We stayed halfway between Poipu and princeville in Kapaa and it was great for us. Because you can drive either way to get to what you want and it’s like 30-40 minutes vs over an hour if you’re staying on either end.

We basically did an outdoor activity everyday. And then hit the beach in the afternoon.

The best thing we did was kayak up the wailea river and hike to the secret waterfall. Get there at 7am and you’ll beat the guide groups. You don’t need a guide for this.

We hiked in Waimea canyon, which was cool. I want to go back and do the whole thing.

As for beaches, I liked hideaway beach a lot in princeville. And secret/kauapea beach that’s south of princeville.

We didn’t spend a ton of time in Poipu because it was crowded, and the hot dog place there is super overrated. More bun than dog.

Tiki tacos in Kapaa was our favorite lunch place. Affordable, big portions, and the guy there is awesome.

We didn’t do the NaPali coast boat tours cause the waves were too big and my wife gets seasick easily. I’m sure that would have been cool.

Anyways, hope that helps. We loved Kauai and you won’t be disappointed.