adminA paradise island like Kauai comes with paradise beaches to match. We explored quite a few beaches—not because we love sunbathing all day, but because the landscapes are simply breathtaking. Some beaches are hidden gems, others feature impressive coral reefs. At some, you have to be careful not to stumble over a turtle or seal! The beaches are perfect for a visit after other activities like a hike or a boat tour. No matter where you are on the island, there’s always a beautiful beach nearby! This Google Maps planner shows all interesting beaches. In this article you’ll find some of my favorites!
Mahaulepu Beach
This beautiful and remote beach marks the end of the stunning Mahaulepu Trail. It is one of Kauai’s lesser-known yet breathtaking coastal hikes. This beach is located along the island’s southern coastline. It delivers everything you’d imagine in a paradise setting. You will find white sands, turquoise waters, and rugged cliffs. Don’t miss the Makauwahi Cave at the trail’s end! The cave closes early, we were too late, but got a good look on the sinkhole from above. This archaeological treasure is the largest limestone cave in Hawaii. It is a site rich with ancient fossils and artifacts. This cave offers a unique peek into Kauai’s natural history. Don’t forget to bring your camera—this spot is picture perfect!
Secret Beach
This beach is located on the island’s north shore and is definitely one of the best beaches of Kauai. The hike to Secret Beach (Kauapea Beach) from the parking lot is short but steep. It is not a real parking lot by the way, more cars parking on the side of a road.
This beach is a hidden gem and a true slice of paradise! The secluded beach has golden sands and impressive cliffs. If you want to spot your dream house, there are a few of them on top of the cliffs! The beach is stunning, but the waves can be powerful. So be careful, especially in the tide pools on the left side. When we visited this place, we saw a few daring surfers braving the waves. It’s risky, but an incredible sight to watch! If you search a good place to relax, this is the place to be!
Tunnels Beach
Tunnels Beach is easily accessible, which makes it popular and a bit crowded at peak times. It’s the top spot on Kauai for snorkeling, what makes it one of the best beaches. The waters are calm and shallow near the shore. The inner reef provides a kind of protective lagoon. Fun fact: Tunnels Beach got its name from the underwater lava tubes. These tubes create a unique labyrinth for divers. The beach is ideal for snorkeling year-round. However, the best time to visit is during summer. Calmer ocean conditions during this time create clearer visibility and safer water access.
It is really important to arrive early here for extra convenience. Secure parking in the small lot nearby or along the road. Spots fill up quickly. If you go snorkeling don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the delicate marine ecosystem here!
Haena Beach
At the end of the road in the north of Kauai, you’ll find Haena Beach. It is the gateway to paradise and the start of the iconic Kalalau Trail. So it really deserves a place in this list of the best beaches in Kauai. The beaches in this area, like Haena and Ke’e Beach, have a unique charm that attracts visitors and locals alike. You’ll see the area’s popularity through the long lines of cars. Cars park along the road for miles, especially during the high season.
Haena Beach has soft sand, stunning ocean views, and proximity to lush mountains. The beach is perfect for beautiful snorkeling in the summer months when waters are calmer. However, checking the conditions is essential as they can be unpredictable, especially in winter. This area of Kauai is steeped in Hawaiian culture. Nearby sacred sites and ancient caves add to the mystical feel of the landscape.
Parking at Haena parking lot can be challenging due to limited spaces, so arriving early is key. Remember that permits are required for parking (and hiking the Kalalau Trail!), which you can reserve online well in advance.
Queens Bath
Queen’s Bath is a dramatic rocky beach with a massive tide pool on Kauai’s north shore. Queen’s Bath is known for its unique natural pool. It is formed in a lava shelf and filled with ocean water as waves crash in. It’s spectacular to witness the force of nature here.
The name “Queen’s Bath” stems from its history as a sacred bathing area for Hawaiian royalty. The area’s lava rock formations and tide pools attract a variety of sea life. While we were there, we spotted a group of dolphins playing near the rocks. It was an unforgettable moment that gave us a glimpse of the magical, untouched beauty of Kauai’s north shore.
The steep trail down to the pool begins at a small parking lot. The little gate in the beginning of the trail is open from 7 am until 7 pm. However, it often closes during high surf or rough weather conditions. It is possible to go down to the trail using one of the little paths on the left side of the parking lot. But remember that it is really risky when the trail is officially closed due to powerful waves. The site is one of the most dangerous tourist spots in Hawaii. Around 20 drownings have occurred there in recent years according to locals. So caution is essential. If conditions aren’t safe, consider Hanalei Beach nearby for a safer experience.
Po’ipu Beach
Tree tunnel
When you turn off Highway 50 toward Poʻipu, you’ll pass through the famous Tree Tunnel. This is a stretch of Maluhia Road lined with towering eucalyptus trees. These trees have grown so densely together that they form a natural canopy. Just before reaching Poʻipu, you’ll drive through the charming town of Koloa. There are This historic town is dotted with food trucks in the center, perfect for a quick bite. Koloa is also a great place to stop for souvenir shopping, the other good spot for souvenir shopping is Hanalei in the north by the way.
Beaches
Po’ipu Beach on Kauai’s sunny south shore is one of the island’s most popular and best beaches in Kauai. This area has clear waters ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and spotting sea life. The beach is family-friendly, with a natural wading pool area protected by a reef. The reef provides calm waters for kids and beginner swimmers. It’s common to see Hawaiian green sea turtles and even the endangered Hawaiian monk seal basking on the sand. Po’ipu also has a dedicated lifeguard station, so this is one of the safest beaches on the island!
Other highlights
In fact, the entire Po’ipu area is interesting to visit. Nearby is the lush Allerton Garden, part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, with an impressive collection of exotic plants, waterfalls, and tropical fruit trees. Not far from Po’ipu Beach is the Spouting Horn. This is a blowhole that shoots seawater into the air with a loud, hissing sound due to ocean waves hitting an underwater lava tube.
It’s also near Poipu that the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail starts. This is a coastal hike from Shipwreck Beach to the ancient Makauwahi Cave. This cave is the largest limestone cave in Hawaii, with intriguing fossils and crystals. It closes early, so be in time if you want to visit this place!
[…] Kauai’s coastline stretches 177 km. It offers some of the most stunning beaches, from white sandy shores to rugged cliffs including the iconic Na Pali Coast. In the south, you might even stumble upon a sea turtle napping in the sun. Hawaiian monk seals can also be found lounging on the beaches. They’re unbothered by tourists, as volunteers ensure these animals have a bit of space on the sand. The ocean is tempting for surfers, snorkelers, and swimmers, but each year, people lose their lives underestimating its dangers. Always follow the guidelines on the beach signs to avoid surprises! You find the must visit beaches here. […]