Kauai's Beaches

Kauai is internationally known for its beautiful beaches.You’ll find beaches of all lengths, from tiny, crescent-shaped hideaways to some stretching for several miles. The sand comes in a range of colors, too, including white, buff, brown, green and even black.

- Joan Conrow

Some have coral reefs offshore, offering protection from the waves and opportunities for snorkeling. Others face the open ocean, making them more suitable for surfing and boogey boarding. Each beach has its own personality, and they often change dramatically during the summer and winter months, depending on where the surf is breaking and how the winds are blowing.

Many of Kauai’s beaches do not have lifeguards on duty, so it’s important to exercise caution. Never turn your back on the water, because waves can come up unexpectedly. When visiting beaches on north - and east - facing shores, be careful even in the shallows: dangerous riptides can pull even an experienced swimmer away from shore in just seconds.