Kauai Northshore Beaches

Nearly every beach on Kauai is lovely but the beaches on the north shore seem to have some extra charm or appeal. Perhaps it’s the fact they are rarely crowded, or because they are surrounded by such beauty. Here are a few of them.

Anini Beach

This great beach on Kauai’s North Shore has a protective reef that extends for over 2 miles. Snorkeling and swimming can be some of the best & calmest on the north shore, and it’s rarely crowded. Be sure to stay on the inside of the reef. From Hwy 56, take the Kalihiwai Road on the WEST side of the beautiful bridge. When you come to the fork in the road, stay left. Continue for about 2 miles to the public camp areas, or if you prefer, continue on down the beach to a less crowded area. Please note: there is a strong current that flows out of the channel to the west of the reef so be aware of this and stay in safe waters.

Hanalei Bay Pavilion

The heart of Hanalei is lovely Hanalei Bay. It is a great place for sunning, surfing and body boarding. There is a restroom at the park and a life guard is on duty near the pavilion to watch over the fun. Heading west on Hwy 56 after Princeville, continue to Hanalei and turn right on Aku street by Zelo’s Beach House. When you come to the next stop sign, turn right onto Weke Road. You will see the pavilion. There is usually adequate parking. You may also continue down Weke to the end where you will find the Hanalei Pier.

Lumaha’i Beach

This is one of the most photographed beaches in the world, and is famous for being the “Nurse’s Beach” in the film South Pacific. Lumaha’i is between mile #4 and #5 on Hwy 56. About half way between them, you can pull out and park on the shoulder of the road and hike down to the beach. While this is a beautiful beach, it is not recommended for swimming.

Tunnels Beach

Wonderful beach with a fabulous view. Take your camera. Great area for snorkeling in calm waters, though getting to it can be a pain. There are only a few places you can park and they are usually full. Look for dirt roads to your right after you’ve reached mile marker 8 on Hwy 56. One option is to take Alealea Street prior to mile 8. Park near the sand and walk left on the beach.

Ha’ena Beach Park

Good area for picnicking and searching for shells. Conditions can be dangerous, but if the water is calm, there can be good swimming. Continue on Hwy 56 to mile marker #9, across from the Maniniholo Dry Cave. When you see the tents and the hippies, you’ll know you’re there.

Ke’e Beach

Beautiful little lagoon at the end of the road that has always been one of my favorite places on Kauai. Snorkeling is usually terrific. However, it’s been getting more and more crowded over the past few years. Finding a parking place can be very difficult, particularly on weekends. Continue on Hwy 56 all the way to the very end.