Haʻena
The end of the road on Kauai's north shore — the most coveted permit on the island. Ke'e Beach is sheltered in summer for superb snorkeling in calm, clear water with sea turtles. The Kalalau Trail begins here: the first 2 miles to Hanakapiʻai Beach (1–2 hours each way) is one of the finest short day hikes in Hawaii — clifftop ocean views, valleys inaccessible any other way, and a remote black sand beach at the end (swimming prohibited). Add the 3.5km spur to Hanakapiʻai Falls for a full 5–6 hour day. The trail can be very muddy after rain; add significant time and wear proper shoes.
Permit required at gohaena.com — releases exactly 30 days ahead at 6am HST. $5/person + $10 parking. Sells out within minutes. No permit = police turn you away at the road checkpoint.
Ocean entry forbidden at Ke'e when any waves present — rip currents are powerful. Summer (May–Sep) only for snorkeling.