Ha'ena Beach Park
Ha'ena Beach Park, also known as Maniniholo Beach, is a dramatic north shore destination known for its stunning cliffs, powerful surf, and proximity to the famous Maniniholo Dry Cave. Though hazardous for swimming, it’s a scenic spot for sunbathing, photography, and picnics, with regulated entry for conservation purposes.
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. Right across from Ha'ena Beach Park is the Maniniholo Dry Cave.
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.
Visiting Ha'ena Beach Park
Access to Ha'ena Beach Park is controlled and only a limited number of permits are issued in the name of conservation.
Ha'ena Beach Park is open daily including holidays from 7 am to 6:45 pm (winter) and from 7 am to 7:45 pm (summer). Summer hours begin on April 1st. Winter hours begin the day after Labor Day.
Hawaii state residents with a current Hawaii driver license, state ID, or UH Student ID may enter the park and park their vehicle for free, first come first serve. No time limit up until dusk daily. No other IDs or documentation are accepted for free Hawaii resident entry. Anyone without accepted ID must purchase a reservation, even when traveling with a resident. Minors (under 18) are not required to have an ID.
Three options to visit Ha'ena Beach Park for non-Hawaii residents:
1. Shuttle reservations are sold roundtrip and include park entry. $40 per person (age 16+), $25 per child (age 4-15), free per child on lap (age 0-3).
2. Parking + Entry Reservations. $10 per car per timeslot plus $5 entry per person. Purchase multiple timeslots to stay longer. Morning: 6:30 am – 12:30 pm, Afternoon: 12:30 pm – 5:30 pm, Evening: 4:30 pm – Sunset
3. Entry Only for resident guests and those who do not need to park a vehicle: $5/person
Day-use entry reservations can be booked online up to 30 days in advance. For more info on Day Use Access via parking or shuttle to Ha'ena State Park (including DAY hiking at the Kalalau Trail), visit gohaena.com/info-faqs
Key Features of Ha'ena Beach Park
- Exposed shoreline: No protective reef, making swimming dangerous during most ocean conditions.
- Popular for surf and bodyboarding: Waves are strong, especially in winter—ideal for experienced surfers.
- Near Maniniholo Dry Cave: A cultural and geological site directly across from the beach park.
- Park facilities: Showers, restrooms, picnic areas, and lifeguards available.
- Permitted entry: Controlled access with day-use reservations required for most non-residents.
- No camping: Camping is no longer permitted at Ha'ena Beach Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to swim at Ha'ena Beach Park?
Swimming is only safe when the ocean is very calm. The beach has no protective reef and is often subject to strong currents and surf.
Do I need a reservation to enter?
Yes, non-residents must reserve parking or shuttle access through the official system at gohaena.com. Hawaii residents with valid ID can enter for free.
What facilities are available?
The park offers restrooms, showers, picnic tables, BBQ grills, parking, and lifeguards during daytime hours.
What else is nearby?
Maniniholo Dry Cave is located right across the street, and the trailhead to the Kalalau Trail begins just beyond the park.
Can I camp at Ha'ena Beach Park?
No, camping is no longer allowed at this beach park. Day-use only.