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Kauai Beaches
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Beaches of Kauai

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While known for its impressive cliffs, canyons and rainforests, Kauai also has some of Hawaii’s most picturesque beaches. Eighty kilometres of white sand surround Kauai, and many of these beaches provide intimate atmospheres away from the crowds.

North Shore Beaches :
During the winter, swells and currents on the North Shore can increase, so use caution and heed warning signs when swimming.

Anini Beach Park: Features kilometres of white sandy beach. A quiet lagoon created by a reef is perfect for beginning snorkellers. Facilities are available but there are no lifeguards.

Hanalei Bay Beach Park: Just east of Princeville in Hanalei Town, Hanalei Bay is a perfect, curved bay of incredible beauty known for the Hanalei Pier. Public toilets, a pavilion and lifeguards are available. Note that the beach is subject to strong currents so heed all warning signs.

Kee Beach: Found at the end of Highway 560, the reefs here make for great shoreline snorkelling. Kee Beach is also ideal for sunbathing. This is where you’ll find the trailhead for the Napali Coast’s Kalalau Trail. Lifeguards on duty.

Lumahai Beach: Among the most beautiful beaches on the island, with a wide sandy shoreline, this is where Mary Martin "washed that man right out of my hair" in the film “South Pacific”. Since there is no lifeguard and currents are strong, swimming is not recommended.

East Side Beaches :

Lydgate Beach Park: Protected from the open ocean by a lava rock wall, the snorkelling lagoon at Lydgate is a popular place for keiki (children). Public toilets, picnic grounds and lifeguards are available at this East Side beach.

Kalapaki Beach: A favourite spot to watch Kauai surfers and offering calm waters for keiki (children), Kalapaki fronts the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club.

Kealia Beach: A half-mile stretch of golden beach hugging the curve of Highway 56, Kealia Beach has a long sand bar bottom which provides a nice surf break. Visitors are asked to swim near the north end, where a breakwater creates a protected area. Lifeguards on duty.

South Shore Beaches :

Poipu Beach Park : With crystal clear waters and occasional Hawaiian monk seal appearances, Poipu Beach Park is one of Kauai’s most popular beaches. Poipu also has a natural wading pool for young swimmers. Lifeguards, picnic facilities, showers and pavilions make this a great beach for the family on the South Shore.

West Side Beaches:
Salt Pond Beach Park: Located near Hanapepe on the West Side, this inviting park is a great place for relaxing, swimming and sunbathing. During the summer, generations of Hawaiian families have produced natural sea salt here. Lifeguards and facilities available.

Kekaha Beach: This long, sandy beach is a great place for sunbathing. This is also a local surf spot, but be cautious when swimming because of strong currents. Ask the lifeguard on duty about conditions.

NOTE: Heed all warning signs and safety guidelines. Be aware of changing conditions, strong currents and reefs. Use your own best judgment to determine whether a particular beach is appropriate for you and your ability level. Swimming at beaches with lifeguards is highly recommended. Please check with lifeguards or click here for daily water conditions.