Kauai is a Hawaiian paradise that you simply have to see to believe. We see visitors of all kinds looking for that authentic Hawaiian experience, and they find it in abundance! When you’re exploring the stunning family friendly beaches, make sure you spend some time on Tunnels Beach. This location is truly one-of-a-kind, so you don’t want to miss it!
Where is Tunnels Beach?
This 2-mile stretch of beach is located on Kauai’s north shore at Ha’ena Point. Also called Makua Beach, this golden beach is among the most popular spots on the north shore.
To get to Tunnels Beach, make your way to Highway 560 until you reach the 8 mile marker for beach access with the best snorkeling opportunities. You can enter at one of two access points: one 0.4 miles past the mile marker and one a bit further down the road at 0.6 miles past the marker. It’s recommended to arrive before 10 a.m. to get a parking space, but if you can’t find parking, you can park at Haena State Park and then walk to the beach entrance.
What Makes It Special?
Mount Makana makes the perfect backdrop as you explore Tunnels Beach. Ever watched South Pacific and learned about Bali Hai? This is the exact area that’s featured in the film! You’ll have stunning views all around and plenty of golden sand for you and your family to stretch out on.
The beach gets its name from the divers who discovered the caverns and the surfers who have seen the tube near the outer reefs. Admire the clear waters, tall palm trees, and lush, jagged peaks to the west.
The beach itself is unique because it has both an inner and outer reef. You’ll find a half-moon shaped reef about an eighth of a mile offshore, and this shallow spot is perfect for novice snorkelers. If you’re more experienced, you can explore the outer reef as well. The reef here is truly unlike anything you’ve ever seen. It’s so big, it can even be seen from space!
By far the most popular activity at Tunnels Beach is snorkeling. The waters are full of sea turtles and tropical fish of all shapes, sizes, and colors, making for an absolutely unmatched experience. You might even get to spot the elusive Hawaiian monk seal! No matter whether you stick to the inner reef or explore the outer section, you’re in for a unique experience that you’ll never forget!
You’ll also be able to find incredible seashells to remember your travels by. Simply stroll up and down the shoreline and look into the tide for your chance to snag an incredible shell. Surfing is another popular activity, and even if you’re not into surfing yourself, you’ll love watching the experienced athletes try to catch the biggest wave.
Know Before You Go
Tunnels Beach is a family-friendly location that unfortunately doesn’t offer much in the way of amenities, but just down the road, Haena Beach Park offers amenities like bathrooms and showers. You’re more than welcome to bring your picnic lunch and blanket and spend the whole afternoon on the shore! As we mentioned, parking can be limited, so get there early or be prepared to walk. Whatever you do, don’t park on the street, because you will certainly get a ticket!
Make sure you’re diligent at Tunnels Beach to keep you and your family safe. The surf break is only for experts, since the surf can get incredibly high. Tides can also become strong quite quickly, so be aware of your surroundings at all times. Tunnels Beach is more dangerous in the winter when these conditions are more pronounced.
Lifeguards are stationed at Tunnels Beach and will regularly inform guests of the water conditions, so be sure to pay attention to these signs and ALWAYS keep an eye on your kids and family members in the water no matter how old they are.
Do your due diligence as well and don’t get into the water if you think it’s unsafe for you and your ability level, no matter what the lifeguards’ signs say. Better safe than sorry!
What Else to Do Nearby
Tunnels Beach is located about 2 miles east of the Kalalau Trail. This trail runs 11 miles from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beach along the Napali Coast. The Kalalau Trail is the only way to get to this part of the coast. You’ll hike your way through lush valleys and above towering sea cliffs as you go, but keep in mind that the trail is almost never level, so only embark if you’re confident in your abilities. This trail has been considered one of the most dangerous in the country, but it’s also one of the most gorgeous, so if you’re experienced, this is a journey you definitely want to take.
The Kalalau Trail is part of the Napali Coast State Wilderness Park. This 16-mile stretch of coastline is an incredibly scenic location shaped by long-term erosion. You can admire the Hanakapiai Falls, drive to Kee Beach, gaze in awe at Waimea Canyon, or book a tour to get all these experiences at once! If you’re a nature lover, this is the place for you.
About 9 miles down the road, you’ll find Princeville. While the town may be small, it’s packed with fun things to explore. The Princeville Botanical Gardens provide an educational and fun experience for all ages, not to mention the fact that you can book a chocolate tasting tour! Princeville Center is your destination for shopping and dining on the north shore, and if you’re looking for a great golfing opportunity, head to the Makai Golf Club for a world-class game.
One thing we do want to discuss is the black sand beaches of Kauai, since so many of the guests at our Kauai condo rentals inquire about them. If you’re searching for a black sand beach, you’ll be traveling VERY far from Tunnels Beach. There is actually no black sand beach on Kauai, so you’ll need to go to Waimea Bay Beach on Oahu. While it’s not a close attraction, it’s certainly a day trip you can make with a short flight to our island neighbor. There is also a ferry that runs between islands if you want to hop around on your vacation.
Closest Vacation Rentals
The Lae Nani Resort on Kauai’s east coast holds our vacation rentals closest to Tunnels Beach. Lae Nani Resort is located in Historic Kapaa, which is just a 15-minute drive from the airport. You’ll find tons of restaurants and shops in town, including awesome shopping at Coconut Marketplace and even a Starbucks!
At the resort, you’ll be able to take advantage of amenities galore with the backdrop of the stunning waters. Experience the wonders of the protected ocean pool and golden sand beach. If you want to get active, head for the tennis court, or you can return to your rental for a relaxing evening with your loved ones. The resort has 12 acres of gardens and lush tropical landscapes for you to discover, ensuring you’re in an authentic Hawaiian paradise!
Kauai Resort Rentals
Kauai holds a little something for everyone, and Tunnels Beach is just one of the attractions we recommend you visit. But there’s so much more to discover just minutes away from our Kauai beach vacation rentals! Contact us today to learn more.
