KauaiCoastHawaii.com

Kauai is one of Hawaii’s most popular tourist destinations. Because of volcanic eruptions six million years ago, this 550 square-mile island was formed. Aside from being one of the northernmost islands, it is also the oldest and most beautiful. With many unique plant species and beautiful blue waters, you’ll definitely want to visit this place. After all, it is only a 20 minute plane ride from Honolulu. This island is divided into five regions: the North Shore, South Shore, Coconut Coast, Hanamalau Beach Park, and the Lihue Kalapaki. These regions are a great place to know especially if you’re looking to visit the island’s famed beaches.

At the North Shore, you will find most of Kauai’s famously gorgeous beaches. One of them, Anini Beach, is actually a park, and has restrooms, showers, tables and barbeque facilities. Hanalei Bay is another one of these beaches. With a crescent-shaped shore, it looks as though it has been carved into the side of a cliff. The westernmost part of this bay has calm waters which is great to keep in mind as many of the north shore waters are too rough for swimming. Two other great beaches are Kee Beach and the Honopu Valley.

The South Shore is home to the Kipu Kai Beach and has wonderful views of the ocean lined with golden sands. The Hoary Head mountain range frames this beach only emphasizing its beauty. Because this beach is only accessible by boat, fewer tourists visit it, making it one of the cleanest beaches on the island. While here, you can also visit Kukuiolono Park, Mahaulepu Beach, and Poipu Beach Park.

The Coconut Coast attracts moonlight beachgoers. Its beaches include Hanamaulu Beach Park, Kalapaki Beach, Lydgate State Park, Ninini or Running waters Beach, niumalu Beach Park, and Niumale harbor. Lihue Kalapaki Wailua River State Park is another place to visit, as it offers surf, sand and sun alongside many ocean activities.