Mahaulepu Beach Kauai

Escape to Mahaulepu Beach on Kauai and experience the serene beauty of a less-crowded beach, perfect for a peaceful day in nature.

Region: South Shore
Remote beach is a favorite hangout for local residents, with plenty of shade for relaxing and a lagoon for sun and fun.
Some opportunities for wading and snorkeling very near the shore, but visitors should be wary of the consistently strong waves offshore.
Isolated beach sees few visitors due to its location.
Visiting the beach requires a hike on the Mahaulepu Trail or a backroads drive on a bumpy dirt road.
Beach is near the Makauwahi Cave Reserve, a fascinating paleo-archaeological site.
No lifeguards, restrooms or facilities.
Map: Google Maps

Mahaulepu Beach, a hidden gem on Kauai’s southeastern shore, offers visitors a chance to experience one of the island’s most unspoiled and rugged coastlines. Unlike the more tourist-heavy beaches on Kauai, Mahaulepu remains a secluded haven, ideal for those seeking adventure, natural beauty, and a break from the crowds.

This beach is perfect for those seeking to explore nature, enjoy a peaceful picnic, or simply sit and soak in the beauty of Kauai’s wild coastline. For many visitors to Mahaulepu Beach, sitting in the shade and enjoying the view is a popular past time. The ruggedness of the area keeps the crowds away, creating an ideal setting for those looking to enjoy the sound of crashing waves in solitude. Swimming, however, is not recommended across most parts of the beach due to strong currents and rocky ocean floors, though the scenery more than makes up for it.

Connected to Mahaulepu Beach to the west is Gillins Beach (considered to be a section of greater Mahaulepu Beach), a sliver of wild beach backed by lush vegetation. About a quarter mile to the east is sunny and hot Haula Beach, reachable by a coastal trail with sights of crashing waves chipping away at the rocky shore.

Mahaulepu Beach is in the vicinity of the Makauwahi Cave, an archaeological wonder that houses ancient remains of plants and animals, including now-extinct species. The cave offers a fascinating insight into Kauai’s natural history and is a must-visit for those looking to explore beyond the sand. However, the cave was recently closed to the public (late 2024) and future access is uncertain at this time.

Reaching Mahaulepu is an adventure in itself. The beach is located just east of Poipu, but the last stretch of the journey involves navigating a dirt road. Take Poipu Road east from Poipu and follow the signs toward CJM Country Stables. (Use Google Maps for a detailed route to the beach.) The road can be rough, especially after rain, so it’s best to come prepared with a vehicle suited for the conditions. Those hiking in via the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail can begin at Shipwreck Beach near the Grand Hyatt Kauai for a 4-mile round-trip adventure along Kauai’s dramatic southern coast.

NOTE: The road to Mahaulepu Beach is on private land owned by Grove Farm. The road has a gate that is only open 8AM to 6PM. You will need to keep this in mind on your visit so that you do not get stuck behind the gate. With Grove Farm recently ending the lease for Makauwahi Cave, and also (apparently) Kauai ATV, we see the possibility that Grove Farm could further limit road access to Mahaulepu Beach in the future.