Ali’i Kai Resort

When driving into Ali’i Kai resort, it feels like an older, island-style condominium complex with it’s low buildings and simple layout. This is also because there is a Kauai law prohibiting any building from being taller than the tallest palm tree. As such, lush tropical landscaping covers the grounds of the quiet complex. The pool area is simple, but offers a place for guests to relax -- in fact, it's the only place to relax, as there's little in the way of places to socialize or mingle. The simple features and quiet vibe make this ideal for those who prefer an independent, home-away-from-home vacation. Travelers wanting to be entertained or pampered should look elsewhere, especially since the pool area closes after dinnertime (meaning no late-night parties). Given its simple offerings, attractive and spacious apartments, and great North Shore location, the hotel attracts self-sufficient couples and families, particularly with its bargain rates. 

There isn't much right near this hotel, in part because of its Princeville location. The town is a manicured, planned community with beautiful landscaping and running/walking trails along its golf course. Similar to Poipu, it's also a Visitor Destination Area, which allows any home to be rented as a vacation rental. While there is no direct beach access, the views are spectacular from the nearby ocean cliffs and it's possible to see whales in the distance from your lanai in the winter months. Guests will have to drive six minutes to the nearest beach in Princeville, which is Hideaways Beach. This beach offers limited parking and is accessed by a steep trail. Queen’s Bath, a popular hike to a tidal pool, is a six-minute drive west. The town of Hanalei is a 15-minute drive away and offers plenty of parking and beach options, as well as shopping and restaurants. The drive to the Kalalau Trail and Ke’e Beach will take 25 minutes, and Tunnels Beach is 20 minutes away in the same direction. Nearby Kilauea is a 10-minute drive and is home to the only lighthouse on the island -- it's also the northernmost point in the Hawaiian Islands. Travelers will definitely need a car if they plan on exploring the north shore, and the airport is a 50-minute drive away. 

The spacious two-bedroom, two-bathroom units at Ali’i Kai combine the fine touches of a higher-category hotel with reasonable prices. Decor has a modern Hawaiian feel, with carved dark wood furniture and subtle beachy accents -- you won’t find any outdated island kitsch in these units. One bedroom has a king bed, one has a queen bed, and each are dressed in crisp cotton sheets and neutral bedding. None of the units in Ali’i Kai have air-conditioning, but this is fairly common among condos in the area. The ocean breezes do cool units down, especially at night, and there are ceiling fans as well. Each bedroom is equipped with a flat-screen TV and a radio. Wi-Fi is also free. Other nice extras include Bose sound systems, DVD players, and laundry machines. Beach towels are also included. The full kitchens have dark wood cabinets and granite countertops, and have all the necessary items to cook meals comfortably. Each is stocked with supplies like paper towels, laundry soap, and dishwasher soap. The two full bathrooms both have walk-in rainfall showers or shower/tub combos. All units have identical layouts, though some have better ocean and mountain views from their lanais than others.

If you’re looking for a resort full of fancy amenities, continue searching elsewhere. The main feature here is the pool area, which includes a hot tub, kids' pool, and barbecue grills. Instead of an ice machine, the pool area has a ice chest with bags of ice available for a recommended one dollar donation. A welcome presentation is offered on arrival, though it's thankfully not a timeshare presentation (many previous guests find this to be a major plus). Additionally, there is another presentation every Sunday highlighting island activities that can be booked through the resort. Wi-Fi and parking are both free.