PRINCEVILLE BEACHES

Tunnels is excellent for swimming nearly year-round and is safe for snorkeling, because it's protected by an extensive coral reef.  Indeed, the name "Tunnels" comes from a unique tunnel like topology of the reef.   At the west end of Tunnels Beach is Ha'ena County Park which provides beachfront camping for up to a few hundred people.  Most times we've visited,  the campground is nearly full.  Swimming in summer is fine at Ha'ena, but many people walk a 1/2 mile to the right [east] to the better snorkeling and calmer waters of Tunnels Beach.  In the winter, swimming is not advised at Ha'ena.  Head to Tunnels for improved conditions and better reef protection.

From Ha'ena, one can walk 1 1/2 miles east passing the tunnels area and then than various developments.  Finally, the beach and highway 560 reunite.  At this point the shoreline becomes rocky.  Behind Tunnels Beach [for most of this mile and a half] are Million dollar homes.  Fortunately they are well fenced so one doesn't feel as if you're sitting in someone's back yard.

It is also possible to walk 1 1/2 miles west from Tunnels Beach.  Cross Ha'ena State Park and into an area known as Kailio beaches.  You will ultimately end up at Ke'e beach.  It's a great walk.