Queen’s Bath – Kauai
Queen’s Bath located in Princeville, Kauai is a popular tide pool and tourist destination. A quick .8 mile hiking trail leads to this beautiful yet sometimes dangerous Kauai hot spot. Located in a residential neighborhood this almost hidden trail is incredibly lush with green vegetation. After putting in some effort to carefully walk over thick tree vines on this more often than not muddy trail, a picturesque view of the bright blue Pacific Ocean rewards you. A small opening in the woods is the perfect spot to stop and take in this beautiful sight as you make your way to Queen’s Bath.
After you continue on the path, some downed trees and a small water crossing will add to the adventure of this fun yet quick hike! Sneakers, especially those with traction, are perfect to wear to keep you safe from slipping. I saw many tourists wearing flip flops trying to hike this trail however, I certainly would advise against it if you want your trek to be much easier.
Once you make your way from the forest you will have stunning ocean views with natural rock formations and palm trees making this muddy, vine-filled hike worth it!
WARNING!!
Queen’s Bath is known for drownings especially during winter or hide tide and high surf. The water can powerfully overflow into the tide pool carrying swimmers out into the ocean with its strong currents. I visited Queen’s Bath in the summer, knowing how dangerous the north shore Kauai tides are in the winter months. I researched and checked the surf and advised recommendations and tide times to swim however, I wouldn’t recommend anyone take the risk to get in the water. There is an ominous sign before the tide pool counting all the lives taken from the reckless waters here.
Luckily, when I visited Queen’s Bath, as researched, the water was calm and the tide was low. No water came into the tide pool until it reached about 11am and still the tide was not strong however, I did get nervous at this point and I got out quickly. Again, I definitely do not advise that anyone swim here. It is nice to visit Queen’s Bath simply to enjoy the stunning views!
Parking
Plug “Queen’s Bath” into Google maps and the directions will take you to a very small parking lot at the trailhead. The address populates as Kapiolani Loop Princeville, HI 96722. You can also click on the All Trails link. Since this parking lot is super small another option to park is location down the street at the Princeville Makai Golf Course. Just park and walk up to the golf shop on site and pay for a day pass. The walk is about 10 minutes or so to the Queen’s Bath trailhead. I opted to park at the golf course as the trailhead lot was full upon my arrival and I didn’t mind walking; I was in Hawaii after all!
Trail
The path that takes you to Queen’s Bath is .08 mile and is an out and back trail. Expect mud and thick vines. It is advised to wear sneakers or hiking shoes.
Here is a video on my trip to Kauai with some footage of Queen’s Bath:
