Haena Beach (Haena Beach Park) is one side of the exquisite beach at crescent-shaped Maniniholo Bay on Kauai’s beautiful North Shore. (The other side is the renowned Tunnels Beach.)
The beach is one of the crown jewels of Kauai, with famous Mount Makana (Bali Hai) as a backdrop. White sand, black rocks, green tropical forests and turquoise waters make for an unforgettable setting.
Sunsets are magnificent here, with the sun setting behind Mount Makana, illuminated Bali Hai in a surreal glow.
Haena Beach Park has lifeguards, picnic tables and facilities including restrooms and showers. Camping, once a popular activity at the beach, has not been permitted since the disastrous flooding of April 2018. A food truck and coconut vendor are often present in the parking lot.
For an added bonus, the Maniniholo Dry Cave is across the street from the beach. Tucked around the corner is Cannons Beach, a secluded stretch that eventually connects to Ke’e Beach. There is no shortage of nearby attractions here.
This is a very popular beach and parking is often a problem. Arriving early in the morning or near sunset can increase your chances of securing a parking spot. With a visit to Kee Beach now requiring a permit, Haena Beach is the last beach on the road on Kauai’s North Shore that you can visit without a permit.
Visitors who are turned away at Kee Beach, not knowing about the permit requirement in advance, often end up at Haena Beach Park competing for parking spaces.
Behind the beach is a grassy area that is used for recreation and camping.
The Golden Hour at Haena Beach!
Fishermen at sunset!
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