With more sand beaches per mile of shoreline than any other major Hawaiian island, Kauai is clearly a viable option for beach lovers looking for that tropical island getaway.  There are many beaches to choose from on the south shore of Kauai.  Starting with the commanding ocean front sprawl of property, Kiahuna Plantation is easily one of the most perfect Hawaiian beaches on Kauai.  Located in front of the Sheraton Hotel, this unbelievable beach offers something for everyone.  Great swimming, outstanding snorkeling, even excellent surfing and boogie boarding for those who enjoy the waves.  If you want to mix things up a bit and explore some beaches outside your routine stroll down at Kiahuna Plantation 425, you can!  Of course you may never want to leave the vicinity of Kiahuna Plantation, but if you do, read on…

Gillin’s Beach is part of the spectacular coastline on Kauai’s South Shore collectively known as the Maha’ulepu Beaches. Although seas along the Maha’ulepu Beach areas are often rough, this undeveloped area presents a wondrous opportunity to stroll along long stretches of sand and take in natural beauty virtually untouched by man.  It’s quiet, and there if you drive down the dirt road far enough east, and parallel with the ocean, you will see a tree canopy and some parking spots.  This is a great place to park and lay your towl down about 100′ from your car.  Mornings before 11am and afternoons before sunset are good times to visit this spot.  The water is quite a bit calmer in this area but always watch the water first for at least 15 minutes before entering.  If in doubt, don’t go out!  Located past the Hyatt on the dirt part of Po’ipu Road, the Maha’ulepu Beaches are popular with locals. Gillin’s Beach is named after the late Elbert Gillin, and you will see his restored house on the beach just off to the right. Gillin’s Beach is an ancient open-roofed sandstone sinkhole, bring your camera.

The hub of beach activity on the South Shore of Kauai is Po’ipu Beach Park. Bring your snorkel gear and enter the ocean around the right side of the narrow strip of sand that joins the two pieces of land. If you prefer to swim, enter the water on the left side. If you are bringing children, locate the area to the left that is largely protected by a breakwater.

Speaking of children, if the surf is high at other beaches, check out Baby Beach. Baby Beach is partially protected from the surf by a natural breakwater of lava boulders. This creates a calm pool, where you can relax on an inflatable raft for hours while the children splash around in the water. Bring your reef shoes to navigate over the lava stones on the bottom of the pool. Baby Beach is located on Hoona Road off of Lawa’i Road.