The ocean is calling! If there's one thing you'll want to take advantage of during your stay in Kauai, it's the beach. And if you're traveling with keiki (children), finding a safe and swimmable beach is a high priority. Many of our Kauai rentals are just steps from the ocean, but if you're looking to explore Kauai's best, these are our recommendations for the best swimmable beaches in Kauai:
#1 - Poipu Beach Park
Located on the south shore of Kauai, Poipu Beach Park is a world-famous beach known for its family-friendly environment, calm waters, and spacious beach. Everything you need for a beach day is here, with lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. Locals and tourists enjoy activities like surfing, fishing, snorkeling, and bodyboarding at Poipu Beach. And with designated areas like a protected swimming area for families with littles, a spot for surfing, and a space for more experienced swimmers, everyone can feel safe during their outing.
Whether you prefer to strap on your snorkel gear and catch a glimpse of sea life or catch up on the latest read on your beach chair, Poipu Beach is the place to do it! Suite Paradise specializes in vacation rentals in the Poipu area, so if you're looking to be closer to Poipu Beach, consider booking a stay in one of our Poipu Beach vacation rentals.
#2 - Kiahuna Beach
Kiahuna Beach is between Poipu Beach and Lawai Beach. Kiahuna Beach's water conditions make it ideal for beginner surf lessons, swimming, and body boarding, as the outer reef protects those from most of the incoming waves. For more experienced surfers, you can head out beyond the reef. There is limited parking at Kiahuna Beach, but Poipu Beach Park is nearby. This beach is not lifeguarded, so if that is important to you, we recommend Poipu Beach Park.
#3 - Lydgate Beach Park
About a 30-minute drive from Poipu, you'll find Lydgate Beach Park. Lydgate Beach Park is an excellent choice for the family as a lava rock wall protects you from the open ocean. The wall creates calmer waters which makes it keiki (children) friendly. You'll also be able to spot Hawaii's tropical fish as they navigate through the clear waters, so bring your snorkel gear! This beach park is lifeguarded and has a picnic area and restrooms.
#4 - Hanalei Bay
Easily one of Kauai's most popular destinations, Hanalei Bay offers beachgoers an incredible experience. Walk the white sand beach, dive into the crystal-clear water, and take in the sights of the ocean and mountains during your beach day. You'll want to visit Hanalei Bay during the summer months if you want to swim, as the water is calmer. If you're on a mission to catch a wave, the winter months in Hanalei Bay produce larger swells, great for surfing but not swimming. Hanalei Bay does have lifeguards on duty.
#5 - Salt Pond Beach
If you're looking for a quieter family setting, Salt Pond Beach is the place to be. The natural rock barrier limits the number of waves that come through, making it ideal for little swimmers. Lifeguards are on duty, so they are a great resource if you have a question about water conditions. Aside from swimming, Salt Pond Beach is prime for snorkeling, paddle boarding, and those who wish to master their surfing skills. Monk seals and humpback whales (during winter) frequent this area, so you may get lucky during your visit to Salt Pond!
Remember to Practice Water Safety During Your Vacation!
You can never be too safe! When planning a beach day, consider visiting a beach with a lifeguard on duty. Check water and weather conditions before you go out and remember to swim with a friend and ensure children are supervised. Four beaches listed above have lifeguards on duty, so we highly recommend you check them out for a safe and fun trip!
