Tucked around the corner from beautiful Haena Beach Park on Kauai’s North Shore, Cannons Beach provides even more beach and more scenery on a secluded stretch that eventually connects to Ke’e Beach.
Cannons Beach starts at the rocky outcropping on the west (left) end of Haena Beach. The rocks are a popular spot for exploring. Small fish can be found around the rocks and the outcropping provides a terrific view of Maniniholo Bay at Haena Beach and Tunnels Beach.
Beyond the rocks, Cannons Beach beckons further investigation. Only lightly visited, the beach attracts occasional curious explorers throughout the day venturing out from Haena Beach Park. There’s a good chance the beach will be deserted on your visit. Footprints in the sand are sometimes the only evidence of others who have wandered before you at Cannons. At almost a half-mile long, the big decision of the stroll is how far to go before turning around and heading back to Haena Beach Park.
The beach, backed by tropical vegetation and the majestic profile of Bali Hai, has an exotic, South Pacific feel. Peppered with rocks and coral, Cannons Beach is a nice place for beachcombing. Slabs of rocks can be found along the shoreline, and a reef keeps the waves at bay. Offshore, substantial waves can be found, especially in the winter months. Though you should certainly stay out of the water at Cannons, this is a surf spot for expert surfers familiar with local conditions.
The beach gets its name for the circular shape of the waves that resemble a cannon. Local surf legend Bethany Hamilton says that a ride at Cannons sometimes feels like exploding out of a cannon, according to an interview with The Early Show in 2004.
Cannons Beach is usually not the intended destination of the day, but it is a wonderful discovery for visitors to Haena Beach Park. Kauai has an “embarrassment of riches” when it comes to beaches, and that is true for Cannons. There’s more beach at Cannons than people. If you’re seeking a nice beach walk or a secluded section of beach without the crowds, you will certainly want to check out Cannons Beach on the North Shore of Kauai!
Visit Cannons Beach along with your trip to Haena Beach Park and Tunnels Beach. There is a parking lot at Haena Beach Park, but it fills up quickly due to the popularity of the area beaches. Your best bet for securing a parking spot without the hassle is to visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
