When it comes to pure natural beauty in the Hawaiian Islands, it’s hard to top Kauai. At just 25 miles long and 33 miles wide, it’s not one the bigger islands, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in jaw-dropping scenery. Visitors flock to Kauai to soak up its gorgeous surroundings, which include lush forests, colorful flowers, tropical plants, and the awe-inspiring spectacle of Waimea Canyon.
However, like anywhere in Hawaii, the real star of the show in Kauai is the coastline. The island boasts 111 miles of dramatic shoreline, half of which is beach– including this stunning stretch of sand known for its unmatched snorkeling . This means there’s no shortage of spots to kick back on the sand and dive into the clear blue waters that Hawaii is famous for. There is also plenty of action for thrill-seekers, including the Queen’s Bath. A plunge into this stunning natural tidal pool is seen by many as one of the best free things to do while in Kauai . While it remains a popular and very unique destination, the Queen’s Bath can also be a dangerous place, given the capricious nature of the ocean that the island calls home.
Temperamental Waters And Black Volcanic Rock At The Queen’s Bath
Situated on Kauai’s northern coast near the town of Princeville, the Queen’s Bath was probably never an actual bathing place for Hawaii’s royal family. That said, the truth of its name doesn’t matter once you set your eyes on the site: The pool is carved naturally out of black volcanic rock, with clear turquoise-hued water that looks incredibly inviting. Its waters reach depths of about 9 feet in spots and are even home to tropical fish, making the pool a unique snorkeling experience.
Despite its placid and idyllic appearance, the Queen’s Bath can also be a risky place to visit, especially during the winter, when the surf can grow violent. Large waves have been known to blast in and inundate the pool, sometimes sweeping bathers out to sea. While the exact numbers aren’t totally clear, records indicate that 10 people drowned at Queen’s Bath from 1999 to 2018, though a local sign at the site warning visitors of the danger claims that rogue waves have claimed 28 people…