Swimming
Where to swim in summer and in winter, lifeguarded beaches first.
Best beaches
Best beaches on Kauaʻi, by what you want to do
Kauaʻi’s best beach depends on what you came for and the time of year. Pick a list. Every beach links to its page with today’s closures, lifeguard, surf and parking.
Snorkeling
North Shore reefs in summer, south and east in winter. Lifeguards first.
Sunsets
Beaches with an open western view, from Poʻipū to Polihale to Hanalei.
Sunrise
East-facing beaches with an open view of the ocean at dawn.
Turtles & seals
Where turtles and monk seals show up, plus NOAA’s viewing distances.
Kids & families
Lifeguards, shallow ponds, restrooms and playgrounds, by season.
Boogie boarding
Shorebreak beaches by season, lifeguarded first, with a skill level for each.
Safest
Lifeguarded beaches with sheltered water, by season.
Most dangerous
Beaches with documented drownings, rescues or official warnings.
Secluded
Quieter beaches, how to reach them, and the hazard at each.
Shells & sea glass
Beaches guides name for shells, sea glass and beachcombing, plus the State’s rules.
These are our picks, not safety ratings. The ocean changes by the hour: check closures and surf, and ask a lifeguard before you get in.