44 Best Sights in Kauai, Hawaii

This drive-up beach park favored by campers year-round has a wide bay named Makua bordered by two large reef systems, creating favorable waves for skilled surfers during peak winter conditions. Entering the water can be dangerous in winter when the big swells roll in. In July and August, waters at this same beach are usually as calm as a lake, and throughout summer this is a premier snorkeling site. It's not unusual to find a food vendor parked here, selling sandwiches and drinks out of a converted bread van. Adjacent to this beach is Tunnels Beach.  This is not the same beach as Kee Beach, which is located in Haena State Park.

Parking is extremely limited (the lot typically fills up by 8:30 am), and all vehicles illegally parked outside of designated parking zones are subject to fines and towing. You can also park your car in the shuttle parking lot in Waipa, west of Hanalei Town, and board the North Shore Shuttle for a ride to the beach park ($40 round-trip with seven stops); see  gohaena.com for details and reservations. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: snorkeling; surfing; walking.

This 2-mile crescent beach cradles a wide bay in a setting that is quintessential Hawaii: the sea is on one side, and behind you are the mountains, often ribboned with waterfalls and changing color in the shifting light. In winter, Hanalei Bay boasts some of the biggest onshore surf breaks in the state, attracting world-class surfers, and the beach is plenty wide enough for sunbathing and strolling. In summer, the bay is transformed—calm waters lap the beach, sailboats moor in the bay, and outrigger-canoe paddlers ply the sea. Pack the cooler, haul out the beach umbrellas, and don't forget the beach toys because Hanalei Bay is worth scheduling for an entire day, maybe two. Several county beach parks—some with pavilions, and all with ample facilities—can be found along the bay: Black Pot (east bay, between the pier and the river mouth, named for the large cookpot used for traditional communal gatherings here), Hanalei Pavilion (west of Black Pot), and Waioli (west of Hanalei Pavilion, with three parking lots accessed off Weke Road). Amenities: lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: sunset; surfing; swimming; walking.

At the most popular beach on the South Shore, the snorkeling and swimming are good during calm seas; when the surf's up, the bodyboarding and surfing are good, too. Frequent sunshine, grassy lawns, play equipment, and easy access add to the appeal, especially with families. The endangered Hawaiian monk seal often makes an appearance, and if you stop by just after sunset, you're likely to witness record numbers of protected green sea turtles coming ashore to sleep. (Please stay at least 10 feet away and do not photograph with flash.) Take a walk west on a path fronting numerous resorts. Note that at the time of writing, this beach is one of a few on Kauai that may institute a parking fee for nonresidents. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: snorkeling; sunbathing; swimming.

No one knows just who built this large, intricate, almost 1,000-year-old aquaculture structure in the Huleia River, but legend attributes it to the Menehune, a mythical—or real, depending on who you ask—ancient race of people known for their small stature, industrious nature, and superb stone-working skills. Volcanic rock was cut and skillfully fit together into massive walls 4 feet thick and 5 feet high, forming a centuries-old enclosure for raising mullet and other freshwater fish. Volunteers removed invasive mangroves and restored the pond to its original condition. You can view it from an overlook about 4 miles from downtown Lihue.

Running from the southern end of Lydgate Park north to Donkey Beach, just south of Anahola, this 8-mile seaside path is a favorite of visitors and locals alike. Sea breezes, gorgeous ocean views, smooth pavement, and friendly smiles from everyone as they bike, walk, skate, and run add to the pleasures of the trail. The path has many entry points from public beaches and private resorts, with some bike shops just off the trail.

Storyboards near this ancient heiau (sacred site) recount the significance of the many sacred structures found along the Wailua River. It's unknown exactly how the ancient Hawaiians used Poliahu Heiau—one of the largest pre-Christian temples on the island—but legend says it was created by the Menehune, the legendary race of little people who were quick builders, because of the unusual stonework found in its walled enclosures. From this site, drive downhill toward the ocean to pohaku hoohanau, a two-piece birthing stone said to confer special blessings on all children born there, and pohaku piko, whose crevices were a repository for umbilical cords left by parents seeking a clue to their child's destiny, which reportedly was foretold by how the cord fared in the rock. Some Hawaiians feel these sacred stones shouldn't be viewed as tourist attractions, so always treat them with respect. Never stand or sit on the rocks or leave any offerings.

When conditions are right, a natural blowhole in the rocky shoreline behaves like Old Faithful, shooting salt water high into the air and making a hollow echoing sound. It's most dramatic during big summer swells, which jam large quantities of water through the ancient lava tube with great force. Most sidewalk vendors hawk inexpensive souvenirs, but a few carry locally set South Sea pearls or rare Niihau-shell creations, with prices ranging from affordable to several thousand dollars. Look for green sea turtles bobbing in the adjacent cove.

This narrow beach is lined with homes, most of them set back a bit and screened with vegetation that blocks access along the sand in a number of places when the surf is up or tide is high. The waters off Aliomanu Beach are protected by the fringing reef 100 yards or so out to sea, and there are pockets for swimming. However, currents can be tricky, especially near the stream tucked in the beach's elbow toward the northern end and at the river mouth on the southern end that demarcates neighboring Anahola Beach. This beach is in Hawaiian Home Lands, an area held in trust for Native Hawaiians by the State of Hawaii, and is frequently used by fishers and local families for camping. There are no restrooms or lifeguards, so plan accordingly. Amenities: parking (no fee). Best for: sunrise.

Anahola is part of the Hawaiian Home Lands on Kauai, so this beach park is definitely a locals' hangout, especially for families with small children. The shallow and calm water at the beach road's end is tucked behind a curving finger of land and is perfect for young ones. As the beach winds closer to the river mouth, there's less protection and a shore break that is favorable for bodyboarders when the trade winds are light or kona (south) winds are present. The long sandy beach is nice for a morning or evening stroll, but the campground often makes this beach busy in summer. Amenities: lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: surfing; swimming; walking.

A great family park, Anini features one of the longest and widest fringing reefs in all Hawaii, creating a shallow lagoon that is good for snorkeling and kids splashing about, even though there are no lifeguards. It is safe except for when strong currents are created by the surf raging outside the reef. A rip current exists between the two reefs where the boats enter and exit the beach ramp, so avoid swimming there. The entire reef follows the shoreline for some 2 miles and extends 1,600 feet offshore at its widest point. There's a narrow ribbon of sandy beach with lots of grass and shade, as well as a county campground at the western end and a small boat ramp. Amenities: parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: sunrise; swimming; walking.

There aren't many safe swimming beaches on Kauai's East Side; however, this one ranks highly with parents because there's typically a narrow lagoon-like area between the beach and the reef that is perfect for small children. In winter, watch for east and northeast swells that would make this not such a safe option. There are no beach facilities or lifeguards, so watch your babies. A shower spigot along the roadside provides cold water to rinse off the salt. Amenities: parking (no fee); showers. Best for: sunrise; swimming.

Don't pack the beach umbrella, mats, and cooler for this one—just your snorkel gear, when the seas are calm. This beach—named after neighboring restaurant The Beach House, located along the road to Spouting Horn—is a small slip of sand during low tide and a rocky shoreline when it's high; however, it is conveniently located by the road's edge, and its rocky edge and bottom make it great for snorkeling. (As a rule, sandy-bottom beaches are not great for snorkeling. Rocks provide safe hiding places and grow the food that fish and other marine life like to eat.)

A sidewalk along the coastline on the restaurant side of the beach makes a great vantage point from which to peer into the water and look for honu, the Hawaiian green sea turtles. It's also a very popular gathering spot to watch the sun set. You can park in the tiny public lot across from the beach.  Make reservations for dinner at The Beach House in advance, and time it around sunset. Amenities: parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: snorkeling; sunset; surfing.

This beach is synonymous on Kauai with bodysurfing, thanks to its shallow sandbar and reliable shore break. Because the beach is small and often congested, surfboards are prohibited near shore. The water on the rocky eastern edge of the beach is a good place to see endangered green sea turtles noshing on plants growing on the rocks. Monk seals sometimes haul out here; please allow them to rest. Playground equipment is available, and there's free street parking. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: sunset; surfing.

This beach gets its unusual nickname from the former Lihue Plantation Company, which once kept a herd of mules and donkeys in the pasture adjacent to the beach. If the waves are right, bodyboarders and surfers might be spotted offshore. However, the waters here are usually rough and are not recommended for swimming and snorkeling. Instead, we suggest a morning walk along the easy trail that overlooks the coast, starting at the northern end of Kealia Beach. It's not uncommon to see nude sunbathers here. Amenities: none. Best for: solitude; sunrise; surfing.

Built in 1892, the historic Hanalei Pier can be seen from miles across the bay and is a great spot for photos or taking a leisurely stroll; it attracts a gathering every sunset. The pier came to fame when it was featured in the award-winning 1957 movie South Pacific. Fishers fish here, and picnickers picnic. The pier was refurbished after flooding in 2018.

This narrow, pedestrian-only bridge may not be the biggest adventure on Kauai, but it's enough to make your heart hop. What is interesting is that it's not just for show: it actually provides the only access to taro fields across the Hanapepe River. Considered a historic suspension bridge even though it was rebuilt in 1996 after the early-1900s original was destroyed—like so much of the island—by Hurricane Iniki, the bridge was also repaired following flood damage in 2019. If you're in the neighborhood, it's worth a stroll.

From this roadside lookout, you can take in the farms on the valley floor with the majestic mountains and misty valley as a backdrop. The dramatic canyon-like divide and fertile river valley once housed a thriving Hawaiian community of taro farmers, with some of the ancient fields still in cultivation.

This 1½-mile self-guided walking tour takes you to 14 plaques with historic photos and stories mounted on buildings throughout Hanapepe Town. This little main street had a colorful past––it was a portside "free town," not governed by sugar plantation company rules or decorum, and a deadly labor battle known as the "Hanapepe Massacre" happened here in 1924.

You wouldn't know it today, but this beach on Kilauea Bay was once an interisland steamer landing and a rock quarry. Today, it's a fairly quiet beach—although when the surf closes out many other North Shore surf spots, the break directly offshore from Kilauea Stream near the abandoned quarry is still rideable. For the regular oceangoer, summer's the best bet, although the quickly sloping ocean bottom makes for generally treacherous swimming. The stream estuary is quite beautiful, and the ironwood trees and false kamani growing in the generous sand dunes at the rear of the beach provide protection from the sun. It's a wonderful place to observe seabirds. Amenities: none. Best for: solitude; surfing; walking.

This ocean overlook is perfect for spotting whales during their winter migration. In fact, during their annual whale count in 2023, volunteers with the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary spotted 64 whales here in one day. It's easy to hop on the cement bike-and-walking path just below for a coastal stroll or ride. Most days you can see clear to Lihue and beyond, and it's a great spot to watch the moon rise.

Five minutes south of the airport in Lihue, you'll find this wide beach and sandy-bottom bay fronting Marriott's Kauai Beach Club. It's almost always safe from rip currents and undertows because it's around the back side of a peninsula, in its own cove. Tons of activities take place here, including all the usual water sports—beginning and intermediate surfing, bodyboarding, bodysurfing, and swimming. In addition, two outrigger canoe clubs paddle in the bay, and the Nawiliwili Yacht Club's boats sail around the harbor. Kalapaki is the only place on Kauai where double-hulled canoes are available for rent (at Kauai Beach Boys, which fronts the beach next to Duke's Kauai restaurant). Visitors can also rent snorkel gear, surfboards, bodyboards, and kayaks from Kauai Beach Boys, as well as sign up for surf lessons and sunset boat tours. A volleyball court on the beach is often used by a loosely organized group of local players; visitors are always welcome. Avoid the stream on the south side of the beach; it often has high bacteria counts. Duke's Kauai is one of only a couple of restaurants on the island actually on a beach. The restaurant's lower level is casual—even welcoming beach attire and sandy feet—making it perfect for lunch or an afternoon cocktail. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (limited, no fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: surfing; swimming; walking.

A winding road leads down a cliff face to picture-perfect Kalihiwai Beach, which fronts a bay of the same name. It's another one of those drive-up beaches, so it's very accessible. Most people park under the grove of ironwood trees, near the stream, where young kids like to splash and older kids like to bodyboard.  The stream carries leptospirosis, a potentially lethal bacteria that can enter through open cuts. In winter months, beware of a treacherous shore break. Summer is the only truly safe time to swim. The local-favorite winter surf spot off the eastern edge of the beach is for advanced surfers only. Toilets here are the portable kind, and there are no showers. Amenities: parking (no fee); toilets. Best for: solitude; surfing; swimming; walking.

This beach was relatively unknown—except by local fishers, of course—for a long time, hence the common reference to it as "Secret Beach." You'll understand why once you stand on the coarse white sands of Kauapea and see the solid wall of rock that runs the length of the beach, making it fairly inaccessible. For the hardy, there is a steep hike down the western end. From there, you can walk for a long way in either direction in summer. During winter, big swells cut off access to sections of the beach. You may witness dolphins just offshore, and it's a great place to see seabirds, as Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge and its historic lighthouse lie at the eastern end. Nudity is not uncommon, though it is illegal in Hawaii. A consistent onshore break typically makes swimming here very dangerous. On big-surf days, don't go near the shoreline. Amenities: parking (no fee). Best for: solitude; sunrise; walking.

Tree-lined and grassy, this arboretum in the Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserve is a perfect spot for a picnic—and there are lots of picnic tables scattered throughout the parklike setting. A typically shallow, cascading stream makes for a fun spot for kids to splash, although the water's a bit chilly. After crossing the stream on the bridge, the 1-mile walking trail meanders through mango, monkeypod, and exquisite rainbow eucalyptus trees. This is usually a peaceful place, but pay attention to the weather as the stream can flood quickly.

Adjacent to the highway heading north out of Kapaa, ½-mile-long Kealia Beach attracts bodyboarders and surfers year-round. It's a favorite with locals and visitors alike. Kealia is not generally a great beach for swimming, but it's a nice place to sunbathe and enjoy the beach scene. The safest area to swim is at the far north end of the beach, near the lava jetty. The waters are often rough and the waves crumbly, due to an onshore break (no protecting reef) and northeasterly trade winds. A scenic lookout on the southern end, accessed off the highway, is a superb location for saluting the morning sunrise or spotting whales during winter. A level paved section of the Ke Ala Hele Makalae bike path, with small covered pavilions, runs along the coastline here and is popular for walking and biking. Amenities: lifeguard; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: sunrise; surfing; swimming; walking.

This is one of the premier spots on Kauai for sunset walks and the start of the state's longest beach. We don't recommend much water activity here without first talking to a lifeguard. The beach is exposed to open ocean and has an onshore break that can be hazardous any time of year. However, there are some excellent surf breaks for experienced surfers. If you'd like to run or stroll on a beach, this is the one—the hard-packed sand goes on for miles, all the way to Napali Coast, but you won't get past the Pacific Missile Range Facility and its access restrictions. Another bonus for this beach is its relatively dry weather year-round. If it's raining where you are, try Kekaha Beach Park. Toilets at the west MacArthur Park section are the portable kind. Amenities: lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: sunset; surfing; walking.

The Hawaiian name for this stretch of beach, Keoneloa, means "long sand," but many refer to this beach fronting the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa as Shipwreck Beach. Both make sense. It is a long stretch of crescent beach punctuated by stunning sea cliffs on both ends, and, yes, a ship once wrecked here. With its rough onshore break, the waters off "Shippies" are best for bodyboarding and bodysurfing experts; however, the beach itself is plenty big for sunbathing, sandcastle building, Frisbee throwing, and other beach-related fun. The eastern edge of the beach is the start of an interpretive cliff and dune walk (complimentary) held by the hotel staff; check with the concierge for days and times, and keep an eye out for snoozing monk seals below. Parking is limited. Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: surfing; walking.

This estate—once a much larger plantation and now a farm and visitor attraction—dates back to 1850, shortly after the Great Mahele, the division of land by the Hawaiian people. Plantation manager Albert Spencer Wilcox developed it as a working cattle ranch, and it was also a sugar plantation. His nephew, Gaylord Parke Wilcox, took over in 1936, building Kauai's first mansion. Today the 16,000-square-foot Tudor-style home houses specialty shops, art galleries, the Koloa Rum Company, Luau Kalamaku, and Gaylord's, a pretty restaurant with courtyard seating. Nearly half the original furnishings remain, and the gardens and orchards were replanted according to the original plans. You can tour the grounds for free or take a 40-minute train ride, which includes a chance to feed farm animals while learning the agricultural story of Kauai and viewing a working farm. A more expensive train tour includes lunch and fruit-picking in the orchard.

Throughout the South Shore, you'll find brass plaques with details of historical stops along the 10-mile Koloa Heritage Trail. Start at Spouting Horn in Poipu and bike it, hike it, or drive it—your choice. You'll learn about Koloa's whaling history, sugar industry, ancient Hawaiian cultural sites, the island's volcanic formation, and more. Pick up a free self-guided trail map at shops in Koloa Town or download a PDF from  poipubeach.org.

This is a great beach to sit and people-watch as diving and fishing boats, kayakers, and canoe paddlers head out to sea. Shore and throw-net fishermen frequent this harbor as well. It's not a particularly large harbor, so it retains a quaint sense of charm, unlike Nawiliwili Harbor or Port Allen. The lawn is a good picnic and ball-tossing spot, and the bay is a nice protected area for limited swimming, but with all the boat traffic kicking up sand and clouding the water, it's not good for snorkeling. Outside the breakwater, there is a decent surf spot. Amenities: parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: picnics; sunset; swimming.