A complete guide
Keʻe Beach
Kauai

Kee Beach is a popular beach located on the north shore of Kauai, Hawaii. It is known for its clear blue waters and beautiful views of the nearby cliffs and lush vegetation. The beach is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. It is also a popular spot for watching the sunset. The beach can get crowded during peak tourist season, so it's best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Amenities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic tables are available. There is also a small parking lot nearby.

Kee Beach is located on the Kalalau Trail, which is a popular hiking trail that runs along the Napali Coast. The trail offers incredible views of the coast and is a great way to explore the area. However, it can be quite strenuous and is not recommended for beginners.

The beach is also known for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it a popular spot for people looking to explore the underwater world. The beach's protected reef is home to a wide variety of fish and other sea creatures, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins and whales, which can be seen from the shore during the right season.

Kee Beach is also a popular spot for surfers, as the waves can get quite big. However, it is important to be aware of the strong currents and to take necessary precautions when swimming or surfing.

Overall, Kee Beach is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Kauai, Hawaii. It offers a beautiful setting, excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities, and is a great spot to relax and take in the natural beauty of the island.

Weather - best time to visit?

Kauai's climate is tropical, and the water temperature is consistently warm, making it possible to swim all year round. More information about the temperature and beach conditions in Kauai

Where to park

Kee Beach has a small parking lot near the beach, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. It's best to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to ensure a spot. The parking lot is located just off of Kuhio Highway (Highway 560) and is well marked. The parking area is open year-round.

Please note that parking spaces are limited and are on a first-come, first-served basis and if the parking lot is full, it may be difficult to find a spot to park nearby. It's always best to check with the local authorities for the most up-to-date information and any specific recommendations regarding parking.

Alternatively, if the parking lot is full, you can park along the highway, but please be aware that parking on the side of the road can be dangerous and is not recommended.

Popular activities

Kee Beach is a popular destination for visitors to Kauai, Hawaii and offers a variety of activities for people to enjoy. Some popular activities at the beach include:

• Swimming: The clear waters and beautiful views make Kee Beach a great spot to swim and relax.
• Snorkeling and diving: The beach's protected reef is home to a wide variety of marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
• Surfing: The waves at Kee Beach can get quite big, making it a popular spot for surfers.
• Sunbathing: The beach is a great spot to relax and soak up the sun.
• Hiking: The beach is located on the Kalalau Trail, which is a popular hiking trail that runs along the Napali Coast. The trail offers incredible views of the coast and is a great way to explore the area.
• Photography: The beach's beautiful setting and stunning views of the Napali Coast make it a popular spot for photography.
• Sunset watching: The beach is a great spot to watch the sunset, and it can be a magical experience.
• Beachcombing: The beach is also a great spot for beachcombing, and you can find some interesting shells and other items washed up on the shore.

Overall, Kee Beach offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, and there's something for everyone to enjoy. It's always best to check with the local authorities for the most up-to-date information and any specific recommendations regarding activities and safety.

Wildlife

Kauai is known for its diverse and unique wildlife. The island is home to a variety of birds, including the Hawaiian goose or Nene, which is the state bird of Hawaii and can be found in the wetlands and grasslands on the island.

The endangered Hawaiian monk seal and the green sea turtle are also found on the island. They can be seen on the beaches and in the waters around Kauai.

In addition to marine life, it's also home to a wide variety of land animals, including the Hawaiian hoary bat, the Hawaiian mamo, and the Hawaiian stilt, as well as different types of insects, like the happy face spider, which is unique to the island.

Kee Beach itself is a great spot to see marine life like tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins and whales, which can be seen from the shore during the right season.

It's worth noting that it's important to be aware of and respectful of the wildlife when visiting the island and its beaches. Keep a safe distance from the animals and do not touch or disturb them in any way. Many species are protected and it's illegal to harm or harass them.

What to eat

There are several options for food near Kee Beach on Kauai, Hawaii. The north shore of Kauai is known for its casual, laid-back dining scene, and there are several local restaurants that serve delicious and authentic Hawaiian cuisine. Some popular options include:

• Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. which serves traditional Hawaiian dishes made with locally grown taro, a staple crop in Hawaii. They have a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
• Tahiti Nui, which serves a mix of traditional Hawaiian and Polynesian-inspired dishes in a casual, open-air setting. It's a great spot for live music and drinks.
• The Dolphin, which is a casual seafood restaurant located in Hanalei, a short drive from Kee Beach. It's known for its fresh fish and laid-back atmosphere.
• Postcards Cafe, which is a casual restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They have a variety of sandwiches, salads, and other light fare, including smoothies, juices, and coffee.

These are just a few examples, but there are many other options in the area as well. If you're looking for a more upscale dining experience, you can also find some upscale resorts and restaurants nearby.

Nearby landmarks

Kee Beach is located on the north shore of Kauai, Hawaii, and is within close proximity to several popular landmarks and attractions. Here are the approximate distances to a few popular landmarks near Kee Beach:

Hanalei Bay: 2 miles (3.2 km)

Napali Coast State Wilderness Park: 4 miles (6.4 km)

Limahuli Garden and Preserve: 7 miles (11.3 km)

Wailua Falls: 14 miles (22.5 km)

Kilauea Lighthouse: 18 miles (29 km)

Poipu Beach: 30 miles (48.3 km)

Keep in mind that these are approximate distances, and actual distances may vary depending on the specific location within the landmark and the mode of transportation used. Also, some landmarks may not be accessible by car, so it's best to check the details and plan accordingly.

Who visits

Kee Beach is a popular destination for visitors to Kauai, Hawaii, and is visited by a wide range of people. Some visitors include:

• Tourists: Kee Beach is a popular spot for visitors to Kauai who are looking to enjoy the island's beautiful beaches and clear blue waters. The beach's location along the Kalalau Trail, which runs along the Napali Coast, also makes it a popular spot for people who are interested in hiking and outdoor activities.
• Beachgoers: The beach is popular among people who are looking for a place to swim, sunbathe, and relax. The clear waters and beautiful views make it a great spot to spend a day.
• Snorkelers and divers: The beach's protected reef is home to a wide variety of marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
• Surfers: The waves at Kee Beach can get quite big, making it a popular spot for surfers.
• Nature enthusiasts: The beach's location along the Napali Coast and its proximity to several popular hiking trails make it a popular spot for people who are interested in nature and outdoor activities.

Overall, Kee Beach is a popular spot for visitors to Kauai who are looking to enjoy the island's beautiful beaches, clear waters, and outdoor activities.

How to get there

There are several ways to get to Kee Beach on Kauai, Hawaii:

• By car: The beach is located on the north shore of Kauai and can be reached by car via Kuhio Highway (Highway 560). There is a small parking lot near the beach, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. It's best to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to ensure a spot.
• By bike: Another option is to rent a bike and ride to the beach. This is a great way to explore the area and avoid the crowds.
• By bus: The Kauai Bus operates on the island and has a route that goes near Kee Beach, but it is not a direct route.
• By hiking: The beach is located on the Kalalau Trail, which is a popular hiking trail that runs along the Napali Coast. The trail is quite strenuous and is not recommended for beginners.

Please note that some of these options may have restrictions due to COVID-19, it's best to check with the local authorities for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.

Safety considerations

Kee Beach is generally considered a safe place to visit, but as with any tourist destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe while visiting the beach:

• Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid leaving valuables unattended, and be mindful of your personal safety when swimming or participating in other activities.
• Watch for hazards: Be aware of the potential hazards of swimming in the ocean, such as strong currents and dangerous marine life. Swim in designated areas and pay attention to warning signs and lifeguard instructions.
• Respect the wildlife: Keep a safe distance from the wildlife and do not touch or disturb them in any way. Many species are protected, and it's illegal to harm or harass them.

Kauai is considered a relatively safe place, but like any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of the potential for crime.

History

Kee Beach, located on the north shore of Kauai, Hawaii, has a rich history that is deeply intertwined with the history of the Hawaiian islands. The area has been inhabited for centuries by the native Hawaiian people, who have a deep spiritual connection to the land and the ocean.

Kee Beach was named after the Hawaiian warrior chief, Ka'iulani, who ruled over the area in the early 19th century. He was known for his courage and strength and was a respected leader among the Hawaiian people. The beach has been a popular spot for swimming and other recreational activities for many years.

During World War II, Kee Beach was used as a training ground for soldiers. The beach was also used as a landing spot for amphibious vehicles and as a site for amphibious landing exercises.

Today, Kee Beach is a popular tourist destination and a spot for visitors to enjoy the island's beautiful beaches, clear waters, and outdoor activities. The beach is protected by the state of Hawaii, and the area surrounding the beach is protected as part of the Napali Coast State Wilderness Park.

Overall, Kee Beach has a rich history that is deeply intertwined with the history of the Hawaiian islands and the history of the Hawaiian people. The beach continues to be a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the island's natural beauty and recreational activities.

More beaches on Kauai

• Kekaha Beach Park
• Salt Pond Beach Park
• Poipu Beach Park
• Lydgate Pond
• Lydgate Beach
• Kealia Beach Park
• Anahola Beach Park
• Hanalei Bay
• Haʻena Beach Park
• Keʻe Beach