Kalapaki Beach offers a world of amenities and relaxation in one breathtaking setting.
- Region: Lihue
- Best for sunbathing, swimming, surfing and relaxing.
- One of the most complete beach destinations on Kauai, with resort accommodations, multiple dining options, shopping and a host of beach and water activities.
- Beach fronts the island’s only high-rise resort.
- Conveniently located very near the Lihue Airport.
- Accessibility: Guests of the Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort and the Kauai Marriott Beach Club have direct access. Visitors can park nearby within easy walking distance.
- No lifeguards.
- Restrooms and outdoor showers.
- Map: Google Maps
Kalapaki Beach, nestled at Nawiliwili Bay around the corner from the Lihue Airport, is one of the island’s premier beach destinations. Here, golden sand and swaying palm trees come together with some of Kauai’s best accommodations, restaurants and shopping to create a truly wonderful and relaxing setting. While many Kauai travel itineraries involve renting a car and driving around the island to visit various attractions, a complete Kauai vacation can be had at Kalapaki Beach. In fact, that’s what more than a few people do with a hotel package and easy days lounging at the beach.
Kalapaki Beach features Kauai’s only high-rise resort (shared by the Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort and the Kauai Marriott Beach Club), a grand property with a grand pool and grand views of Nawiliwili Bay. Guests of the resort enjoy easy access to the beach, with proximity to rooms and access to poolside restrooms and showers. And the resort’s poolside restaurant, Kukui’s on Kalapaki Beach, offers convenient island-inspired cuisine and cocktails.
A delightful pathway runs the length of the beach and resort, connecting the resort, beach and amenities. It is the perfect place for a breezy evening stroll.
Duke’s Kauai, a legendary beachfront restaurant with live music, is famously located at Kalapaki Beach. Duke’s is one of Kauai’s most booked restaurants according to Open Table. Next door is the elegant Cafe Portofino with Northern Italian Dishes and harp music.
Between the pathway and the sand is a glorious green lawn that is perfect for sunbathing, reading a book or just relaxing and enjoying the view.
The two beach volleyball courts at Kalapaki Beach are a place where both longtime local residents and visiting tourists come together for casual (and competitive) pickup games.
Protected by the bay from strong surf (most of the year), Kalapaki’s gentle waves are perfect for a range of beach activities including swimming, snorkeling, boogie-boarding, stand up paddle boarding, beach volleyball, beach walks and beachcombing. Families with children especially enjoy the calm seashore, where building sandcastles is an enjoyable past time. Farther out, local surfers and hydrofoil surfers enjoy the bay’s reliable waves, especially in the summer months.
The Harbor Mall is located across the street from the resort.
Nearby, the Anchor Cove Shopping Center and the Harbor Mall (within easy walking distance) offer shopping and more dining choices. Mariachi’s Restaurant, upstairs at the Harbor Mall, is a nice choice for authentic Mexican Food. Food trucks, including Smitty’s Smash Burger, can be found in the Harbor Mall parking lot. The Noka Grill, in the former Kalapaki Beach Hut location, satisfies hungry appetites with breakfast, burgers and more. And Skinny Mike’s Ice Cream & Shave Ice, also at the Harbor Mall, is a tasty place to cool down.
The spectacular view at Kalapaki Beach is framed by Kukii Point to the left and the Haupu Mountain Range on the right. The rocky coastline on the left is a popular spot for exploring.
Kalapaki Beach is noted for its gentle waves, but be aware of potential hazards and know what to do if you are caught in a rip current.
Final Thoughts
Kalapaki Beach is truly a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Its golden sands, calm waters and stunning backdrop of lush mountains make it a picture-perfect destination. Whether you’re looking to relax and soak up the sun, try your hand at various water sports, or simply indulge in the vibrant beachside atmosphere, Kalapaki Beach has something for everyone. With its convenient location near Lihue and a range of amenities and activities, it offers a well-rounded beach experience that caters to all ages and preferences.
