Tunnels Beach, Kauai
Tunnels Beach also known as Makua, is an epic snorkeling and scuba beach during the calm Summer months. It is located on the north shore of Kauai in Ha’ena. There is no lifeguards on this beach. During the Fall and Winter months (October thru March) we do not recommend snorkeling or swimming as ocean conditions can be very dangerous. We want our visitors and guests enjoy vacation time safely. Parking can be a challenge. It is best to arrive before 9:30 am to be able to find parking and before the crowd shows up. You might want to consider staying in one of our Haena Vacation Rentals so that it is convenient for you to spend quality time here. You can walk over any time of day and enjoy this spectacular beach.
Tunnels when it is calm is good for snorkeling the inside reef. You’ll see tropical fish and may even be lucky enough to swim with sea turtles. Manifest! I’m always grateful for this amazing place, the views, and the underwater life here. The best snorkeling is up towards the point just before the reef ends. Always pop your head up, feel the movement in the water, and be cautious at all times. This is no place to space out. You can easily get carried away and sucked out in to the current outside.The surf break outside the outer reef is where you will find local surfers riding some pretty awesome waves. Bring a binocular so you can scope them out. A surf break for only those who are more experienced.
Here you can enjoy a relaxing walk for miles on a white sand beach. The sand is thicker at Tunnels, and it feels so good on your feet. You can find shells and be in awe with the views of Mount Makana. It is also known as Bali Hai from the movie South Pacific. Enjoy the day, bring lots of food and water, and relax. You are on vacation in beautiful North Shore Kauai.
The beach is located just past the 8 mile marker on Hwy 560 you’ll find beach access for the best snorkeling. If for any reason parking is a problem you will need to go to the Haena State Park (across the dry cave) and walk up to the right of the beach towards the main Tunnels beach area. The beach in front of the parking lot here is nicknamed ‘Puka’s’. You can ask the lifeguard any questions.
Important Reminder: Malama Aina which means ‘Take Care of the Land’. Be sure to pack out what you pack in, including cigarette butts. We see it all the time and it is so disrespectful when our beach is used as an astray. We Mahalo (Thank) you for respecting our island. You can also help us protect our reefs by not stepping on them. Use certified REEF SAFE or REEF FRIENDLY sunscreen only. These sunscreens do not contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, two common UV-blocking chemicals, that studies have shown can cause coral bleaching. All other sunscreens will damage our reef and marine life. The spray cans we do not recommend as they end up spraying everyone else on the beach, but you. If you do use it spray it in to the palms of your hand closely and apply to your body.
