There are probably three reasons to go to Kauai. One reason would be the golf. Another reason would be to get away from people and hang out. The third reason, and my favorite, is to hit the beach.

So where is the best beach? Kalapaki Beach on Rice Road, Lihue, East Kauai is considered as the best beach in all of the island's east coastal region. Residential spots on the area are among the most expensive in the county. The beach resembles a half moon of golden sand that leads to the Kauai Marriot Resort & Beach Club.

Kalapaki Beach is 50 yards wide and almost half a kilometre long. This place is ideal for swimmers, surfing, bodysurfing, boogie boarding, surfing for beginners and windsurfing and also has a jetty for protection. The Haupu Ridge rises at 2,200 feet nearby protecting Nawiliwili Bay.

The beach opens out to the Harbor and Hoary Head Mountains. Other enjoyable activities are catamaran cruises, shopping at nearby Anchor Cove, sailboating, kayaking, beach volleyball and picnicking. Kauai Lagoons championship golf course is also a short walk away.

Poipu Beach Bark on Poipu Road, Poipu, South Kauai is the major beach on the south shore the island and is actually a combination of two beaches divided by a sandbar or tombolo. The left side has a lava-rock jetty that protects that sandy-bottomed pool where most families bring their kids. The right side has an open bay for swimmers, surfers and snorkelers.

The layout and weather of Poipu Beach Park makes it a very special Kauai beach destination such as great waves for swimming and surfing, beautiful reefs and marine life for snorkeling and strong steady wind for windsurfers. You will find sandy white beaches, rocks, grassy areas and shady spots around. The sandbar called Nukumoi Point is quite unique since ocean currents rush to the beach from opposite directions forming a tombolo by sand deposition. Restrooms, showers, picnic areas and lifeguards are available.

Popular Parks

Polihale State Park on Old Mana Road, West Kauai is the last beach on the westernmost point of the island. It is also the biggest beach in all of Hawaii ranging 17 miles long and about 300 yards wide. This is a great place to hold picnics, sunbathe, stroll in the sun and play beach sports. Temperatures seem to rise higher in the area compared to other beaches in Kauai.

Some attractions in the state park include Hawaiian temples or heiau and burial sites, the forbidden island of Niihau and Barking Sands Beach. Sand dunes can rise up to 100 feet and currents can be very strong because of the full exposure of the shore to the Pacific Ocean. There are facilities in Polihale State Park including picnic tables, showers, drinking water and restrooms. There no lifeguards however so caution should be taken if going off-shore.

Anini Beach County Park on Anini Road, North Shore Kauai is considered as the safest and most protected beach on the north shore of the island. It is ideal for Kauai beach destination activities like swimming, snorkeling and windsurfing. The location is captivating as well since it is found on a blue lagoon right at the foot of emerald cliffs.

The beach measures 3 miles long and is protected by the longest and widest reef in Hawaii. The areas on and off shore continue to drive in tourists with the abundance of shallow and deep blue waters and white sand beaches complete with shells and cowries.

Until next time, shoot me an e-mail and let me know what travel articles you would like to see, and how you are doing, O.K.?

Jim Fortune - the Bella Budget Travel Guy