Other Snorkeling Beaches in Kauai near Tunnels Beach

Have your heart set on snorkeling Tunnels Beach in Kauai but worried about being able to find parking near Tunnels?

Here are some other beaches in Kauai that are known for their snorkeling, so if you need a Plan B, they make for great alternatives.

While Tunnels Beach is known for its snorkeling and its picture postcard setting, it is true that finding parking for Tunnels Beach can be very difficult and the beach offers no amenities.

So if you are traveling with kids, for example, and need access to restrooms and showers close by, some of these other Kauai snorkeling beaches are worth considering, either as back-up options or for longer beach sessions.

Anini Beach

Located on the north shore of Kauai to the east of Princeville and Hanalei, Anini Beach is not too far of a drive from Tunnels Beach.

With one of the longest and largest fringing reefs in Kauai, Anini Beach is popular as a summer snorkeling beach. Stay close to shore though, because currents can be stronger further out.

Although it does not have a lifeguard, Anini Beach is still regarded as one of the best family-friendly beaches on Kauai.

Anini Beach Park offers parking, restrooms, showers, drinking water fountains, and picnic pavilions, making it perfect for a beach day on Kauai.

Ke’e Beach

Ke’e Beach is located inside Ha’ena State Park, on the extreme west of Kauai’s north shore.

While Ha’ena State Park (and Ke’e Beach) require advance entry reservations and either a parking reservation or a seat on a shuttle, once you secure the reservation you know you can park in the lot and enjoy your time at Ke’e Beach.

Ke’e Beach boasts a protective coral reef that makes it attractive as a summer snorkeling location, and sunsets at Ke’e Beach are spectacular, just like Tunnels Beach sunsets.

The waters at Ke’e Beach boast a variety of colorful tropical fish, and, similar to snorkeling Tunnels Beach, you can hope to see Hawaiian green sea turtles while snorkeling at Ke’e Beach.

Lydgate Beach Park

Lydgate Beach is located on Kauai’s east side, a longer drive from Tunnels Beach. But there is plenty of parking!

A manmade rock breakwater encloses two protected lagoons. The smaller kids’ pool is perfect for younger ones to try snorkeling, and the larger pool, which allows a variety of fish to get in through cracks and crevices, great for beginner adult snorkelers.

Lydgate Beach Park has all the amenities you need for a beach day, from restrooms and showers to picnic areas and even a playground.