Ke'e Beach Haena State Park Kauai
A breathtaking 230-acre park at Kaua'i's end, featuring stunning beaches, sea caves, and ancient sites with access to the Nā Pali Coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters for snorkeling
Ke'e Beach Haena State Park Kauai
Best Time
Calm waters for snorkeling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 230-acre park at Kaua'i's end, featuring stunning beaches, sea caves, and ancient sites with access to the Nā Pali Coast.
"One of those rare places where nature feels sacred. Truly unforgettable."
Book Shuttle/Parking Early
:admission_tickets: Reservations are mandatory and go fast! Book 30 days in advance online.
Sturdy Shoes for Hiking
:athletic_shoe: Wear closed-toe shoes for muddy trails and water crossings. Sneakers are okay but will get dirty.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ke'e Beach Snorkeling
Ke'e Beach
Crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, with a chance to see sea turtles. Conditions are best in summer.
Kalalau Trail Views
Kalalau Trail (first 2 miles)
Hike for breathtaking views of the Nā Pali Coast. The first two miles offer stunning vistas without needing an overnight permit.
Hanakapi'ai Falls Hike
Hanakapi'ai Falls Trail
A refreshing hike to a beautiful waterfall. The trail involves water crossings and can be muddy but is rewarding.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reservations Are Essential
Prepare for Your Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Shuttle/Parking Early
:admission_tickets: Reservations are mandatory and go fast! Book 30 days in advance online.
Sturdy Shoes for Hiking
:athletic_shoe: Wear closed-toe shoes for muddy trails and water crossings. Sneakers are okay but will get dirty.
Hydration is Key
:droplet: Carry ample water (3-4.5L per person) for hikes, especially on the return journey.
Respect Wildlife
:turtle: Observe sea turtles from a distance; do not approach them.
Is Haena State Park and Ke'e Beach worth visiting for our family?
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Shuttle/Parking Early
:admission_tickets: Reservations are mandatory and go fast! Book 30 days in advance online.
Sturdy Shoes for Hiking
:athletic_shoe: Wear closed-toe shoes for muddy trails and water crossings. Sneakers are okay but will get dirty.
Hydration is Key
:droplet: Carry ample water (3-4.5L per person) for hikes, especially on the return journey.
Respect Wildlife
:turtle: Observe sea turtles from a distance; do not approach them.
Check Ocean Conditions
:ocean: Swimming may be restricted in winter due to rip currents. Always check conditions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Haena State Park and Ke'e Beach for their breathtaking natural beauty, with many highlighting the stunning Nā Pali Coast views and the pristine Ke'e Beach. The snorkeling opportunities and rewarding hikes are frequently mentioned as highlights. However, the mandatory reservation system and the cost of the shuttle can be a point of contention for some.
"Hāʻena State Park is absolutely breathtaking. I hiked the trail to see the Nāpali Coast, and the views were so remarkable they moved me to tears of gratitude. It’s one of those rare places where nature feels sacred. I also visited Keʻe Beach, which was stunning with crystal-clear water, soft sand, and the perfect spot to take in the beauty of Kauaʻi. This park is truly unforgettable and a must-visit if you’re on the island."
Ashley Roberts
"Great Beach! Great hiking! Bathrooms and showers. You need a reservation to park and shuttle or to park. Go online 30 days before to make a reservation. They go fast."
Cale Boyd
"We took the shuttle - reservations required, should be made many days in advance (opens up 30 days prior). Don't be alarmed when they start talking about the Kalalau trail (and how strenuous it is!), it's the same shuttle. Ke'e beach is awesome in the summertime. It was very calm, and we were able to do some of the best snorkeling we've had on the island. Only 2 picnic tables, but there's plenty of beach space now that you have to take a shuttle to get here for the most part. We saw some folks bringing boogie boards and beach chairs on the shuttle, although we went minimalist with just towels and a picnic basket. Short flat boardwalk and trail to the beach, but to get down to the sand it's a little steep but short (wear beach sandals or something similar). Changing facilities and rinse off shower on site. Check conditions as I'm told in the winter sometime the rip currents don't allow swimming. So worth the effort, and i'm so glad we went!"
Jennifer Gittzus
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access is primarily via a mandatory reservation system. You can either reserve parking within the park or opt for the shuttle service. The shuttle is a popular choice and includes your park entry permit. Driving directly to Tunnels Beach is possible with limited parking, but Ke'e Beach access requires the reservation system.
Yes, but parking spots are limited and require advance reservations made online. These reservations are highly sought after and typically book up 30 days in advance.
The shuttle service is a convenient way to access the park and includes your permit for the Kalalau Trail's first two miles. It runs frequently and is a good option if you miss out on parking reservations. The ride is about 15 minutes.
Yes, you can drive to Tunnels Beach and there are some parking spots available. No permit is required for Tunnels Beach parking itself, but if you plan to hike the Kalalau Trail from there, you'll need a separate permit or the shuttle.
Shuttle operating hours vary seasonally, but generally, they run throughout the day to allow visitors to experience the park. It's best to check the official Haena State Park website for the most current schedule when making your reservation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Absolutely! Advance reservations are required for both parking and the shuttle to Haena State Park and Ke'e Beach. Reservations open 30 days in advance and are essential for entry.
It's highly recommended to book your reservation 30 days in advance, as spots are limited and fill up very quickly, especially for weekends and holidays.
The reservation fee, particularly for the shuttle, typically covers your park entrance and the permit required to hike the first two miles of the Kalalau Trail to Hanakapi'ai Beach.
While it's difficult, sometimes last-minute reservations for the shuttle become available, especially if you book just a day or two in advance. However, relying on this is risky.
To hike beyond Hanakapi'ai Beach or camp along the Kalalau Trail, you will need a separate, more advanced permit. These are even more competitive and require significant advance planning.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Ke'e Beach is renowned for its stunning beauty and offers excellent snorkeling opportunities in its calm, clear waters, especially during the summer months. You might even spot sea turtles!
The hike to Hanakapi'ai Falls is moderately challenging. It involves muddy sections and water crossings, but it's generally considered easier than the hike to Hanakapi'ai Beach. The falls and swim are very refreshing.
Ke'e Beach offers restrooms, showers for rinsing off, and a water filling station. There are also a couple of picnic tables available.
Yes, there is a pit toilet located at Hanakapi'ai Beach, which is about two miles into the Kalalau Trail.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes that you don't mind getting dirty, as the trails can be muddy. Sneakers are suitable, but they will get wet and muddy.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoints along the first two miles of the Kalalau Trail offer iconic shots of the Nā Pali Coast. Ke'e Beach itself provides stunning coastal scenery, especially with the dramatic cliffs in the background.
Yes, after rainy periods, it's common to witness beautiful double rainbows over Ke'e Beach, adding to the magical atmosphere.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. However, the dramatic landscapes are impressive throughout the day.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Hawaii's state parks to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment. It's best to check the park's specific regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views and dramatic cliffs. A waterproof camera or protective casing is advisable if you plan on getting close to the water or participating in water activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
🚶♀️ Hikers and Adventurers
🐠 Snorkelers and Beach Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Kalalau Trail
For those seeking to venture further, hiking to Hanakapi'ai Falls is a popular extension from the beach. This adds more mileage and elevation but rewards hikers with a refreshing waterfall and swimming spot. Remember to carry ample water and wear appropriate footwear.
Hiking beyond Hanakapi'ai requires a separate, highly competitive camping permit. This permit is essential for overnight stays or for hiking the full 11 miles to Kalalau Beach. Planning for these permits needs to be done months in advance.
Snorkeling and Ocean Safety at Ke'e Beach
It's crucial to be aware of ocean conditions. While Ke'e Beach is generally calm in summer, rip currents can be a concern, especially during the winter months. Always check local conditions and heed any posted warnings. Swimming may be prohibited when conditions are unsafe.
When snorkeling, remember to respect marine life. Observe sea turtles and other creatures from a distance and avoid touching or disturbing them. This ensures their safety and preserves the natural ecosystem for future visitors.
Understanding Permits and Reservations
The shuttle reservation typically includes your permit for the first two miles of the Kalalau Trail, allowing access to Hanakapi'ai Beach and the trail to the falls. If you plan to hike beyond Hanakapi'ai Beach or camp, you will need a separate, more advanced Kalalau Trail permit.
Missing the 30-day window for parking reservations doesn't mean you can't visit. The shuttle reservations can sometimes be made on shorter notice, even just a day before, making it a viable alternative. However, it's always best to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
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