Hanalei Beach — Attraction in Kauai

We were told by multiple locals that this beach was a must see and we could not agree more! It was our favorite beach for its shear beauty! The pictures do not do this beach justice! A few highlights for us were the free parking, easy flat walk down to the beach, tons of space to spread out, and very swimmable! The waves were much calmer than the Sheraton in Poipu and similar to what we saw at Kaihuna Beach (check out my reviews on those beaches to learn more).

The biggest negative is no shade, I mean none! It’s just a flat desert, lol! But there are bathrooms close by and it’s an easy to walk beach with absolutely stunning views. They even filmed a movie out here according to my mom! This beach is a must visit if you make it over to the north shore. We were staying on the south shore, but still made the drive because we knew it would be worth it! They also have a pretty neat food truck scene you can check out along the way so plan to stop for a meal or a shaved ice or ice cram from Lapperts! Oh and grab a coffee from Outpost at the back of Hanalei Market, you won’t be disappointed! Seriously, so much to do up there and I wrote reviews on all of our stops so feel free to check them out and then don’t miss out on...

Hanalei Beach is one of Kauai’s most picturesque and beloved spots. Located on the island’s north shore, this expansive beach is a true gem, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and a relaxed atmosphere.

The soft, golden sand stretches for miles, making it an ideal location for long walks along the shore. The calm, crystal-clear waters of Hanalei Bay are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and even learning to surf, thanks to the gentle waves that roll in, especially in the summer months.

The backdrop of lush green mountains adds to the breathtaking scenery, making Hanalei Beach a favorite spot for both locals and visitors alike. It’s also a great place to relax, whether you’re soaking up the sun, reading a book, or simply enjoying the stunning views.

Families will appreciate the shallow waters near the shore, which are safe for children to play in. There are also picnic areas and facilities nearby, making it convenient for a full day of beach fun.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy water activities, take in the natural beauty, or just unwind, Hanalei Beach has something for everyone. It’s a must-visit destination on Kauai that leaves a lasting impression on all who come to...

We got very lucky with parking, we just happened to arrive as someone was leaving around 4:00 pm. There were plenty of places to sit along the beach but it was a bit busy with people swimming, boogie boarding, surfing and a few people kayaking. A few dogs were enjoying the beach with their families, some people were BBQing at the picnic tables. The water was perfect when we were there, a few rough waves every now and then but great for swimming. People were a little further out riding wave runners, jet skiing and there was also a banana boat. There are bathrooms, a shower to rinse off at and a drinking fountain. The lifeguard was on duty when we got there but left before we did (we left around 6:30 pm.) Overall it's a wonderful beach with amazing views of the surrounding mountains. There was also some beautiful wildlife and further down by the pier there were some...