Mākua Beach “Tunnels Beach” - an enormous dry cave carved by a beautiful beach

Tunnels Beach, known locally as Mākua Beach, sits on the north shore of Kauai in the Ha‘ena region, just west of the town of Hanalei. It occupies a crescent of golden sand along Maniniholo Bay, backed by lush tropical cliffs and framed by palms and ironwood trees. The beach is part of a stunning coastal landscape that includes Ha‘ena Beach Park to the west and lies at the eastern end of Kauai’s dramatic Nā Pali Coast. Its shoreline and reef system make Tunnels one of the island’s most scenic and iconic seaside destinations.

What distinguishes Tunnels Beach from many other Hawaiian beaches is its unique double-reef and cavern system. Beneath the clear turquoise waters, ancient lava tubes, tunnels, arches, and underwater caves wind through coral formations, creating an underwater labyrinth that snorkelers and scuba divers prize for exploration and marine biodiversity. These geological features are the source of the beach’s English name and provide habitat for tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. Above the surface, the backdrop of emerald hills and views toward Bali Hai make it a photographer’s favorite and a memorable place for sunset walks and swimming when conditions are calm.

The area around Tunnels Beach also has historical significance. Known in ancient times as Mākua, this stretch of coastline was part of a vibrant Hawaiian settlement area with nearby archaeological sites, including remnants of ancient fishponds and habitation sites near Ha‘ena Beach Park. While modern visitors come primarily for recreation, the cultural legacy of the place contributes to its deep sense of place and aloha. Water conditions can vary greatly by season, with calmer conditions ideal for snorkeling in summer and stronger surf in winter requiring caution.