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Soaking in Queen's Bath

Princeville, Hawaii

4.7/5
based on 7 reviews

Description

Added by Clare Healy

Breathtaking, unobstructed views of Kauai’s North Shore & Hanalei Bay. Easily accessible, secluded cliffside in the town of Princeville. If tides are low, swimming in a secluded pool carved into a lava shelf. Duration: 1-3 hours.

Between the frequent rains and the often overcast forecast, Kauai is not always the typical Hawaiian tropical getaway people dream of. But there are few islands that offer the same majestic waterfalls, luscious valleys, world renowned breaks, and more. Like a handful of the island's other gems, Queen’s Bath is one of the spots that makes Kauai, well, Kauai.

After driving through the town of Princeville, you will park your car at the trailhead and proceed to take the short downhill hike to the lava-ridden coastline. En route, you will pass a waterfall and river before catching glimpses of waves bashing against the rocks. When you cut left, you will find yourself staring at one of the most iconic views of Kauai’s North Shore, including Hanalei Bay.

Upon walking further across the lava shelf, you will stumble upon one of the most unique, natural swimming pools amongst the cliff. Use caution as rocks are slippery and wear closed toe shoes if possible. When surf is cooperating in the spring and summer months, the pool’s water is crystal clear and swimmable. Take one of the most refreshing dips of your life if the conditions are safe! Otherwise, just soak in the vastness of the Pacific ocean, admire the rugged coastline, and photograph the unbeatable reflections of the sunset.

When you're done, head a few blocks south to Lappert's for ice cream worth writing home about. You can't go wrong with Kauai Pie in a waffle cone!

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Soaking in Queen's Bath Reviews

Queen's Bath is a beautiful and serene location on the coast of Kauai. The water is warm and clear for snorkeling and great for some cliff jumping too. Use all safety precautions when it comes to jumping in or the time of day - the tide can turn this peaceful spot into an extremely dangerous one!

Great place. Unfortunately, the access through the gate is closed and locked. Nobody knows when/if it will reopen.

With all the rain they’ve had in Kauai, the trail is a little more difficult. But this spot is amazing! Would recommend checking it out for sure. Lots of great photo opportunities too.

I've been spending on time on Kauai since I was six years old. This island is incredibly alluring and also quite dangerous. Queens bath is stunning and can be totally rejuvenating, but be warned that many people have gotten swept out here. The surf (if high) can easily flood people in the bath and pull people out. Make sure you know what the surf report is. That being said many people tend to stop at the bath and sit with the crowds. If you keep walking down the lava rocks you will come across a thin lava tube that generally is pretty private. If you scramble down the rocks you can jump in and enjoy the ebb and flow of the water. Every time I have been here there has been at least 1 sea turtle floating calmly in the water. Be sure to respect their space and never touch them but grab a mask so you can see their amazing features. Enjoy!

Beautiful hike with a waterfall to remind you that you're on the Garden Isle. This is a great area to spot turtles along the rocks near Queen's Bath. This area can get crowded and you definitely need to check the tide as it can be dangerous, hence the sign marking the number of fatalities.

Awesome place to watch the sunrise from. Parking however is tight and often requires a little wait. You could always park a mile or two up the road at the gold course and walk down. Trail is always muddy and I recommend sandals (not flip flops) and stash a bunch of water in the care to since your feet. I also recommend not taking to much down as you will need your hand to balance and possibly break your fall if you slip. There is no other less muddy way down unfortunately. If you go past queens bath there is another awesome tide pool that less people are at. We saw sea turtles when we were there as well!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Queen's Bath Trail

Hike to Turtle Cave

Diving in Paradise at Hideaway's Beach

Hike to Wyllie's Beach

Scramble the Okolehao Ridge Trail

Relax in Hanalei Bay