The 18 places the travel guides we read name most, what they say about each, and fares from your city.
From the 8 guides that rank for "best beaches in kauai"
Named by 5 of 81. Poipu BeachA rock wall creates a shallow wading area on the South Shore where small children can splash safely.Monk seals and green sea turtles are often seen here, so it suits wildlife watchers.
Named by 4 of 82. Lydgate Beach ParkTwo rock-walled saltwater pools make swimming safe for children, even when surf is high elsewhere.The protected lagoons make it a good first snorkeling spot, with a lifeguard on duty.
Named by 4 of 83. Hanalei BayIt is the largest bay on the island, on the north side.A good pick for a long beach walk of about two miles with mountain views.
Named by 3 of 84. Salt Pond Beach ParkOne writer calls it the best overall beach for easy swimming at any age because the water is calm.Shallow protected pools and a reef keep the water calm for small children.
Named by 3 of 85. Haena Beach ParkSwimming and snorkeling are good only in calm conditions.Winter surf can be very large, with dangerous shore-break and strong currents.
Named by 3 of 86. Anini BeachIt has the longest and widest fringing reef in the Hawaiian Islands.The reef usually keeps the water protected and conditions steady for water activities.
Named by 2 of 87. Kalapaki BeachPaddle boarding, surfing, boogie boarding and kayaking are all on offer.A family-friendly beach with views of cruise ships entering the harbor.
Named by 2 of 88. Kealia BeachA busy local surf spot, with winter swells that may be too strong for families.Suited to experienced boogie boarders and surfers, with lifeguards on duty.
Named by 2 of 89. Lumahai BeachScenic but known for drownings, so swimming is not recommended.Only strong swimmers should go in, and winter conditions are extremely dangerous.
Named by 2 of 810. Shipwreck BeachIt is named for a shipwreck that once sat off the shore.Known for nearby hiking, plus windsurfing, surfing and boogie boarding. There is no lifeguard.
Named by 2 of 811. Pali Ke Kua (Hideaways) BeachReaching it means a trek down a steep jungle path.Popular for swimming, kayaking and snorkeling by experienced snorkelers, with no lifeguard or facilities.
12. Polihale State ParkIt has the longest sandy beach on the island and a dry climate.There are no lifeguards, so bring shade and sunscreen.
13. Mahaulepu BeachA remote spot for experienced swimmers, with no lifeguard or facilities.The area has tide pools, lava tubes and sand dunes.
14. Baby Beach PoipuShallow, sheltered water makes it the pick in Poipu for families with kids.There is almost no shade, food or drink, and parking is limited in busy season.
15. Kiahuna BeachWater stays calm most of the year, and it is a fallback when Poipu Beach is full.
16. Makua (Tunnels) BeachConsidered the best place for snorkeling and scuba diving in North Kauai.
17. Kekaha BeachA long sandy stretch for walking, shell collecting and sunsets.
18. Wailua BeachEasy to reach, but swimming conditions are unpredictable. It suits surfers.Live fares. Watch them and we alert you when they drop.
Finding fares from your airport…
Travel guides most often name April to June and September as the best time to visit Kauai.