Kekaha Beach
Photo by Wasabi
An uncrowded wide, white sand beach that stretches for miles, Kekaha is a popular fishing spot. The water often takes on the murky, red tint characteristic of the Waimea area. Roadside parking, temporary restrooms.
Things To Do
- Swimming
- Surfing
- Bodyboarding
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Beach walks
- Family days
Cool Because
Almost guaranteed sunshine and miles of beachcombing.
Hazards
Strong currents. Dangerous waves breaking on sandbars and reefs.
Topography
Sandy shoreline. Mixed reef and sand underwater.
Not Good For
The miles of sand make snorkeling at Kekaha a very uneventful activity.
User Rating
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2.4 / 5 (519 votes)
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Your Questions Answered!
The Explorer's Guide to Kauai answers all the frequently asked questions from the discussions on this website, including the questions you didn't know to ask. Plus, there's detailed Kauai vacation maps and neighborhood info...Show me!
Let's Discuss (67 comments)
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Aug 29, 2006 4:44AM
Watch out for speeding trucks and SUVs. At least one person has been run over here while sunbathing. In the past, fishermen drove slowly in their army Jeeps, all following the same path. Now, heedless drivers race all over the beach with their giant tires, and there is not one smooth-sand spot on the entire beach.
The easiest access is from the Kekaha end, if you don't mind being right next to the highway. To get away from the highway, you can drive west down the beach, but the Navy has barricaded it about two miles down in case terrorists are driving on the beach. This action is of doubtful legality, but the state has done nothing to protect public access.
The Navy does allow access, with permit, to the west end at Major's Bay, and the upside here is that driving on the beach is prohibited (or was the last time I was there), so it's a far better beach experience. The winter surf at Major's can be exceptional.
The strength of the currents here cannot be overemphasized. You can quickly be swept far away from the place you entered the water.
Mar 27, 2007 9:24AM
watch out for big waves that pound...
Jan 27, 2008 10:22PM
We will stay at Kekeha beach on March,
Are dangerous waves often ?
I interested in fishing, How can I do
this at beach,
Im from Europe, Czech rep,
Thank you
Tony N
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jan 28, 2008 8:55PM
Aloha Tony. Ocean conditions are always changing, so it is best to use caution whenever you are in the water. I have personally seen a person get caught out on a boogie board in the water at this beach and my friend, who is a surfer, had to rescue him. Kekaha beach has a lifeguard, so ask about the conditions while you are there. You can also check Explorer's Daily Ocean Report for surf heights, etc.
Enjoy your stay! J
Jan 30, 2008 7:30PM
Beachcombing definition please....
I have read that taking seashells are illegal, I guess I always thought beachcombing meant finding things like shells, driftwood, sea glass..... I surely do not want to get a fine for my child taking a seashell!
Thanks for your help.
Jan 31, 2008 12:56AM
I would like to know where is the best spot to surf on sand with nice clean waves. I would also like to know where is the volleyball ??
Kauai Explorer Staff
Feb 01, 2008 5:06PM
Justice - we do not know of any laws prohibiting the taking of seashells. People do it every day here. W
Kauai Explorer Staff
Feb 01, 2008 5:07PM
Samuel - Hanalei is usually clean and offshore with sand bottom in the bay. Vollyball at Hanalei Bay and Kalapaki. W
Feb 14, 2008 6:37PM
I'm interested in having a beach party for some friends on this beach. Does anyone know whether there are BBQ facilities at the beach? And, whether we can have a small fire pit? Do we need a permit for alcohol, etc.?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Feb 14, 2008 8:37PM
Hi Karl. This beach has pavilions, which sometimes have BBQs. I'm not certain if the pavilions here offer this but I would recommend bringing your own anyway. The BBQs that are provided at some of the beach pavilions are often pretty old and rudimentary. You'll see folks enjoying small fires and alcoholic beverages on Kauai beaches. Whether you technically need a permit for a fire is best asked to the County. You can call them at (808)241-4460. Use good judgement and common sense. The West side is very dry, so extinguish fires completely before leaving. J
Apr 27, 2008 5:35PM
Aloha! Coming to Kauai the middle of May and looking for some body surfing for a 50 yr young kid that kicks butt! Any suggestions for this time of year?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Apr 28, 2008 8:05PM
Aloha. You'll want to stay tuned to our ocean report for more exact conditions during your stay. The surf begins to lessen on the North shore in May and increase on the South and West side. You can still check out Hanalei Bay for some body surfing and if the waves aren't too big, check Poipu Beach park. If in doubt, ask a lifeguard. Have fun! J
May 17, 2008 1:55AM
I will be arriving for a 7 day vacation trip with the family. However I looking forward to some surf fishing. According to this site kekaha is consired a hot sport for fishing. Is the fishing at best from a boat or from the surf. What kind of bait do you recomend or do you use artificial lures. Any tips will be appreciated.
Kauai Explorer Staff
May 20, 2008 9:36PM
Aloha Joel. You may want to check out the DNLR site: http://hawaii.gov/dlnr/dar/fish_regs/kauai.htm
with specifics to fishing or contact them directly. You may also find an insider's scoop by stopping in at one of the island's variety stores, which sell bait and other outdoor gear and tackle. You can also do an online search to see businesses that specialize in fishing tours. Enjoy your vacation. J
Jun 25, 2008 3:59PM
I will be at Kekaha in November of this year. Very excited. Does the surf pick up around that time of year? And what beach would be the best for snorkeling? Thank you...
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jun 26, 2008 7:44AM
Aloha Luis. Surf picks up on the North shore in November and is typically smaller on the South and West side (Kekaha, included). Snorkeling could be happening at Poipu Beach Park this time of year. Check in with the lifeguard. J
Jul 18, 2008 3:19PM
FANTASTIC WEBSITE!!!! CONGRATULATIONS
We will staying in a house on Kekaha in late August and am wondering if we can do any leisure fishing with family, nothing major, just to while time away, using regular fishing poles. Does Kekaha have any pier to do this? How about bait? Thank you
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jul 21, 2008 8:31PM
Mahalo for the feedback. You may want to check in with West Side Sporting Goods in Waimea (808 338-1411). They might be able to help you with recommending a decent spot and should be able to supply you with bait, etc. Enjoy your trip. J
Jul 23, 2008 10:12AM
Is Majors Bay still open to the civilian public with proper id and with proof of car insurance? Last time we visited this beach was before 9/11 and I understand it was closed to civilian public after that.
Just wondered.
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jul 24, 2008 7:06PM
Aloha Joe. We're not sure on this one. We tried to access the PMRF website to get info for you and the site is currently down. If you want to visit this area we'd suggest being prepared to present all documentation, as it's quite likely you'll need it. Feel free to post updated info on the forum if you do get to Majors. Mahalo! J
Oct 14, 2008 5:49AM
Where is the best spot in the area to rent good glassed or epoxy surfboards?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Oct 15, 2008 10:02PM
Hi Tyler - in Hanalei you can rent from the Hanalei Surf Company. In Poipu check out Nukamoi Surf shop. W
Nov 10, 2008 1:09AM
where is the safest place on the island beach wise - boring is ok this is for christmas week.
Kauai Explorer Staff
Nov 12, 2008 4:57PM
Hi DJ - during Christmas South shores will probably be calmest but stay in tune with the constantly changing ocean conditions and consult locals / lifeguards. On an island you can usually go to the calmer, leward side to avoid the rough stuff. W
Dec 02, 2008 4:05PM
Hey, great site. I am traveling to Kekaha starting Christams day through Jan. 3rd. Can you recommend any fun places for someone in their 20's. Trying to find some nice, low-key bars. Also, while I realize ocean conditions can always change, is the beach generally safe to swim? I grew up in FL and dealt with a fair share of undertows and strong currents, but is Hawaii a whole different animal?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Dec 02, 2008 5:40PM
Hi Chris - don't expect to find great clubs on Kauai (you can get plenty of that on Oahu). Most people are so active during the day here that we shut down pretty early. As far as ocean / currents - the waves are much more powerful here because there is no continental shelf to slow the water movement. Take your time and check in with locals / lifeguards. W
Jun 24, 2009 12:19AM
Which beaches have fine powdery sand? I build sandcastles and will be on Kauai in July. Thanks.
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jul 01, 2009 3:29PM
Ray - Hanalei Bay, Mahaulepu and Kekaha have fine sand. W
Sep 04, 2009 5:14AM
My wife and I are considering staying at a rental home located at 8589 Kaumualii Hwy. Can anyone tell us about the beach directly across the street from the address? Rocky? Good for sunbathing? Anything negative or positive. Thanks in advance, Alan
Kauai Explorer Staff
Sep 06, 2009 5:14PM
Hi Alan - I don't know that house but Kekaha is a unique experience. Great access to Kokee, Polihale and Waimea town.
Sep 17, 2009 2:32PM
Alan, I'm almost certain that's the house my husband and I stayed at on our honeymoon five years ago! It was brilliant. The beach was a bit hazardous unless you're a very strong swimmer/surfer/ocean kayaker but great for early morning walks and watching the ocean from the lanai. We were off exploring the island every day - there are so many great places to swim and sunbathe on Kauai. Have a great time. Am seriously jealous.
(Great website, by the way!)
Oct 30, 2009 12:39AM
We?ve been coming to this area for close to 20 years now, we usually rent a 4x4. One of are favorite activities is driving down the beach to a quiet area, unload all are stuff and enjoy; we?re cautious of others on the beach and don?t speed. In the evening we also like to drive down the beach and watch the sunset. On weekends we usually avoid this beach because of crowds and crazy 4 wheelers, but have found most everyone is courteous to others.
It?s been a couple of years now so I?m wondering if beach access is still available for vehicles.
Kauai Explorer Staff
Oct 30, 2009 5:33PM
Hi Jay - right now there is controversy regarding access to driving on the beach. It's actually illegal to drive on the beach in Hawaii, it's just never been fully enforced.
Mike Dacre
Nov 22, 2009 7:33PM
Great website, as I am currently staying in Kapaa area and visit this site every day. One constructive note.. is there any chance you could change the question order to most recent first? In most cases I am finding the notes pretty useless from 2005-2006 and need more current stuff only to find it at the very bottom. Still, a very good informational website.
Mahalo
Jan 28, 2010 10:57PM
Hello I am coming to Kauai with my husband and was wondering if we are allowed to sleep on any of the beaches? We're staying at a resort but a night on a beach would be so nice!
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jan 29, 2010 5:57PM
Hi Leah - legally you are supposed to have permits and stay at a designated camping area.
Feb 26, 2010 5:35PM
We are considering staying at a B&B in Kekaha for our honeymoon, late July. Never been to Hawaii, but dream of warm sandy beach, good for swimming (don't need to go too far out)...
Am starting to wonder about all this driving, etc., on the beach-sounds pretty disruptive...any idas, suggestions, advice, etc?
Feb 28, 2010 1:09AM
My wife and I are looking for a good area to base out of for a week of surfing. We are considering eary April or early May. She is a strong beginner and I'm an intermediate. Any recommendations for that time of year?
Great site.
Clark
Kauai Explorer Staff
Mar 01, 2010 8:08PM
Hi Clark - I would set up on the North shore.
Kauai Explorer Staff
Mar 01, 2010 8:14PM
Hi Deb - Kekaha has a very chill local style west side vibe. The water is not usually as clear as other areas on the island due to red dirt runoff. I love the west side.
May 31, 2010 1:15AM
Hi there,
Considering bringing my family -- including two young boys, aged 5 & 2 -- to Kehaha. How's the surf & general safety at the beach for little fellers?
Also: if I wanted to surf (beginner), is Kehaha good for that? Or would I drive somewhere else?
Thanks, Ian
Jul 01, 2010 5:24AM
I see a lot of commentary about the rough surf. My family will be traveling to Kekaha, Kauai next August. My in-laws were originally looking in the Haena area, but we read the surf was dangerous. Now we're looking here and read the same kinds of things. We have 8-13 year old kids who are going to want to be in the ocean. Will that be possible?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jul 03, 2010 6:37PM
Mary - you're not understanding that the surf CAN be rough but is always changing. Generally it's calmer in Haena than Kekaha during summer.
Jul 30, 2010 6:40AM
I have taught myself how to surf in hanalei bay but in this time of the year the waves are small. I am wondering what is a step up from hanalei. mahalo
Sep 20, 2010 5:32PM
hi!
i was thinking of coming to camp on the beach is kekaha while taking a crystal course... but have been warned of cyrstal meth users, and this site mentions jeeps all over the beach. do you think it will be safe for a single cute female alone?... starting this wed for 2 weeks?
thank you !!!
Kauai Explorer Staff
Sep 27, 2010 10:27PM
Laurelle - I would not advise camping at Polihale alone. Sad but true.
Nov 30, 2010 5:15PM
My friends and I are headed to Kauai in Januaray and we are looking for a good surf spot... one that is not giant. Preferably, a beach and/or point break that is chest high or lower. Any suggestions?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Nov 30, 2010 5:28PM
Lindsey - try Hanalei Bay. There is a range of spots from sandbars to point breaks. Usually quite crowded though.
Dec 17, 2010 8:08PM
Does Kekaha beach have a certain closing time? if so, what is it? :) thanks!
Dec 19, 2010 6:28PM
Aloha Explorer Site,
I swam/surfed the Kekaha beaches in Smmer '06, but just heard that the sand has "shifted" eastward due to a near-miss hurricane 2-3 years ago? Still 15 miles long, but has moved? Could someone please verify or better, clarify?
MJ
Jan 08, 2011 3:14AM
Hello,
Where would the be the best place to stay. We would like to be on the beach and be able to snorkel from land. My daughter would also like to take surfing lessons. We like small places not resorts.
thanks
Jan 23, 2011 8:24PM
What beach and exactly where would be the best spot for a beach wedding. We would like soft white sand that doesn't have a ton of tire tracks in it. We have narrowed Down to Poipu, Kekaha, Hanalei, and Anini. Any advice would help. Thanks!
Jan 23, 2011 8:30PM
What beach and exactly where would be the best spot for a beach wedding. We would like soft white sand that doesn\'t have a ton of tire tracks in it. We have narrowed Down to Poipu, Kekaha, Hanalei, and Anini. Any advice would help. Thanks!
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jan 24, 2011 5:43PM
Cassie - our advice is always to get the help of a local coordinator. They have connections, know the weather, locals, spots etc. WW
Feb 03, 2011 10:06AM
I love this website. I was hoping someone has some suggestions on travel agents in the local area of Kaua'i. I've found a ton of names, but I would like to plan a authentic trip without a hotl stay. Any ideas?
Aug 31, 2011 10:48AM
Your Picture made me sad, I had forgotten how much sand used to be there!
I think you need to update that photo to reflect the current conditions. Wait till after this swell though!
Aloha
Aug 31, 2011 6:18PM
does anyone have a suggestion as to where we can go to lounge on the beach and have drinks, maybe snorkle in between a few cocktails?
Aug 31, 2011 11:20PM
I spearfish frequently in california and am going to poipu for my honeymoon in october. where is a good spot for spearfishing
Sep 22, 2011 4:57PM
Remy spear fishing on this spot of the island is illegal and cast nets. In fact any net/spear/bow within certain miles from Waimea pear. The folks at Kaui explorer offer a great tour my wife and I took it. We now live in Kekaha, lived here about 2 months. If anyone has any suggestions of shore fishing locations, rigs, freshwater locations, baits, and any spots local to Kekaha/Waimea or any area not as far as Kaliheo. Please let me know. Right now the surf in the spots I have tossed out are to large to keep a surf line in. I need some local ideas.
Sep 22, 2011 5:00PM
Also, John you can sit with your own cooler at Palihale or Kekaha beach park and watch the sun set. It is amazing and we do it every friday. But buying serving drinks here is a no go a long with snorkeling. Snorkeling is impossible at Kekaha beach. If you want to relax enjoy a drink and possibly swim in snorkel I recommend Dukes in Lihue. The beach there is nice and you can watch the water from your table.
Brad
Jan 12, 2012 7:20PM
Kekaha Beach Park and the beaches along the road were great for our family...I was a little worried before we went about the road. Turned out it was easier to get across than I thought with our kids. The beach thankfully was not too crowded and Lilly and Chris had miles of sand! We are going back to Kauai in March and we miss the best sunsets on Kauai so we are not going back to the overcrowded and thumbnail size beaches at Poipu. We want sand and we were more than surprised how small the beaches in Poipu were. Kekaha is obviously a hidden gem. Lucky for us!
Feb 28, 2012 5:12PM
Thinking of visiting in june this year. want sun, sand, and snorkling. Dont waqnt big waves. Yes/no?
Apr 16, 2012 12:24PM
How is the Snorkeling In Mid Sept? I seem to remember the ocean being calm enough to snorkel when visiting last Sept.
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Feb 16, 2013 4:52AM
Today, I went to the beachfront with my kids.
I found a sea shell and gave it to my 4 year old daughter and said "You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear." She put the shell to her ear and screamed.
There was a hermit crab inside and it pinched her ear.
She never wants to go back! LoL I know this is entirely off topic but I
had to tell someone!
Mar 05, 2013 6:05PM
I went to school in Kekaha. I was a military brat living in Navy housing at Barking Sands. Is it possible to access the base as a civilian? I went to the Methodist church in Kekaha, is it still active. I am so thankful to have the experience of growing up on the Garden Isle.
Jun 19, 2013 4:17PM
Hi. My husband and I are planning to come in November. How rainy does it get? What part of Kauii would you suggest? We are very active and love hiking, kayaking, snorkeling...
Nov 23, 2013 6:35AM
It used to be possible to rent "cabons" at Majors. Is this still possible?
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