United States
Ha'ena State Park and beaches
Today you'll hike through beautiful landscapes, dive into crystal-clear waters for some world-class snorkeling, and end with a sunset that’ll make your heart skip a beat.
Early morning hike in Ha'ena State Park
Start your day early and lace up those hiking boots for a memorable trek through Ha'ena State Park. Begin at the Kalalau Trailhead near Kēʻē Beach and take on the first 3.2 km of the Kalalau Trail. Brace yourself for steep climbs and muddy paths as you make your way toward Hanakāpīʻai Beach. The trail itself is pretty fun and rewarding, as you’ll come across some amazing viewpoints and see tons of beautiful nature. The beach itself is not always ideal for swimming, but the views here are great too! Bring lunch and enjoy a peaceful picnic on the beach!
It’s a 6-minute drive or 30-minute walk to your next destination.
Relax at Tunnels Beach
After your hike, head over to Tunnels Beach for some well-deserved relaxation and exploration. Tunnels Beach, or Makua Beach as it’s known locally, is famed for its incredible snorkeling opportunities. The coral reef that extends close to the shore is home to amazing marine life like sea turtles, tropical fish, and the occasional eel. The reef’s lava tubes are the reason this is called “tunnels” beach, and offer a fantastic snorkeling experience. And if your idea of a beach day doesn’t include any swimming or other activities, you’ll be happy to learn that the stunning views and golden sands make it a great spot to soak up the sun. Tunnels Beach is definitely in our top 3 of best beaches on Kauai!
An amazing sunset is just 40 minutes away.
Sunset at Anahola Beach
End your day with a serene sunset at Anahola Beach. This hidden gem on Kauai's northeast coast is the perfect setting for a relaxing evening. The waters here are calm and shallow, ideal for a peaceful swim or some gentle snorkeling. You might even come across the occasional fisher(wo)man here, too! On the beach you can find picnic tables and barbecue grills, so why not bring your own food to prepare a leisurely dinner as you watch the sun dip below the horizon? Anahola Beach is a non-touristy place where you can fully appreciate Kauai’s natural beauty.
