These 7 Kauai Beaches are Simply Too Gorgeous to Ignore

Heading to Kauai? Don’t miss these top beaches around the Garden Isle.

My favorite thing about Kauai’s beaches is that (with the exception of one or two) you can find nearly all of them practically empty most days. That means there are plenty of beaches on Kauai to pop out your beach chair and enjoy all to yourself. 

So let’s get to it!

Here, in no particular order, are what I consider the very best beaches on Kauai: 

Hanalei Bay is a favorite for its gentle waves in the summer months, ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Large waves roll in during the winter months, attracting surfers from around the world. 

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice.  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

There are multiple access points with parking though it often fills up quickly. You’ll also find restrooms, picnic areas, and lifeguards on duty.

Poipu Beach is divided into sections by a sandbar, creating a shallow, protected area perfect for young children and snorkelers. Nearby, the surf is ideal for bodyboarding and surfing. 

But most people don’t come to Poipu Beach for the beach itself, they come for the wildlife. Poipu Beach is a popular spot for Hawaiian sea turtles (honu) to swim up on shore for a rest.

It’s not uncommon to see dozens of honu lazily basking on the beach while families play in the water respecting the required 10′ distance away.

​Hawaii’s monk seals love sunning on Poipu Beach as well so it’s a great place for wildlife spotting.

Amazingly, the island’s most popular beach also has free parking. And while it’s a fairly small parking lot, I’ve never had any trouble finding a space (I suspect it’s because most of the people lounging on the beach are staying at one of the many nearby resorts). 

The beach is also well-equipped with restrooms, picnic tables, and lifeguards, so it’s an excellent choice for families. 

Tip: While you’re in the area, don’t miss a visit to Kauai’s famous blowhole, Spouting Horn.

Anini boasts one of Hawaii’s longest fringing reefs, so it’s a paradise for snorkeling and beginner-friendly water activities. The shallow lagoon is perfect for young children. This is one of the best Kauai beaches to find a secluded spot all to yourself. It’s also one of the best swimming beaches on the island.

This one is located in a residential area so facilities like parking are limited and there are no lifeguards on duty. 

The beach’s proximity to Lihue’s shops, restaurants, and food trucks adds to its appeal.

Facilities include nearby parking, restrooms, and showers, although there are no lifeguards. Kalapaki Beach is a perfect choice for swimming, paddleboarding, and enjoying beachside dining.

Named for the nearby Hawaiian salt ponds, this beach has shallow lagoons that are great for families. If you’re looking to get away from it all on your Kauai vacation, this is a great spot.

The sunsets here are incredible and a memorable way to end your day. 

Facilities include plenty of parking, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and lifeguards. Salt Pond Beach is perfect for families, snorkeling, and relaxing in a less-crowded area.

Two rock-enclosed lagoons provide a safe space for swimming and snorkeling, especially for small children.

Think of it as a sun-soaked playpen, safe and sound, where you can relax while your kids discover the joys of the ocean in the calm waters, under the watchful eye of lifeguards. That’s why it’s one of Kauai’s most popular beaches for families.

My favorite thing about these lagoons is the clarity of the shallow water. Lydgate has crystal clear waters with a soft, sandy bottom. And there’s even some decent snorkeling closer to the rock barrier where it’s easy to spot tropical fish. 

There’s also a large playground and picnic area nearby, so it’s an excellent spot for a full day of family fun. You’ll also find a large parking area, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and lifeguards.

And if you love this beach like I do, book a room at the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay. It’s located just steps from Lydgate Beach and is one of my favorite budget-friendly hotels on the island.

Read More: 5 Awesome & Affordable Kauai Hotels that Won’t Break the Bank

We recently spent a weekend in one of the Hilton’s cottages overlooking the beach and loved the easy access to Lydgate Beach (not so much the loud kids on the playground behind our bungalow but you take the bad with the good!). 

This long stretch of sandy beach offers consistent waves, making it a favorite among surfers. Or, if your perfect beach day includes reading a good book while listening to the waves crash, this is the perfect beach for you. 

The northern end has calmer waters for swimming, providing options for all types of beachgoers. Facilities include parking, restrooms, and showers, and lifeguards are on duty. Kealia Beach is great for surfing, bodyboarding, and beach walks.

​So let’s hit the beach!

Kauai’s beaches are as diverse as the island itself. Whether you’re looking for calm waters for a relaxing float, exciting surf to catch waves, or family-friendly lagoons, there’s a beach on my list for you. 

So grab your reef-safe sunscreen, your favorite floatie, and that novel you’ve been meaning to finish. Kauai’s best beaches are waiting for you.

And for more great things to do on Kauai, start here:

The Top 5 Fun Things to Do on Kauai (#1 is a must!)

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Kauai Hawaii (2025)

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