Hawaii is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the country – and perhaps even the world. With approximately 750 miles of coastline, the Hawaiian Islands are home to countless incredible beaches, but not all beaches are created equal. Nestled on Kauai’s north shore, this breathtaking stretch of sand is best experienced in the summer months when ocean conditions are more favorable. You’ll love bodyboarding, fishing, swimming, and splashing about at this Kauai beach tailor-made for summer.
Located at the head of Kalihiwai Bay approximately 1.5 miles from the town of Kilauea on Kauai’s north shore, Kalihiwai Beach deserves a spot on your summer bucket list.
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Surrounded on each side by lava cliffs and backed by ironwood trees that provide plenty of shade, this crescent-shaped stretch of sand is perhaps one of the prettiest destinations in the Aloha State.
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Featuring a shallow, underwater rock shelf that extends from the cliffs, Kalihiwai is home to one of the north shore’s most popular surf breaks.
step2626/Getty Images In the winter months, the waves are tall, break quickly, and only recommended for experts. Pounding shorebreak, powerful backwash, and strong rip currents make this beach inaccessible in the winter, but on calm summer days, it’s a whole different story.
The calm summer months are perfect for bodyboarding, beginner surfing, and shoreline fishing. Kayaking and paddle boarding is also popular here.
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Swimming is advised only on the calmest of days, but you can splash around in the mouth of the Kalihiwai River, which crosses the beach and flows into the ocean.
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If ocean conditions aren’t right for swimming, you can’t go wrong with a picnic under the shady ironwood trees, a game of frisbee with the family, or a romantic stroll with your significant other. After all, our beaches are good for so much more than just swimming.
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Despite plenty of parking and easy access, Kalihiwai usually isn’t too crowded, which is just the way we like it. If you want to spend all day soaking up the sun and making a splash, Kalihiwai is the perfect destination for your next Kauai beach day.
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Address: 3069 Kalihiwai Road, Kilauea, HI 96754
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In the winter months, the waves are tall, break quickly, and only recommended for experts. Pounding shorebreak, powerful backwash, and strong rip currents make this beach inaccessible in the winter, but on calm summer days, it’s a whole different story.
Chris D 2006/Flickr
pikappa/Getty Images
Stephen Westphal/Flickr
Mandy and John Eppley/Flickr
Have you ever enjoyed the natural beauty of Kalihiwai Bay Beach for yourself? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below. If you love hidden beaches as much as we do, you’ll want to take this hidden beaches road trip across the island of Oahu.
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