Beaches on the North Shore

Summer turns these bays to glass; winter turns them into surf arenas. Check conditions and swim near lifeguards.

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Hanalei Bay

A two-mile crescent with a walk-out pier, mountain amphitheater, and every mood of water.

Arguably Hawaiʻi's most beautiful bay: beginner surf near the pier in summer, serious waves in winter, and lifeguards at Black Pot Beach Park. The town behind it keeps the surf-shack soul the resorts never got.

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Tunnels (Mākua) Beach

A horseshoe reef under Mount Makana — Kauaʻi's signature snorkel in summer calm.

The inner reef's channels ('tunnels') hold the island's best shore snorkeling when summer flattens the sea; in winter it becomes an experts-only wave. Minimal parking — walk from Hāʻena Beach Park.

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Keʻe Beach (Hāʻena State Park)

The reef-ringed lagoon where the road ends and the Nā Pali cliffs begin.

A protected summer swimming lagoon at the Kalalau trailhead, with the first Nā Pali ridge rearing behind. Entry requires the Hāʻena State Park reservation (parking or shuttle) booked well in advance.