Do you need a reservation for Haena State Park?

Yes. Out-of-state visitors need a Go Haena reservation ($5 entry plus the shuttle from Waipa); self-parking is currently unavailable.

Is the north shore of Kauai worth it?

Yes. It has the island's most dramatic scenery and best summer snorkeling, though it rains more than the south.

Where should I stay on the north shore?

Princeville for resorts, or Hanalei for vacation rentals close to the beaches. Haena and Wainiha are still recovering from the storm, so confirm your rental is operating.

North Shore Kauai: Hanalei, Beaches & Things to Do

The north shore is Kauai at its most cinematic: Hanalei Bay, waterfall-streaked mountains and the gateway to the Na Pali Coast. It is lush, laid-back and worth the drive.

Hurricane Lowell recovery (as of October 21, 2026): Haena State Park reopened October 15 (reservations required), but Kokee and Waimea Canyon state parks, most other Kauai state parks, the Kalalau Trail past mile 2, all state camping, and Secret Falls remain closed, and Port Allen's small boat harbor is only partly open. See our what's open on Kauai page, and check DLNR state parks, openkauai.org, and your tour operator before you go.

Hanalei Valley taro fields and mountains on Kauai's north shore

Hanalei and its bay

The charming town of Hanalei fronts a two-mile crescent bay with a historic pier, gentle summer surf, and mountain backdrops.

North-shore beaches

Tunnels (Makua) and Anini have the best summer snorkeling, and Haena State Park sits at the end of the road. Kuhio Highway from Hanalei to Kee reopened to all traffic on October 21, 2026. Haena State Park still has no self-parking, so reach it by reserved shuttle from Waipa, and snorkel Anini when Tunnels parking is full.

Haena State Park reservations

Out-of-state visitors need a Go Haena reservation ($5 entry plus the shuttle; self-parking is currently unavailable). The park is open 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. Book early.

Where to stay up north

Princeville has the resorts and Hanalei has vacation rentals; Haena and Wainiha are still recovering from the storm, so confirm your rental is operating. Expect more rain than the south shore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Relax at Hanalei Bay, snorkel at Anini, take the shuttle to Haena State Park, and enjoy waterfall views after rain.

Useful links

Haena State Park reservations

Keep planning

Princeville

Regions

Princeville guide: things to do, best resorts including 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay and the Westin, Queen's Bath, golf, and nearby beaches.

Crescent beach with green waterfall-streaked mountains on Kauai's north shore

Beaches

Kauai's best beaches ranked: Poipu, Anini, Tunnels, Hanalei, Shipwreck, Glass Beach and Secret Beach, with parking, safety, snorkeling and closure notes.

Na Pali Coast

See the Na Pali Coast by catamaran from Port Allen, doors-off helicopter, sunset cruise or the Hanakapiai day hike, with seasons and current closures.

Snorkeler over a lava-rock reef with reef fish off Kauai's south shore

Snorkeling

Best snorkeling in Kauai: Poipu, Anini, Lydgate and Tunnels, plus snorkel tours, seasons, beginner spots and what is open after Hurricane Lowell.