Kauai is famous for its white, sandy beaches. The Kauai North Shore beaches are particularly stunning, as the sun-drenched waters are framed by rugged mountains and sea cliffs. Bursting with beauty, the enchanting setting of Kauai North Shore beaches create an exceptional way to unplug from the everyday and reconnect with a natural paradise. Trust me, relaxing never felt so good.
These four Kauai North Shore beaches are totally bucket-list worthy and should be on your Hawaii hit list.
Hanalei Beach
The half-moon bay of Hanalei Beach is naturally beautiful. High sea cliffs, sheer volcanic ridges and golden sand surround the ancient sunken valley. Hanalei Bay stretches two miles from point to point and indents the coast a full mile inland. There are coral reefs are on either side of the two points, and in the middle of the bay. Due to a nearby sunken ship, Hanalei has a great snorkeling environment. Black Pot, near the pier, is one of the best areas for swimming, snorkeling and surfing. Swimming is excellent here year round, making it a popular choice for visitors and locals alike.
Anini Beach County Park
If you’re looking for one of the safest swimming beaches on the North Shore, this is it. Anini Beach is also quite gorgeous as it sits on a blue lagoon at the base of emerald cliffs. The golden beaches stretch on for three miles. This beach is shielded by long fringe of reef too, so it’s one of the very best beaches to snorkel at on Kauai. Anini has a very Tahitian-feel and is definitely worth a visit.
Kee Beach State PaLocated on a reef protected Cove, Kee (pronounced Kay-ay) Beach attracts swimmers and snorkelers. Take note, though, to stay inside the reef area. Outside of the reef, conditions are unstable and the waters can be dangerous. Be sure to take a short walk towards Ha’ena for a panoramic view of the Na Pali Coast.
Tunnels Beach
Easily one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches, Tunnels Beach is excellent for swimming year round and provides excellent snorkeling conditions as it is protected by a fringing coral reef. Surrounded by the peaks of Bali Hai, Tunnels Beach is one of best locations to watch the sun set on Kauai.
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Ashley is Reserve Direct’s travel expert, visiting Kauai to find the best travel tips, money-saving deals and insider information. With over 10 years of experience in first-hand-travel adventures, she shares her stories, advice, and current events to help you stay in the know. |
The crystal clear ocean waters of Kauai create the perfect environment for snorkeling. The warm waters and thriving reef system make it a natural choice for snorkeling. One of the reasons the reef system is so spectacular is it has been developing for millions of years. It has become a habitat for hundreds of species of fish, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. Plus, snorkel gear is available for rent at just about every hotel or oceanside attraction so it’s easy to grab a mask, snorkel and some fins and swim around the waters to explore the underwater world of Kauai.
Anini Beach
The best beaches to snorkel in Kauai
Anini Beach
Home to the longest reef on the island, Anini Beach is located on Kauai’s North Shore. The water here is fairly shallow and the reef features underwater canyons with ample sea life.
Poipu Beach
Poipu Beach
The reef here has sea cucumbers in residence and snorkelers frequently spot sea turtles at Poipu Beach. This South Shore Kauai beach is also home to endangered Hawaiian monk seals, which you can see sunning on the beach.
Tunnels Beach
Tunnels Beach
Also known as Makua Beach, Tunnels Beach is the quintessentialspot to snorkel in Kauai, with amazing mountain views surrounding the beach. The reef here is horseshoe shaped and is home to bright corals, a variety of fish including the vibrant Humuhumunukunukuapua’a, wrasse and parrotfish.
Kee Beach
Kee Beach
Kee Beach is a great option for beginner snorkelers as the lagoon is protected from waves by reefs. Home to plenty of colorful fish and Pacific green sea turtles, views of the Na Pali Coast add to the scenery.
Wherever you snorkel in Kauai you’re sure to experience an underwater world teeming with sea life. Try to go early in the morning as that is when viewing is best. And, stay safe! Be sure to snorkel with a buddy, stay out of choppy water and avoid touching the reefs. Most of all though, have fun as you explore the sea!
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Ashley is Reserve Direct’s travel expert, visiting Kauai to find the best travel tips, money-saving deals and insider information. With over 10 years of experience in first-hand-travel adventures, she shares her stories, advice, and current events to help you stay in the know. |
