While Hanalei is not the ideal beach area on Kauai, there are several accessible areas for tourists to get their fair share of surf and sun. Pu’u Poa Beach is directly below the Hanalei Hotel, and, during low tide, has decent swimming and snorkeling conditions. Pali Ke Kua Beach can be reached via a public access path between the Puu Poa condominiums and the parking lot of the Hanalei Hotel. The path is steep and can be slippery at times so visitors should proceed with caution when trying to reach this beach. Another rocky trail will lead visitors to Queen’s Bath. While it isn’t a beach area, this landmark is a lava shelf that has been naturally fashioned into a crescent-shaped pool. On calm days, Queen’s Bath is an ideal lounging area, but steer clear on days with heavy surf that smash violently against the coastline.
