12 Best Beaches on Kauai for Sunsets, Snorkeling, and Swimming

Find your perfect beach escape on the beautiful Hawaiian island of Kauai.

Nicknamed the Garden Island, Kauai is famous for its lush tropical landscapes, dramatic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and endless greenery. The island is home to some of Hawaii’s most stunning beaches—powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking coastal scenery. With so many choices, it can be hard to decide where to go, so I’ve put together my personal list of the top 12 beaches to visit for swimming, snorkeling, sunsets, and relaxation.

Ke’e Beach

At the very end of Kuhio Highway on the North Shore, Ke’e Beach marks the northernmost point of the scenic Nā Pali Coast. In summer, the calm waters make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s also one of the most magical spots to watch the sun sink into the horizon.

Tunnels Beach (Makua)

Tunnels Beach is one of the most photographed beaches on the island, framed by lush mountains and known for its lava tube formations under the sea. The turquoise lagoons are full of marine life like sea turtles, crabs, and colorful fish—making it an unforgettable snorkeling spot.

Hanalei Bay

Stretching for two miles in a gentle crescent, Hanalei Bay is made up of three beautiful beaches. In summer, it’s great for swimming, paddling, and bodyboarding, while winter brings world-class waves for surfers. The combination of white sand, sparkling water, and a mountain backdrop makes it picture-perfect.

Lydgate Beach

Located on the east side of the island near the mouth of the Wailua River, Lydgate Beach is ideal for families. Sheltered pools make swimming and snorkeling safe for kids, and a 2.5-mile paved path is perfect for walking or cycling. Nearby attractions like Smith’s Garden Luau and Wailua River cruises make it easy to pair a beach visit with cultural experiences.

Poipu Beach

On the sunny south shore, Poipu Beach boasts some of the clearest waters on Kauai. It’s a great spot for snorkeling, surfing, and sometimes spotting Hawaiian monk seals on the sand. In winter, you might even see humpback whales from the shore.

Anini Beach

Just outside Princeville, Anini Beach offers long stretches of sand with fewer crowds. The calm, shallow waters and lagoons make it excellent for swimming and snorkeling, and it’s a perfect place for a quiet family beach day.

Secret Beach (Kauapea)

Accessible only by a steep, unmarked trail, Secret Beach feels like a private paradise. The wide golden sands and dramatic waves create a secluded, peaceful setting. While the water can be rough, it’s an amazing place to relax and take in the scenery.

Baby Beach

This hidden gem on the south coast is perfect for families with young children. Protected by a reef, the waters stay calm and shallow, making it safe for little ones to splash and play.

Kalapaki Beach

On the southeast side near Lihue, Kalapaki Beach is popular for swimming and paddleboarding thanks to its gentle waters. The beach sits in front of a resort and has plenty of space for sunbathing or joining in a game of beach volleyball.

Salt Pond Beach Park

Near Hanapēpē, this peaceful spot is named after nearby traditional Hawaiian salt beds. A natural rock barrier keeps the water calm, making it great for swimming, snorkeling, and windsurfing. There are shady palm trees, picnic areas, and even the option to camp overnight with a permit.

Polihale State Park

On Kauai’s remote west side, Polihale State Park is home to the longest beach in Hawaii—about 17 miles of golden sand. It’s a spectacular place to watch the sunset, go for long walks, or set up camp. The currents here are strong, so it’s better suited for relaxing than swimming. Access is via a sandy dirt road, so a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended.

Haena Beach

Nestled between Ke’e and Tunnels Beach, Haena offers a postcard-worthy setting with Mount Makana towering in the background. The beach is perfect for snorkeling and diving when conditions are calm, and the swaying coconut palms provide plenty of shady spots to relax.