Top 5 Beaches to Hang Your Hammock in Kauai
Kauai, the Garden Island, is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands and provides breathtaking scenery to visitors. Kauai’s seemingly endless, beautifully soft beaches invite people to sit back, relax, and take it all in. Take a hammock, beach chair, or a simple towel and find yourself consumed by the beauty of one Kauai’s beaches.
1. Maha’ulepu Beach: This beach is on privately owned land, on one of the last undeveloped shorelines, and has breathtakingly beautiful blue water. Maha’ulepu is also a record of Hawaiian history; it is there that King Kamehameah sent his troops in an unsuccessful attempt to capture Kauai. Maha’ulepu can be found at the end of Po’ipu Road after a 2-3 mile trip along dirt roads. Take the time to walk the beach and rocky ridgeline to find a perfect place to set up for the day and enjoy the stunning views.
2. Ke’e Beach: Ke’e Beach is on the north side of the island where the highway ends. Parking for this beach can be difficult, but entirely worth the walk. Ke’e Beach is inviting because of its beautifully soft sand, crystal blue water, and nearby shade trees. Ke’e Beach is surrounded by a reef that breaks up the oncoming surf providing calm waters for snorkeling. This beach is also frequented by two of Hawaii’s local celebrities: the monk seal and green seal turtle. For hiking enthusiasts the beach is also close to the Kalalau trailhead (only first 2 miles is open for hiking without a permit). Ke’e Beach is perfect for a relaxed afternoon in the sun. Pack a lunch and be prepared to kick back and enjoy.
3. Anini Beach: Anini Beach can be found between the towns of Kilauea and Princeville. Anini is a long stretch of soft, sandy beaches with generally calm and warm waters. This beach is perfect for the novice snorkeler, beginner paddle boarder, kayaker, or average beach bum. Anini’s calm waters provide an exceptional location for all activities. Anini Beach Park is equipped with showers, camping, and grills to provide the perfect backdrop for all visitors. Part of the beach is tree lined for shade, to hang a hammock, or place a chair.
4. Ha’ena Beach Park: Ha’ena Beach Park is in the town of Ha’ena right across the street from the Maniniholo Dry Cave. This is a popular beach so parking is difficult. Tunnels, a popular snorkeling spot, is located to the right of Ha’ena Beach Park. These tunnels are created by the reef system just off shore. Snorkelers will find vast passageways created by the reef, including the fantastic variety of wildlife found within in it. Visitors should keep their eyes peeled for the many kinds of tropical fish and green sea turtles that can be located there.
5. Hanalei Bay: Calm, crystal blue water and wonderfully soft sand can be found at Hanalei Bay. The bay offers beautiful views and endless sunshine. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, or almost any other activity visitors might want to try. Hanalei Bay is close to the quaint town of Hanalei where visitors can take a break from the beach for some remarkable restaurants or shopping.