A peaceful alternative to busier North Shore spots, Kauai’s Kalihiwai Beach offers shade, sand, and river adventures just off the beaten path.
- Region: North Shore
- Best for sunbathing, bodyboarding, surfing and hanging out.
- In winter months and beyond, visitors rave about Kalihiwai’s bodyboarding opportunities.
- River behind the beach is usually a calm area for paddling and kids.
- Towering ironwood trees provide plenty of shade, while wide sandy beach provides plenty of sun.
- No lifeguards or restrooms.
- Map: Google Maps
There’s a stretch of sand on Kauai’s North Shore that doesn’t try to impress you – because it doesn’t need to. Kalihiwai Beach just is, and that’s exactly its magic. Tucked between cliffs and kissed by a curving bay, Kalihiwai feels like the kind of place you’d stumble upon while chasing a rainbow or following a stream with no name. It’s a little bit wild, a little bit secret, and all heart.
Kalihiwai itself is wide and golden, backed by ironwood trees that provide generous shade. There are no restrooms, no showers, no snack stands – just water and plenty of sand to claim your space in the sun. The beach is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed beach day without the crowds. It’s scenic, low-key, and easy to access, but still feels off the radar. Many first-time visitors can’t believe their luck in finding such a gem.
This crescent of golden sand sits where the Kalihiwai River meets the ocean, creating a rare pairing: you can take a salty dip in the surf, then rinse off in the cool, fresh water just steps away. Behind the beach, the final curve of the river forms a calm pool – perfect for kids, paddleboards, and laid-back floating. In the in-between, locals back their trucks into the trees and spend the day grilling, fishing, or simply relaxing. Dogs are welcome, and the casual, community vibe makes it feel more like a shared backyard than a tourist stop. This beach is pure North Shore soul.
On the other side of the beach, the open bay stretches out toward deeper waters that vary wildly by season. In winter, Kalihiwai’s eastern edge draws surfers to its powerful break, while strong currents and rough surf can make swimming dangerous. There are no lifeguards, so caution is key. In summer, the bay transforms into a gentle place for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, especially along the river mouth.
Kalihiwai’s middle section is one of the better spots on the island for bodyboarding and recreational surfing, with suitable waves that extend beyond the winter season.
To get there, take Kalihiwai Road off Kuhio Highway, just past Anaina Hou Community Park in Kilauea and before the Kalihiwai Bridge. A short drive leads to a view, and then down to roadside parking behind the beach and in the trees.
Bring your own food, water, and beach gear – and be prepared to stay longer than you planned. Kalihiwai Beach has a way of making the day stretch out, slow down, and soak in.
Kalihiwai Beach Photos
