Kauai's stunning beaches with golden sand and turquoise water

Kauai's Top 10 Beaches

Your guide to the island's best stretches of sand and sea

Written by a Local Expert

Hanalei Bay (North Shore)

Best for: All-around beach experience with stunning beauty, gentle summer waves for learning to surf, and a charming town nearby.

Poipu Beach (South Shore)

Best for: Families and turtle spotting. Protected swimming area and reliable sunshine make this a perfect choice year-round.

Tunnels Beach (North Shore)

Best for: Experienced snorkelers. Massive reef system with underwater lava tubes and dramatic mountain backdrop. Best in calm summer months.

Lydgate Beach Park (East Side)

Best for: Young children. Features two man-made, rock-enclosed ponds that are always calm and safe, plus a great playground.

Polihale State Park (West Side)

Best for: Sunsets and solitude. A vast, remote 17-mile stretch of sand at the end of a rugged dirt road. The most westerly beach in Hawaii.

Anini Beach (North Shore)

Best for: Beginner snorkelers and year-round calm water. Thanks to the longest protective reef in Hawaii, conditions here are reliably gentle.

Ke'e Beach (North Shore)

Best for: Dramatic scenery. Located at the very end of the road and the start of the famous Kalalau Trail. Requires Hāʻena State Park reservation.

Salt Pond Beach Park (West Side)

Best for: Local experience. A favorite with kama'āina (locals) featuring calm, protected swimming areas and large grassy lawns perfect for a family barbecue.

Shipwreck Beach (South Shore)

Best for: Adventurous body surfers and coastal hiking. The starting point for the beautiful Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail. Strong currents make swimming challenging.