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.
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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.
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.
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 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.
Don't Get Complacent Around Reef SharksA bite in the wrong place at the wrong time could be very dangerous. Attacks by sharks tend to be provoked, and if they aren't, are often because of extenuating circumstances. It's very, very rare for a reef shark attack to occur if you've taken the right precautions.
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.
Snorkeling Tunnels, also known as Makua Beach, used to be some of the best in Kauai, especially for seeing big coral formations. But snorkeling is now prohibited in the large inner reef area known as the Makua Lagoon.
The wide sand beach offers the easiest entrance into the water. Don't attempt to enter the shallow areas where there are rocks and reef that come all the way up to the beach edge. Large and small Lava tubes form the many underwater caverns give Tunnels it's name as well as a magical underwater world to explore.
You will need a parking permit reservation to get to Ke'e beach. You do not need a parking permit to get to Tunnels, but make sure that you only park in an area where it is permitted or you will risk getting ticketed / towed.
Safety PrecautionsWhile Tunnels Beach is a snorkeler's delight, it's essential to be mindful of the conditions. The winter months bring large surf and strong currents to the north shore, which can be hazardous for inexperienced swimmers and snorkelers.