We were looking for the end of the road and found it at Ke'e beach. There was a lot of one lane bridges and curves in the road. The distance versus time it took was interesting because it didn't look far but it took a while. We are residents of Hawaii so we didn't need reservations, but if you are visiting it is a must. The walk to the beach was about 0.3 miles of boardwalk over the lo'i or taro patches. Then through the woods on sandy/rock/soil. There are restrooms at the beach along with water fountains but no showers. The beach was pretty but it wasn't recommended that you snorkel due to the rip currents. There is a life guard stand there if something happened. We didn't spend a lot of time at the beach, just wanted to check it out. Make sure you take everything you need because there isn't much out there past hanalei. read more

Kee Beach - Lo'i - Beaches Near Me

This is a great beach to go to. I just don't like the fact that you have to pay for park entrance. I remember the first time I came here in 2013, we could drive right up to the parking lot. Though, parking was not ideal back then, it was still free. But now you have to either reserve a parking spot or if you can't, reserve a shuttle seat. We were here on a Wednesday and it was nice and quiet. There weren't a bunch of people here and it was great. Was not crowded whatsoever and we pretty much had the run of the place. The beach is beautiful and there's a reef that protects you from any big waves. The water is, for the most part, calm. The water is clear and the sand is fine. There's no rocks or stones I have to watch out for when walking around. Unlike Anini Beach, where there are stones and rocks all over the place, this is a very nice calm beach to go to. If you can wake up early enough to reserve a parking spot, then do it. If not, make shuttle reservations. read more

They will tell you that you can snorkel here. But there is only sand and big waves away from the shore. read more

Kee Beach - Beaches Near Me

You can only enter this area with a permit, which you have to book 1 month ahead of time. The permits are all gone REALLY fast, so keep that in mind. We wanted to hike, but alas the hiking trails were closed down when we went because of a norovirus outbreak. We still had a great time hanging out at the beach. There were large trees that were great for providing shade There was also some snorkeling too. As we walked along the beach, we saw a Hawaiian monk seal just lounging on the beach!!! It was so cool. It moved itself up higher on the beach (super cute to watch because it doesn't have legs so it had to squirm and blubber its way up) and then buried its face in the sand and then SNEEZED because of the sand that went up its nose. read more

The entire reservation system is a joke. Yes I get it, the crowds got too heavy for this beach (we've been coming here for 25 years and have a first-hand account), but honestly why limit the walk ins to such a low number of - and I mean walk ins - to those that want to hike Na Pali and aren't concerned with walking an extra three miles to do it. They've basically turned this into a revenue machine at $80 per couple. There are other hikes and beaches - and the vast majority are free! read more

Managed to snag a parking reservation just a few days before (there was a cancellation), and got there just before noon for the 12:30PM ticket - was let in early (there were plenty of parking spots left). Did the hike first before coming to this beach to snorkel. Water was warm, smooth sand and very few rocks on the ocean floor, saw some fish closer to the rocks on the side. Nice spot, appreciated the showers! Definitely well worth it, would recommend! Reserve early otherwise you might not get a spot! read more

Amazing amazing amazing. Really hard to get to and honestly, I wouldn't have been able to get here on my own. There are very limited parking permits here unless you are a Hawaiian resident. And even then, the drive here is difficult and a bit scary with twists and turns. There is also a shuttle that you have to book and pay far in advance (check Go Haena website). But that made this a super serene and secluded beach. It almost felt like a secret. On a clear day, you can view the coastline mountains in the background of the Napali coast. The water is so clear and blue. Ranging from light blue to turquoise. There are wild chickens roaming the beach. There are also a lot of trees so plenty of shade. The highlight for me was seeing a rare Hawaiian monk seal sleeping on the beach. It is an endangered species with unfortunately not too many left. I kept a bit of a distance not to disturb it. I did take some photos with zoom and it did not wake up. It continued snoozing on the sand. A couple people stopped to take pictures but it seemed like it was used to people as long as no one got too too close. It slept so peacefully and I only saw it move to adjust its position. Highly recommend this beach if you are able to get there. I did not do the hike though--way too muddy and slippery for me in my regular sneakers. read more

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Always loved this beach for seclusion, snorkeling, and hiking! So why the two stars? Because now you need a reservation to go to the beach, which we weren't aware of before driving the tortuous path to get there! Twenty years ago, the last time we were on Kauai, it was free! read more

Five stars for the shuttle. I've been a Kauai visitor for 30 years (72 years old) and a lot has changed. More of everything and everyone. Only the beauty remains the same, and the skinny road with the one lane bridges to Ke'e beach. What would the shuttle critics prefer, a wider road with modern bridges and adequate parking lots for all who come? I think not so let's get over it and enjoy the beautiful ride and even more beautiful walk from terminal to the beach. Sandy bottom bay, very light waves for easy swimming, shade to lay down. Great shuttle service back. Not many reef fish, snorkeling was uneventful, what can you do? Enjoy the day. read more

Most perfect beach. Saw a sea turtle almost immediately and a seal! Spent approx an hour here snorkeling before hiking

Beautiful beach, having to have reservations keeps the area from being over crowded and keeps it pristine.

Cool spot, but sadly I had to tell a guy to get off the already very damage corals. A Few fish but not the best snorkeling. Only worth the stop if your going to do the hike on Napili trail because of how hard it was to get there. (parking, cost, shuttle) read more

Kee Beach - Beaches Near Me

My husband loves to drive and we were staying in the North Shore and wanted to see, just how far north can we go before the road ends? This is the end of the road, literally. The last beach in the North shore accessible by car, the ocean lagoon is calmest on the left side at the start of the Na Pali coast. The reefs form a barrier which provides great snorkeling conditions. Visiting in winter time means less crowds, ample parking and a more remote feel for us. There couldn't have been a more magical sunset disappearing on the ocean with the majestic mountain alongside it. This right here, is what people travel for. read more

Kee Beach - Beaches Near Me

Usually calm clear water and good snorkeling spot but we had awful weather that week. But this is One of the must do beaches. Great place to go for sunset. When we were there it rained all week and the waves were big and frisky. Didn't snorkel or even put on a bathsuit but enjoyed watching others play in the ocean. There are neat old trees with roots that provide some shelter. Near the mountains and caves. We drove till the road ended... Not much further than Ke'e Beach. Ke'e is close to tunnel Beach. Both are a must do while on kauai. read more

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I visited quite a few beaches on my trip to Kauai, but I'd have to say Ke'e was my favorite. Not sure if it was because I was absolutely exhausted from my Kalalau Trail hike earlier in the day, or the amazing time I had snorkeling the reef. I think it was both! I recommend hiking the Kalalau Trail first as I did, checking out Hanakapiai Beach/Falls, and then returning back to Ke'e Beach. Since you park your car there might as well kill two birds with one stone. That and the fact that parking fills up fast after the early AM, so get up early and come prepared! As for the beach itself, the water is generally calm and very clear--perfect conditions for snorkeling! And man are there all different kinds of fish! My favs were the parrotfish and cornetfish. Word to the wise though: DON'T STAND ON THE REEF! What's also fun is that there is usually a vendor or two serving fresh coconuts out of the back of their pickup. The guy we bought ours from was nice enough to slice it in half with his machete afterward so that we could scoop out the meat! In summary: this is a location you cannot miss while vacationing in Kauai! read more

Kee Beach - Beaches Near Me

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Amazingly beautiful beach! Clear and protected waters for the best swimming we had during the winter season. There are washrooms, water fountains, showers, and a lifeguard station at this beach. I could have spent an entire day here but we hiked to Hanakapiai Beach so I was hiking fast to be able to spend some time at this beach. The system to get into the park has changed - either you get a permit for your car or take a shuttle in from Hanalei ($15/person). We took the shuttle as the permits were sold out for the next two weeks but that limited us to the shuttle's schedule. It was fine I suppose but getting a permit to stay later and watch the sunset would have been great. The beach gets busy but for good reason, it is stunning! read more

Kee Beach - Beautiful beach - Beaches Near Me

YOU CAN'T GO if you don't have a reservation so congrats if you and your family spent thousands of dollars to experience Kaua'i only to be turned away after driving almost two hours to get there depending on where you stay on the island. Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance so since you don't have a crystal ball on weather I hope it works out for you because if you're day is rainy, you likely won't be able to get back to this beach another day during your vacation. I understand the state wanting to control overall visitors (counterintuitive to tourism but ok), but they also charge for this beach so it's a good money maker for them. Don't put this beach at the top of your must do list for Kaua'i as you might not get to see it. We drove two hours, were turned away, and wound up at Anini Beach which might have been an even better choice in the end and it was free. Also, if it's a weekend, plan to get to your preferential before before 9am as you will not be able to find a parking space on any popular beach. read more

The beach at the end of the road. The water seemed calmer- I was told the blue lagoon was protected by a reef. This is in contrast to being a popular for people that just want a relaxing swim. A woman was always selling jewelry by the entrance to the beach. Na Pali range of mountains to the West and trees surrounding the other sides with the only buildings are the lifeguard tower & restrooms/showers. I saw 2 sunsets at this beach and must give it 5 stars. Something soothing about the secluded place. read more

Kee Beach - The beach at the end of the road. - Beaches Near Me

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Do it! Absolutely amazing beach. Nice area of shade. Beautiful beach, snorkeling great.

I'm so blessed to call Northshore Kauai my home!! If you are blessed to visit Kauai I would highly recommend coming to my favorite accessible beach on the Northshore of Kauai. The view of Na Pali coast is priceless and the ocean is truly magical. To say Kauai is a majestic island is a understatement!! read more

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I really enjoyed spending a few hours here at this beach. Perfect beach to snorkel and have lunch after our morning hike on the Kalalau trail. I believe this is the last beach in the North shore that is accessible by car. What I love about this beach is the calm water. Perfect for young children. Soft sand and you have a gorgeous view of the mountains directly to your left. The water was warm enough to swim in during November. *You need to get a parking pass from the Haena state park website so you can park here ($5). Bring chairs, towels, food, drinks etc but it'll be a 5-10 minute walk to the beach from the parking lot. Enjoy! read more

Kee Beach - Beaches Near Me

Great for snorkeling and watching the sunset! Parking gets crazy but this beach is worth it! There is an outdoor shower/ faucet by the restrooms in the parking lot. Bring flip flops or shore shoes as the sand here is dark and gets burning hot. There is a lifeguard on duty and the waves were gentle both times I've been here ( May and July). Bring beach chairs and snorkel gear. Also bring food because I haven't seen any food vendors here either occasion I visited. Love this beach! read more

All beaches in Kuai are great. So how could I rate it with 1 star. I had a bad experience with a local tour guide who pretended to be a ranger and turning cars away. It was around 6:30 pm on a rainy Sunday. The ranger booth was closed and the parking lot was 2/3 empty. This guy stopped incoming cars and asked for reservations. He's not in uniform, has no ipad or electronic devices (to check for reservations). When I asked for ID and if he's even a ranger, he walked away and said that he represented state of Hawaii! My guess is that he worked for a local touring company and was there to pickup/drop off his paid customers to this beach. He has an ulterior motives to turn away independent travelers. I was of course pissed off but decided not to escalate the situation because it's not worth it. Wondering what is the legal penalty for a ranger imposter in state of Hawaii? read more

Believe it or not as a local, this is the first time I came to this beach. I wanted to see what the hoopla was all about. I didn't care for the drive as there are to many one lane bridges as I have no patience. I could have sworn I saw a local guy give me the F finger as I drove over the second of the two bridge area. I couldn't figure it out, I'm obviously not a tourist, as some locals hate tourists. Maybe these particular locals don't deserve Hawaii? Got to the check in booth, showed my Hawaii drivers license, from afar. She didn't ask to see it but I held it up for her. I couldn't figure out where was the parking area for locals so I just parked by the visitor area. Walking on the boardwalk, I wasn't to keen on the distance to the beach. Seemed like forever. Liked the taro patches on the way. Finally got to the beach, not impressed. Narrow beach, and the tide was coming up. Did some sunbathing and swimming. The water felt good. Honestly there are better beaches. I saw a sign No Snorkeling. There were many people but not crowded. No I won't be back, not worth the drive. read more

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Just past Tunnels beach in Haena- North Shore. Literally located where the road ends on Hwy 560. There is plenty of parking right next to the beach but this all depends on what time you get there. There is also additional parking further down the road but it's a bit of a walk up. We got there about 7:20 pm and were able to park right next to the beach entrance. There were no longer lifeguards on duty due to the time and it was advised not to swim after dusk due to tides and currents. There were still a few people on the beach, nobody in the water and a few people setting up camp with tents. The bf and I decided to do a date night picnic on the beach. We had been told by several people that this was a great beach for picnics due to the views which they were right. We missed the sunset by about 20 minutes but still had an amazing view. It gets really dark really fast. You can see so many stars and the sound of the ocean is very relaxing. Definitely recommend bringing a lantern/light if you are going at night. There are a ton of bugs so bring bug replant because they will be drawn to your light! There were signs from the lifeguards when we arrived. One was that the sand was extremely hot. It wasn't hot at the time that we went but wouldn't chance it during the day. Secondly, the tides and currents were high at this time of year and to be very careful if you were swimming. There was also a witty comment about how they would not assist you with parking. To our surprise we didn't see many chickens here like the other beaches we visited. Later when we were leaving the bf threw his trash in the trash can and discovered a couple kittens hiding inside. We were able to coach them out of the trash can and they darted into the trees. On the way back we saw a lot of wild cats. Maybe why there weren't as many chickens? We didn't get to swim at this location but defitinely wish we had. The water was still super clear late at night. Great location for a beach dinner date night! read more

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One of my favorite beaches on the island! A dip In the water after hiking is a must. Yes, parking is limited. But somehow we lucked out and found one. I do recommend carpooling if you're with a group. This beach is stunning. The water is clear, backdrop of the cliffs of the Napali coast and if you're lucky a coconut vendor will be stationed out there too. read more

In the words of Ciara G., "Turtle! Turtle! Turtle! You're so cute!" More on that later. Ke'e Beach was wonderful. Definitely some of the best snorkeling and hiking I have ever experienced. I went here twice. The first day was all about the snorkeling. Although it was quite shallow in parts (so shallow that the waves were smashing us on top of the coral in parts and I got a few scrapes) the deeper parts were full of fish. I lost my group at one point because I was chasing a school of Parrotfish, and the most amazing thing happened. I saw a turtle. So I followed it. Swimming alongside the little bugger, touching the back of his shell, just kind of hanging out. Then...I heard a noise behind me. Like the sound of air escaping. I turned around...and there were MORE turtles. Six in total. Some really big ones, with one leeeetle baby one. It was surreal! The second day we opted to go for a hike instead of snorkel. The area we hiked was supposedly in the film "Jurassic Park", the part where the helicopter is coming in for a landing and you can see this amazing waterfall in the background. The hike was not too bad, a little slippery in parts, but such amazing views. Parking was kind of tough but we managed it. Overall...Ke'e Beach, like the rest of Kauai, it just pure magic. read more

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Ke'e Beach is truly at the end of the road. Keep driving on hwy 560 til there is no road, after all the twist and turns and one lane bridges you will finally arrive. At one point, I felt like I was visiting King Kong with the vast mountain and heavy vegetation. When we arrived, I wasn't sure if we came to the right place. All we saw was a bunch of young fit people who were in shape to do a triathlon. It turns out, this is a popular spot to do a hike up the mountain. I highly recommend coming early as possible, there is a small dirt parking lot with lots of bumps, leave the Porche at home people, you will get stuck in this lot. Parking on the side of the road is also limited. The water here is calm and plenty of shade to be found. Besides the drive getting here, I found it to be a relaxing beach. There is a restroom and water area to wash off. There is no food vendor, so bring plenty snack and drinks. Getting here was a long jouney, the roads are narrow and parking can be difficult. Plan according and you'll have a good time here. read more

This is probably my favorite beach in the world, gorgeous scenery [best seen from the Kalalau Trail that starts here] Ke'e beach is easy to find, at the end of the highway 56 going north in Kauai, you'll end at Ke'e. The views are spectacular, an awesome cove with lush green vegitation growing down the side of the cliffs. Clean white sand covers the ground that is not rock. Great snorkling and swimming here. The sunsets are absolutely amazing at Ke'e. Also a great place for wedding photos. Parking is limited, arrive early in the morning, find a good spot on the beach, bring a picnic lunch and enjoy your day in pure paradise. If your up to it, take a hike up the Kalalau Trail. There is a lifegaurd station here and clean restrooms with outside showers. If your in Kauai, Ke'e is a must do on the north shore. I highly recommend going here read more

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This beach is at the end of the road on the north side of the island. Get here early because tourists flock here to walk the trail that starts here and heads toward the Hidden beach. That trail is rugged be prepared. The beach hear is beautiful but the parking is difficult. The parking lots are rough too but it is worth it. Prepare for a long walk from your car. read more

What better way to end a big hike than with a stop at this beautiful beach. Yes, a lot of folks have the same idea, but the energy was really positive with all the "accomplished" Kalalau hikers as opposed to the blahness of the even more popular Poipu. Everyone's got their muddy hiking shoes off as they enjoy sitting on the sand or playing in the water; we didn't snorkel, but we didn't really have to as the water was clear enough to see some fish running around. I also love how the beginning of the Na Pali cliffside towers over the beach, lending the same grandeur as it does to the trail itself. I'd originally planned to bypass and go searching for more secluded beaches nearby, but the last thing I wanted to do after the hike was get right in the car and drive. It was a good decision to stay. read more

Kee Beach - Beaches Near Me

Ke'e Beach is located in the North Shore of the island. It's the last beach at the end of the road and it's worth driving to. This beach is the cleanest, stunning and very peaceful. The warm golden sand between your manicured toes feels amazing under the glaring sun. It's perfect for snorkeling in the beautiful crystal clear blue ocean. The water is so clear that you don't have to go out too far to see fishes. Lifeguard on duty Parking can be a challenge because it's close to the entrance to Kalalau Trail. read more

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Even on a slow day there were lots of people here. Too many people. The parking here is more difficult than Tunnels b/c it has to accommodate the trailies as well as the beachgoers, as well as the tourists that just drove to the end of the road and here they are also. Wish they would keep their loud OOOHs and AAAHs to themselves though; some of them sound like they've been living under a rock their whole lives. Loud, full of themselves and oblivious to the world around them -- therefore annoying to me with my lack of sleep. Few thing's worse than a madding crowd on a "remote" beach - especially after particularly sucky breakfast at Waipouli Deli (see separate review). It wasn't like "where's my shotgun" but it was in the realm of "wish they would go away". Just keepin' it real. Was starting to get into the groove of Kauai at Tunnels and we left there to come here. Started up the trail but there are so many rocks on the path at the beginning that you are looking down instead of up. Wasn't into it this day and too many people on the trail. Did a snorkel and experienced the current just past the reef wanting to suck me away back to Oahu. Sharks are known to hang on the outside of the reef, so I did the smart thing and meandered back to shore, back to the screamin' kids. Wouldn't want to get my hand bitten off outside the reef, though. Can't get no satisfaction at Ke'e Beach today, but it's not the beach's fault. Today it is Wai-Kee-Kee. It gets a four this day, but not really. read more

Kee Beach - shall we snorkel? - Beaches Near Me

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My favorite beach. It has many of the virtues of Hanalei Bay, with beautiful water and a curving mountain backdrop, but it has smaller crowds, and indeed on some days you can walk for what feels like a mile down the beach and only occasionally run into people. Plus, there's a reef that protects part of the cove from the breaking waves so that you can have an incredibly peaceful and placid paddle while still listening to the crashing waves. Especially great for a dip after hiking the Kalalau Trail. It's a heck of a long way from the mainland, but I guess that's why it isn't so crowded. Consider this beach one of the top three reasons to go to Kauai. read more

Wow, quite possibly my favorite beach in Kauai. You pull up after a long drive on highway 560 to the northernwestern-most area (North Shore) accessed on the island by driving, and you park and are greeted by super-soft sand and a decently wide beach full of tourists and locals. The water is clean and clear, protected by a large reef out about 150 feet, and not too deep for the most part. Little coral to rake your feet, it's a delight to walk in the warm water while kids play around you. Take a snorkel and check out the reef - right after it, the continental shelf falls away to reveal schools of fish, we saw sea turtles, seals, dolphins, and more pass mere feet away from us. Careful near the reef, though - the water's tow can take you and scrape you right across the reef in short order if you're not wary, and there are many parts inaccessible without walking on the reef (DO NOT DO THIS - it kills the reef). Sunbathing is popular here, although watching one's stuff is a challenge at times - leave most of it in the car and a key safely tucked into a zippered pocket or tied to your wrist. This beach is much less calm in winter, though, be careful. read more

This is really a great little beach - just keep in mind that despite appearances, seasons do matter in Kauai - this affects the water level and the availability of sea life for your viewing pleasure, as well as the frequency of rain showers. If you're visiting in December - it's going to be a lot more rainy, cooler and fewer wildlife viewing opportunities - but it's still quite a nice beach to visit. In Spring - it may be totally different. It all just depends on when you go and what's happening. Kauai is called the "Garden Isle" and they have more rain than many places in the world - don't go there expecting to stay dry! read more

Couldn't check in since I didn't have service, but I LOVE this beach. It's one of our favorites that we venture to every once in a while. But you are competing with visitors for parking. Its at the end of the road all the way North. If you plan in doing the Hanakapiai Trail or the Kalalau Trail, go early and don't keep valuables in the car. Just a warning. We've seen rental cars with windows smashed in if left over night. Once the lifeguards go home, your car is on its own. If you are just going to beach, still go early. Parking is so bad. The beach is so nice to float when its not rough or choppy. Lifeguards will post signs if the water is dangerous. LISTEN TO THE SIGNS AND LIFRGUARDS! Just because it looks ok doesn't mean it is. There can be rip currents and high tides. read more

Kee Beach - 9am beach trip. - Beaches Near Me

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I used to really love the snorkeling here, but there have been a few changes. First, the Winter 2011-2012 season brought significant sand into the snorkeling lagoon resulting in a big reduction in water depth. Subsequently, the water clarity is greatly reduced as gentle wave actions kicks up the shallow sands. Second, a couple years ago, they installed a lifeguard station here and the guards are VERY restrictive on where they allow you to snorkel. I've found Ke'e Beach snorkeling info here: http://www.snorkelingdives.com/ read more

Ke'e Beach is the location that my bf and I would head to if we were not at the St. Regis each evening to watch the sunset into the ocean. The big plus about Ke'e Beach is that it feels like you are at the end of the world when the sunsets. There is nothing but ocean, beach, trees, and a few other people. The nights we were there it was so quiet, peaceful, and romantic. read more

Kee Beach - Sunset from Ke'e Beach - Beaches Near Me

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STUNNING!!! This is my favorite beach in all of Kauai! The water is so blue and clear! You can swim here or snorkel. They do have lifeguards here in a tower. The parking is not great so I recommend getting there early. There are tons of chickens everywhere but they were pretty harmless until you took out some food and suddenly you are surrounded by them begging. The view of the Na Poli cliffs is amazing here as well. There are hiking trails nearby that are not for the beginner with amazing views down on the beach. Great way to spend the day after the long hike or for a beach day! read more