Kauai’s north shore is undoubtedly one of Hawaii’s most desirable places to live and play. Postcard-like vistas attract tourists, artists, surfers and celebrities from all over the world. Raw beauty, a slower pace and monstrous winter surf combine to give the north shore its “sought after” reputation. The siren call of Kauai’s north shore is one of tremendous beauty and unexpected danger. While generally pristine in the summer, the north shore coastal attractions experience pounding waves and treacherous currents during the winter months which can prove deadly to inexperienced and unsuspecting visitors.

HAENA, Kauai, Hawaii

Accessible by a handful of one-lane bridges, Haena is the last ‘outpost’ on Kauai’s North Shore and the perfect place to vacation if you simply want to get away from it all. It is a small, ocean front, residential community situated about 4 miles beyond Hanalei and is arguably one of the most beautiful places on the planet. Framed by a backdrop of jagged cliffs, lush green jungles, illusive waterfalls, gorgeous white sand beaches, epic snorkeling, fabulous hiking trails, and breathtaking sunsets Haena awaits at “the end of the road”.

You won’t see any timeshare resorts here, just a contrast of multi-million dollar beach homes and tin-roofed island shacks. The quaint and unconventional community of Haeana serves as a focal point for many of the north shore’s popular attractions. Ke’e Beach in Haena marks the very end of the road and the beginning of the world famous Na Pali Coast and hiking trail which extends 11 rugged miles to Kalalau Beach. During the summer months the NaPali Coast is enjoyed by visitors and locals alike whether it be hiking, kayaking or a guided NaPali Coast tour, departing from the West side of the island. To learn more about Na Pali, visit our Kauai Vacation Blog.

Ke`e, was made famous as a movie location when Richard Chamberlain and Rachel Ward reunited in the movie “Thornbirds”. Another of Kauai’s famous movie locations is the fictional island of “Bali Hai” from the 1958 movie “South Pacific”, which is actually Mount Makana, a pinnacle that rises above Ke`e Beach and marks the beginning of the NaPali Coast. The NaPali Coast, is a time and weather sculpted coastline of secluded white sand beaches, sea caves, waterfalls and streams that empty into the blue pacific.

On a knoll above the boulders of Kee Beach stands a sacred altar of rocks. Ka Ulu O Laka, an ancient Hawaiian Heiau (temple) dedicated to Laka, the goddess of Hula. Still used today, Hawaii’s hula halau (schools) climb the rocks to this location to gift the sacred space with leis and hula. In Hawaiian myths, Lohiau, a handsome chief, danced here before the fire goddess Pele; their passion became Haena, which means "the heat."

The outer reef at Ke`e beach makes for protected swimming and snorkeling within during the summer months. Caution is advised during the winter months due to large surf and rip currents.

The industriously magical Menehuune have left their mark on Haena with the Maniniholo Dry Cave and the Waikanaloa Wet Cave, also known as the “Blue Room” where legend says that the chief of the Menehune ordered these two caves built in order to catch a creature who was stealing his fish. Just across the street from the Dry Cave is Haena Beach Park which is one of the most popular white sand beaches and boasts one of the best camp grounds on the island. Haena Beach Park offers bathroom and shower facilities and is the launching point for summer time kayak excursions down the NaPali Coast.

The terraced gardens of Limahuli are located in a verdant tropical valley overlooking the ocean just minutes South of Haena Beach Park. The property includes a plantation-era garden, as well as invasive species that were introduced by modern man. Limahuli Stream, one of the last pristine waterways left in the Islands, provides a habitat for indigenous aquatic life.

One of the most popular Haena attractions is Tunnels Beach, a haven for sun worshipers, snorkelers, scuba divers, kite surfers and windsurfers. The beach and reef are impressive however parking can be somewhat of a challenge and there are no public facilities here. Due to treacherous surf, caution is advised during the winter months.

If you are interested in a secluded Haena vacation, click here to view our large selection of the best Haena rentals.