The best beaches in Kauai: Surfing, snorkeling, or relaxing

Napali Coast seen from the doors-off helicopter, Kauai

Did you know that the best beaches in Hawaii are on the island of Kauai?

You might just find the beach of your dreams here. Which one will it be?

No matter what your hobbies are, the weather conditions, how much you feel like walking, or your mood.

In Kauai you are going to find the perfect beach for you.

To make your decision easier, I've prepared this comparison table with the best beaches in Kauai.

Want to know more about them?

Here I list them by area. And remember that all of them are marked on the map at the bottom of this page, so you don't miss a single one.

West, the Napali Coast

Due to the island's terrain, with the spectacular Napali Coast separating land and sea, this is the hardest part of Kauai to access. And its beaches are no exception…

Hanakapiai Beach

After hiking the first 2 miles (3.2 km) of the Kalalau Trail, you'll find Hanakapiai Beach.

Although an overnight permit isn't needed to reach it, access is very tricky. And not just because of the difficulty of the trail itself—which is definitely a factor—but because you'll have to cross the Hanakapiai River. Don't believe it? Check out the video we filmed on our adventure along the Kalalau Trail, and prepare to be amazed.

The currents are very strong in this area. In winter, all the sand is likely to disappear underwater and you won't even be able to see the beach. Due to these conditions, for safety reasons, swimming is prohibited.

Kalalau Beach

The Kalalau Trail ends at this paradise beach, after 11 miles (17.6 km) of one of Kauai's most demanding treks.

As a reward for your effort, and with your overnight permit in hand, here you can swim. But don't let your guard down, currents are very dangerous along this west coast of Kauai.

In high season, another option to get here is to take a boat.

Polihale Beach

This gorgeous beach, with side views of the cliffs of the Napali Coast, boasts one of the best sunsets on the island. However, it has very difficult access via an unpaved dirt road, which gets worse after rain.

Remember that most car rental agencies do not allow driving on these types of roads. What's more, it's not even easy to walk, as it is too long and lacks shaded areas.

If, despite this, you decide to venture out, drive slowly, keep an eye out for potholes on the trail, and remember to park far from the sand. Many vehicles get stuck on this beach.

North: Snorkeling and currents

In the north, the weather usually makes beach days a bit more complicated:

The ocean currents are always very strong. So, if you're not an experienced swimmer, I recommend only swimming where there are lifeguards and always following their safety instructions.
The sea is usually rough. This can be great for surf lovers, depending on the beach, but not for divers or casual swimmers.
Here it rains more than in the south. As on almost every island I've been to (with a few exceptions…), the north is always wetter.

Below, I'll break down the best beaches you'll find in North Kauai.

Ke’e Beach

This little beach is a gem. It marks the trailhead for the Kalalau Trail, so you can drive right to it. That said, the parking spots, besides being limited, are mostly on bumpy, pothole-filled terrain.

It offers one of the best sunsets on the island. If the swell permits, it's also a great spot for snorkeling or spending the day enjoying the ocean. Make sure to bring your own snorkel gear, as there are no shops in the area. Be sure to ask the lifeguards about currents before jumping in.

Next to the beach there are restrooms, cold showers, and a drinking water fountain. Plus, you'll often see Hawaii's wild chickens running around, which animal lovers will adore.

Tunnels Beach

This is ranked among the best beaches in Kauai for snorkeling. When the sea is calm, it's suitable for both beginner and experienced divers. However, because the reef is very shallow, you should avoid entering the water when there are waves.

It's famous for surfing, though this is strictly for pros. Forget about learning to surf at Tunnels Beach.

From here you can also catch a beautiful sunset. Public restrooms are located on the western side of the beach, known as Haena Beach Park.

Warning: Before reaching Tunnels and Ke’e Beach, you'll cross a small stream running across the road. Its water level depends on rainfall. So, if it's pouring down and you're not driving a 4×4, go with plan B. It will be for the best.

Hanalei Bay

This gorgeous bay in northern Kauai is an ideal spot to spend a relaxing beach day. It offers more than 3 km of shoreline for walking and a photogenic pier where you can soak in the views.

It's a great spot for families with kids and anyone looking to learn or practice surfing, bodyboarding, or SUP (Stand-up Paddleboarding), thanks to the protection provided by the beach's crescent shape. You'll also find public restrooms and several lifeguard towers.

Pali Ke Kua Beach

I didn't get to see this almost secret little beach with my own eyes. And I say almost because if I found it online before arriving in Kauai, it means plenty of people already know it exists.

You get down to it via a steep path and, word is, it's not suitable for seniors or anyone with mobility issues. I imagine it's something like the hike down to Queen’s Bath, which isn't far away, and it totally puts me off going. Especially with Ke’e, Tunnels, or the next one up, Anini Beach, right in the same area. And that's exactly why I skipped it.

However, the tricky access means fewer crowds. If you want to enjoy the beach almost all to yourself and discover some of the best snorkeling on the island, give it a shot. Just be extra careful with the strong currents in this area.

Anini Beach

This beach has no lifeguards, but it does have restrooms and even picnic tables. It's a gorgeous spit of white sand stretching out in front of one of the prettiest and most accessible coral reefs in Kauai.

Currents tend to be strong, although the reef protects the coast from waves. Therefore, it's ideal for confident divers. However, if you don't have much snorkeling experience or the sea is too rough, I recommend choosing a beach with lifeguards who can keep you safe.

It's also famous among windsurfers and kitesurfing enthusiasts, as the reef creates a calm surface on the water that mimics lake conditions.

Secret Beach

Don't let the name fool you, it's no secret to anyone. Originally called Kauapea Beach, this spot has tricky access via a dirt path, so it gets fewer visitors than others in the area.

Even though I didn't see it with my own eyes, they say it's as beautiful as it is dangerous.

It doesn't offer snorkeling, but rather surfing and bodyboarding. However, it's only suitable for very experienced individuals, as the currents are very strong.

South, relaxation and sunsets

Although Kauai's beaches are characterized by a humid tropical climate, it rains a bit less in the south of the island than in the north, and the sea generally stays calmer.

Here are some of the best beaches you'll find in the south of Kauai:

Mahaulepu Beach

This beach has tricky access. An unpaved road leads to it, which is strictly prohibited by most rental car companies.

On the other hand, you can also reach it on foot via the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail, an easy path that hugs the coast from Shipwrecks Beach to Mahaulepu Beach.

It's very windy, making it well known among windsurfers. However, due to strong currents, it's only recommended for experienced athletes. At the far northwestern end of the beach, when conditions are very favorable, there's a chance to go snorkeling and, sometimes, even see Hawaiian monk seals resting on the sand.

If you're lucky enough to spot them, remember, approaching within 30 meters of these seals is strictly forbidden.

This rule isn't there to make your life difficult, but for their well-being. When a seal hauls out onto the sand, it's to rest. If you disturb that moment, you'll force it back into the ocean prematurely. Besides reducing its chances of feeding and surviving predators, you'll be teaching it that the beach isn't safe, so it might never return. On behalf of everyone, thank you for respecting them.

We hiked the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail on a day that wasn't ideal for enjoying Mahaulepu Beach as it deserved. Check out the post I wrote about our experience on the Mahaulepu Trail and you'll see why I say this.

Shipwrecks Beach

A great beach for surfing and bodyboarding; though definitely not for beginners. The swell is usually very strong, and so are the currents.

It's located right in front of the Grand Hyatt Resort, but thanks to a Hawaiian law that applies across the entire archipelago, it isn't the hotel's private property. You'll find free parking next to it, along with public restrooms and showers.

It serves as the starting point for the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail.

Poipu Beach

This beach is very comfortable. It features amenities, lifeguards, and a good, fairly safe snorkeling area. It doesn't get such strong currents, though the surf spot is only suitable for experienced athletes. Plus, it's an ideal place to catch the sunset.

All these perks, combined with the fact that the weather is usually milder than up north, make Poipu one of the most crowded beaches on the island during high season.

We even spotted a green sea turtle resting on the shore of this beach. By the way, treat turtles just like seals. Don't get too close to them, let them rest in peace. Use your camera's zoom lens to take in the details.

East, wind and surf

Since I don't surf, the beaches on the east side of the island weren't the ones that caught my eye the most during our trip to Kauai.

But, hey!

To each their own, right?

So, if you want to surf or learn how to do it, take a look at the following spots:

Kealia Beach

When the wind isn't too strong, it's a great beach to learn how to surf. However, during very rough sea conditions, unless you're practically a pro, it's best to stay out of the water. Due to the strong currents, you're better off checking with the lifeguard before diving in.

It has restrooms, a picnic area, and easy parking.

Wailua Beach

This beach is only suitable for highly experienced surfers. If that's not you, it's best to steer clear. It has no amenities or lifeguards, and offers very limited roadside parking.

Kalapaki Beach

This beach is perfect for families with kids, swimmers, and anyone wanting to learn how to surf or bodyboard, thanks to the shelter of a small harbor or natural bay.

It features restrooms and a large parking area, but has no lifeguard on duty.

Tips

One of the greatest charms of Kauai's beaches is that, on most of them, you won't find big buildings, beach bars, or souvenir shops.

On Kauai's best beaches, you'll enjoy nature in its purest form.

Therefore, remember to pack the essentials:

Water.
Food.
Sun protection: sunscreen, hat…
Gear for the activities you've planned: snorkeling, surfing, bodyboarding, windsurfing…

And if reaching the beach requires walking along a trail, don't forget to lace up a good pair of hiking boots to tread safely. In these cases, you can leave the flip-flops at home!

Conclusion

My favorite beach in Kauai?

Anini, for its beauty and for how much I enjoyed snorkeling and diving among turtles.

What about you, what do you look for in a beach?

Above-water sports: surfing, windsurfing…
Underwater sports: snorkeling, scuba diving…
A stretch of white sand, the longer the better.
Unforgettable sunsets.
Escaping the crowds.
Lifeguards and facilities.
…

There's something for everyone, the choice is yours! Don't be shy and tell me which one is your favorite in the comments.

And, once on the island, don't even think about leaving without visiting the Napali Coast, either by sea or by flying over Kauai in a helicopter.

You can also enjoy it from one of the hikes starting at Kokee Road, in the heart of Waimea Canyon, like the Awaawapuhi Trail.

I'll be honest with you: Kauai is totally worth it.

Wherever you go, wherever you look, you'll fall in love with the scenery around you.

And if you're on the more adventurous side, will you dare to tackle the Kalalau Trail? Let me know how it goes…

Plus, if you're looking for inspiration, check out my Kauai roadmap, our step-by-step trip. And don't forget to look at the tips to plan your own trip to this gorgeous Hawaiian island.

Oh! Want to explore another Hawaiian island? Take a look at our experience in Maui:

Useful links

Website to apply for the camping permit along the Napali Trail.
All Kauai beaches, in English.
Booking deals in Kauai.
ESTA application.
International flight deals to Hawaii: Trabber, eDreams and Momondo.
5% discount on your IATI travel insurance.

The best beaches in Kauai: Surfing, snorkeling, or relaxing—what's your pick?