Accessed via a steep ten-minute hike from the eponymous condos, exquisite SeaLodge Beach – officially Kaweonui Beach – is a short stretch of coarse-grained golden sand that’s quiet enough to be a haunt of Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles. Safe in summer only, the snorkelling is excellent.

The trail down from SeaLodge starts beside seven parking spots reserved for hikers. It’s a slippery scramble through thick woods; head left at the electricity substation halfway down. If the waves are pounding the oceanfront rocks when you reach sea level, go no further. Otherwise head right to find a little waterfall, or left around the headland to the beach itself.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Queen's Bath

0.65 MILES

A gorgeous sight and one of the most dangerous spots on the island. Drownings are all too common here.

2. Hanalei Valley Lookout

1.15 MILES

Immediately west of the Princeville Center, a roadside overlook offers a superb panoramic view over verdant Hanalei Valley, with Hihimanu Mountain…

3. Pali Ke Kua (Hideaways) Beach

1.17 MILES

Hideaways Beach, also known as Pali Ke Kua, is a cove notched beneath the Princeville cliffs, with a short strand of golden sand and turquoise shallows…

4. Hanalei Plantation Road Lookout

1.24 MILES

This spectacular overlook commands views over not only the Hanalei River and its valley, but also the bay and its beaches. To reach it, simply follow…

5. Hanalei Bridge

1.27 MILES

This attractive one-lane bridge is the only crossing over the Hanalei River, east of town. When it’s closed due to flooding or construction, there’s no…

6. Puʻu Poa Beach

1.5 MILES

Lovely little Pu‘u Poa Beach stands immediately below the Princeville Resort, on the edge of Hanalei Bay. It’s a great spot for family swimming and…

7. Black Pot Beach Park (Hanalei Pier)

1.69 MILES

The short easternmost stretch of Hanalei Bay, alongside the rivermouth, usually offers the calmest surf among the wild North Shore swells, and is popular…

8. ʻAnini Beach Park

2.01 MILES

Winding along the seashore, fringed by overhanging trees, long ‘Anini Beach is a narrow strip of sand that at several points dwindles to the slenderest of…