East Side
Kalapaki Beach
A curved bay near Lihue, with beach time, surf lessons, and places to eat nearby.
Plan your visit
We like pairing a lesson here with a relaxed lunch in the Kalapaki area.
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Kauai Beaches
Find a stretch of coast that fits your island day.
We make room for beach time in almost every Kauai itinerary. Pick a shore near your other plans, enjoy the scenery, and ask a lifeguard about today’s ocean conditions before entering the water.
12 ideas to explore
Explore surf lessons
East Side
Lydgate Beach Park
A beach park with rock-enclosed swimming areas, picnic space, and a playground.
Plan your visit
Check conditions with the lifeguard even inside the enclosed areas.
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East Side
Kealia Beach
An open stretch of sand beside the coastal path north of Kapaa.
Plan your visit
A good scenery stop on an East Side day. Strong surf and currents require caution.
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West Side
Polihale
A remote west-side beach beneath the dramatic end of the Na Pali cliffs.
Plan your visit
Check park access, the rough approach road, and your rental agreement before setting out. Plan to enjoy the view from shore.
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West Side
Salt Pond Beach Park
A west-side beach park near Hanapepe and traditional Hawaiian salt-making areas.
Plan your visit
Respect the salt-making area and check ocean conditions before swimming.
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West Side
Glass Beach
A small shoreline stop near Port Allen, known for weathered glass among the sand.
Plan your visit
Look carefully and leave glass and other natural features in place. We suggest this as a short sightseeing stop.
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North Shore
Hanalei Bay
A sweeping bay with mountain views, sandy shoreline, and the familiar pier.
Plan your visit
We combine Hanalei with a town stroll or a surf lesson. Winter surf can be powerful.
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North Shore
Anini Beach
A reef-fringed shoreline with a quieter feel and broad coastal views.
Plan your visit
Reef protection does not eliminate currents. Check conditions and avoid channels.
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North Shore
Keʻe Beach
The end-of-the-road beach within Hāʻena State Park.
Plan your visit
Nonresident visitors need advance park reservations. Check the current entry and transport options before driving out.
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South Shore
Poipu Beach Park
A popular South Shore beach park with nearby food and a lively family atmosphere.
Plan your visit
Give resting turtles and monk seals plenty of space, and follow posted barriers and lifeguard guidance.
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South Shore
Shipwrecks Beach
A scenic South Shore beach beside the Grand Hyatt and the coastal walking area.
Plan your visit
We enjoy the shoreline views here. Strong shorebreak can make swimming hazardous.
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South Shore
Kukuiʻula Harbor
A small harbor and beach area with coastal views near Poipu.
Plan your visit
Keep clear of boats and launch activity, and check conditions before entering the water.
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Before you go
A beautiful beach can still have dangerous surf and currents. Beach descriptions are planning ideas, not live swimming conditions.
Check lifeguarded beaches & conditions →