Nihilani Princeville

Hotel Description

You know what hit me first about Nihilani Princeville? The way you can actually hear the ocean from your lanai without it being this overwhelming roar – it’s more like a constant, gentle reminder that you’re literally perched on one of Kauai’s most stunning bluffs. I mean, Princeville gets all the attention for those dramatic Hanalei Bay views, but honestly, this place gives you that same jaw-dropping scenery without feeling like you’re staying in some massive resort complex. The condos here are spread out enough that you’re not hearing your neighbor’s TV through paper-thin walls, which – let’s be real – happens way too often in Hawaii rentals.

What I love about staying here is how it puts you right in the sweet spot of the North Shore without the chaos. You’re walking distance to the Princeville Shopping Center (okay, “walking distance” if you don’t mind a bit of a stroll), and the golf courses are right there if that’s your thing. But here’s what the booking sites don’t tell you – the real magic happens in the evenings when most of the day tourists have headed back to their Lihue hotels. That’s when you get Princeville to yourself, sort of. The sunsets from these units are absolutely ridiculous, especially if you snag one of the higher floors facing west. I actually found myself planning my whole day around getting back for sunset, which sounds cheesy but honestly became this daily ritual I looked forward to.

The units themselves feel more like someone’s actual vacation home than a sterile rental – and I suspect that’s exactly what they are. You’ll find little touches that make a difference: decent kitchen knives (miracle!), beach chairs that aren’t falling apart, and shower pressure that doesn’t make you question your life choices. Parking is straightforward, which might seem like a small thing until you’ve circled Hanalei looking for a spot on a busy weekend. The pool area gets decent afternoon sun but isn’t a scene, if you know what I mean – more families with kids building sand castles than people trying to see and be seen. One thing though – if you’re planning to explore the whole island, just know you’re pretty committed to the North Shore here. Getting to Poipu or even Lihue becomes a bit of a production, but honestly, there’s enough hiking, beaches, and lazy afternoon potential around Princeville that I barely felt the need to venture far. This spot works especially well if you’re the type who’d rather dig into one area properly instead of rushing around trying to hit every single Instagram spot on the island.

Rooms

• Three-Bedroom House with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed, 4 × 1 large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 6 adults

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities