The 5 Best Beaches on Kauaʻi in 2024

From white sandy beaches to rocky and rugged coastlines, the Garden Isle is home to a diverse selection of breathtaking beaches. Our readers say that these five are the best beaches on Kaua‘i to visit on your next trip.

1. Poʻipū Beach

Poʻipū Beach on Kauaʻi.
Photo: Getty Images

Poʻipū Beach topped the list this year as the best beach on Kaua‘i for HAWAI‘I Magazine readers, and for good reason! Located on the sparkling south shore of Kauaʻi, this beach has crystal blue waters and a reef teeming with marine life, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Here, you might even spot Hawaiian monk seals—just be sure to leave them alone. Amenities at this beach park includes lifeguards, picnic facilities, showers and a shallow wading pool for younger swimmers, making it idea for families of all ages.

2. Hanalei Bay

Hanalei Bay on Kauaʻi.
Photo: Getty Images/M.M. Sweet

This crescent-shaped beach along the shoreline offers an epic view of the mountains and valleys that’s hard to beat. Marked by the iconic Hanalei Pier, the vibes here are so beautiful that the 1951 epic “Bird of Paradise” was filmed here. About two miles long, the beach is a great place for families to swim and bask in the sun. The pier itself is a destination and you’ll find locals and visitors alike making the memorable jump off from the platform into the water.

3. ʻAnini Beach

ʻAnini Beach on Kauaʻi.
Photo: Getty Images/KJensen026

If large crowds aren’t your thing, head to ‘Anini Beach on Kauaʻi’s north shore. Shielded by the longest reef in the state, this beach offers shallow waters that are ideal for families with young children. Kids can play in the sand and swim, while parents can lay towels out on the sand and relax. Pack up a Spam musubi and bring plenty of water and sunscreen for a chill day out. This beach offers simple amenities like restrooms, showers and picnic tables, but note that there are no lifeguards.

4. Mākua Beach (Tunnels Beach)

Mākua Beach on Kauaʻi.
Photo: Getty Images/TaylorMcKay

Mākua Beach, also known as Tunnels Beach, is known for its underwater lava tubes teeming with colorful fish and other marine life like eels, crabs and octopuses. An obvious favorite for snorkelers, this beach is found on Kaua‘i’s north shore and is also a lovely spot for surfing. If you’re lucky, you may find sea turtles resting in small caves or swimming along the reef.

5. Kēʻē Beach

Kēʻē Beach on Kauaʻi.
Photo: Getty Images/Joel Carillet

Kēʻē Beach is found next to Kalalau Trail and since it is part of Hāʻena State Park, you now must make reservations and pay an entrance fee to enter. It’s worth a visit—this beach is secluded and offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. During the summer, the waters here are flat and calm, so you can bring the little ones. Parking is available at Hāʻena State Park, with restroom facilities and outdoor showers nearby. Make a day of it by checking out some of the trails within the park before or after your beach outing.

See all of the winners of our 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards in our latest issue, which you can buy here. Better yet, subscribe and get HAWAIʻI Magazine delivered to right to your mailbox.