Please see our updated “North Shore Kauai road news which includes new parking regulations and Shuttle information” post for new rules on visiting Haena. On behalf of our island community, we thank you for your kokua.
Within a short walk of our Kauai vacation rentals at Ha`ena, there is a trio of North Shore Kauai beaches to explore that are all rugged, vibrant and feature a spectacular underwater world. We have written about Tunnels Beach and Ke`e Beach before, leaving the turquoise waters of Ha`ena for last. This crescent shaped beach is located only 8 miles from the Princeville Resort and a scenic 5 miles from our beachfront Hanalei rentals. Its lush mountain backdrop and gorgeous sand will be etched in your mind forever.
Ha`ena Beach, Tunnels Beach and Ke`e are Neighboring Kauai Beaches.
You will find easy parking at Ha`ena Beach and also showers, restrooms, picnic tables and barbecue facilities. Ha`ena has a lifeguard too with the most updated ocean safety information. A short distance beyond is Ha`ena State Park. It includes Ke`e Beach, the start of the Kalalau Trail on the Na Pali Coast, sea caves more than 4,000 years old and access to an ancient Heihau dedicated to Hula. Also in the same area is Limahuli, a famous Kauai garden chosen in 1997 as the best botanical garden in the United States.
Ha`ena translates from Hawaiian as “red hot.”
There are two reefs, Makua Reef to the east and Hauwa Reef to the west, but none protects this famous beach by itself. You will want to use caution in winter due to the powerful rip current. In summer you can enjoy swimming and some of the best Kauai snorkeling at Ha`ena and its neighbor, Tunnels Beach. Keep in mind that the foreshore of Ha`ena Beach is always steep because of the annual high surf and be careful when entering.
After a day at Ha`ena Beach, we suggest walking across the road to Maniniholo Dry Cave for a Kauai family activity. The kids will love exploring this cave that’s deep and broad and not too scary. The high cave ceiling creates an airy feeling and is a nice break from the sun.
Directions to Ha`ena Beach Park.
Take Highway 560 west from our Princeville Resort rentals and look for mile marker 9 in the small community of Ha`ena. You will be about 5 miles from our oceanfront Hanalei rentals and 8 miles from the Princeville Resort.
We invite you to leave a comment about Ha`ena Beach Park and ask questions.
Bookmark our Kauai Beach Explorer to stay current on Kauai beaches and facilities. Watch our Kauai video with important ocean safety information. It’s six minutes of your time that can save your life or that of a loved one.
Susan Ganger says
Do I need a reservation to go to Haena Beach Park, not the state park? If so, what is the website to make the reservations at?
Thanks, Susan Ganger
JP says
Aloha Susan, yes you need a reservation. Here is the website. For more info, you can visit our post which details more about North Shore access.
Stefanie Dietmair says
I read that there is camping at Haena Beach Park. How can I make a reservation?
Parrish Kauai says
Aloha Stephanie, Yes camping is permitted. You can check out the County’s web site for more info, costs and contact info.
Mahalo!