Puu Poa Beach

Although I had not planned to visit this beach, stumbling upon it by chance turned out to be a delightful surprise. Initially, I had intended to head to the hideaway beach, but a sign across the street from the parking lot caught my attention, beckoning me towards the beach access trail. Despite the unsightly construction of the Hotel Hanalei Bay that the trail runs alongside, the stairs were well-constructed, making it an easy walk down to the beach. Once we arrived, we found a secluded, shaded beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling. We were lucky to find the beach relatively unpopulated on a weekday afternoon, and with a little exploration, we were able to find a spot all to ourselves. The beach even boasted a playful swing, which added to the fun. I would suggest visiting in the late afternoon to avoid the harsh midday sun, which is not ideal for pictures. While parking spots are limited, it is possible to snag one if you visit on a weekday afternoon and wait for others to leave.

Although Google Maps was not entirely accurate, we managed to make the trek to the beach with our beach chairs in tow. Once we arrived, it was the ideal location to relax and enjoy the stunning sunset, with the occasional wave washing over our feet.

The trail leading to the beach is paved and conveniently located near a resort that is currently undergoing construction. Unfortunately, due to the high tide and large waves, it is not recommended to swim today. However, there is still plenty of beach space to relax and enjoy the scenery. We decided to embark on a short hike to explore the area and see what it had to offer. Parking is limited as it is shared with Hideaway Beach, with only around 10 spots available.

The parking space available for this beach is quite limited, and the journey down the stairs can be a bit daunting, especially with the construction site nearby. Despite not being as spacious as some of the neighboring beaches, it is not too crowded, providing a peaceful atmosphere. The beach itself is quite picturesque, although it may not be the top pick for everyone’s taste.

This stunning beach is nestled away from the hustle and bustle, offering a peaceful and secluded oasis. While the entrance may be slightly concealed by a nearby construction site, this actually works in the beach's favor, as it keeps the crowds at bay. However, it's worth noting that the path down to the beach does require a bit of effort, as it involves navigating a series of stairs. Once you reach the sand, you'll be rewarded with an exceptional snorkeling experience and the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the shallow waters. Keep in mind that parking options are limited, so plan accordingly.