Polihale Beach
Photo by Douglas Peebles
Known for its 7-mile stretch of white sand beach and hot cloudless days, Polihale is the spot to dry out when the rains come. Framed by the west end of the Na Pali cliffs, sweeping sand dunes and a Ni'ihau capped ocean, Polihale can be a breath-taking experience. Camping by permit only. Dirt parking lot. Public bathrooms and showers.
Things To Do
- Swimming
- Surfing
- Bodyboarding
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Beach walks
- Family days
Cool Because
Hawaii's biggest gold-sand beach with amazing sunsets over Ni‘ihau island.
Hazards
Extremely strong currents. Dangerous shorebreak. Patchy sharp coral. Remote location. No rescue support due to remote location.
Topography
Long, wide sandy beach. Mostly sand underwater with reef patches.
Not Good For
Snorkeling - areas with sand bottom are not good for snorkeling because there is no reef to support a variety of fish.
User Rating
Click a star to vote
3.2 / 5 (97 votes)





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Oct 07, 2006 8:58AM
This beach will take your breath away. The Na Pali coastline is so beautiful and majestic, it is hard to put into words. Even though its not a great swimming beach, the bumpy road is well worth the trip to see the view alone.
Oct 18, 2006 5:11AM
While in Kauai, we nicknamed this the "Most Beautiful Beach in the World" Absolutely georgeous and not crowded at all. Stay to the right and take the dirt road all the way until it ends to get close to where the beach and mountain reach each other.
Dec 05, 2006 6:56AM
Just remember that RENTAL CAR POLICIES ARE VOID IF YOU DRIVE TO THIS BEACH. If anything happens all costs for getting out is assumed by the renter. We found out the hard way. It is in the fine print of the rental car companies rental agreement folders. Our car broke down and we had to pay HUGE $$$ to get out. Hertz Car Rental said that even though it was a mechanical failure, since we went out there it was our responsibility. They said all car rentals have same policy.
Dec 13, 2006 10:19AM
@ TIM: You should have called a tow truck to pull you to the road, then called the rental car company.
Dec 21, 2006 5:53AM
I'm planning a trip to Polihale in July. This may be a stupid question cause there are always waves, but how is the surf that time of the year?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Dec 28, 2006 11:39AM
@ Chris - Check out seasonal surf trends for a graph that shows average wave height by month and area.
Jan 15, 2007 6:21AM
THE most gorgeous unspoiled place! It is tricky getting out there (not for the faint hearted) but well worth it. Go well before sunset - they're amazing.
James
Jan 30, 2007 3:30PM
The longest white sandy beach in Hawaii! Polihale means in Hawaiian "A leeping Off place for spirits" or "House of Death". It is full of mystery and spirit. The best star gazing on the planet. What goes on in the sky there is "unconfirmed". Drive slow getting there, don't ever drink the water from the various faucets, pack out your own trash, don't drive a two wheel drive into the sand, wear plenty sun screen, don't even think of swimming if you are not an above average swimmer when get waves, nowadays look out for speeding SUV's on the sand, try listen for the goats on the cliffs, feed the chickens and cats, wear your sandles or get 3 inch Keawe up your heel, leave if it starts to rain and you don't have four wheel drive....say hello to the County of Kauai park recreation guys...they are the best and have been doing the job there for a hundred years before you were born.....they can tell you a lot.
Feb 05, 2007 8:21AM
Don't turn around when you encounter the road, the beach and waves takes your breath away when you finally reach the destination. The sunset was worth the 40 minute drive for 4.2 miles of rough terrain!
Mar 07, 2007 4:06PM
My Family and I have visited Kauai twice already and planning our third visit in October. We really had a hard time finding a beach (believe it or not!!). One strip of beach almost sucked my aunt into the Ocean.. PERMANENTLY.. I'm looking into the comments made for all the beaches and pretty much they all warn "STRONG CURRENTS" So where do we go with small children? I did like the one at Princeville even though it was a very small patch of land.
Kauai Explorer Staff
Mar 08, 2007 2:20PM
@ Denise: Do you mean you had a hard time finding a suitable beach for swimming with your family? If you go to the home page and click on "Kid and Family-friendly Beaches" you get a list of the following beaches: Anini, Lydgate, Kalapaki, Poipu Beach Park and Salt Pond. All are great for kids - current ocean conditions permitting.
Apr 11, 2007 10:21AM
so this beach is drivable or not? whats the best way to get there and what do you need? An SUV, jeep is a basic car fine just be careful???
Apr 12, 2007 8:13PM
Can't wait to visit this beach in two weeks!! Always nice to go back to Kauai...
JOE
Apr 14, 2007 1:43AM
Hi all:
What TIM said is true. ANY car rental company has " fine print " that tells you to say off dirt, gravel or rough roads. Personally not sure if I'd chance it. It does look very nice though.
Can you hire a taxi to take you there and come back to pick you up.? Has anyone done this before? or is it just too costly? Is it more costly to have your rental vehicle break down, and have to pay HUGE $$$$$$$$$$.?( U.S. $$ )
Apr 18, 2007 1:10PM
I am planning for my wedding in Kauai in August. In anybody's opinion, would this be a good spot? Everybody seems to really like it, but would it be worth it? I've paid good money for a high-tech photographer, and would love to have amazing pictures. Would Polihale beach be a good place with permitable weather? Thanks!
Apr 19, 2007 3:09PM
I live on Kauai and can tell you a taxi is not the way to go...I don't even think they would take you there. Your insurance is canceled on your rental if you take it down this road, but I've seen Mustangs driving to Polihale regularly. This road is probably the worst you'll ever see in your life but the sunset is worth it. Drive slow and if you get stuck call a tow company not the rental place. It'll save you money.
Apr 25, 2007 7:08PM
@ Tiffannie: It's a beautiful beach and I'm sure a wedding at sunset would be absolutely gorgeous!! However, I'm not sure a five mile, 35 minute rough terrain drive (one way)would be worth it. I would try getting there by boat if possible.
If you're planning a small wedding party, you might want to consider it. If it's a large party, you might want to reconsider. We drove a Dodge Magnum to get to Polihale and all we did was bounce around like popcorn kernels. The only vehicles we saw doing more than 5 miles per hour were lifted off-road pickup trucks and Jeeps. Aside from that, everyone was driving at the same pace we were....Good luck on whatever you decide and I wish you well on your wedding.
Sydney Yamane
May 21, 2007 11:21PM
If you want a beautiful wedding on the westside of Kauai with the alway clear weather and beautiful sunset, you will surely fine it the most romantic place to get married.
Jun 19, 2007 9:04AM
I've heard the road is bad, but is it really any problem if you have a Jeep Wrangler?
Jun 19, 2007 9:01PM
Jeff - you don't need a Jeep for this road. Resist temptation to go on the sand if you do rent a 4WD - the sand is super soft and it's illegal. Polihale is a nice big beach, very hot and the ocean is super powerful.
Jun 23, 2007 6:45PM
Be aware that rouge waves are common on this stretch of beach. I was well away from the water one afternoon, rarely would a wave come close enough to wet my toes. Suddenly, a huge wave came in, knocked me over and rolled me over and over in the sand-and then almost sucked me out to sea. I had to shampoo my hair 3 times finally get all of the sand out of it. It is beautiful though and well worth the drive.
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jun 24, 2007 7:32AM
The term "rogue wave" suggests that these are waves that are random and unpredictable - something I have not seen in my 25+ years in Kauai waters. Every beachgoer should be aware of the fact that waves come in sets of much larger waves. This, combined with a rising tide or swell probably was the cause of Amanda's sandy hairdo. People have also been swept off of rocks from large waves so always watch the ocean and be aware that it is constantly changing. WW
Jul 06, 2007 12:20AM
Dear Amanda and Kauai Explorer staff,
I'm sorry you were dragged out by a big wave, Amanda...just wanted to let you know that it was a "ROGUE" wave, and not a "ROUGE"..which means red, in French. Rogue as in a loner, a bad guy, a pirate! Not rouge..as in Moulin Rouge, rouge for my cheeks, etc.
aloha, and safe swimming!
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jul 06, 2007 8:18AM
Oops - spell check doesn't catch my bad French. Thanks Stepanie.
Jul 13, 2007 5:07PM
This destination is by far the most beautiful place I have ever been. My brother and sister in law got married on this beach. It was worth the two round trips on the rugged terrain to get there for the wedding. They had a small wedding party, but we drove a Mustang, a Jeep, and a Malibu out, and the Jeep was by far the way to go. But like I said, well worth it! Cannot wait to go back next year!
Jul 19, 2007 4:06AM
We drove our rental car (a Hertz Toyota Camry) all the way down the dirt road.
It was a bumpy ride, but the black dirt was hard and dry. The car never bottomed out or anything. This was in late August early Sept.
It also didn't take 35 or 40 minutes to get to the end after the paved road ended. Maybe 15 or 20 minutes.
If you stay on the paved road it leads up to the cliffs/mountian and the Navy has a fence that stops you. They keep all of the propellants for the rockets that they shoot off at the Naval station at the south end of that beach there.
We are going back next month!
DB
Jul 31, 2007 11:50AM
This is the most beautiful beach in the world & it is also the most powerful in many ways. This is not a beach for swimming! I highly recommend keeping your vehicles off the beach, just because you see other trucks on it doesn’t mean it’s easy to do. Every time I’m there we help pull out tourists out of the soft sand. It takes about 30 min to get in, looks like Danny was driving pretty fast. When entering drive slow, show your respect to this area by taking whatever you brought in out with you & show respect to the local's & we will respect you. Be safe, we want you to make it home using your airline seat.
Aug 02, 2007 3:52PM
Polihale is an awesome place, being there is a spiritual experience. I've been there several times over the years and am just amazed every time I go back.
My wife and I found Polihale several years ago when searching for the perfect sunset, we found it. I've been there in both the winter and summer, neither time is good for swimming but the summer you can at least walk into the water a little :)
We always go to the end of the beach, which I think is called Macau Point, where the cliffs jet out into the ocean.
Headed back to Kauai in August and planning on camping here for one night just to experience the beach sunset thru sunrise.
Absolutely awesome beach, worth every bump in the road.
Aug 06, 2007 7:58PM
Glad you guys love it so much. Keeps you away from my beloved North Shore! Keep loving it!
Kauai Explorer Staff
Aug 06, 2007 8:25PM
Yup - truth is that tourism is completely mismanaged all over Kauai. It's not the visitor's fault, just that there is no enforcement or infrastructure support from the government agencies who are tasked to provide these services. Kauai is an amazingly beautiful island and it makes economic sense to preserve that beauty.
Aug 15, 2007 8:39AM
My wife and I visited Polihale Beach in 1988 during our honeymoon. The big difference now is that Hurricane Ikini washed out lots of the large dunes that gave the beach privacy. Be that as it may, the beach is still the most gorgeous on the planet.
Sure, the drive is a bit troublesome. Just take it slow and avoid the deeper potholes (you can't dodge them all!), and you will be rewarded with a beach to die for. The wide, white beach, the view if Niihau, the dramatic decent of the Napali cliffs right down to the beach.....it simply is the beach of a lifetime. We visited again with our kids in July 2007, and weren't disappointed. Skip the crowded beaches....they are a dime a a dozen in the states. Don't waste your precious time in Poipu. That's just the greedy developers going after your cash.
If you want a truly great and unforgettable experience, rent a car (to heck with the agreement, this is your life!) and head to Polihale. You will relive the visit forever. We have done so for the past 19 years.
Mark Artusio
P.S. While you're there, drive up to the Waiamea Canyon and take the chopper tour of Kauai. To see the inside of Mt. Waialeale is breathtaking!
P.P.S. E-Mail me with your thoughts on your visit.
T
Aug 16, 2007 10:12AM
This sounds like an absolutely beautiful beach. I see individuals continuing to say don't drive on the sand. Is there a parking area for vehicles?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Aug 16, 2007 11:08AM
It is beautiful and there is plenty of parking. Some people just like to race up and down the beach in 4WD vehicles (prolly trying to use up all the gas so we can convert to alternative fuels).
Sep 03, 2007 1:57PM
The road is bumpy, by far not the worst I\'ve been on, just take it slow. Make sure you bring plenty of water. It\'s a beautiful beach, but the water could be treacherous, not a good place to to swim at all.
Poipu or Lydgate have a good areas for children.
I wouldn\'t plan a wedding there. Too hot, hard to get to, no real facilities.
Polihale is the perfect beach to just chill.
Sep 16, 2007 6:49AM
Hey guys!
I always wanted to go to Hawaii. I think the beaches are beautiful over ther! I'll get marry next may and we are thinking to spend our honeymoon there. But we are looking for a calm and beautiful place in Hawaii. Not many tourists and nice resorts. Does anyone have suggestions?
We appreciate
Sep 18, 2007 6:16AM
I am planning a trip to Hawaii with my handicapped daughter in a few months. She is in a power wheelchair. Is this a beach that she could access?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Sep 18, 2007 7:28AM
I see ADA compliant access at some Kauai locations. Hanalei Bay, Anini, Poipu Beach Park all have areas where a power wheelchair would work.
Sep 30, 2007 1:52PM
Is this road too rough for a family of 6 driving a minivan? Don't mind the kids, worried about the minivan.
Oct 16, 2007 6:05AM
I lived on Oahu for years and have been to Maui, Kauai, and the big island. This beach is by far the most beautiful beach I have been to. It is very secluded and there are very few people ever present. The Na pali coast line begins there and is quite beautiful. Don\'t even attempt the trip without a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Once there it\'s well worth the drive.
Oct 19, 2007 5:23PM
My husband and I spent our honeymoon in Kauai in November of 2001. We rented a Camaro and had no problem making the drive to Polihale several times. It was bumpy but we went slowly and never even bottomed out. We absolutely did not drive on the beach. We're going back to Kauai in April 2008 with our now 2 and 4 year olds. We can't wait to experience Polihale with them! It truly is a spiritual experience.
Nov 02, 2007 7:44AM
I haven't been to Kauai in 25-30 years, but plan to go with friends and husband December 6-13. What is the weather like during this time frame on Polihale as well as other beaches? Thanks in advance for any feedback.
Kauai Explorer Staff
Nov 02, 2007 9:26AM
Hi Terri - in December you can find some calmer conditions on the South and East shores. The lighter winds frequently blow from the West or North. North or West winds mean offshore wind on South and East shores. Onshore wind = choppy seas. Offshore winds = smoother.
The surf in Winter also comes from the N. Pacific and affects the North and West shores.
Expect the ocean at Polihale to be dangerous. Unless you know what you are doing don't even go near the water when the surf is big. Walking on the beach and sunsets at Polihale are beautiful. WW
Mike
Dec 02, 2007 12:08PM
Hey, I'm a great surfer and im looking for the buggest waves where are those?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Dec 02, 2007 7:11PM
Mike - the best waves are wherever the current swell is combining with the right winds. Some days are big, some are flat. The ocean is constantly changing (which most "great" surfers know). Be careful.
Dec 14, 2007 1:41AM
When my husband, daughter and I visited Kauai in May 2003, this was our last sightseeing spot before catching the plane home. My husband, an excellent amateur photographer, wanted to get an awesome western beach sunset before we left. We had bought this cute hula outfit for our 3 year old and he got some of the most awesome pix of her on the beach with the sun setting behind her...I wish I could post a picture! It ended up being quite an adventure trying to get the pix, bounce back out the dirt road and buzz up to Lihue without getting a ticket to catch our plane! ...But we made it and caught it all on video for laughs! We like a challenge!!
That said...even if you only drive out here to take some pictures and nothing else....you will be SOOO thankful when you're home remembering your awesome vacation! With all the high res digital cameras that we all have now...you will get some incredible shots to blow up and frame & brag to everyone that YOU were there and YOU are the awesome photographer!!
Dec 14, 2007 10:41AM
Please be very careful swimming at Polihale. My good friend died there six year ago. He was just swimming 30 feet out.
Don\'t go in over your knees, and even then be careful.
Walk down to Queen\'s pond to go for a swim.
Beautiful but deadly. Please be very careful!
Kauai Explorer Staff
Dec 14, 2007 11:13AM
True David - Polihale is beautiful but very dangerous. A number of beaches around Kauai are similar (Hanakapiai, Lumahai, Larsons and more). You cannot overcome the strength of the ocean and there is no help for miles. Be safe everyone and learn from David's sad story. W
Dec 24, 2007 6:20PM
I\'m here visiting Kauai for Christmas and one of the locals told me that my favorite beach Polihale is closed. Is there any truth to this? I certainly hope not as I\'m hoping to visit this week!
Kauai Explorer Staff
Dec 25, 2007 8:47AM
Rebecca - unfortunately as far as we know Polihale IS closed. The State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed the access road to one of Kauai's most amazing beaches.
Dec 26, 2007 11:54AM
We are headed to Kauai next week with our two little ones, ages 3 and 2. We were planning to camp at Anini Beach but were recetnly told that it's really buggy (read: mosquitoes). Then we planned on Polihale, but if that's closed Im not sure where to camp. Any suggestions?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Dec 26, 2007 12:12PM
Sarah - it has been very wet lately and Anini will be buggy. I would recommend YMCA camp Sloggett in Kokee or YMCA camp Naue in Haena. Both charge for camping but the experience is much better. W
Jan 01, 2008 9:32PM
In response to Sarah and the response from Kauai Explorer Staff.
I just drove to Polhale Beach Park today(Jan.1st/08) and the park was open. The gate was open and there were people camping there. Steady traffic on the dirt road coming and going, so Sarah you should go.
Jan 21, 2008 3:49PM
Is there a place to park near the end of the highway just before the dirt road begins?? From there is hiking to Polihale an option?? How many miles is it exactly?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jan 21, 2008 4:26PM
Michael - yes you can park at the gate (which has been open recently). Not sure exactly how far the hike would be. At least 3 miles.
Jan 25, 2008 12:29AM
Thank you for your response to my previous question regarding hiking to Polihale Beach. I have been examining the area on a satellite map and have come up with the following questions that would help me a great deal with my planning.
1) Is the entrance to Polihale State Park (by that I mean the point where you would park or enter the beach area by car) where Polihale Rd. actually ends, or is the entrance to the park before that point.
2) The location you indicate (at the gate) where one would be able to park there car before embarking on the dirt road; is that where Kiko Rd. meets Lower Saki Mana Road, or where Lower Saki Mana Road meets Polihale Rd.
3) Last of all, looking at the satellite map it would appear that once Polihale Rd turns so that it is running parallel to the ocean, if you were hiking as opposed to driving you would no longer have to follow the road to the park entrance, but could just cut over through the trees to the beach. Is this correct?
Thank you once again!
Jan 27, 2008 7:46AM
Drove out toward Polihale today and was disappointed to find the gate closed. Is there a reason this beach is closed? Are there specific days it is open? What gives?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jan 27, 2008 5:09PM
Aloha Valerie - that IS a bummer. Polihale is one of Kauai's amazing public places the current state of disrepair is a true shame.
The reason? Basically the State is not doing their job. If this was a private park like Limahuli or a golf course the place would be buffed out. There is no communication as to when the gate is open and when the facilities will be improved. Currently Polihale is closed without explanation and there is no running water. People are defecating and littering at will when the gate is open. Like I said, real bummer! W
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jan 28, 2008 9:45PM
Aloha Michael. Even many locals are unfamiliar with the specific names of the roads you are inquiring about. With such in depth questions, I recommend you contact the Kauai Visitor's Bureau for further information. Their toll free visitor information number is (800) 262-1400.
Also, we invite any other Explorer users to offer feedback to your questions. J
Jan 29, 2008 4:43AM
Probably the worst 5 miles of road you'll ever travel, but SO worth it. We went out there on Wednesday, Jan. 23, and were both in awe! Long, uncrowded beach, beautiful waves, sunny, and the echo of the waves off the cliffs behind the parking lot was amazing!
We're so glad the gate wasn't closed or we would have missed this!
Next time, we plan to take the video camera to hold on the dashboard of the car as we navigate the road! Will make a great vacation video!
Well worth the trip!
Matt
Jan 29, 2008 8:57PM
Visited Kauai in Mid-January. Took the plunge and made "the drive" to Polihale. I don't think you can call the road a "road." It was more like some hardened dirt, peppered with a variety of craters (some small, some huge). What you really need is some kind of lunar vehicle. Our top speed? Well, the needle stayed below 5 mph, let's put it that way. When we finally arrived, it was very windy and not real warm--certainly disappointing considering the drive. I guess the weather didn't help, but for us, it was certainly not worth it. Bummer. For the record, Ke'e beach and Poipu were fantastic, and much easier to access.
Jan 29, 2008 9:23PM
micheal,
the park is closed due to no water since sept. and the bad condition of the road
?-1. the park perimeter is vague.
there 3 places to easily got to beach.
first one to come to is the turn off for Queen's Pond.
left under the big Monkeypod tree.
second is fisherman's beach . the left about almost 2 miles from the pond turn
third is the road end up in the Day use area towards the end about another mile past Fisherman's turn off.
?-2 a gate where the the asphalt road ends.
it's a solid 5 mile hike from there to Queen's pond turn off
?-3
yep that's right.
the situation is up in the air right now.
park ranger are on patrol out there and may give you a ticket for being in the park right now
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jan 29, 2008 9:28PM
Thanks for your feedback, Matt. According to the Kauai District Office of the Parks Division Polihale is officially closed to the public until further notice. We have been told that potholes on the road need to be repaired and until the funding is approved and the work is done, the road to the beach will be closed. Once the repairs are done (they gave no estimate timeframe) the beach will be open for day use only. The only way to get updates on Polihale's status is to call the Kauai office at (808) 274-3444. J
Jan 30, 2008 7:48PM
Drove out to Polihale on the 28th. The gate was locked with a notice that the beach was closed. Was very disappointed since I consider it the best beach in Hawaii
Feb 04, 2008 5:07AM
Polihale is one of the best beaches on the island and the current closure is a disgrace. This does not seem to stop the locals (or the more persistent tourist) from going out there and in the last couple of weeks there has been plenty of traffic. In spite of the seriously unsafe ocean conditions it remains one of the best surfing spots and a good place to look for the elusive sunrise shell. While there is supposed to be no camping, and all the facilities are closed and without water, this does not seem to stop the people who want to stay out overnight. I would say the most important thing is for everyone to act responsibly. Trash in, trash out and take a little of what others have left behind so the state has less reason to keep the place locked up. The money it is going to take to repair the road is not likely to be forth coming and I am sure most of the locals would prefer the road be left the way it is anyhow.
Cynthia Fowler
Feb 11, 2008 4:33PM
Is Polihale still closed? We will be on Kauai the last 2 weeks of February. If so, can you suggest an alternative? I see Kekaha Beach but am uncertain how to find it from Hwy 50, but it seems to be a comparable choice.
Cynthia Fowler
Feb 11, 2008 4:37PM
If Polihale is closed and the locals are still going to the beach, where is the access road? I see there is a gate, but it is not locked. We will have a 4 wheel drive truck and would still like to go to the beach if possible.
Kauai Explorer Staff
Feb 11, 2008 7:21PM
Aloha Cynthia. If you haven't already, you can read the statement issued from the DLNR about the road closure on our site's Polihale page. In the statement they recognize that locals are using 4 wheel drives to access the beach. Here's what DNLR says about the gate on 2/5/08: "A new gate was installed this week by the parks division where a rough four-wheel-drive road crosses state agricultural leased land to access the park near the back dune area. Although the gate will be left open at this time, it will be closed in the event of an emergency such as a tsunami warning."
They also go on to express safety concerns: "“We understand that people want to get to the beach and that some four-wheel-drive vehicles have been coming in on a rough side road through an adjacent state parcel,” Thielen said. “We are concerned that people are putting themselves at risk because the condition of both roads inhibits the ability for emergency response vehicles to effectively respond if someone were to be injured in a surfing or fishing accident,” she said.
Good luck and contact DLNR for further updates. J
Kauai Explorer Staff
Feb 11, 2008 7:26PM
We have not received a statement indicating that the beach access has been reopened. You can check with DNLR for latest info. Kekaha Beach is accessible right from the highway but is not really comparable to Polihale, though it is a nice long stretch of beach. Part of Polihale's appeal is its remote locale and expansiveness. Though not similar, Salt Pond is a nice West side beach or try Mahaulepu on the South side for a more private experience. J
Feb 24, 2008 5:12PM
I'm visiting Kauai this week and am pleased to read on the DLNR website this morning that Polihale Beach has been reopened:
POLIHALE STATE PARK, KAUA’I REOPENS
2/08 - Polihale State Park is again open for day use. The water system has been repaired and the day-use area restrooms are open. Road repairs continue, and due to road conditions, 4WD vehicles are recommended to access the park. The park remains closed for camping pending completion of the road repairs.
This is my first time to the island so I'm glad I won't miss out on what should be the best beach.
Mar 10, 2008 3:25PM
Will be visiting kauai in late March. I am a little disapointed that almost everything I read seems to say that there are no safe beaches on the island. As I will certainly heed the warnings, I would like to know if there is anywhere safe to get in the water.
Mar 10, 2008 7:28PM
when beach camping in areas where there are no restrooms, is it recommended to potty like you would in the woods---dig hole and bury--or is there a locals way of removing bodily waste??
Kauai Explorer Staff
Mar 10, 2008 8:06PM
Aloha Marley. Since you're comment comes from the Polihale page perhaps you are wondering about the lack of restroom accessibility of this campground as of late. We're happy to say that the campground is now reopened, there is running water, permits are being issued and they've repainted the bathrooms.
Camping should only be done in permitted areas where facilities are available. The local way is to respect the land and use bathrooms. J
Kauai Explorer Staff
Mar 10, 2008 8:12PM
Aloha Mary Ann. Hopefully the warnings you've read have fostered a healthy sense of respect for the powerful ocean here on Kauai. As with anything, we cannot make a blanket statement and call any beach "safe" as conditions are constantly changing. However, there are many places where one can swim and enjoy the ocean. There are recommended swimming beaches such as Hanalei Bay, Lydgate Beach Park or Anini Beach. These still have potential to be dangerous on some days, so ask the lifeguard and use common sense.
A day like today, you'd have your pick of beaches of where to swim, as conditions are small and pleasant. Hope this helps. J
Mar 12, 2008 7:07PM
i noticed that per the dnlr notice the access road is now open. maybe less bumps now? we will be visiting in april, and as i have had recent rotator cuff surgery, i will be looking for all the photo & chill spots (and the easy/moderate hikes). and if we were to stay for the sunset, how is the drive out in the dark?
Mar 13, 2008 3:19AM
Really glad to hear that people have such a hard time getting to Polihale! Hopefully this continues to reduce mainstream tourism and preserve the natural beauty of the place. I really believe that the road there has been purposely neglected, or worse... Yet, it is no doubt the most breathtaking beach on the island. If your worthy, you'll make the trip and never regret it! But really...anyone know whats up with the Bees there? Still alive but washed up on the shore like they were out at sea or something. Kinda strange...
Kauai Explorer Staff
Mar 13, 2008 7:25PM
You'll see bees along the shoreline at most beaches. Heads up, because you can get stung if you step on them. J
Kauai Explorer Staff
Mar 13, 2008 7:35PM
Aloha Cyn. Haven't been on the road to Polihale since its repairs. Prior to that, the road was extremely bumpy and would not have been recommended for anyone recovering from sensitive surgery. For relaxing spots, I'd recommend Hanalei Bay or Mahaulepu, which aren't so out of the way. J
Mar 21, 2008 12:41PM
GOOD NEWS TO ALL!!!!
THE POLIHALE BEACH ACCESS ROAD IS NOW OPEN! CONDITIONS? IT'S LIKE A SUPER HIGHWAY! HOW DO I KNOW THAT? I'M THE GRADER OPERATOR THAT FIXED IT!!!!!!
CAUTION! HAVE SOME RESPECT, DON'T DRIVE LIKE A MANIAC THROUGH THERE! RESPECT THE AINA! DRIVE SLOW, THE OCEAN IS NOT GOING TO RUNAWAY!
MALAMA DA AINA, AND ENJOY!
ALOHAzz
Mar 23, 2008 7:09PM
Mahalo waialoha! We're making our first visit to Kauai from the 28th through April 5th staying in the Poipu area. I've been watching this thread & am happy to see your post.
Mar 24, 2008 12:25AM
We went to Polihale Beach and I felt the spiritual powers there myself...it wasn\'t until we got back from our trip that I did a little more research on it and found out why it felt so powerful. Rough ride, but worth it...just take your time, make sure you have plenty of gas, plenty of water and your sunscreen. We didn\'t stay long, but plan on going back to Kauai next year. Maybe we\'ll be brave enough to stay for the sunset. I just think it might be a little \"creepy\" driving back on that road in the dark...
OH AND MARY, I learned to swim in the summer of \'07 as an adult just so I could snorkel. I snorkeled at Anini for the first time and it was perfect. It was calm, warm and there were lots of fish. Take a look at this photo to see where I snorkeled at Anini. http://www.flickr.com/photos/la_angel322/2309566754/in/set-72157604005961592/
Kauai is a beautiful island and I treated it with a lot of respect. It was good to me, and I miss her so much.
Kauai Explorer Staff
Mar 24, 2008 7:32PM
Glad you enjoyed, Esther. A sunset at Polihale is definitely worth the drive back in the dark. Aloha. J
Mar 27, 2008 12:22AM
thanks waialoha for a job well done! beautification is part of keeping our island safe and beautiful for ALL to enjoy. God meant for us to appreciate the beauty that is His. mahalo for being a part of making that happen. Seeing the vast mountain coast, the ocean, the serenity, is worth the grumbles and stares some of the locals gave us for being there. My family loved the experience!
Apr 01, 2008 4:28AM
I too wiil be a honeymooner as of May 19th and am looking to maximize our beach time in Kauai while still leaving time for other adventure. After much research via this amazing website...it seems like polihale and tunnels will be ideal beaches to visit for spiritual and snorkeling purposes while hanalei sounds perfect for relaxation! Is this true (any other reccomendations would be great) and should we rent a 4WD vehicle (instead of a fun and sexy convertible) or unnec waste of fuel/cash? thanks & love the website!!!
Apr 02, 2008 7:10AM
We made an uneventful trip out to Polihale yesterday in our 2WD rental car (Sebring conv.) & had no problems. There was an area about a mile long with some nasty washboard road but we just stayed under 10 mph & had no problems with the road. The beach was one of the most incredible we've ever experienced anywhere. Just Do It!!!
Kauai Explorer Staff
Apr 03, 2008 6:02PM
Karen - Polihale, Makua and Hanalei are all amazing. Polihale is very dangerous for swimming and the snorkeling is not great (no reef = not much fish life).
I do not recommend renting a 4WD because all of the good spots are accessible via road or a short hike (which is part of the experience). There are not a lot of public areas to use 4WD on Kauai. W
Apr 10, 2008 10:12AM
Can anyone tell me if the fishing is good at Polihale? My son and I will be visiting Kauai in July and this beach looks perfect for whipping. Any thoughts?
Kauai Explorer Staff
Apr 10, 2008 8:27PM
Aloha. There's fishing at Polihale. For the best info, check in with a local variety store that has fishing supplies to see if you can glean tips from fellow fishermen. Enjoy your trip. J
Apr 16, 2008 1:45PM
I grew up on the Big Island but have never spent time on Kauai. My fiance and I will be honeymooning on Kauai in May and this looks like a perfect spot to camp. How do you get a permit, and do you tell them you are camping at Polihale or not, since it is sometimes closed? Do you think it will be open in May? Thank you!!
Kauai Explorer Staff
Apr 16, 2008 7:20PM
Aloha Jessica. Though I haven't been out there since it reopened, the word is there have been improvements to the facilities (which are still very rudimentary) and the park is intended to remain open. For permit information go to: http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/camping/kauai.cfm and you can apply online. Remember that Polihale is very hot in the middle of the day. The ocean at this beach can be extremely dangerous, so use caution and common sense. An amazing place for a sunset! Enjoy! J
Apr 24, 2008 12:30AM
Are the driving conditions on the road to Polihale really greatly improved? I was there last summer and the road was in terrible shape. Fortunately I was driving a Chevy Trailblazer. I will be back on Kauai in June/ July and looking forward to
camping on the beach again.
Kauai Explorer Staff
Apr 24, 2008 6:39PM
Hi Mike. Though our North shore-based Explorer team has not yet been on the road since its improvements, we hear that it is in much better shape than last year. Feel free to comment in the forum again after you experience it for yourself. Enjoy! J
Jun 11, 2008 5:29PM
nothing posted to this thread since 4-24-08!
Does that mean that there is no news or just that nobody has been to Polihale recently?
BTW, could somebody please post back with the phone number of a local tow truck operator who would be willing to come to Polihale ...just in case.
This was suggested by Justin but he posted back in December of 2006.
A great idea but I\'m wondering if anyone has had a need recently and who was it that they called and how much did it cost to get towed from the sand of the beach to the gravel of the main road?
Thanks.
(see you all in October)
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jun 11, 2008 8:42PM
We here at Explorer don't know of specific companies that would offer this service, but you'd probably be most likely to find a company located in the vicinity, such as Kalaheo or Waimea. If anyone in the forum wants to add to this, feel free. J
Jun 27, 2008 8:51PM
My wife and I are coming for our delayed honeymoon/first anniversary. I want to take her to Polihale for a sunset, but is it safe to a) drive a rental car there with the improvements? b)drive along that \"road\" at night? and c)be on a secluded beach at night (ie. crime)? Also, can anyone recommend how to divide up 10 days to maximize time (ie. snorkeling, beach, cruise, kayaking, etc.) and which privately owned places to stay? Asking a lot but I would appreciate your help.
Thanks
Jun 29, 2008 4:01AM
We are visiting Kauai in late August to early Sep, and staying in Kekaha, therefore, we are quite close to Polihale. Now what is the real deal with the driving? I have read all the comments posted and 95% say that this is indeed a beautiful beach, especially closer to sunset. I will be renting a regular car not an SUV, so, is it okay to make that drive and just stay clear of the sand. Is this possible? or will a car have a hard time navigating this dirt road? Need Advice..Mahalo
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jul 03, 2008 8:09PM
Aloha Mark. Ask for specifics from the rental car companies about their Polihale policies. We've heard that some do not insure their cars for this trip (but its not been officially confirmed). We wouldn't advise driving the road at night if it's your first time just because it's not lit and there are no signs. There is camping at this beach, so being there at night would only require basic common sense, as with anywhere. Do be aware of 4x4 trucks that drive on the sand that may not see you in the dark.
As for your 10 day trip, putting yourself in the Kapaa or Lihue area could give you a central location from which to travel to the North & West shores on day trips, hitting the spots in between. Enjoy! J
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jul 03, 2008 8:21PM
Hi Wallace. The rules for a rental car on this road are determined by the specific rental car agency. We've only heard that some do not insure the vehicle if it makes this trip, but this is not the official word. Feel free to find out and post it here for future reference. The road can be traveled by a car, but be aware of soft sand once you get to the end. There are parking areas that you can stop at, if you are unsure. We do know it can be challenging and expensive to have to get a tow from this spot. J
Jul 23, 2008 8:12PM
I'm looking for a place to camp for a few nights- not necessarily all at the same place. This beach sounds like an amazing place to camp. Are there other beaches that you would recommend for camping? Also, are there other areas of the island that you would recommend for camping? We're just looking for somewhere that has beautiful scenery and is relatively safe.
Thanks
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jul 24, 2008 7:03PM
Aloha Ryan. This question has been asked enough times we decided to write a guidebook with a whole section about it. You can check it out here:
http://www.kauaiexplorer.com/kauai_guide_books/
It describes all county and state parks that offer camping and links you to the sites that offer permits, plus maps and a whole lot more...
Polihale is a remote beach with rudimentary facilities for camping. It can be dangerous for swimming, so stay aware.
Enjoy! J
Jul 24, 2008 9:26PM
I will be staying on the North Shore for essentially 4 days in mid august. I would like to see as much of Kauai as possible. I am wondering in your opinion if driving to Polihale would be a practical use of my time. It sounds unlike any other beach in Hawaii but am concerned that it may take up to much time. My questions are, how long does it take to get there from Hanalei Bay (i\'d rather not do it if it\'s going to take almost a whole day)? Would you recommend this trip or would it be better use of time to spend exploring other parts of the island? Are there other nice beaches along the drive from the southern shore to western enhancing the drive? Would you recommend any other beaches on Kauai (or Maui) that are similar if I can\'t make it out to Polihale?
Thanks!
Kauai Explorer Staff
Jul 28, 2008 8:16PM
Hi Chris. A drive to Polihale from Hanalei will take up to 3 hours, depending on traffic. Starting very early will shorten the time. There are plenty of beaches along the way to visit as well - check out this website to see some highlights. There is no other beach like Polihale, but it is very remote and you should keep in mind it is extremely hot and dry in the middle of the day. Sunsets are epic. Another beautiful, remote beach in Poipu is Mahaulepu, which is an option if you don't decide to make the Polihale trek.
For further info about beach parks, etc. you can check out our new Ebook and help support this website:
http://www.kauaiexplorer.com/kauai_guide_books/
Enjoy! J
Aug 14, 2008 11:25PM
My friend and I drove in a rental SUV (Subaru Forester) to Polihale in late July 2008 and it was well worth it. It is indeed a spectacular beach! It can be very hot in the afternoon. To those who have inquired, the road was not that bad. When we drove it, it was washboard rough. Any potholes were easily avoided. I would say that we averaged about 30 mph. It took about 35 minutes from Kekaha, less than we had expected. One can drive to the end without driving on the sand. We saw many Dodge sedans, which I suspect were by and large rental cars. Our rental agency -- Budget -- included a provision that there was no insurance coverage for anything that would have happened on the road.
Aug 20, 2008 1:29AM
We are coming to Kauai in November and can\'t wait, it sounds Awesome! This is going to be a great 30 th Anniversary. I look forward to writing again when we get home.
Aloha
Kauai Explorer Staff
Aug 20, 2008 6:57PM
Mahalo Laura and congratulations on 30 years. We love it when folks write back in the forum after their trip. It's really helpful for the users of the site. Enjoy your stay! J
Roy and Melinda H.
Aug 22, 2008 6:17AM
Hi: We visited Polihale in the mid 1980's. We did not realize, you should not swim there. Guess, we lucked out. I love your web page. The beach is fantastic.
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