Haena Beach
I’ve been to a lot of Hawaiian beaches. After more than 10 trips in the last couple of years I don’t make this recommendation lightly.
Haena Beach is one of the absolute best beaches on Kauai and in all of Hawaii. I love that there are so many different aspects to this amazing beach.
First off, the Haena Beach Park is immediately next to Tunnels Beach, so a lot of the perks are shared by both. You can read more specifics on Tunnels Beach here.
Haena Kauai offers the perfect sun tanning experience, great waves for you to play in, yet water that is tranquil enough in other areas to provide colorful reefs and amazing snorkeling.
Quick Facts
- Other Names: Makua Beach Kauai, Haena Beach Park, Tunnels Beach, Canon’s Beach (though technically a couple of those are separate beaches, they are all connected)
- Known For: protected bay framed by lush mountains, colorful reefs for easy snorkeling, and diverse sea life
- Lifeguards: yes
- Parking: more than most other beaches
- Reservations/Permit Required: NO – take that nearby Kee Beach
- Facilities: Bathrooms, Showers, Picnic Tables
Where is Haena Beach Kauai?
Haena Beach is located in Haena Beach Park – duh, I get it. It’s on the northern shore of Kauai, but the drive here may take a little bit longer than you think. Remember, Kauai doesn’t really have roads that cut through the island so you need to wind around the coast.
To get to this area you basically have to wind around the entire island.
Not only do you have to take the winding coastal road to get here, you can only come in from one way since the road ends just after the park as the super rugged Napali coast begins.
With no traffic it takes about an hour to drive from the airport and about an hour and a half from the Poipu resort area.
If you are staying in the Hanalei/Princeville area the drive to get here only takes about 15-30 minutes.
NOTE: Haena Beach Park is different than Haena State Park
Haena State Park is the home of Kee Beach and some of the Napali coast trails. To access this park and those trails you need a reservation and a permit (super annoying and expensive).
Haena Beach Park is a free no reservation required beach that provides a SUBSTANTIALLY SIMILAR experience as Kee Beach without all of the hassles.
Anyway, even though they are close, make sure you differentiate between the beach park and the state park.
Is Haena Beach Snorkeling any good?
I love the water yet still am not a strong swimmer. This makes it difficult for me to access some of the best snorkel spots. I feel like at times I don’t get to see vivid reefs or colorful sea life. Haena Beach does not limit me in any way!
The reefs are immediately off the shore and there are spots where the cove is almost entirely protected from the waves (especially outside of winter).
You will find reefs bursting with sea creatures. I appreciate that in lots of areas the water is pretty shallow, which allows you to get closer to the reefs.
Remember, never touch the reefs!
Monk Seals on Haena Beach
One of the highlights of my trip to Kauai was running into this Monk seal laying on the shore.
Haena Kauai Parking
Along with a full complement of facilities (restrooms, showers, lifeguards, and picnic tables) there is also a pretty generous amount of parking.
Haena Beach Park has its own lot a couple at next door Tunnels Beach. There is also a good amount of street parking if you go beyond the actual beach parking lot.
Locals Secret or Law Breaking Access to Kee Beach?
We talked to some locals that talked about accessing Kee Beach without a reservation or parking permit. They said you can simply walk along the shore beginning at Haena Beach. It is only about 1 mile away.
I’ve been to Kee Beach and loved the experience, BUT I think you don’t need to go there since the experience at Haena Beach and Tunnels Beach is basically the exact same.
Conclusion
It’s worth a visit, obviously! That being said, I thought it would be helpful to highlight some of the pros and cons.
Pros
- Perfectly golden sand and clear blue water
- Easy snorkeling
- Framed perfectly by gorgeous mountains
- FREE – no reservations required
- Not as many people as other popular beaches
- Ample parking and facilities
Cons
- The drive from various parts of the island can be a little long
- A lot of reef and not as many reef free swim spots
- Waves generally not as intense as other beaches due to the cove protections
WHAT TO PACK FOR KAUAI
- Dresses – Packing a few good dresses is essential for Hawaii. Dresses have become my go to on trips to help quickly put an outfit together. Revolve is one of my go to shops for beach dresses. ASOS also has great summer dresses.
- Shorts – Anyone who is traveling to Hawaii needs a good pair of shorts. Khakis are great for guys. For women, cute athletic shorts or denim shorts are perfect for a breezy summertime look. These Levi denim shorts are my current favorites! These high waisted athletic shorts have gone viral on instagram and for good reason, they are AMAZING.
- Sandals – LOVE these Teva’s! They are my new go to travel sandal. Shop my favorite Teva’s here. They are great to wear in the water snorkeling and also amazing for hiking in Hawaii.
- Sports bra – This SKIMS bra is the most comfortable sports bra you will ever wear! Trust me. I travel with 5 of them. Also, highly recommend checking out the SKIMS fits everybody bra is to die for as well.
- Tank tops – Free people is my go to place to buy cute and affordable tank tops. I have this tighten up tank in almost every color.
- Hat – essential. Shop the newest hats at Nordstrom.
- Beach cover-up – Having at least one good cover-up is essential on any beach trip. I recommend ASOS, Nordstrom and Revolve as well.
- Hiking boots – I have two pairs of hiking boots that I love. My Columbia waterproof boots and my Salomon hiking boots. Highly recommend checking them both out! Warning – they both sell out really quick.
- Tennis Shoes – I guess you could wear sandals hiking this trail but I would recommend tennis shoes. It can get narrow and slippery in parts. These Nike high tops are my current favs. They look so cute with shorts too!
- Packing cubes – I always go to Urban Outfitters for my packing cubes. They have the cutest ones!
- Quick Dry Travel Towel – This quick dry towel is amazing to travel with. It really will come in handy when you need extra room in your suitcase.
- Snorkeling gear – for obvious reasons.
Planning a trip to Kauai? Read everything we know about Kauai here:
My husband and I have been to Kauai many, many times and have written up more guides to help you plan your trip. These are my most popular blog posts and Kauai travel guides to help you plan your trip.
Kauai Beaches
Best Beaches for Snorkeling on Kauai
- TUNNELS BEACH IN KAUAI (amazing snorkeling, swimming, seals) – one of my personal favorite beaches own the entire island!
- KE’E BEACH ON KAUAI – great snorkeling, swimming, but you have to make reservation in advance – it was a nightmare.
- Hideaway’s Beach – Amazing snorkeling on the North Shore.
- Anini Beach – (Snorkeling, fishing, swimming) Great for basically everything.
- Kalapaki Beach in Kauai – Kids beach. Perfect beach for families, beginner snorkeling and swimming!
Best Cliff Jumping in Kauai
- SHIPWRECK BEACH ON KAUAI – Amazing cliff jumping beach
- QUEEN’S BATH KAUAI: COMPLETE GUIDE – Another must visit!
More awesome beaches
- MOLOA’A BEACH ON KAUAI – Insanely underrated. Giligans Island was filmed here. This beach was another one of my favorites. Practically empty.
- Lumaha’i Beach Kauai – What you need to know before going
- Secret Beach Kauai! (aka Kauapea beach) – MUST see beach!
- Haena Beach – We saw a Monk Seal on this beach!
- Gillin’s Beach – Fairly secluded beach where you can ride horses!
- Donkey Beach – Underrated – practically deserted beach
- Hanalei Beach – Gorgeous beach, perfect for sunsets.
- Salt Pond Beach Park – Amazing beach for kids and families (You can camp here as well)
- Black Pot Beach
Kauai Hiking Guides
- WAILUA FALLS HIKE ON KAUAI – AMAZING WATERFALL HIKE! Probably my favorite hike I have ever done.
- KALEPA RIDGE TRAIL – BEST HIKE IN HAWAII…SERIOUSLY. Trust me, don’t leave this one off your list! It’s GORGEOUS!
- MAKALEHA TRAIL – Amazing trail that is extremely muddy. 100% worth it!
- CANYON TRAIL TO WAIPO’O FALLS
- Pihea Trail – Easy hike on Kauai with Na’pali Coast Views!
- Makauwahi Cave Trail – Kauai Hidden gem
Read about all the hikes we have done in Kauai here.
Read all other posts on Kauai here.