4 Best Places To Snorkel On Kauai

When I did my reader survey, so many of you requested more Hawaii-style posts, so your wish — my command! Dane and I have been lucky enough to visit all the Hawaiian Islands that are accessible, so I figured it was high time to put together as many helpful posts as possible for those planning a trip. I started with snorkeling Oahu and today, I’m sharing the 4 best places to snorkel on Kauai. Don’t worry, they are all Kait tested and approved 😉

KAUAI

Also known as The Garden Isle, Kaua’i is the first island in the chain of Hawaiian Islands and is geologically the oldest island. Spaced 105 miles northwest of O’ahu Kaua’i’s lush landscapes have been featured in many Hollywood films and televisions shows including Jurassic Park, Lilo & Stitch, The Descendants, South Pacific and more.

4 Best Places To Snorkel On Kauai

Tunnels Beach

Tunnels Beach, also known as Makua Beach, is located on the northern shore of Kauai and offers arguably some of the best snorkeling views on the island. Tunnels is a large reef surrounded by a horseshoe-shaped beach area that provides amazing sights of large coral formations. Aside from the beautiful coral, snorkelers have also seen hogfish, wrasse, sea urchin and sea cucumber. While this snorkeling spot offers top notch snorkeling, it is best for experienced swimmers only. The waves on the north shore of Kauai kick up quite a current that might prove too difficult for beginner snorkelers or swimmers.

Na Pali Coast

Also located along Kauai’s pristine north shore is the Na Pali Coast, where boat tours can take visitors to snorkeling hotspots. Catamarans, sailboats and dinghy boats all take tours throughout the day and visitors have seen everything from monk seals to humpback whales in season. Any level of snorkeler will find delight along the Na Pali Coast.

Koloa Landing

Traveling down to Kauai’s south shore, you’ll come upon Koloa Landing. Keep your eyes peeled, because you won’t be looking for a beach — it’s a former boat ramp! Entering the water you can choose to go right or left, but stay along one side or the other as the currents can get rough the further you venture out. Also a widely popular diving location, Koloa Landing offers clear views of surgeonfish, triggerfish, trumpetfish, turtles and a wide array of coral.

Poipu Beach Park

No trip to Kauai would be complete without a stop to famed Poipu Beach Park, one of the only places in the world where a tombolo, or sand island, has formed naturally. A popular beach destination, arrive early for a good parking spot and smaller snorkeling crowd. No more than ten feet at the deepest point, Poipu offers snorkeling fun for every skill level. Visitors have seen eel, goatfish, turtles and cauliflower coral. When you’re ready to hang up your snorkel for the day, the beach here is a great place to relax.

KAUAI

4 Best Places To Snorkel On Kauai

Tunnels Beach

Na Pali Coast

Koloa Landing

Poipu Beach Park

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