Ha'ena Beach Park
Ha'ena Beach Park, Kauai
This beach on Kauai's north shore is also known as Maniniholo Beach, named after the large schools of convict fish (manini fish) that feed on the coral here. Vegetated sand dunes make up the backshore of Ha'ena Beach.
Offshore are two large reefs, the Makua Reef to the east and the Hauwa Reef to the west. But the beach itself is not protected by a reef; it is fully exposed to the open ocean and high surf, so swimming is hazardous except when the ocean is very calm. When the surf is up (even if just a little) there are strong currents and the waves are quite powerful here. This is when entering the ocean is not a good idea as drownings and near drownings have happened here.
Camping is allowed at Ha'ena Beach Park, but a permit is required. More info about how to get a camping permit is here. Right across from Ha'ena Beach Park is the Maniniholo Dry Cave.
Ha'ena Beach Park Overview
- Beach is not protected by a reef - swimming only when the ocean is very calm
- Ocean bottom drops off quickly
- Popular surfing beach during the winter
- Nice beach park for picnics, beachcombing and sunbathing
- Camping is allowed with a permit
Location:
Directions: Haena Beach Park is located at mile marker 9 on Kuhio Highway (Hwy 560). It is a mile before the road ends. There is a parking lot at the beach, but it fills up quickly on busy summer weekends.
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