Kauai Snorkeling Guide

Kauai is the northernmost of the main Hawaiian Islands.  Because of its more northern latitude, the coral reefs are not as extensive as they are on the more southerly Hawaiian Islands.  However, there are some great snorkeling and diving spots on Kauai.  Below are a few of our favorite snorkeling locations on the island of Kauai.  Before setting off for a day at the beach, read our Kauai Ocean Safety article.

Makua Beach
Mile Marker #8
Kuhio Highway (560)
Hanalei HI

Popularly known as Tunnels, Makua beach is gaining popularity with Hawaii visitors. The two-mile stretch of sand offers the very best of snorkeling on the island.  Most come from across the islands to enjoy the large semi-circular cove where families and beginner snorkelers enjoy the protected reef conditions, the sandy shoreline and the amazing views. The reef has an abundance of curious uhu or parrotfish, surgeonfish, unicorn fish and the occasional goatfish. There are also schools of tangs that drift in the current.

Access to this remote beach is tricky. There is no official parking lot, just a couple of dirt side roads where parking is allowed along the shoulders. Always park in a fashion that does not obstruct other cars, driveways or damages plants or lawns. Parking on the highway shoulder is ticketable and towable so avoid that at all costs. Arrive early for these prime but limited spots, otherwise options further away the parking lot at Haena Beach Park or along Alealea Road.

Tunnels has perfect snorkeling conditions in the summer months. During the winter, rip currents are strong and often too dangerous to swim let alone snorkel. The beach has no facilities, and the closest lifeguards are two miles away at Ke’e beach. Therefore, exercise cautions at all times and takes out what you pack in.

Ke'e Beach
End of Kuhio Highway
Hanalei HI

Located at the very end of the road at Haena, this state park is extremely popular and fills up early in the day. Island visitors come to this area as a launching point for a day of hiking, an overnight camping trip along the Na Pali Coast or to snorkel the lagoon that is teeming with tropical fish of all types. This makes this small state park extremely busy and crowded where parking is done haphazardly and the overflow parking lot is located requires a longer walk to get to the beach and trailhead. However, unlike other Kauai beaches, this spot has lots of available parking, restrooms, showers and is staffed by lifeguard’s everyday of the year.

For snorkelers, the beach teems with brightly colored fish including uhu, tangs and the occasional green sea turtle. The summertime conditions at Ke’e are calm, inviting, and consistently clear. However, although the lagoon is protected by ocean currents, the winter swells can result in high waves breaking on rocks and other unsafe conditions. Arrive at Ke’e before mid-morning for the best parking and uncrowded conditions. Alternatively, arrive late in the afternoon when an afternoon of snorkeling can turn into a gorgeous evening sunset. Look for Ke’e beach in the closing shots of Pirates of the Caribbean – On Stranger Tides.

Nu`alolo Kai
Na Pali Coast

Located about two and a half miles past Honopu Beach, in one of the remotest spots in Hawaii, this beach is only accessible by tour. Several tour companies have been permitted to land at this secluded beach and for the price of the tour one can have a dazzling beach for snorkeling in virtual privacy, no parking problems, and a staff that is protective, enlightening and attentive. There is an opportunity to explore the remains of an ancient Hawaiian village, fantastic views of the Na Pali Coast and more. Lunch and snorkeling gear is provided. Tours operate moiré often during the summer months than the winter months since winter conditions along the coast are dangerous. The reef at Nu’alolo offers a wide variety of fish. Schools of various tangs and the number of turtles are larger than at other island spots.

Na Pali Explorer Ocean Rafting
Explore exquisite valleys, waterfalls, and secluded beaches and enter the spectacular sea caves (weather permitting) of the Na Pali Coastline. Dolphins and sea turtles are frequent companions during this expedition.  Land at *Nu'alolo Kai, an otherwise inaccessible beach for a hike to the ruins of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village.  Here, enjoy a refreshing swim and snorkel on the protected reef where crystal waters teem with fish, coral formations, sea turtles and other marine life.

Na Pali Coast Tour & Niihau
Na Pali Coast is a "must see" on Kauai. This fifteen-mile stretch of rugged coastline on the northwest shore of Kaua'i is an awe-inspiring sight from the sea. After sightseeing and hearing the history of the Na Pali Coast, you will head across the channel to the Ni'ihau.  Ni'ihau is called the 'Forbidden Isle' because only those of true Hawaiian ancestry may live there. Visiting this part of the island chain is a very special experience. Relax, float and watch the comings and goings of the aquatic world. You may even see one of the curious Hawaiian Monk Seals that inhabit these waters. After snorkeling, enjoy a delicious lunch

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