Kauai is all about its breathtaking beaches, and the ones on the north shore are especially famous for their stunning views.
From the flawless Ke’e Beach and the gorgeous spots along Hanalei Bay to the incredible snorkeling haven, Tunnels Beach, and the family-friendly Anini Beach – you’ve got a variety of options on Kauai’s north shore.
Chilling out at a beach (or maybe three!) is a top-notch activity when you’re on Kauai’s north shore during the summer.
The north shore of Kauai is lined with these beautiful bays, offering beaches from the west to the east – a whole shoreline of beauty.
Kauapea Beach, also known as Secret Beach, stands out as one of the most stunning beaches on Kauai’s north shore in Hawaii. Picture waves crashing over lava rocks – it’s a sight to behold!
These beaches don’t just offer incredible views; they’ve also been featured in films, thanks to their dramatic landscapes. Once you see them for yourself, you’ll understand why!
And hey, for a unique perspective of Kauai’s north shore, including Ke’e Beach, consider a helicopter tour! Check out our guide for the absolute best helicopter tours in Kauai.
Best Kauai North Shore Beaches
1. Ke’e Beach
Nestled at the northwestern tip of Kauai, Ke’e Beach stands out as one of the most enchanting spots on the island’s north shore.
Ke’e Beach is renowned as one of the finest on Kauai’s north shore, with its golden sand hugged by towering cliffs, providing a mesmerizing setting. But it’s not just about the beach – the vistas of the breathtaking Na Pali Coast are a must-see. Take a stroll away from the cliffs and then look back for an awe-inspiring view!
A gem within Hā’ena State Park, Ke’e Beach is a hot spot in Kauai, often requiring advance reservations due to its popularity.
Getting a reservation might be a challenge, but the pristine beauty of this beach is well worth the effort, especially on a sunny day.
Summer brings calm waters, turning Ke’e Beach into one of the top swimming spots in Kauai. The protective reef allows for safe swimming and snorkeling. However, in winter, the surf and currents can be risky, so water activities are not advisable.
Sunsets at Ke’e Beach are consistently spectacular throughout the year. Stick around to witness the vibrant hues reflecting in the tide pools along the shore.
With a lifeguard on duty, along with restrooms and showers, Ke’e Beach ensures a safe and comfortable experience. Some trees at the back offer shade, but since the beach is a bit of a walk from the parking lot, consider lightening your load when it comes to beach gear.
2. Haena Beach Park
Located on the western side of Kauai’s north shore, on Maniniholo Bay, Haena Beach Park is a golden sand paradise often confused with Haena State Park.
Haena Beach is a standout among Kauai’s north shore beaches, boasting not only stunning sandy shores but also excellent amenities, including a small parking lot. Arrive early to snag a coveted spot.
This golden sand haven is surrounded by tropical greenery and lava cliffs, providing an ideal setting for a leisurely stroll. The Manoa Stream adds to the charm as it flows into the ocean, creating a picturesque photo opportunity.
Complete with a lifeguard station, picnic facilities, restrooms, and showers, Haena Beach Park is a delightful spot for water activities on pleasant summer days. However, be cautious, as there’s no protective reef, and waves tend to break close to the shore.
In the winter, when waves can be massive, the entire beach may be cordoned off for safety.
Haena Beach Park features a grassy area adorned with palms, offering a perfect place for a picnic. You might even spot a food truck or two for a quick bite.
For those seeking adventure, the park also provides campsites. Just be sure to secure a permit in advance if you plan on camping.
3. Tunnels Beach (Makua Beach)
Also situated on Maniniholo Bay, you’ll discover Tunnels Beach, a renowned gem not just on Kauai’s north shore but across the entire island.
Tunnels Beach, also known as Makua Beach, is a snorkeler’s paradise, gaining its name from the lava tubes running through the reef and into the ocean.
In the summer, the crystal-clear waters make it ideal for snorkeling. The vibrant reef houses various fish species, and if you’re lucky, you might encounter a honu (Hawaiian green sea turtle) or a Hawaiian monk seal. Remember to be respectful of the marine life you come across!
The crescent-shaped beach, adorned with palm and ironwood trees, offers stunning views of Mount Makana, also known as Bali Hai after featuring in the movie South Pacific. In fact, the beach served as a filming location for the movie.
Be cautious in the winter when the waves are high and entering the water is unsafe. Watch skilled surfers ride the waves from a safe distance.
Parking is limited, and access to Tunnels Beach is through two side roads, approximately 0.4 miles past mile marker 8 on the highway. To secure a parking spot, arrive very early and watch for signs indicating “Beach Access.”
Consider parking at Haena Beach Park and walking along the sand if you have minimal gear. The walk is about 0.5 miles each way, but walking on loose sand can be tiring.
While Tunnels Beach lacks amenities, you’ll find restrooms and showers at the adjacent Haena Beach Park.
4. Black Pot Beach Park (Hanalei Bay)
In the heart of Kauai’s north shore, Hanalei Bay boasts the largest bay, and along its length are several distinct beaches.
Black Pot Beach Park, situated on the eastern side of the bay where the Hanalei River meets the Pacific Ocean, offers a picturesque setting with mountain views and the iconic Hanalei Pier.
It’s an excellent beach for a sunset stroll, but pay attention to water quality reports, especially after rains. If the water is murky, avoid swimming.
Despite this, many visitors enjoy both in-water and out-of-water activities here, making it a local favorite for cookouts and picnics.
The relatively large parking lot by the beach makes it convenient for those bringing gear. Showers and restrooms are available.
Black Pot Beach Park is not lifeguarded.
5. Hanalei Pavilion Beach Park (Hanalei Bay)
Adjacent to Black Pot Beach Park along the eastern side of Hanalei Bay is Hanalei Pavilion Beach Park, also known as Pavilions.
This section of the island’s north shore is undeniably beautiful, with crystal-clear waters and views of the mountains. To the northeast, the Hanalei Pier adds to the scenic charm.
The golden sand beach is backed by an open grassy area, offering opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and boogie boarding in calm summer waters. Winter brings high surf, attracting surfers to catch waves.
A stroll along Hanalei Pavilion Beach at sunset or sunrise is particularly enchanting, with the stunning scenery in all directions.
The beach is lifeguarded, providing additional safety for visitors. The park offers showers, restrooms, barbecue areas, and picnic tables for those planning a more extended stay.
Due to its popularity, arriving early ensures a more secluded experience. Parking is available at the back of the park by Weke Road or along Aku Road (in a non-tow spot), with a short walk to the beach.
6. Puu Poa Beach
Nestled behind the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay Resort on Kauai’s north shore, Puu Poa Beach offers tranquility and beautiful views.
Accessible via a paved walking path or stairs, the beach is located about 200 feet down from the bluff.
While not recommended for swimming, Puu Poa Beach features an offshore reef, providing opportunities for summer snorkeling or stand-up paddleboarding. A leisurely stroll along the beach offers a chance to appreciate the scenery.
Puu Poa Beach, with its views of the mountains and lush vegetation, is a delightful spot for a relaxing experience.
As with many north shore beaches in Kauai, the winter months bring high swells, making it unsafe for water activities. Experienced surfers may still attempt to catch waves during this time.
Read More: Magical Honokalani Black Sand Beach in Maui:
7. Waioli Beach Park (Hanalei Bay)
Also known as Pine Trees, Waioli Beach Park is the westernmost of the three Hanalei Bay beaches highlighted here, located around the middle of the bay.
Named after the ironwood pines lining the beach, Waioli Beach is as scenic as the rest of Hanalei Bay.
Summer days with calm waters offer opportunities for swimming and bodyboarding. A leisurely stroll along the sand provides breathtaking views of the mountains to the west and Hanalei Pier to the east.
Waioli Beach is a popular surfing spot, attracting crowds of intermediate and expert surfers, especially in the winter when the waves are larger.
The beach park is lifeguarded and features restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and even a beach volleyball court.
Parking for Waioli Beach can be found at the end of Anae Road, as well as at the end of Hee Road and Amaama Road.
8. Anini Beach
For the ultimate family-friendly experience on Kauai’s north shore, make your way to Anini Beach!
Protected by one of Hawaii’s longest and widest reefs, Anini Beach is an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling during the calm summer waters. Exercise caution beyond the reef, where currents can be strong.
This expansive beach offers more than just a sandy stretch. Take a scenic drive along the road, and you might discover a secluded area all to yourself. Perfect for a leisurely stroll and shell hunting.
Despite its somewhat remote location, Anini Beach tends to be less crowded than the central Hanalei Bay beaches. The stunning scenery, highlighted by lava rocks and golden sands, makes it a must-visit.
Anini Beach Park provides essential facilities like restrooms, showers, picnic pavilions, and shaded areas. Campers can secure permits in advance for an extended stay. Note that there is no lifeguard on duty.
9. Kalihiwai Beach
Tucked away on the east side of Kauai’s north shore, Kalihiwai Beach offers another secluded retreat on Kalihiwai Bay.
With its expansive golden sands, this beach provides stunning views of cliffs, surrounding vegetation, and a stand of ironwood trees. It’s a picturesque spot, perfect for a serene photo session.
Enjoy summer swims in the calm waters, but exercise caution as there is no lifeguard or protective reef. Kalihiwai Beach also welcomes bodyboarding enthusiasts.
In the winter, the beach becomes a popular surfing spot, attracting locals who appreciate its beauty on weekends. Although less frequented by tourists due to its distance from Kuhio Highway, it’s a beloved spot for the community.
While facilities are limited, a portable toilet is available. Ample parking along Kalihiwai Road makes access convenient.
10. Lumahai Beach
For sheer scenic beauty, Lumahai Beach on the eastern side of Kauai’s north shore stands out. Serving as a backdrop for South Pacific, it boasts lava rocks, lava cliffs, and breathtaking views.
Caution is advised, as strong currents and exposure to the open ocean make swimming unsafe. Tragic incidents have occurred, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll on the golden sands, soaking in the sun on pleasant days. Capture stunning photos from the scenic lookout along the road above even before reaching the beach.
Two access points are available: a trail from the lookout by mile marker 5 or the Lumahai River parking lot. The latter involves a pleasant walk through ironwood trees, but bring bug spray. Facilities are nonexistent, and the beach is not lifeguarded.
11. Kauapea Beach (Secret Beach)
Discover the secluded allure of Kauapea Beach, aptly known as Secret Beach, on the eastern side of Kauai’s north shore.
Blessed with a lava rock cliff on one end and views of Moku‘Ae‘Ae islet and Kilauea Lighthouse on the other, Secret Beach offers paradise on clear days.
Summer permits swimming, wading in lagoons, and exploration of tide pools. The absence of a protective reef means caution is crucial. In winter, the beach attracts surfers seeking thrilling rides on high waves.
Accessing Secret Beach is an adventure in itself. Take the first dirt road (Secret Beach Road on Google Maps) from Kalihiwai Road off Kuhio Highway, and park at the road’s end. A 10 to 15-minute walk leads to the beach, with exposed roots and slippery paths in wet conditions. Facilities are nonexistent.
Explore our complete guide to visiting Secret Beach for an enhanced experience!
12. Hideaways Beach (Pali Ke Kua Beach)
Nestled at the base of cliffs in Princeville, behind the renowned Makai Golf Course, Hideaways Beach, also known as Pali Ke Kua Beach, offers a hidden haven for those willing to make the effort.
Challenging to access, this golden sand beach boasts an offshore reef, making the waters generally suitable for swimming and snorkeling in the summer. However, strong currents demand caution.
The beach’s stunning ambiance, complemented by green-blue waters and tropical vegetation, creates a picturesque setting on clear days. Snorkelers can delight in a variety of colorful tropical fish and, if lucky, spot Hawaiian green sea turtles.
Facilities are lacking, and access involves negotiating a steep trail down the cliffs. The trail, approximately 0.5 miles each way, is challenging in places, with ropes aiding in certain sections. Limited parking is available at Ka Haku Road, or pay to park at the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay Resort and walk to the trailhead.
Map of North Shore Beaches in Kauai
The Best Kauai Tours
Have you secured your spot for these thrilling Kauai adventures?
1. Sunset Catamaran Tour of Na Pali Coast
Enjoy a relatively stable ride and breathtaking views on good weather days!
2. Doors-Off Helicopter Tour of Kauai
Opt for unobstructed views and explore more of the island than by land, with no middle seats!
3. Kayak on Wailua River + Hike to a Waterfall
Perfect for active travelers, brace for a bit of mud and loads of fun!
4. Raft Trip to Na Pali Coast + Snorkeling
Get ready for an exhilarating adventure and prepare to get wet on this thrilling journey!
5. Eurocopter ECO-Star Helicopter Tour over Kauai
The most booked helicopter tour with close to 2K reviews and a 5-star rating!
Renting a Car in Kauai
To explore the scattered gems of Kauai, renting a car is essential. Public transport options are limited, so we recommend using Discover Cars for the best deals. They search various rental car companies, offering both budget and brand options, with free cancellations and no hidden fees.
Lihue Airport-Hotel Shuttle
For a hassle-free option, pre-arrange a round-trip transfer from Lihue airport to your hotel and back! This shared shuttle serves various locations and ensures convenience and savings.
Where to Stay in Kauai
Depending on your preferences, from vacation rentals for more space and meal options to resorts for a pampered experience, Kauai offers diverse accommodations. If you plan to explore multiple parts of the island, start your search for vacation rentals on VRBO.
More Kauai Travel Inspiration
Exploring Kauai? Dive into our Comprehensive Guides!
1. Best Things to Do in Kauai
From captivating beaches to cliffs, canyons, and waterfalls, discover all the must-experience activities and attractions on the Garden Isle.
2. 3 Days in Kauai Itinerary
Planning to split your week between Kauai and another island? Read our itinerary for insights on what to see and do!
3. Visiting the Na Pali Coast
Delve into our in-depth guide for the best ways to explore the stunning Na Pali Coast in the remote northwest of Kauai.
4. Nine Spectacular State Parks in Kauai
Explore the natural wonders housed in Kauai’s state parks, including Waimea Canyon, Kokee, and Polihale.
5. Ultimate Guide to Haena State Park
A comprehensive guide to the beautiful Haena State Park on Kauai’s north shore, including a full guide to hiking the epic Kalalau Trail.
6. Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Kauai
From road-viewable falls to those requiring a hike or a helicopter ride, discover the enchanting waterfalls in Kauai.
7. Top-Rated Helicopter Tours in Kauai
If a helicopter tour is on your Kauai agenda, check out our article on the top-rated tours for a breathtaking experience.
8. Best Hikes in Koke’e State Park
Hiking enthusiasts, explore the best trails in Koke’e State Park, from the Canyon Trail to Waipo’o Falls and the challenging Awa’awapuhi Trail.
9. Best Hikes in Waimea Canyon State Park
Uncover the top hikes in Waimea Canyon State Park and explore the captivating landscapes of Kauai.
10. Best Hikes on Kauai’s North Shore
Discover the scenic trails on Kauai’s north shore, offering breathtaking views and rewarding experiences.
11. Botanical Gardens in Kauai
From Limahuli Garden to McBryde and Allerton Gardens, explore the lush beauty of Kauai’s botanical wonders.
12. Things to Do in Hanalei
Dive into the charm of Hanalei, the picturesque town nestled in the heart of Kauai’s north shore.
13. Best Swimming Beaches on Kauai
From Hanalei Bay to Poipu Beach, find your ideal spot with our guide to the best swimming beaches on Kauai.
14. Best Snorkeling Beaches on Kauai
Immerse yourself in the underwater wonders with our roundup of the best snorkeling beaches on the island.
15. Best Kauai North Shore Beaches
Explore the beauty of Kauai’s north shore beaches with our comprehensive roundup.
Embark on your Kauai adventure fully equipped with insights from our detailed guides!
Conclusion
Embrace the Enchanting North Shore of Kauai
In the heart of Kauai’s North Shore lies a collection of spellbinding beaches, each with its unique allure. From the iconic golden sands of Ke’e Beach, nestled at the northwestern tip, to the snorkeler’s haven, Tunnels Beach, and the family-friendly Anini Beach, the variety is as vast as the breathtaking landscapes that surround them. These beaches aren’t just scenic; they’re cinematic, having graced the silver screen with their dramatic beauty.
As you traverse the shoreline, you’ll encounter lush greenery, lava rocks, and cliffs that paint a picturesque backdrop to the pristine sands. Beyond the aesthetics, each beach offers a distinct experience – from serene strolls and picnics to thrilling water adventures. Whether you’re captivated by the panoramic views of Na Pali Coast from Ke’e Beach or seeking underwater wonders at Tunnels Beach, the North Shore of Kauai beckons with unparalleled beauty.
For those seeking adventure beyond the shore, our recommended helicopter tours provide a unique perspective of this natural wonderland. As you bask in the scenic splendor, don’t forget to explore the island’s lush interiors, embark on thrilling hikes, and indulge in the captivating beauty of Kauai’s state parks. With this guide, we invite you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Kauai’s North Shore, a haven where nature’s beauty takes center stage.
Embark on your Kauai adventure, where the symphony of waves, the warmth of golden sands, and the lush surroundings await to enchant your senses. Aloha and mahalo for joining us on this exploration of Kauai’s North Shore – a truly mesmerizing destination!
I’m Justin Taylor, your go-to guide at “Go Hawaii US.” I’ve been soaking in the colors and stories of Hawaii for a while now, and I want you to join me on this fantastic journey. At Go Hawaii US, we’re all about making your Hawaiian adventure unforgettable. It’s not just a guide; it’s like turning information into a real, vibrant experience. Come along, and let’s explore the wonders of Hawaii together!
