Catch the perfect wave at Waioli Beach (Pine Trees Beach) on Kauai, where surf culture, tranquility and beauty unite in perfect harmony.
- Region: North Shore
- Best for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, hanging out and family outings.
- A center of surf culture on the island.
- World class surfers Andy and Bruce Irons learned to surf at Waioli Beach.
- Also a park (Waioli Beach Park) with beautiful trees and green grass, a favorite spot for picnics and special events.
- Accessibility: Several parking lots at the beach.
- Lifeguards, restrooms and showers.
- Map: Google Maps
Waioli Beach at Hanalei Bay, Kauai, is more than just a stunning stretch of sand and surf in one of the world’s most beautiful locations. It is a place where surf culture thrives, and the legacy of legendary surfer Andy Irons lives on.
Also known as Pine Trees Beach for the ironwood pine trees that grace the park, Waioli Beach is a favorite destination for local surfers and local residents. The shaded park and green grass invites picnics, BBQs and special events, while the beach draws surfers, sand volleyball players and families seeking fun in the sand and waves. Young couples like to hang out under the trees and solitary individuals turn out for relaxing evening strolls. Mostly, this is a locals beach, though it does receive a fair share of tourists.
Located in the middle of crescent shaped Hanalei Beach, Waioli Beach has lifeguards, restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables and two beach volleyball courts.
The building with the restrooms at Waioli Beach is painted with a mural of Andy Irons. Andy, and his brother Bruce Irons, grew up on this beach, and the connection continues to inspire a new generation of surfers at Waioli.
Born and raised on Kauai, Andy Irons emerged as one of the most gifted and revered surfers of his generation. His raw talent, competitive drive, and fearless approach to riding waves catapulted him to global acclaim, earning him three world titles and numerous other awards. His brother Bruce has also won several major surfing championships.
Other well known Kauai North Shore surfers who are connected to the beach include Bethany Hamilton, Alana Blanchard, Sebastian Zietz and Evan Valiere. Indeed, Waioli Beach has quite the surfing pedigree.
Excellent surfing opportunities can be found in the winter months at Pine Trees, from about October/November to April/May. The end of the surf season is marked by the annual Pine Trees Longboard Classic, held towards the end of April or early May. During the summer months, from about May to October, the water is usually too calm for surfing at Hanalei Bay.
With strong waves and currents at Pine Trees, surfing is recommended only for local residents familiar with the waters and more advanced surfers. Beginner surfers should consider the nearby Hanalei Pier, where the waves are somewhat easier.
There are several parking lots for Waioli Beach. The larger parking lot is at the end of Hee Road and a smaller parking lot is at the end of Anae Road, both off the famous Weke Road with the beachfront houses. There are also several parking spaces at the end of Amaama Road near the lifeguard tower.
Sunsets are magical at Waioli Beach!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Waioli Beach, affectionately known as Pine Trees Beach, stands as a true gem on the enchanting island of Kauai. With its breathtaking beauty, exquisite surf waves and rich cultural significance, Waioli Beach serves as an important gathering place that is imbued with the spirit of Aloha. Whether you are seeking tranquility in the rhythm of the waves or a thrilling surf adventure, Waioli Beach delivers an experience like no other.
