Hanalei Bay

Hanalei Bay is one of the most beautiful and popular destinations on Kauai’s north shore. It is a large crescent-shaped bay with a white sand beach that stretches for nearly two miles. The bay is surrounded by lush green mountains that offer stunning views and hiking trails. Hanalei Bay is also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, as it offers excellent conditions for surfing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling, and swimming. Depending on the season, you can enjoy different activities and experiences at Hanalei Bay.

In the summer, the bay is calm and clear, making it ideal for snorkeling and swimming. You can see colorful fish and coral reefs along the shore, or paddle out to the deeper water where you might encounter sea turtles and dolphins. You can also rent a kayak or a stand-up paddle board and explore the Hanalei River, which flows into the bay at its eastern end. The river is a scenic and peaceful way to enjoy nature and wildlife. You can also visit the historic Hanalei Pier, which was built in 1892 and featured in the movie South Pacific. The pier is a popular spot for fishing, jumping into the water, or watching the sunset.

In the winter, the bay becomes a surfers’ playground, as it receives large swells from the North Pacific. The waves can reach up to 20 feet high, attracting professional surfers from around the world. The best surf spots are at Pine Trees, Grandpa’s, and Bowls, which are located near the western end of the bay. If you are not an experienced surfer, you can still enjoy watching the action from the beach or take a surf lesson at a gentler spot. However, you should always be careful of strong currents and rip tides, and obey the lifeguards’ warnings.

No matter what time of year you visit Hanalei Bay, you will find plenty of things to do and see. You can also explore the charming town of Hanalei, which has a variety of shops, restaurants, art galleries, and cultural attractions. You can learn about the history and culture of Hanalei at the Waioli Mission House and Church, which date back to 1834. You can also sample some local delicacies like shaved ice, poi, and taro burgers. Hanalei Bay is more than just a beach; it is a destination that will captivate your senses and make you fall in love with Kauai.

• is a crescent-shaped bay on the north shore of Kauai, Hawaii.
• is surrounded by majestic mountains and waterfalls, creating stunning scenery.
• it is famous for its surfing, especially in the winter when the waves reach up to 20 feet high.
• is also a popular spot for kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and swimming.
• has a long pier that was built in 1892 and is a historic landmark.
• was featured in several movies and TV shows, such as South Pacific, The Descendants, and Lilo & Stitch.
• is home to a variety of marine life, such as sea turtles, dolphins, whales, and monk seals.
• has a rich cultural and historical heritage, as it was once the seat of the Hawaiian royal family and a sacred place for the Hawaiians.
• has a charming town called Hanalei, which has many shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
• is named after the Hawaiian word for “lei making”, as it was a place where people would gather to make flower garlands.

To get to Hanalei Bay from Lihue:

• Start on Kapule Hwy and head north for 1.6 miles
• Turn left onto Kuhio Hwy and continue for 23.4 miles
• Turn right onto Hanalei Plantation Rd and follow the signs to Hanalei Bay