Kauai beaches are known for their white sand and warm water, and tourists come from all over to soak up the sun and play in the surf. Check out the list of the best beaches on Kauai to mark off your adventure bucket list on your next visit.
Best Beaches on Kauai for a Perfect Getaway
South Shore Beaches
The island’s South Shore is home to some of the best beaches on Kauai, and the South Shore is a popular spot for luxury vacation rentals, snorkeling and window shopping in Old Koloa Town. Make sure to visit these three South Shore beaches on your next trip.
Baby Beach
Baby Beach is located to the west of Hanakaape Bay and can be accessed off of Hoona Road. There’s a public beach access path, and it’s a popular stop for parents of small children or those who don’t want to get too far into the water. Baby Beach is home to shallow waters that are very calm, which is perfect for wading or looking for shells.
Poipu Beach
Poipu Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Kauai’s South Shore, and for good reason. Poipu Beach Park has lifeguards, showers and the occasional monk seal visitor. The beach itself is a global destination for snorkeling, swimming and surfing. The unique shape of the beach provides a natural wading pool for children and adults alike. Poipu was also named the best beach in America.
Shipwreck Beach
Shipwreck Beach rounds out this list of the best South Shore beaches because it’s known as a surfing destination. The short shore-break at Shipwreck Beach means plenty of waves for intermediate and advanced surfers, but those who aren’t quite as adventurous can sunbathe or hike the shoreline trail. Shipwreck Beach is south of the Makawehi Bluff and the Poipu Bay Golf Course, and it’s easily accessible from a parking lot off Ainako Street.
North Shore Beaches
Kauai’s North Shore has some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll find on the island. It has mountains right up next to the beaches, and the sea cliffs are almost as fun to look at as the waves. If you’re looking for beaches that are a little more removed from the tourist hotspots, these may be a good bet for you.
Anini Beach
Anini Beach is a great choice for those who want a beginner-style beach with calm waters and plenty of shade from the Hawaiian sun. There are many snorkeling spots and windsurfing opportunities, and there are restrooms, picnic spots and showers at Anini Beach Park for a relaxing full day at the beach.
Hanalei Bay Beach
Hanalei Bay Beach is located at the mouth of the Hanalei River where it empties out into the ocean. It’s one of the premier surfing spots on Kauai, but you can also find kayaking, stand up paddleboard and snorkeling opportunities. Visitors can take advantage of the warm water during the summer months, when the water at Hanalei Bay Beach is calm enough for wading and swimming.
Tunnels Beach
Tunnels Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Kauai’s North Shore, also going by the name Makau Beach. The inner and outer reefs that surround the beach help keep the water calm enough for snorkeling, and it’s not uncommon to see a variety of wildlife, from schools of tropical fish to sea turtles and monk seals.
Ke’e Beach
Ke’e Beach is a popular spot for those who want to enjoy the water by swimming and snorkeling, and in the summer, its crystal-clear waters draw in tourists and locals alike. Ke’e Beach is also known for some of the best sunset views of the Na Pali Coast.
West Shore Beaches
Kauai’s West Shore is known for its mountain views, scenic overlooks, hiking trails and historical landmarks, but there are still several beaches to enjoy.
Salt Pond Beach
Salt Pond Beach is just north of Puolo Point and is accessible by Lokokai Road; it’s part of Salt Pond Beach Park. The beach gets its name from the salt beds in the area. There are lots of smaller shallow pools where you can wade and snorkel, and the clear water ensures you get a good view of the wildlife.
Kekaha Beach
Kekaha Beach is a little different from most of the other beaches on this list because it’s not a great spot for swimming or snorkeling. This area usually has larger waves, rougher seas and stronger winds, which make it a good spot for experienced surfers or those who just want to walk the beach and enjoy the scenery.
East Shore Beaches
Home to the famed Kauai Path, the Wailua River and Opaekaa Falls, the East Shore of Kauai has many enjoyable adventures to offer. When it comes to the beaches, you’ll usually find a little more wind and stronger surf.
Anahola Beach
Anahola Beach has the advantage of an outer reef, which helps insulate it from the wind and rougher waters that are common on this side of the island. This makes it a popular spot for swimmers and families. There are also ample fishing opportunities and an abundance of seashells to collect.
Lydgate Beach
Lydgate Beach is just south of the mouth of the Wailua River and Wailua Bay. This beach has two protected lagoons, which makes it a great spot for snorkeling, swimming and wading in the warm waters. Lydgate Beach Park has plenty of amenities nearby, including a playground, a paved path down the coastline, lifeguards and restrooms. Because of its East Shore location, Lydgate Beach is also a prime spot to watch the sunrise.
Access Them All From Koloa Landing
If you’re looking for a place to stay while you visit the Garden Island and explore all it has to offer, Koloa Landing Resort, the best Kauai beach resort, is here to help. Contact us to find out about our luxury accommodations, amenities and packages that can enhance your visit to the Hawaiian Islands.