Makana (Bali Hai) - Image 1
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Makana Bali Hai Kauai

5
·4 reviews·, United States

The iconic Makana Mountain (Bali Hai) on Kauai's North Shore, famed from 'South Pacific' and a site of ancient ceremonies.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Clearer views of the mountain

CrowdMedium
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Makana (Bali Hai) - Image 1

Makana Bali Hai Kauai

Best Time

Morning

Clearer views of the mountain

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The iconic Makana Mountain (Bali Hai) on Kauai's North Shore, famed from 'South Pacific' and a site of ancient ceremonies.

5
(4 reviews)

"Bali Hai is as majestic as ever, a mountain peak visible from Tunnels Beach."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture Bali Hai's Majesty

Best views of Makana (Bali Hai) are from Tunnels Beach or from a helicopter tour.

🍳 Breakfast with a View

Enjoy a meal with stunning vistas, including iconic 'Jurassic Park' filming sites.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Makana (Bali Hai) Mountain

Makana (Bali Hai) Mountain

North Shore, Kauai

The iconic peak from 'South Pacific,' offering breathtaking views and a sense of ancient magic.

Instagram+1
Tunnels Beach Views

Tunnels Beach Views

North Shore, Kauai

A prime spot to admire Makana (Bali Hai) mountain and the start of the Na Pali Coast.

Instagram
Jurassic Park Views

Jurassic Park Views

Kauai North Shore

Experience breakfast with a view of the legendary 'Jurassic Park' filming locations.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Aloha Spirit

Support local businesses and native Hawaiian culture by seeking out authentic experiences. Many travelers emphasize the importance of responsible tourism on Kauai. Reddit

Plan for Iconic Views

Makana, also known as Bali Hai, is a stunning peak. It's best viewed from specific locations like Tunnels Beach or from the air. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Clearer views of the mountain
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Breakfast with a view of Jurassic Park 🍳🦖 #fyp #traveltok #hawaii #1hotelhanaleibay #kauaihawaii #kauai #hawaiitiktok #traveltok #kauailife #1hotel #hotel
@beingbenyp
116.5K likes • 1.5M views

📸 Capture Bali Hai's Majesty

Best views of Makana (Bali Hai) are from Tunnels Beach or from a helicopter tour. Instagram+1

🍳 Breakfast with a View

Enjoy a meal with stunning vistas, including iconic 'Jurassic Park' filming sites. TikTok

Rounding up my favorite places to eat on the Kauai North Shore! I have a *very* detailed break down of all our favorite eats/places to visit/things to do on Kauai in a very comprehensive blog post. https://thedefineddish.com/kauai-north-shore-travel-guide/ #kauai #kauainorthshore #kauaifood #hanalei #kilauea
@thedefineddish
10.8K likes • 236.4K views
Mount Makana aka Bali Hai is at the beginning of the Na Pali Trail on the north shore of Kauai, Hawaii. Makana means a “gift from heaven.” . . . . . #aloha #beachlife #hawaii #hawaiilife #kauai #letsgoeverywhere #northshorekauai #balihai #makana #aloha #beach #beachlife #hanalei #hanaleibay #handmade #hawaii #hawaiimade #hawaiistagram #island #islandfashion #islandlife #kauaiadventures #kauaih...
hawaiipanoramas
33 likes • 623 views

🚁 Aerial Perspectives

Consider a doors-off helicopter tour for unparalleled views of Makana and the Na Pali Coast. Instagram

🍜 Support Local Eats

Explore North Shore Kauai for delicious local food, from poke to acai bowls. TikTok+1

two renovations… one location 2019 & 2025 #1hotel #stregis #princevilleresort #princeville #hanalei #makana #balihai #kauai #northshore #hawaii #namolokama
hueoldham
40 likes • 797 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture Bali Hai's Majesty

Best views of Makana (Bali Hai) are from Tunnels Beach or from a helicopter tour. Instagram+1

🍳 Breakfast with a View

Enjoy a meal with stunning vistas, including iconic 'Jurassic Park' filming sites. TikTok

🚁 Aerial Perspectives

Consider a doors-off helicopter tour for unparalleled views of Makana and the Na Pali Coast. Instagram

🍜 Support Local Eats

Explore North Shore Kauai for delicious local food, from poke to acai bowls. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

5
(4 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Makana Mountain (Bali Hai) for its majestic beauty and iconic status, often referencing its role in 'South Pacific.' The views from Tunnels Beach are a highlight, offering a classic perspective of the mountain. While the mountain itself is a visual spectacle, some find the surrounding areas can get crowded, especially during peak times.

"Bali Hai is as majestic as ever"

Stephen S

"Mountain peak visible from Tunnels Beach. It’s the mountain featured as Bali Hai in the film South Pacific."

Andrea Kilgore

"I love this place"

Priti Mallick

What People Like

Majestic mountain views
Iconic 'South Pacific' landmark
Beautiful Tunnels Beach vantage point

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Makana Mountain, also known as Bali Hai, is located on the North Shore of Kauai. It's visible from various points, including Tunnels Beach. For a truly spectacular view, consider a doors-off helicopter tour which often includes flyovers of Makana and the Na Pali Coast. Instagram+1

The Na Pali Coast is best experienced via a boat tour or a helicopter tour. Many helicopter tours offer breathtaking views of Makana Mountain (Bali Hai) as part of their itinerary. Instagram

While Makana Mountain itself is not typically hiked directly, it's located near the beginning of the Na Pali Trail. Visitors can enjoy scenic strolls in the surrounding areas. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no specific tickets required to view Makana Mountain from public viewpoints like Tunnels Beach. However, helicopter tours or boat excursions to see the Na Pali Coast will require booking in advance. Instagram+1

Viewpoints like Tunnels Beach are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's always a good idea to check local park or beach regulations for specific hours. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Tunnels Beach offers a fantastic vantage point for photographing Makana Mountain. For a truly unique perspective, consider a helicopter tour for aerial shots. Instagram+1

Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during golden hour, provide beautiful lighting for photographing Makana Mountain. Moody shots are also popular. Instagram

Yes, doors-off helicopter tours are ideal for photography, offering unobstructed views and incredible photo opportunities of Makana Mountain and the surrounding landscape. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The North Shore of Kauai offers a variety of dining options, from food trucks to restaurants. Popular choices include fresh poke, acai bowls, and local Hawaiian snacks. TikTok+3

While direct restaurant views of Makana Mountain might be limited, many accommodations and some eateries in Princeville and Hanalei offer scenic vistas that may include glimpses of the mountain. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting Kauai's North Shore will find plenty to delight in. While Makana Mountain itself isn't a hiking destination for little ones, the surrounding areas offer beautiful beaches and scenic spots. Consider a family-friendly boat tour that might offer views of the coastline, or enjoy a relaxed picnic with a view. TikTokInstagram

Many local eateries on the North Shore cater to all tastes, with kid-friendly options like acai bowls and smoothies readily available. Look for spots that offer a casual atmosphere where children can feel comfortable. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen and hats, as the Hawaiian sun can be intense. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Kauai's North Shore is a dream. Makana Mountain (Bali Hai) offers dramatic landscapes, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Tunnels Beach is a prime location for capturing the mountain's grandeur. Instagram+1

To elevate your photography game, consider a doors-off helicopter tour. This provides unparalleled aerial perspectives of Makana, the Na Pali Coast, and other stunning natural formations. The unique angles and vastness captured from above are truly unforgettable. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Makana (Bali Hai)

Makana Mountain, famously known as Bali Hai from the movie 'South Pacific,' holds deep cultural significance for the Hawaiian people. Its name, 'Makana,' translates to 'a gift from heaven,' reflecting its revered status. Historically, this majestic peak was the site of ancient fire-throwing ceremonies, where skilled performers would leap from its summit into the ocean below, a testament to their bravery and connection to the land. Instagram+1

Today, Makana continues to inspire awe and wonder. Its pyramid-like shape and dramatic presence at the beginning of the Na Pali Coast make it a focal point for visitors. Whether viewed from Tunnels Beach or from the exhilarating perspective of a helicopter, the mountain's beauty is undeniable. Many travelers describe its presence as magical and impossible to look away from, a true 'gift from heaven' for all who behold it. Instagram+2

For those seeking to capture its essence, photography opportunities abound. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day, especially during sunrise and sunset, creates dramatic and memorable images. The mountain's iconic silhouette has also inspired artists, with commissions capturing its beauty as lasting mementos of honeymoons and special occasions. Instagram+1

Experiencing Kauai's North Shore

Kauai's North Shore is a paradise for those seeking natural beauty and adventure. From the iconic Makana Mountain (Bali Hai) to the stunning Na Pali Coast, the scenery is breathtaking. Travelers often recommend exploring areas like Hanalei and Princeville for their charming towns and access to incredible beaches. TikTokInstagram

When it comes to dining, the North Shore offers a vibrant culinary scene. You can find everything from casual food trucks serving fresh poke and acai bowls to more established restaurants. Supporting local eateries is highly encouraged, as many visitors emphasize the importance of experiencing authentic Hawaiian flavors and contributing to the local economy. TikTok+2

Beyond the visual splendor, the North Shore is also a hub for activities. Whether it's a leisurely stroll along the beach, a thrilling helicopter tour, or simply enjoying a meal with a view, there's something for everyone. Remember to embrace the 'Aloha spirit' and be mindful of the environment and local culture during your visit. TikTokInstagram

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