If there’s one thing I didn’t expect on my first trip to Kauai, it was how different each beach could feel—from wild and remote to calm and swimmable, all within a short drive. Whether you’re hunting for a snorkeling spot, somewhere peaceful to watch the sunset, or just a patch of soft sand to lay out on, Kauai’s beaches deliver.
I spent two weeks exploring the island, and these are the beaches that stood out to me—each for their own reason. If you’re heading to the Garden Isle soon, I hope this list helps you plan your perfect beach day.
1. Hanalei Bay Beach (North Shore)
This beach felt like something out of a movie—literally, since it has been in a few. Surrounded by misty mountains and fringed with palm trees, Hanalei Bay is a wide crescent of golden sand with gentle waves perfect for paddleboarding or just floating.
Why I loved it: The backdrop of the mountains at sunset was surreal.
2. Ke’e Beach
At the very end of the road on the North Shore, Ke’e Beach is where the island meets the start of the Napali Coast. The water here is calm and shallow in summer, thanks to the reef, making it great for snorkeling when visibility is clear.
Tip: You’ll need a permit to park here, so plan ahead if it’s on your itinerary.
3. Tunnels Beach (Makua)
If you want to snorkel with views of the Napali cliffs, this is your beach. Tunnels Beach has a large coral reef that attracts sea turtles and tons of colorful fish.
Best for: Experienced snorkelers and beachgoers who want both beauty and adventure.
4. Poipu Beach (South Shore)
This one’s a favorite for families and first-timers. It’s got lifeguards, shaded picnic areas, and a protected area perfect for kids or mellow floating. I spotted a monk seal napping on the sand the last time I visited!
Nearby: Great lunch spots and shave ice just a few minutes away.
5. Shipwreck Beach
Right next to the Grand Hyatt in Poipu, Shipwreck Beach is popular for sunrise walks and watching cliff jumpers (though I stayed safely on the sand). The waves are strong, so swimming isn’t ideal, but it’s a gorgeous spot for photos and walking trails.
Bonus: The Mahaulepu Heritage Trail starts here.
6. Polihale State Park
It takes a bumpy dirt road to reach Polihale, but the remote vibe is worth it. The beach stretches for miles, and on a clear day, you can see the cliffs of Napali to your left and Niʻihau in the distance.
Bring: Plenty of water, snacks, and something for shade—there are zero facilities.
7. Lydgate Beach Park
This East Coast beach is family-friendly and ideal for beginners learning to snorkel. It has a protected swimming area created by rocks and even a nearby playground for little ones.
Good to know: It’s rarely crowded on weekdays, and sunrise here is peaceful.
8. Anini Beach
I stumbled upon Anini Beach on a drive up the East Coast and ended up staying for hours. It has one of the longest coral reefs in Hawaii, which keeps the water calm.
What makes it special: Ideal for stand-up paddleboarding and beginner snorkeling.
9. Salt Pond Beach Park
A local favorite near Hanapepe on the West Side, Salt Pond is a great place to catch a mellow sunset and chat with residents fishing or barbecuing nearby. There are actual salt ponds nearby still used by local families.
Facilities: Bathrooms, shade, and lifeguards make it an easy choice for families.
10. Kalapaki Beach
Located near Lihue and right by the Marriott, Kalapaki is great for a laid-back afternoon with beach rentals, cafes, and decent waves for beginner surfers.
Try this: Grab a smoothie from the nearby shopping center and watch the cruise ships drift in.
11. Secret Beach (Kauapea Beach)
Not so secret anymore, but still worth the steep trail down. Kauapea Beach is a long, wide beach with strong waves and postcard-perfect views. It’s not safe for swimming, but ideal for quiet moments and photos.
Caution: Be mindful of the currents—no lifeguards here.
12. Lumaha‘i Beach
This one’s more of a “look, don’t swim” kind of spot, especially in winter. But if you’re a fan of cinematic beaches with big waves and dramatic backdrops, Lumaha‘i is a must-visit.
Fun fact: Scenes from South Pacific were filmed here.
13. Baby Beach (Poipu)
A tucked-away little stretch of sand just minutes from the busy Poipu beaches. Baby Beach is small and shallow, ideal if you’re traveling with toddlers or just want a quiet spot with calm waters.
Local tip: There’s limited parking, so go early or late.
Final Thoughts
Each of these beaches gave me something different—some were perfect for swimming, others for solitude, and a few just gave me that “this is why I came to Kauai” feeling. No matter your travel style, there’s a beach on this list you’ll probably fall for too.
If you’ve been to Kauai, I’d love to know which beach was your favorite! And if you’re still planning your trip, don’t miss my Kauai Travel Guide and Top Things to Do in Poipu.
FAQs
What is the best beach for swimming in Kauai?
Poipu Beach and Hanalei Bay are both excellent for swimming, especially in summer.
Which Kauai beach is best for snorkeling?
Tunnels Beach and Anini Beach are my top picks for snorkeling due to calm waters and reef access.
Are Kauai’s beaches safe for kids?
Yes! Beaches like Lydgate Park, Poipu Beach, and Baby Beach are all family-friendly with protected swim areas.
Can you camp on Kauai beaches?
You can camp at some state and county parks, but permits are required. Polihale and Salt Pond are popular options.
Is there a black sand beach in Kauai?
Not like the ones on the Big Island—Kauai’s beaches are mostly golden or white sand.
