Delve into the magic of Lumahai Beach on Kauai, cherished by locals and renowned for its starring role in the iconic film South Pacific.
- Region: North Shore
- Best for sunbathing, hanging out and family outings.
- Spectacular beach setting was a filming location for the movie South Pacific.
- A favorite destination for local residents who live on Kauai’s North Shore past Hanalei.
- Stay out of the water due to dangerous ocean conditions and riptides at the mouth of the Lumahai River.
- Accessibility: Sufficient parking along the highway and in the trees.
- No lifeguards, restrooms or showers.
- Map: Google Maps
Renowned for its breathtaking beauty and untamed allure, Lumahai Beach has captured the hearts of local residents, travelers and filmmakers alike. With broad golden sand framed by volcanic rocks and backed by lush vegetation, Lumahai Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
A view of Lumahai Beach from a roadside viewing point.
Lumahai Beach is located about 1.5 miles from Hanalei and is .75 miles in length. The west and east ends of the beach are the most popular spots at Lumahai. The west end has the mouth of the Lumahai River, which under calm conditions, is a really cool spot for hanging out in the shallow water. A rope swing on the river sees ample use.
The east end, also known as Kahalahala Beach, has a rocky outcropping that creates a small cove. Though some local residents like to jump from the rocks in summer months when conditions are calmer, this is an activity that should never be attempted by tourists who are unfamiliar with the surroundings.
The east end of Lumahai Beach.
Lumahai Beach is an absolute favorite for local residents of Kauai’s North Shore, and they are very protective of the community’s great natural asset. Local families enjoy the sunlit opportunities in the sand, while couples find warmth in the romantic and gorgeous setting.
The mouth of the Lumahai River is at the west end of the beach.
Tourists, who happen on the beach on their scenic drive from Hanalei to the end of the road at Ke’e Beach, can often do no more than gawk at this stunning expanse of beach.
Lumahai then and now: Mitzi Gaynor sings “A Wonderful Guy” on the east end of Lumahai Beach in the movie South Pacific. The beach is called Nurses Beach in the movie.
For its exquisite and exotic tropical beauty, Lumahai Beach was used as a filming location for the 1958 movie South Pacific. Here, at the east end of Lumahai, Mitzi Gaynor famously sang “I’m going to wash that man right out of my hair”. The movie was a seminal moment for Kauai, introducing the island as both a beautiful travel destination and an important tropical filming location.
An unofficial sign warns that Lumahai Beach is a “hazardous ocean area” and indeed there is a potentially dangerous wave breaking in the background of the photo. (Photo taken January 2023.)
Use caution at Lumahai. The beach is so dangerous some local residents call it Luma-Die.
Though strikingly beautiful, Lumahai can also be deceptively dangerous. Dangerous rip currents, that are sometimes present at the mouth of the Lumahai River, have resulted in a number of deaths and injuries over the years, including the death of ABC News reporter Jamie Zimmerman in 2015. Moreover, Lumahai’s exposure to the open ocean combined with the sharp incline of the beach at the water’s edge, creates dangerous conditions in the water. Volcanic rocks at the beach ends, and also in the middle, present hazards as well.
Although the mouth of the river at the west end is usually calm, and a nice play area for families and children, the river should be avoided during rough conditions and heavy discharges. On the actual beach, you should never go in the water.
In the above photo, an unofficial sign posted by local residents warns “no lifeguards, no restrooms, no tourists”. Despite the sign, tourists should have no problems visiting the beach as long as proper beach etiquette is observed.
Parking for Lumahai Beach at the west end can be found on the side of the two-lane Highway 560 and also in the trees behind the beach, before the bridge over the Lumahai River. At the east end of the beach there is limited parking on a curve on Highway 560 (Google Maps). A wide path leads down to the beach from the parking area.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Lumahai Beach is a multifaceted gem that holds a unique place in both cinematic history and the hearts of locals and tourists alike. Lumahai’s starring role as the backdrop for the iconic movie South Pacific has immortalized its breathtaking beauty on the silver screen, attracting attention from around the world. Beyond its cinematic allure, Lumahai Beach remains a cherished favorite among visitors seeking an authentic taste of paradise, where golden sands and lush surroundings create an unforgettable tropical escape. Whether you come seeking Hollywood nostalgia, a picture-perfect vacation, or a glimpse into the local way of life, Lumahai Beach promises an experience that transcends its fame, leaving all who visit with memories to last a lifetime.