Lawai Beach: Your ultimate destination for snorkeling, surfing, sunbathing and unforgettable sunsets.
- Small beach located adjacent to the Beach House Restaurant in Poipu is known for its snorkeling and surfing opportunities, as well as a picturesque place to hang out.
- No lifeguards
- Restrooms located across the street next to the Riptides food shack.
- Map: Google Maps
Lawai Beach, on Kauai’s South Shore in Poipu, is a small but cherished sliver of sand next to the acclaimed Beach House Restaurant and across from the 4-star Lawai Beach Resort. (The beach is also sometimes called Beach House Beach and Prince Kuhio Beach, which is what some people prefer.) Though small in size, the beach has a lot to offer, including nice snorkeling opportunities and three popular surf breaks. Tucked under the beachfront Lawai Road, the beach area is a gathering point for people seeking natural beauty and beach ambiance in a shared setting. Sunsets are often grand here, and the multi-faceted setting is host to the occasional surf contest and other beach-related events. Nearby are some of Kauai’s favorite attractions, including the Spouting Horn blow hole and the exquisite Allerton Garden.
Snorkeling is a favorite activity at Lawai Beach. The beach is protected by a coral reef, creating a natural lagoon that is home to a diverse array of marine life. Snorkelers can expect to see a variety of colorful fish, such as butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish, as well as sea turtles that frequently visit the area. Entering and exiting the water is somewhat problematic due to the rocky bottom, however, there is a small sandy entry point near the middle (watch for where other people enter the water). Early morning is the optimal time for snorkeling at Lawai Beach. The water is typically calmer, and visibility is at its best before the trade winds pick up in the afternoon.
While Lawai Beach is generally safe for snorkeling, it’s always wise to check the weather and ocean conditions before heading out. Pay attention to any posted warnings and respect the power of the ocean, especially if you are venturing farther out or exploring near the rocks below the restaurant. Rip tides are sometimes present, especially to the right, so exercise caution at all times. And remember to observe marine life from a distance. Do not touch the coral or disturb the sea creatures. This helps preserve the delicate ecosystem for future generations.
Lawai Beach is one of the island’s most popular surf spots (especially during the summer months), with three surf breaks – PKs, Centers and Acid Drops. The surf breaks (over reefs) aren’t ideal for beginners, however, PKs, located right in front of the Beach House restaurant, can be manageable for novice surfers during high tides and smaller swells. On the other hand, Centers and Acid Drops are challenging breaks that become active in larger swells and are typically only attempted by more experienced surfers.
For refreshments, the Riptides Shave Ice & Snacks shack across the street from the beach serves up a surprisingly diverse array of fare, including shave ice, smoothies, coffee, ice cream and snacks including Kalua pork nachos.