Let me just start by saying, Kauai is amazing.  A bucket list destination for many families.  There are so many great family activities to do in Kauai – zip lining, helicopter tour, kayaking, hiking, tubing, boat tours.  The list is endless.  And while these activities are really fantastic, our #1 favorite activity while on the island of Kauai is going to the beach!   With that in mind, we put together our top 5 Kauai beaches for families.  The criteria for our list include easy access, safety, activities, beauty

  1. Poipu Beach – Made up of two sandy crescents, Poipu Beach has something for families of all ages.  When looking toward the ocean, the left crescent is protected by a rocky surf wall creating a shallow, wave free area for the littlest of beach goers to enjoy.   Often times you’ll find sea turtles and monk seals sleeping on the beach here (especially early morning just before sunset) or eating off the adjacent reef.  Behind the sandy area is a large grassy field and picnic shelters offering shade.  There is a fantastic deli/mini market below the Brenneke’s restuarant.  They have cold drinks, ice cream, snacks and delicious made to order sandwiches.   Next door, Nukumoi surf shop is a fantastic little store offering swimsuits and board shorts along with surfboard, SUP, and snorkel rentals.  poipu-beach-aerialFollowing the curve of the crescent to the right, there is good snorkeling on either side of the point.  At low tide, follow the sandy strip out to the little “island” that is flanked by fascinating kid friendly tide pools.  You’ll find baby eels, sea cucumbers, hermit crabs and so much more in the tide pools.  Continuing right around the second crescent (technically called Waiohai Beach) you’ll find good swimming and, depending on the tide, a shore break for boogie-boarding and body surfing.   The Marriott Waihoai property lies just behind Waiohai Beach.  Saddle up to the Honu Bar for a delicious Mai Tai or even enjoy a casual dinner with some live music and a fantastic sunset!    SmarterFamilyTravel takeaways Poipu Beach:  South Shore, easy parking, easy access, good for swimming, snorkeling, boogie-boarding, body surfing, wildlife, food and drink options nearby, lifeguards on duty.IMG_0669[1]If you walk even further right or west toward the Sheraton Hotel you can sign up for surf lessons on a gentle reef break.
  2. Hanalei Beach – Located on Kauai’s north shore in the storied town of Hanalei, Hanalei Beach has so much to offer.  This is one of the most stunning, yet underdeveloped ocean bays I have ever seen.  Photo opportunities abound in every direction.  Hanalei-Bay-Activity On top of the beauty, the beach has a sand bottom and is great for swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, body surfing, and SUP.  Parking is available near the pier and at the lifeguard stand.  SUP and surf board rentals along with surf lessons are available adjacent to the parking lot near the pier.  Pack your food and drink in as the town of Hanalei is about a 10 minute walk.  SmarterFamilyTravel takeaways Hanalei Beach:  North Shore, easy parking at the pier, easy access, good for swimming, surfing, surf lessons, boogie-boarding, body surfing, sand bottom, lifeguards on duty.
  3. Kalapaki Beach – Located in Lihue in front of the Kauai Marriott Resort, Kalapaki Beach is a great place to spend the entire day.  All beaches in the state of Hawaii are public.  So don’t be scared away because of the Marriott resort on this property.  Public parking is available just past the main hotel entrance on the right hand side.  The beach has a sandy shore break, that can be quite powerful depending on the day.  Sometimes the break can be perfect for boogie boarding  and body surfing while other times the break is gentle enough to let little ones play in it.  Looking toward the water, there are SUP and surfboard rentals as well as lessons available at the right end near Duke’s restaurant.  There is food and drink available at the Marriott Resort as well as Duke’s and many other restaurants within walking distance.  Assuming you aren’t staying in Lihue, its a good idea to pack a change of clothes and stay on site for dinner, drinks and sunset!  SmarterFamilyTravel takeaways Kalapaki Beach:  Lihue, easy parking just past the Marriott, easy access, good for swimming, surfing, surf lessons, boogie-boarding, body surfing, sand bottom, food and drink options nearby, NO lifeguards
  4. Kalihiwai Beach – located on Kauai’s famed north shore, Kalihiwai Beach is a true hidden gem.  The picturesque natural cove is my personal favorite on the island.  Note; there are 2 Kalihiwai Roads.  Driving from the south, turn right at the first Kalihiwai road just past the town of Kilauea.  Driving from the north, turn left at the second Kalihiwai road just past the bridge.  Park anywhere off the side of the road under a shaded tree.  Looking toward the ocean, the left side has surfing (locals only) very far out.  The Kalihiwai river drains into the left end.  We like to be somewhere in the middle.  Depending on the surf, boogie boarding and body surfing can be perfect here.  It can also be as calm as a lake.  As a kids I also spent a lot of time swimming in the Kalihiwai river.  I have since heard the rivers are polluted and that swimming is not a good idea.  Swim at your own risk.  SmarterFamilyTravel takeaways Kalihiwai Beach:  North Shore, easy parking, easy access, hidden gem, good for swimming, boogie-boarding, body surfing, sand bottom, NO lifeguards.
  5. Salt Pond Beach Park SmarterFamilyTravel takeaways Salt Pond Beach Park:  West Shore, easy parking, easy access, hidden gem, good for swimming, snorkeling, sand bottom, sunny when raining elsewhere, lifeguard on duty.