is recommended.
Yes, there's a path that connects Princeville to Hanalei Bay, offering a scenic walk.
The path is suitable for walking and biking, offering beautiful views along the way.
The duration can vary, but it's generally considered a short trail, with some sections taking about 15 minutes to descend.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Princeville Path is generally accessible without an entry fee.
While the path is generally open, some sections may weave through private property, so it's important to be mindful.
There are no official operating hours, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
The path can be muddy and steep in parts, making it more suitable for those comfortable with moderate terrain.
You can potentially access the St. Regis hotel and beach by leaving the main trail and heading towards it.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The path features a mix of dirt, concrete ruins, and can be muddy, especially after rain.
Yes, the hike to Queen's Bath passes by two waterfalls before reaching the ocean pool.
You might spot island rats and albatross nests, particularly unusual ones located away from the coast.
Absolutely! The path offers stunning views of Hanalei Bay, lush greenery, and unique abandoned structures.
The path goes through the site of an abandoned resort that was never completed, adding an intriguing historical layer.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining options in Princeville, including restaurants with views of Hanalei Bay. +1
While the path leads to beaches, there are no dining facilities directly at the end. It's best to bring your own snacks or eat in Princeville.
On Saturday mornings, you can find the Princeville farmer's market if you take the path in a specific direction.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the sweeping views of Hanalei Bay, the unique abandoned resort ruins, and the lush coastal scenery.
Drone photography is possible and can offer spectacular aerial perspectives of the coastline.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the beauty of Hanalei Bay.
Yes, albatross nests are sometimes spotted along the path, offering a unique wildlife photography opportunity.
The end of the path provides great views of Hanalei Bay, and the abandoned resort offers interesting architectural shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 If heading towards the beaches, assess the terrain and water conditions to ensure they are suitable for your children. Consider the Saturday farmer's market as a potential family-friendly stop. 🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
and enjoy stunning coastal views. The hike to Queen's Bath is particularly noted for its challenging terrain and beautiful waterfalls. Be prepared for varying trail conditions, from dirt paths to muddy slopes, and always wear appropriate footwear. The opportunity to discover hidden beach access points like Anini Beach adds to the allure for those who love exploring off the beaten path. 📸 Photographers
The abandoned resort ruins provide a unique, almost surreal, backdrop for creative shots. Remember to check the lighting conditions and be prepared for the natural elements, which can add to the dramatic appeal of your photos. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Abandoned Resort
While exploring these structures, it's important to be aware that some sections of the path may traverse private property.
Accessing Beaches from Princeville Path
+1 The path to Anini Beach is described as a 'secret path' that leads down to the shore, offering a more secluded experience. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the path to Hideaway Beach involves descending a cliffside for about half a mile to reach a tucked-away beach with golden sand and clear waves. Queen's Bath, a unique ocean-filled swimming hole, is also accessible via a challenging hike from the Princeville area, passing by waterfalls along the way.
It's important to note that the water quality at the end of some paths can vary, sometimes appearing murky with leaves and algae, so checking conditions is advisable. The Journey to Hanalei Bay
+1 This connection allows visitors to experience the transition from the resort area to the renowned bay, often described as a 'slow path home' filled with laughs and adventure. The journey can involve river crossings and hidden trails, adding to the exploratory nature of the walk. While the path provides a way to reach Hanalei Bay, finding the exact beginning of the trail can sometimes be a challenge.
However, the reward is a beautiful walk that can lead to places like Pinetrees and Hanalei Pier. This route is a testament to the interconnectedness of the North Shore, allowing for a more immersive experience of the landscape beyond just the main attractions.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit