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Tunnel's beach was a great way to spend the day. You need to get there early to get a parking spot. Once there you can walk into the dry cave across the street. It is very deep, sandy bottom, no bats when we were there. The beach at the parking area is not for swimming, you have to walk about a 1/4 mile up the beach to a small cove in order to swim in the ocean, plenty of turtles to see. The beach is beautiful, the sand is very coarse so wear Sandals or water shoes! The drive to get there is also very gorgeous.
Such a cool free even t on the island. Came here one afternoon, and it was super smooth. No problem finding parking, and walking the Tunnel is a pretty neat experience. It's not really too big, but bring a flashlight if you want to be able to see around. The iPhone camera does not help a whole lot. Kauai is such a great place, that this is just another awesome beach up in the northern part of the island. There are bathrooms with running water, and obviously plenty of sand and beach stuff! My kids found the underground cave to be cool and it was worth spending about 45 minutes here. Went in the cave, and then played on the beach for a bit. The waves and riptide seemed a bit big, so be careful if going in the water. There are lifeguards on duty.
Nice beach and having a green mountain on the side is both unique and pretty. Tunnels beach is on the right side of the area and Ha'ena beach is on the left side. Ha'ena beach is prettier in my opinion, but the water is much harder to casually swim in. Tunnels beach has very calm water, but the general lack of waves makes it a bit less fun (again, in my opinion). I came from Kapaa and arrived very early on a Saturday morning (7:00) and there were three cars parked in one of the two one way makeshift lots. At 8:30, there were five cars in the area, leaving space for probably three more cars. If you enter the home address next to the lot in your GPS (5-7772 Kuhio Hwy), it will take you straight to the lot (see the pictures in the review).
One of our favorite beaches. We recommend getting to the Hā'ena Beach parking lot by 9am. We visited in March so may need to be earlier in busy season. We came here 3 times and each we found ample parking by arriving by 9am. It does fill up and often had long lines when we were leaving. When you approach beach, head right to Tunnels Beach. If you go far enough down there's an area that is shallow and protected by the rocks and common to see people swimming. It's one of the only safe spaces to swim in the ocean at this beach during winter season. Lots of kids splashing and enjoying the water here. Sand changes from gritty shells to nice soft sand. Recommend water friendly shoes to protect in the rougher sand. Plenty of shaded areas from the trees to balance sunshine and protection. Beautiful views of the Na Pali coast mountains from the beach. Big waves and common to see surfers and windsurfing. We didn't find any legal parking for Tunnels Beach directly aside from walking from Haena Beach. Hope that helps! These beaches are way less crowded than Hanalei Bay likely due to limited parking.
Gorgeous beach! Like picture-perfect. Like, the kind of place you conjure up in your mind when you think of a Hawaiian island. We lucked out and found a spot in the first lot (You know, the one everyone says never has a spot because there are only like 8 spots? That one. We were so grateful to be so lucky). It's a super quick walk to the sand from there, and once you arrive there's a HUGE expanse of beach to easily have your slice of heaven to yourself. Plenty of trees away from the shore to get relief from the sun should you need... Some of the loveliest snorkeling we've seen! Was glad a warden was on the water near the reef to remind idiots, sorry - I mean people, to STAY OFF OF THE DAMNED REEF. They had to remind people NOT STAND ON THE REEF *giant facepalm* I have attached a great pic to show the best place for parking, and a perfect snorkeling "route" once you're in the water. Best chance for low-to-no currents and minimal turbidity for optimum viewing. Several charters were offshore allowing folks to snorkel without fighting for a parking space. If you can't get a lucky Tunnels alley parking spot, there is more parking farther down the road by the Dry Caves. There you will also find a few picnic tables and a bathroom. Go early and you should be able to find a spot! Please don't stand on the reef. Please wear reef-safe sunscreen. Please pay attention and only park in the designated spots. There are signs that say "NOT TUNNELS" for a reason - don't park there. Get your aloha on, people!
Cool beach on the North Shore of Kauai. It's a pretty scenic drive with lots of winding roads and one way bridges. Parking is limited but if you get parking your golden. There's also a cool cave right across the street. They have restrooms, a few picnic tables in a grass area and the beach is a quick walk to the sand. Sand is soft but the shallow part has little rocks so not as soft on the feet but definitely not super uncomfortable either. They even had a food/snack truck which is always a plus since there are no restaurants or stores within walking distance.
The Tunnels and Ha'ena beaches are not nly beautiful, but great for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. They merge together, occupying different stretches of a slightly sheltered curve of beach on the north shore of Kauai. Ha'ena is at the western end at the county park with toilets, tables, and parking. It has stronger waves. Tunnels is at the eastern end, with a lot of coral formations which you need to avoid, but the water is more calm here and the coral provides habitat for sea life and interesting areas to explore. There are some shallower parts fairly far out. The setting is lovely and striking. There is almost no parking near the Tunnels Beach, and visitors are not allowed to park along the roads. That seems to be a problem for some, but we stayed only about a 20 minute walk away so we had a pleasant stroll to and from the beach.
This beach is absolutely stunning! Consider adding it to your itinerary before any other beach or activity for the day. Parking is very limited for the popularity of this beach. Come before 10:30am or so because finding parking can be very, very painful! This beach has plenty of shade available. Great scenic beach, beautiful blue waters, and great for beginner friendly snorkeling. So happy I rented a snorkel and mask for only $5 before making the drive to Tunnels. I saw a variety of fish only about 4 feet into the water. Be very careful with the waves and make sure not to touch the reef.
9 months ago
We enjoyed checking out this side of the island this time. It was kind of tricky to find parking but just be patient and you'll find some. We ended up finding a spot on the street and walked down an alley to the beach. Didn't need an umbrella here as there are plenty of shade trees right on the beach. So beautiful and relaxing. It is very popular and busy, but you only really notice that in the water because of everyone wanting to snorkel. The snorkeling was really cool here! Some of the best I've seen! I spent a lot of time in the water, but tried not to go too far out as the tide can be a little tricky here in some parts as well. A must-see when on Kauai! read more
8 months ago
One of the secret, beautiful beaches in Kauai. This is the place that is depicted in the musical " South Pacific" or the famous fictional place "Bali Hai". Use Makua Beach /hAena state beach park to park is the access you can use to get to tunnels beach! Once you get there it's super gorgeous! Definitely worth the 1 hour drive from lihue for a sunrise/sunset in Kauai! read more
7 months ago
What's not to love about tunnels? Oh, the parking? That just makes this beach that much more secluded. :) Get here early and stay all day! The energy from the mountains, waterfall, and clear ocean water make for the perfect backdrop of your Hawaiian dreams. Seriously. A dip among the reef in the crystal clear water is beyond healing. The waves in some parts of this beach can be brutal shorebreak so always read the posted signs and don't go out if in doubt! read more
5 months ago
Magical! This beach is otherworldly. Breathtaking and serene. One of my favorite beaches on Kaua'i. Aloha! read more
1 year ago
Tunnel's beach was a great way to spend the day. You need to get there early to get a parking spot. Once there you can walk into the dry cave across the street. It is very deep, sandy bottom, no bats when we were there. The beach at the parking area is not for swimming, you have to walk about a 1/4 mile up the beach to a small cove in order to swim in the ocean, plenty of turtles to see. The beach is beautiful, the sand is very coarse so wear Sandals or water shoes! The drive to get there is also very gorgeous. read more
2 years ago
Such a cool free even t on the island. Came here one afternoon, and it was super smooth. No problem finding parking, and walking the Tunnel is a pretty neat experience. It's not really too big, but bring a flashlight if you want to be able to see around. The iPhone camera does not help a whole lot. Kauai is such a great place, that this is just another awesome beach up in the northern part of the island. There are bathrooms with running water, and obviously plenty of sand and beach stuff! My kids found the underground cave to be cool and it was worth spending about 45 minutes here. Went in the cave, and then played on the beach for a bit. The waves and riptide seemed a bit big, so be careful if going in the water. There are lifeguards on duty. read more
8 months ago
2 years ago
Nice beach and having a green mountain on the side is both unique and pretty. Tunnels beach is on the right side of the area and Ha'ena beach is on the left side. Ha'ena beach is prettier in my opinion, but the water is much harder to casually swim in. Tunnels beach has very calm water, but the general lack of waves makes it a bit less fun (again, in my opinion). I came from Kapaa and arrived very early on a Saturday morning (7:00) and there were three cars parked in one of the two one way makeshift lots. At 8:30, there were five cars in the area, leaving space for probably three more cars. If you enter the home address next to the lot in your GPS (5-7772 Kuhio Hwy), it will take you straight to the lot (see the pictures in the review). read more
One of our favorite beaches. We recommend getting to the Hā'ena Beach parking lot by 9am. We visited in March so may need to be earlier in busy season. We came here 3 times and each we found ample parking by arriving by 9am. It does fill up and often had long lines when we were leaving. When you approach beach, head right to Tunnels Beach. If you go far enough down there's an area that is shallow and protected by the rocks and common to see people swimming. It's one of the only safe spaces to swim in the ocean at this beach during winter season. Lots of kids splashing and enjoying the water here. Sand changes from gritty shells to nice soft sand. Recommend water friendly shoes to protect in the rougher sand. Plenty of shaded areas from the trees to balance sunshine and protection. Beautiful views of the Na Pali coast mountains from the beach. Big waves and common to see surfers and windsurfing. We didn't find any legal parking for Tunnels Beach directly aside from walking from Haena Beach. Hope that helps! These beaches are way less crowded than Hanalei Bay likely due to limited parking. read more
Gorgeous beach! Like picture-perfect. Like, the kind of place you conjure up in your mind when you think of a Hawaiian island. We lucked out and found a spot in the first lot (You know, the one everyone says never has a spot because there are only like 8 spots? That one. We were so grateful to be so lucky). It's a super quick walk to the sand from there, and once you arrive there's a HUGE expanse of beach to easily have your slice of heaven to yourself. Plenty of trees away from the shore to get relief from the sun should you need... Some of the loveliest snorkeling we've seen! Was glad a warden was on the water near the reef to remind idiots, sorry - I mean people, to STAY OFF OF THE DAMNED REEF. They had to remind people NOT STAND ON THE REEF *giant facepalm* I have attached a great pic to show the best place for parking, and a perfect snorkeling "route" once you're in the water. Best chance for low-to-no currents and minimal turbidity for optimum viewing. Several charters were offshore allowing folks to snorkel without fighting for a parking space. If you can't get a lucky Tunnels alley parking spot, there is more parking farther down the road by the Dry Caves. There you will also find a few picnic tables and a bathroom. Go early and you should be able to find a spot! Please don't stand on the reef. Please wear reef-safe sunscreen. Please pay attention and only park in the designated spots. There are signs that say "NOT TUNNELS" for a reason - don't park there. Get your aloha on, people! read more
4 years ago
Cool beach on the North Shore of Kauai. It's a pretty scenic drive with lots of winding roads and one way bridges. Parking is limited but if you get parking your golden. There's also a cool cave right across the street. They have restrooms, a few picnic tables in a grass area and the beach is a quick walk to the sand. Sand is soft but the shallow part has little rocks so not as soft on the feet but definitely not super uncomfortable either. They even had a food/snack truck which is always a plus since there are no restaurants or stores within walking distance. read more
2 years ago
Gorgeous beach to watch the sunset. We brought wine and sandwiches to enjoy. The cave is beautiful across the street read more
3 years ago
The Tunnels and Ha'ena beaches are not nly beautiful, but great for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. They merge together, occupying different stretches of a slightly sheltered curve of beach on the north shore of Kauai. Ha'ena is at the western end at the county park with toilets, tables, and parking. It has stronger waves. Tunnels is at the eastern end, with a lot of coral formations which you need to avoid, but the water is more calm here and the coral provides habitat for sea life and interesting areas to explore. There are some shallower parts fairly far out. The setting is lovely and striking. There is almost no parking near the Tunnels Beach, and visitors are not allowed to park along the roads. That seems to be a problem for some, but we stayed only about a 20 minute walk away so we had a pleasant stroll to and from the beach. read more
11 months ago
4 years ago
This beach is absolutely stunning! Consider adding it to your itinerary before any other beach or activity for the day. Parking is very limited for the popularity of this beach. Come before 10:30am or so because finding parking can be very, very painful! This beach has plenty of shade available. Great scenic beach, beautiful blue waters, and great for beginner friendly snorkeling. So happy I rented a snorkel and mask for only $5 before making the drive to Tunnels. I saw a variety of fish only about 4 feet into the water. Be very careful with the waves and make sure not to touch the reef. read more
Lots of coral, so those are perfect conditions for snorkeling. Is this the best place in Kauai for snorkeling? Not sure because I haven't snorkeled at all the beaches but I saw loads of fish. I would suggest getting into the water in the sandy part and then snorkel your way over the coral. Great place to watch the sunset over the mountains too. read more
2 years ago
Lots to see and do at Tunnels. Protective reef provides for swimming and snorkeling with minimal currents and very limited wave action. It's a good size Beach so lots of room to wander, and lots of places to lay your blanket down including some shaded areas. Snorkeling was good not great while I was there, but there was a lot of wave action outside the reef that raised the turbidity inside the reef and maybe I just wasn't looking in the right area - lots of area to cover. For swimmers: pay attention. Even in this protected area there are currents that can swiftly take you someplace you don't want to be if your watching the clouds while floating peacefully on the surface (my experience). Parking is tight. Locals have priority - out-of-state visitors have to get a pass for specific times (go early, less wave action). There are bathrooms with sinks to wash your hands, but no showers or places to wash the sand off. read more
3 years ago
overall our experience was pretty good ar tunnels but it wasn't our favorite beach- it was super crowded and hard to find parking- we had to park on the far left side of the beach and hike all of the way to the right to snorkel- it is a trek!! not to mention the sand is super hard to walk on!! it's very coarse and loose so on the way back to the car my husband went to get the car and picked me up. we enjoyed other beaches more than tunnels. the snorkeling itself was good though once you get there! just a hassle to get to the beach and find parking. saw lots of fish and a few sea turtles. read more
Beautiful beach with a stunning backdrop. The only problem was parking. There weren't any spots at all, so we had to squeeze into a possibly illegal no parking zone just like everybody else was doing- oops! No ticket was given though. It didn't look like anyone was monitoring for it read more
Tunnels beach is one of the most serene and beautiful beaches I have ever seen In Hawaii. It provides aqua tones and beautiful breathtaking white sands and views of the mountains. Across the street there is an incredible cave that you can explore! I loved snorkeling and saw lots of beautiful coral reefs and colorful fishes. This is such a great destination to explore the beautiful beaches of Kauai! Located near Princeville and incredible views driving to this place. It is definitely a must see while exploring the island! If you do stop by this beach their is a food truck that has incredible coconut shrimp and the dried mango and fresh pineapple is to die for! Not too mention those wonderful island smoothie vibes! read more
4 years ago
5 years ago
Gorgeous mountain vistas. Yesterday I sunbathed next to a monk seal for hours. HE (or she) RUBBED HIS (her?) EYES FROM TIME TO TIME WITH HIS (lady?) FLIPPER. Unreal. Ps. Bring your snorkel! read more
This is my favorite beach on the island .. the first time we were here the weather was perfect .. blue sky. This time it was cool and rained all week .. ocean was all churned up and much bigger waves. Good if you like to surf or boogie board .. not so great if you like to snorkel or play in calm water. Very few people were in the water all week. When the sky is blue .. and sun out .. this is gorgeus the color of the sand .. water and lovely mountains .. make this beach stunning. normally calm water good place to snorkel .. but not this week. still worth the visit. liked watching people brave enough to fight the powerful waves . we are not young and brave enough but fun to watch others make it look easy. This is close to Ke'e beach and some caves .. not far from the literal end of the road. read more
3 years ago
Beautiful beach with mountain views. The parking situation is not as dire as everyone makes it out to be. Most people look for this tight little public alley sandwiched between 2 houses. Don't worry if you can't find it or if there are no spots. Just continue on the road about 1/2 mile to the Haena beach park across the cave. The cave is nothing to explore. It's just there at the side of the road. There's plenty of parking spaces and restrooms. It's an easy beach walk to Tunnels (maybe about 1/2 mile walk along the water) from Haena Beach. Bring your snorkel gear and stay off the reefs. read more
2 years ago
Beautiful beach. Was worth the drive from the south part of the island. Really enjoyed the "adventures" this beach had to offer. read more
Absolutely beautiful and breathtaking views. If you visit Hawaii, this is a MUST SEE!! The hike is intense and we'll worth it. Its a good five mile hike or more. Come prepared with serious bug spray,water, proper hiking sticks, hat, hiking shoes and stamina!! Ladies; do not wear perfume and make-up. The bugs will eat you up alive!! The winds are intense and strong, so wear a bandana or hat. Men; leave your Ralph Loren stylish socks at home or they'll get muddy and wet! Once you get to the top, you've almost reached HEAVEN!!!! You'll be pleased with yourself once you've reached your destination. Good Luck!!! read more
9 years ago
Sea Turtles! My wife and I spotted a large sea turtle literally less than a minute after we started snorkeling. I was so excited and thought to myself, "there must be tons of sea turtles around here." Not true. That was the only one we saw. We talked to other snorkelers who were specifically searching for sea turtles but never found the illusive creature. I guess we got lucky? Regardless, I have confidence that if you are snorkeling out here long enough you'd see one too. But if not, you'll still see some stellar sea life. Even my wife who is scared of snorkeling said this was one of her favorite snorkel experiences. We went fairly early (maybe 8:30 am), so maybe that had something to do with spotting a turtle. I don't know. All I know is my wife and I came here two days in a row because we liked it so much. Pro tip: look for the crowd of people snorkeling because it will lead you to the safest entry point. The coral would be difficult to maneuver if you didn't wade in at this point. read more
Yelp 100 Challenge 94 Beautiful beach, amazing views of lush tropical mountains and good snorkeling! Gotta get their early for a parking spot at Ha'ena Beach and walk to Tunnels. Bring flip flops as the sand gets super hot and remember your sun screen and water. When snorkeling in and out look for sandy spots so as not to get scraped on the sharp coral if the water level is low. We saw colorful, beautiful fish, a sea turtle and a monk seal who was sleeping on the beach. Be prepared to enjoy this beach! read more
5 years ago
This was a truck for us as we were staying on the opposite side of the island and all were in a car with littles for a while. To get here was smooth overall, there was some construction in various places, some bridges you had to cross, but the views and the little cities we went through to get here were neat to see. Once we got here though it was a little tricky. There are little inlets for you to park, really like 2 of them, and they are narrow alleyways, kind of, then there is a parking lot, but that is very small, and then that's about it, so even once we got here it was a mission to find parking. Once we got to the beach though it was heavenly, there is a beautiful backdrop of forestry, because there is only so much parking, the beach is very secluded and quiet and peaceful. The beach is long and shallow, and in some parts there is almost this granite rock you can sit on and let the waves come across you. There are also some rocks the kids can climb and then this little river that flows into the ocean and they loved that. It was a great day, not too much wind and no rain, it was great! read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
5 years ago
Gorgeous beach! Be careful though the waves can be rough and can slam you into some rocks. read more
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Kauai, HI 96714
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Ask the Community - Tunnels Beach
Do we need parking permit for tunnels?
No, you do not need a parking permit for Tunnels Beach. But if you can, try and park away from the actual lot and walk for as long as possible because the parking is very limited. However, if you plan to go to the nearby Nāpali Coast State… Read more
Is Tunnels beach accessible now? :(
As of Friday May 31st its not. It's closed..road closer signs are up. We went around Nd found guards who told us that it's closed lol. Has been for a year
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Tunnels Beach - beaches - Updated June 2026
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