Polihale Beach is among one of Kauai’s popular beach destinations where travellers can experience its beautiful sandy beach located on the western shore of Kauai, the oldest and northernmost of the Hawaiian Islands.
Among all beaches in Kauai, why visit Polihale beach?
Well, Polihale is known for its wide expanse of white sand and crystal-clear water, as well as its breathtaking views of the Na Pali Coast and guarded by the world’s tallest sea cliffs. It’s also the popular home inside the Polihale State Park, known for its long stretches of white sand and beautiful sunsets. Every beach in Kauai has its own characteristics and offers new experiences, and Polihale beach is one of those along the west shores of Kauai.
Where is Polihale beach located?
To reach Polihale Beach, you will need to drive about an hour from the town of Waimea. While many tourists who find staying in a Waimea vacation rental do so for its more laid back atmosphere, you can still rent a Jeep, vehicle or take a local taxi direct to Polihale from the town.
Polihale beach is located at the end of a long dirt road, which can be challenging to drive on if you are not used to driving on rough terrain…but isn’t that all part of the fun? Once you reach the beach, you will find plenty of parking and facilities for picnicking, as well as a few food trucks and snack stands.
Many tourists who visit Polihale beach comment that one of the best things about Polihale is its isolation. It’s not as crowded as many of the other beaches on Kauai like Hanalei Bay, Tunnels Beach, or Anini Beach, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the island.
The beach is also a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, as well as for watching the sunset over the ocean. The beach is generally calm and quiet, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and contemplation.
Polihale Beach is also home to some of the best sunsets on the island, making it a popular spot for evening gatherings and romantic evenings. If you’re visiting for your honeymoon, anniversary or just private time away with your loved one, consider one of our romantic or beach picnic packages and we’ll take care of the rest.
As one of the top beaches in Kauai (there are a few), Polihale Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kauai. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, take a dip in the ocean, or explore the surrounding area, there is something for everyone at this beautiful location.
Here are a few things you can do while visiting Polihale Beach:
- Sunbathe and relax on the sandy beach
The beach is known for its long stretches of white sand, making it a perfect place to lay out a beach towel and soak up the sun. - Swimming and surfing
The waters at Polihale Beach can vary from rough and dangerous due to strong currents and high surf, especially during the winter months, to calm conditions making it perfect for snorkelling and swimming. It’s always important to be mindful of ocean conditions and use caution when entering the water, so it’s best to swim near the shore and check if the lifeguard is on duty for the latest ocean conditions before swimming. As with any beach, it is important to be aware of potential hazards such as strong currents, undertows, and other dangers. So it’s always a good idea to swim with a buddy, pay attention to any warning signs or flags, and follow any rules and guidelines set by beach authorities. The beach is also a popular spot for surfing, with waves ranging from beginner too advanced. - Hiking and exploring
The area around Polihale Beach is home to several trails, including the Polihale Beach Trail, which leads to the beach from the parking area. The trail takes you through a beautiful landscape of sand dunes, scrubland, and beach grass.The trail is about 1.5 miles long and is considered to be moderately difficult, with some rocky and uneven terrain. It begins at the parking area near the entrance to Polihale State Park and takes you through a landscape of sand dunes, scrubland, and beach grass before reaching the beach. Along the way, you may see a variety of plants and wildlife, including native Hawaiian plants, birds, and lizards.
The trail is open year-round, but it can be hot and dry in the summer months, so it’s important to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. The trail is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs, and it is recommended that you wear sturdy shoes. There is no fee to hike the trail, and there are no facilities or amenities available, so it’s important to come prepared with everything you need.
- Picnicking and barbecuing
There are several picnic tables and grills located near the beach, making it a great spot for a beachside barbecue. When planning a Kauai beach picnic, be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. It’s also a good idea to pack some sandwiches, fruit, and snacks to enjoy while you’re at the beach. And don’t forget to bring a beach blanket or towels to sit on, as well as beach chairs or umbrellas if you want some additional shade. But should you want the 5-star treatment, consider our Kauai beach picnic package and we’ll take care of the rest. - Stargazing
The remote location of Polihale Beach makes it a great spot for stargazing. On a clear night, you can see an incredible array of stars, planets, and constellations. Stargazing at Polihale beach is among the top 4 beaches in Kauai to take in this experience. The other popular spots in Kauai for stargazing include Waimea Canyon, Kalalau Lookout, and Koke’e State Park. To get the most out of your stargazing experience, it’s a good idea to bring a pair of binoculars or a small telescope. You can also download a stargazing app on your phone to help you identify constellations and celestial objects. And don’t forget to bring a blanket or some warm clothing, as it can get chilly at night in Kauai.
Another popular activity to take in is the Polihale Beach Lookout, which offers views of the beach and the surrounding landscape.
To get to the Polihale Beach Lookout, take a dirt road that leads to the beach. The road is rough and can be difficult to navigate, so it’s best to have a 4-wheel drive vehicle. The lookout is located at the end of the road, near the beach.
At the lookout, you’ll be able to enjoy views of the beach and the surrounding landscape. The lookout is a great spot to take photos and watch the sunset.
Overall, Polihale Beach is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Kauai. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the sun can be very strong in Kauai. And if you plan to stay at the beach for a while, be sure to bring a beach blanket or towels to sit on, as well as beach chairs or umbrellas for shade. It’s a great place to unwind, take in the breathtaking scenery, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Hawaii.
