White-tipped reef sharks may rest in the reef tunnels in deeper water and other species may also visit.
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Tunnels is too dangerous to swim during the winter when large waves pound the north shore. We recommend arriving early to find a spot. Don't leave it to the last minute if you want a prime location at the beach.
As for sharks, we didn't see any at Tunnels Beach, but they are known to make an appearance on occasion. White-tipped reef sharks may rest in the reef tunnels in deeper water and other species may also visit.
The stretch of semi-sheltered beach on the north shore of Kauai which includes Tunnels beach and Ha'ena beach (they blend into each other in this small sweep of beach) is a lovely beach for swimming and scenery. Kauai has much beautiful coastline but not many beaches that are really good or safe for swimming.
It's advised that novice snorkelers stay close to the shore in the inner reef; only advanced snorkelers should venture to the outer reef. There aren't bathroom facilities at Tunnels Beach, but there are some at the nearby Ha'ena Beach Park, which is a little more than a half-mile southwest.
Tunnels Beach (Makua) is an epic spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Lava tubes form the many underwater caverns that make the reef a magical underwater world to explore and give Tunnels its name. The beach is a crescent shaped bay is fringed by palms and ironwood trees.
Lumahai is the subject of many postcards and paintings, but is also known on island as one of the most dangerous beaches for drownings and is not recommended for swimming. During the summer months the conditions at Luimahai are calmer, but still use caution. Lumahai is exposed to open ocean and strong currents.
East Side BeachesLydgate Pond is located in Lydgate State Park with a large salt-water pool which makes it one of Kaua?i's safest year-round swimming sites. Kealia Beach Park is a half-mile stretch of golden coast that hugs the curve of Highway 56. Its long sand-bar bottom provides a nice surf break.
Kauai's beaches at times, are exposed to strong waves and rip currents can form without notice. Choose a Kauai beach with a lifeguard. Before entering the water, check for any warning signs indicating hazardous conditions.
On Sunday, 50-year-old Kauai resident Kevin Kanehe was attacked by a 12 to 15-foot tiger shark while surfing The Bowl at Hanalei Bay. Kanehe managed to fight off the shark by sticking his finger in its nostril, Hawaii News Now reported yesterday.
It's said that Tunnels Beach has the best snorkeling on the island which means it is a perfect beach for the “in-between” family that has both older kids who want to experience sea life and underwater caverns and younger children who will be happier playing in the sand and shallow, docile waves.
The safe beach in 'Through the Tunnel' symbolizes the safety of childhood. It is a fairly-controlled environment, with much fewer risks than the other areas on the coast. Jerry's mother is able to watch over all his activities, ensuring that he remains safe at all times.
Finding the Best Kauai Snorkeling LocationsIn the winter months, Kauai's North Shore gets hit by ocean swells that make snorkeling difficult, but the South Shore is protected by the bulk of the island so it's completely safe to snorkel there in winter.
Po?ipu Beach on Kaua'i was revealed as the #18 bluest water in the nation, with a matching Hex color code of #73A9C3. This positions the beach's water among the bluest water in the nation and the best for a water-centric vacation.
Hanakapi'iai BeachLocated on the secluded Na Pali Coast, Hanakapi'ai Beach has been called the most dangerous beach in Hawaii. It's also one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii! The water often looks fine, but a dangerous rip current has swept several people out to sea.
First, arrive before 10am when parking is easier to find and the beach is less crowded. My second strategy is to stay at one of our Haena Kauai vacation rentals. Then you can walk over any time of day and enjoy this spectacular beach. Tunnels is teeming with tropical fish both large and small.
For the best chance at securing a parking spot, visit early (before 10 a.m.). Otherwise, you can also park at nearby Ha'ena Beach Park and make the five- to 10-minute walk to Tunnels Beach. For more information on Tunnels Beach and other snorkeling hot spots, visit the Hawaii Tourism Authority's website.
Tunnels Beach snorkeling tips and recommendationsThe best area to explore includes the reef that runs parallel to the western part of the beach. It is on your left when you enter the water. The shallow lagoon around Haena Point is now closed to all water activities, including snorkeling.