Big Sandy Bay Beach
- Unnamed Road, Wolfe Island, ON K0H 2Y0, Canada
- Wolfe Island, ON K0H 2Y0
About This Beach
Hanalei Bay, located on the north shore of Kauaʻi, is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful beaches in all of Hawaii — a two-mile crescent of golden sand framed by emerald mountains, lush waterfalls, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The scenery alone is reason enough to visit, but Hanalei Bay also offers some of the island’s best surfing, swimming, and paddleboarding, depending on the season.
In summer, calm waters create ideal conditions for families and casual swimmers. In winter, the bay transforms into a surfing paradise, attracting wave riders from around the world. The charming nearby town of Hanalei offers boutique shops, beach cafés, and a relaxed, small-town Hawaiian vibe that makes the experience complete.
📜 History & Unique Features
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Sacred Hawaiian Roots: Hanalei (“lei-shaped bay”) has deep cultural and historical significance in Native Hawaiian tradition.
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Hollywood Favorite: Featured in films such as South Pacific and The Descendants, thanks to its stunning scenery.
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Hanalei Pier: Built in the 1890s and restored in 2013, the pier is a local landmark and a favorite sunset spot.
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Seasonal Duality: Calm and swimmable in summer, powerful surf breaks in winter.
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit
Summer (May – Sep): Calm waters perfect for swimming and family outings.
Winter (Nov – Mar): Ideal for surf watching and dramatic scenery, but swimming can be rough.
Spring & Fall: Moderate surf, fewer crowds, and great photography conditions.
Sunset Hours: Late afternoon for stunning golden light over the bay.
Winter (Nov – Mar): Ideal for surf watching and dramatic scenery, but swimming can be rough.
Spring & Fall: Moderate surf, fewer crowds, and great photography conditions.
Sunset Hours: Late afternoon for stunning golden light over the bay.
Things To Do
Popular Activities
- Swimming (Summer): Calm, crystal-clear waters ideal for families and kids.
- Surfing (Winter): Home to world-class waves and local surf competitions.
- Paddleboarding & Kayaking: Rent boards or kayaks to explore the bay and nearby Hanalei River.
- Beach Walks & Picnics: Enjoy leisurely strolls with stunning mountain backdrops.
- Photography: Capture iconic views of waterfalls cascading down green cliffs.
- Hanalei Pier: Great for fishing, family photos, or simply watching the sunset.
- Town of Hanalei: Browse art galleries, local shops, and grab Hawaiian shave ice or fresh seafood.
Plan Your Visit
Choose how you’d like to plan your trip to this beach — from places to stay to nearby experiences.
Amenities
Nearby Amenities
- Lifeguards at main swimming areas (Hanalei Pavilion Beach Park)
- Restrooms and outdoor showers
- Picnic areas and shaded lawns
- Free parking lots near Hanalei Pavilion and Black Pot Beach Park
- Equipment rentals (surfboards, paddleboards, kayaks)
- Restaurants and shops nearby in Hanalei Town
Beach Hours
Beach Hours
Open Now
Open 24/7
Events & Festivals
Events & Festivals
Hanalei Bay Swim Challenge (July): Annual open-water swimming race.
Surf Competitions (Winter): Local surf contests depending on conditions.
Hanalei Farmers Market (Saturdays): Fresh produce, local crafts, and live music.
Surf Competitions (Winter): Local surf contests depending on conditions.
Hanalei Farmers Market (Saturdays): Fresh produce, local crafts, and live music.
Hours/Lifeguards
Hours/Lifeguards
Beach Access: Sunrise to sunset daily
Lifeguards: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Lifeguards: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Pricing
Pricing
Beach Access: Free
Parking: Free public lots near Hanalei Pavilion and Hanalei Pier
Rentals: Surfboards & paddleboards ~$25–$40/day; Kayaks ~$45–$70/day
Parking: Free public lots near Hanalei Pavilion and Hanalei Pier
Rentals: Surfboards & paddleboards ~$25–$40/day; Kayaks ~$45–$70/day
Food & Drinks
Food & Drinks
Hanalei Bread Company: Local bakery and café with smoothies and breakfast favorites.
Tahiti Nui: Family-run restaurant and tiki bar featured in The Descendants.
Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant: Waterfront dining with fresh-caught seafood.
Food Trucks & Shave Ice Stands: Found throughout Hanalei town for quick bites.
Tahiti Nui: Family-run restaurant and tiki bar featured in The Descendants.
Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant: Waterfront dining with fresh-caught seafood.
Food Trucks & Shave Ice Stands: Found throughout Hanalei town for quick bites.
Contact Information
Primary Phone
Website URL
Location
Beach Address
5-5130 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
Access Points
Hanalei Pavilion Beach Park (Main Access):
5-5130 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
Located about 1 hour from Lihue Airport (LIH) via Kuhio Highway (Route 56)
Limited parking; arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays
Hanalei Pier and Black Pot Beach Park are short walks from main parking areas
5-5130 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
Located about 1 hour from Lihue Airport (LIH) via Kuhio Highway (Route 56)
Limited parking; arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays
Hanalei Pier and Black Pot Beach Park are short walks from main parking areas
5-5130 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
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