Beaches and Parks

On the North Shore of Kauai:

Anini Beach
Hawaii’s largest coral reef provides beach activities for families, honeymooners and windsurfers alike.

Hanalei Bay
This 2-mile long bay offers beach activities for the entire family. And it’s within walking distance of Hanalei town.

Ke’e Beach (Ha'ena State Beach Park)
Scenic beach at the end of the road that marks the start of the Kalalau trail. See wonderful sunsets and views of the Napali Coast. Reservations are now required for all out of state visitors. Please visit https://www.gohaena.com/.

Lumahai Beach
Lengthy, secluded stretch of stunning beach with a river.

Honopu Valley
This beach is amongst a jungled valley, which offers possibly the best hike on Kauai (Honopu Ridge).

On the West Side of Kauai:

Polihale State Park – Remote sunny span of white sand at the end of the Kauai’s paved road on Kauai’s West side.

Kalalau Lookout – Spectacular view of knife-edged cliffs and overgrown gorges that drop to the sea 4,000 feet below.

Kekaha Beach Park – Long roadside stretch of sandy beach known for West side sunsets.

Salt Pond Beach Park (Lifeguarded) – Protected reef offering water and beach activities for everyone.

On the South Shore of Kauai:

Kipu Kai Beach
A grand “Hoary Head” mountain ridge frames the golden sands of Kipu Kai beach. Only accessible by boat.

Kukuiolono Park
Features a gorgeous Japanese garden, legend stones, and a panoramic view.

Mahaulepu Beach
Large undeveloped beach that reveals Kauai’s history in its geological landscape.

Poipu Beach Park (Lifeguarded)
Perfect for the whole family. Offers a variety of beach facilities for picnics and barbeques, as well as water activities.

Prince Kuhio Park
A short beach perfect for snorkeling when calm and more advanced water activities during the summer.

Shipwreck Beach
Marks the beginning of the Mahaulepu Heritage trail and offers a great boogie board break for the experienced.

In Lihue/Kalapaki of Kauai:

Hanamaulu Beach Park
About six acres in area with tables, restrooms, barbecue facilities and showers. The surf is gentle and swimming is safe.

Kalapaki Beach
This harbor offers beach activities for the family within walking distance of Nawiliwili’s shop and restaurants.

Lydgate State Park
Family-friendly, protected beach bordered by a 2.5-mile coastal paved path.

Ninini/Running Waters
Great beach location for swimming and enjoying a clear view of nearby mountain ranges and Nawiliwili Harbor.

Niumalu Beach Park
Covers three acres with picnic tables, showers and restrooms. Also suitable for kayaking up-river and sailboarding.

Niumalu Harbor
Adjacent to Niumalu Park are Nawiliwili Harbor, the main port for Kauai, and Nawiliwili Small Boat Harbor.

On the Coconut Coast/Wailua/Kapaa:

Wailua River State Park
The sacred Wailua river feeds into this windward beach. Ocean conditions suited for the novice, however, always check with the lifeguard before entering the unpredictable Hawaiian waters.

Lydgate Beach Park (Lifeguarded)

Tree-lined beach with jetty-enclosed swimming areas popular for snorkeling, plus picnics & camping.

Kealia Beach (Lifeguarded)

Local surfers, boogie boarders & sunbathers frequent this beach with picnic pavilions & bathrooms.

Anahola Beach Park (Lifeguarded)