Splitting time between Poipu & Princeville?

Question

My husband and I are planning a trip to Kauai the first week of July. Can't decide if we want to stay in Poipu or Princeville or both. We are only going for 6 nights. Looking for a relaxing vacation with some sightseeing...helicopter, boat tour, some snorkeling. Would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks!

Answer

It sounds like you have an exciting trip planned for Kauai! With only six nights, splitting your time between Poipu and Princeville could be a great way to experience the island’s diverse beauty and activities. Here’s a breakdown of each area to help you decide where to stay:

Poipu (South Shore): Poipu is known for its sunny weather, gorgeous beaches, and relaxed vibe. This area is perfect for snorkeling, with beaches like Poipu Beach offering calm waters for easy swimming and wildlife sightings like sea turtles. If you’re interested in a helicopter tour, Poipu is a good launching point, as it’s centrally located for many of the island’s tour companies that explore the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon.

Some must-do activities in Poipu:

Snorkeling at Poipu Beach: Ideal for beginners, with abundant marine life.
Waimea Canyon: Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this natural wonder offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
Boat Tour: There are plenty of options for boat tours that depart from the south shore, including those that visit the Na Pali Coast and offer snorkeling.

Princeville (North Shore): Princeville is known for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and a more tranquil, secluded atmosphere. This area tends to be a little rainier than the south shore, but it’s also home to some of Kauai’s most iconic views. Princeville offers easy access to some of the island's top natural wonders, like the Na Pali Coast and Hanalei Bay. It’s perfect for sightseeing and nature lovers.

Some must-do activities in Princeville:

Helicopter Tour: The North Shore is often best explored from the sky, with dramatic views of the Na Pali Coast and hidden waterfalls.
Hanalei Bay: A beautiful crescent-shaped bay perfect for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on the beach.
Hike the Kalalau Trail: If you're up for an adventure, the first two miles of this trail are accessible and offer amazing views of the Na Pali Coast.

Splitting your time between Poipu and Princeville: Since you’re staying for six nights, splitting your time between the two areas might give you the best of both worlds. Spending 3 nights in Poipu and 3 nights in Princeville would allow you to experience the sunny beaches and laid-back vibe of the south shore, along with the lush landscapes and scenic beauty of the north shore. The drive between the two areas is about 1.5 to 2 hours, so splitting your time also allows for a more relaxed exploration of the island, as you can take your time with sightseeing along the way.

Suggestions for your trip:

Consider doing your helicopter tour from Princeville: The north shore is famous for the stunning Na Pali Coast, and helicopter tours from here offer unparalleled views.
Boat tour: Plan a boat tour from Poipu to explore the Na Pali Coast if you prefer a water-based experience.
Snorkeling: Poipu Beach is ideal for snorkeling, but don’t miss the snorkeling opportunities at Tunnels Beach (on the North Shore), which is known for its vibrant underwater world.
Relax and unwind: Don’t forget to take some time just to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings, whether that’s lounging on the beach or enjoying the beautiful views from your resort.

Ultimately, whether you stay in one place or split your time, Kauai has so much to offer. Either way, you’ll be able to enjoy a relaxing vacation with plenty of opportunities for adventure, sightseeing, and quality time together. Have an amazing trip!