Located along Kauai’s North Shore and on the Na Pali Coast, Ke’e Beach is one of the best destinations in Hawaii for snorkeling and offers picture-perfect beach conditions. Ke’e Beach is a beach that’s shaped like a half-moon and is part of Hā’ena State Park. Many Hawaiian travelers visit this beach each year, so it’s important to know what it’s all about and the best ways to experience it for yourself!
Ke’e Beach is a top spot for snorkeling and swimming on Kauai because the beach is protected by a reef that makes the area safe. There are sea turtles swimming in the water here, and the water is typically calm with very few waves. Therefore, families with children love it because of the relaxed vibe. There are tide pools for little ones to play in when the tide is low, but parents will need to keep an eye on the tide schedule for their safety. Avoid the west end of the beach for swimming because this is where the currents can pull you from the lagoon to the ocean. There are lifeguards working at the beach.
Ke’e Beach is a popular place for weddings, so don’t be surprised if you see a ceremony taking place with photographers and a happy couple. There are restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and water fountains at Ke’e Beach. There is a pay phone on site for emergencies, but cell phone reception is not typically available.
In addition to water activities, Ke’e Beach is an amazing place to view a tropical sunset on Kauai. Pack a picnic and bring your camera to snap some amazing shots of pure paradise. Some of the most incredible scenery on the island is right here at Ke’e Beach, so take some time to soak up the views of the lush valleys, rugged coastline, blue water, and towering cliffs.
To get to Ke’e Beach, go west from Hanalei on Highway 560. Drive along until you hit mile marker 10, where the road ends. Parking can be tough during the summer, so plan to arrive early to find a spot. Alternatively, you can take the Kauai North Shore Shuttle to get here and skip the parking hassles.
To help control crowds, reservations are required for vehicles, pedestrians, and people who ride the shuttle to the state park, beach, and hiking areas. You can make a reservation up to 30 days in advance, but you’ll need to make it at least a day before you plan to visit.
The Na Pali Coast begins at Ke’e Beach, so this is a great starting point for your broader adventures in the region. From here, it’s easy to go on expeditions to see dolphins, go kayaking, or book a boat ride or helicopter tour. Otherwise, at Hā’ena State Park, you can hike along the famous 11-mile Kalalau Trail and the four-mile Hanakāpīʻai Falls Trail – two of Kauai’s best hikes.
Ke’e Beach Information
State Park Website
Parking lot GPS coordinates: Latitude 22.221° or 22° 13′ 16″ north, Longitude -159.57846° or 159° 34′ 43″ west
State park phone number: (808) 274-3444
