Kauai is known for its awesome cliffs, rainforests, and canyons. It is also home to some of the most gorgeous beaches as well spread across 50 miles of white sandy coastline. The beaches are usually not teeming with crowds and they offer unspoiled incredible views as well as relaxation and a variety of water adventures.
Presented below is a list of the best beaches in Kauai, as per their locations. Also check out the ones that are awesome for snorkeling and swimming.
North Shore Beaches in Kauai
- Tunnels Beach: It is one of the best places to snorkel, particularly during summer when the ocean waters are calmer. Tunnels beach is spread across 2 miles from Haena Beach Park to Hanalei Colony Resort. Around 1/8th of a mile away from the shore is the famous crescent shaped reef. Families can enjoy swimming in shallow waters at the beach while adventure seekers can go diving in the deep-water caverns situated close to the shore.
- Anini Beach: Spread across 2 miles of white shimmering simmering sands, Anini Beach is also protected by a big coral reef. The calm waters and the tranquil lagoon makes for an ideal place for beginners to try windsurfing or snorkeling. You can also go scuba diving or swimming or camping in the nearby park. The park has restrooms, showers, and other facilities, but no lifeguards.
- Hanalei Bay: A truly unique beach, Hanalei Bay features over 2 miles of white soft sands surrounded by majestic hills. Novice surfers can try out the smaller waves located close to the reef, while experienced surfers can revel in the big waves. During summers, the waters are really tranquil and thus a boom for swimmers and activities like stand-up paddling. Children can freely run about the beach as it is rarely overrun by people. Hanalei Bay is indeed a paradise that offers something for everyone!
- Ke`e Beach: Located between Limahuli stream and NaPali at Highway 560’s end, Ke`e Beach on the north shore of Kauai is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Hence, it tends to be almost always crowded and parking spots become scarce after 10 in the morning. The lagoon-shaped beach with incredible reefs makes for awesome shoreline snorkeling. There is abundance of reef fish and the water is crystal clear. The popularity of the beach arises from the spectacular view that the NaPali Coast offers. One has to actually see it to understand the incredible beauty of the landscape. The trailhead for Kalalau Trail also begins on this beach.
South Shore Beaches in Kauai
- Poipu Beach: It is one of the most popular beaches in Kauai and is known for its clear blue waters and occasional visits by the Hawaiian monk seal. The Travel Channel has crowned this beach as the America’s Best Beach. The beach is naturally divided by a sand bar into 2 smaller bays. The eastern area is ideal for beachgoers who want to swim, snorkel, surf, boogie board, or engage in other activities. The western bay is kind of wading pool for infants, and hence known as ‘baby beach.’ Poipu Beach has all facilities like picnic spots, lifeguards, pavilions, and showers, etc., thus making it a paradise for families and all.
- Mahaulepu Beach: It is a privately-owned remote beach and very popular spot for swimming, fishing, snorkeling, windsurfing, and sunbathing. The landowner closes the beach at 6 pm. Public access to the beach is allowed by the landowner at our own risk. The shoreline is undeveloped and provides acres of exploration activities such as a great hike across cultural and geological sites present alongside the coastal trail.
- Kiahuna Beach: It is one of the best beaches on south shore of Kauai. Kiahuna is a great place for novice surfers, swimmers, and boogie boarders to have fun. When the weather permits, then it can also be a good beach for snorkeling.
East Side Beaches in Kauai
- Kalapaki Beach: Located next to the Marriott Kauai Beach Club, Kalapaki Beach is a great place for picnics, sunbathing, and watching surfers ride the big waves. You can also go surfing. There is partial protection of the beach from the open ocean which offers safe and calm conditions for children.
- Lydgate Beach Park: A big wall of lava rock shields the beach from the open ocean and hence the Lydgate Beach Park lagoon is a popular playing ground for kids. It is also a great place to snorkel. Families will enjoy this beach because varied facilities like lifeguards, restrooms, and picnic spots are present here.
- Kealia Beach: This golden sand beach stretches for half a mile along the coastline adjacent to the bend of Highway 56. It has a long sand-bar bottom which offers a good surf break. A breakwater at the northern end has made a protected section where one can boogie board or swim. Lifeguards and other facilities are available at Kealia Beach.
West Side Beaches in Kauai
- Salt Pond Beach Park: This inviting west shore beach is situated near Hanapepe and offers the perfect opportunities for swimming, relaxation, and or exploration of the shallow and low tide pools. There are several traditional salt-collecting ponds nearby and Hawaiian families have made natural sea salt from these for several generations. Varied facilities, including lifeguards, are present here.
- Polihale Beach: It is not easy to reach Polihale Beach, but once you arrive you not regret the effort. The jaw-dropping fabulous views of the ending cliffs of NaPali are more than sufficient to make up for the trip to the beach. The beach stretches across 12 miles, but more than 7 miles are occupied y a military base. Even then, it is quite easy to find a secluded private spot on this pristine beach. The waters are dangerous for swimming, but the white sands and sunshine is ideal for sunbathing and relaxation.
- Kekaha Beach: This west shore beach is a local favorite for fishing and surfing. The long stretch of white sands is also perfect for long walks and beachcombing. The beach is also a great place to view a stunning kaleidoscopic sunset. Strong currents and winds can occasionally make swimming a dangerous preposition. Hence, check the conditions before venturing into the waters.
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