5 Best Beaches on Kauai
*It is SO important to emphasize that not all of these beaches have life guards and the ocean can be very dangerous. Always be super careful and pay attention to posted signs.
(Hanalei Pier gets an honorable mention)
5. Sheraton (Kiahuna) Beach - Poipu
Located on the south part of the island in Poipu, Sheraton’s beach is right in front of the Sheraton Hotel and the perfect spot for beginners to learn how to surf. The water is beautiful and there is plenty of sand. There are some rocky portions but a good majority sand. The south side is known for having great weather and lots of sun.
4. Kekaha Beach - Kekaha
This beach is located on the west side which is even more so known for being clear and sunny when the rest of the island may be cloudy or rainy. Kekaha beach is very long so there is plenty of sand. People park along the side of the road or many trucks will off-road and drive in the sand to set up tents. The only downside is that sometimes it can get really windy on the west side and big wind gusts + sand is not a fun combination. But this is a great spot where people often go boogie boarding too.
(The only photo I took here was of this funky limo parked at the beach #sorrynotsorry )
3. Kealia Beach
Located in Kapaa on the east side, Kealia Beach is a long strip of land that is beautiful and has a decent amount of parking as well. Near some great food options as well.
2. Lumaha’i Beach
Located on the north part of the island, past Hanalei, Lumaha’i beach is incredibly beautiful. You have to hike down a little to get to it (be careful, I slipped and fell on the hike down and it HURT). But the insanely soft sand and clear blue waters are worth it. Lumaha’i is known for occasionally having insanely strong waves/current and there is no lifeguard so beware. If you are ever in doubt, just don’t go swimming. Tanning at the beach is worth it and you can find a little shade there too. The north side of the island gets WAY more rain than anywhere else so be sure to check the weather before making the trip.
1. Polihale State Park
I have been to many beaches around the world and this definitely ranks as one of my favorite beaches ever. It is as far west as you can go on the island before hitting the Nāpali coast. The mountains are breathtaking and the sand is incredibly soft. Since it is a state park there are bathrooms but no lifeguards. The water here can also get very strong depending on the season so use caution and don’t push it. A lot of people off-road in their trucks on the beach. Also because to even get to the state park you have to drive…FIVE MILES DOWN A BUMPY DIRT ROAD. Please do not try to do this drive with a low ride car or an unreliable vehicle.
It is also important to note that this is an incredibly sacred area to the Hawaiian people and their ancestors. So even though it is a fun & beautiful beach, please make sure to be respectful and mindful of its history.
