Located along the untamed west coast of the island of Kauai, Polihale State Park offers a wild natural environment and one of Hawaii's longest sand beaches. Explore the ecosystem that recalls Hawaii of the past, with rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and sand dunes as tall as 30.5 m (100 ft) above the sea. Wander along the 24 km (15 mi) beach. If you'd like to stay longer, campsites are available, along with restrooms and showers. Though the beach has a calm appearance, rip tides, steep drop-offs, and rough surf make swimming essentially impossible outside a small area. Also note that the 8 km (5 mi) road to the park is unpaved and rough. Heavy rains can make a visit impossible for many cars, so check the weather in advance. Arrange to visit Polihale State Park and other attractions in Waimea using our Waimea trip itinerary planner.
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Tours to Polihale State Park
Polihale State Park reviews
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You will want to make this trek in an SUV, truck, or something that can handle 1000's of potholes and dirt terrain. Took us about 25 minutes to drive 5 miles, but so worth it! The beach was wide...
You will want to make this trek in an SUV, truck, or something that can handle 1000's of potholes and dirt terrain. Took us about 25 minutes to drive 5 miles, but so worth it! The beach was wide... more »
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Amazing. By far the best beach on the island. Can you drive on the beach? Yes do you need to? No. I suggest an SUV since the access road is rutted and not maintained like the farm roads next to it. I.... more
Amazing. By far the best beach on the island. Can you drive on the beach? Yes do you need to? No. I suggest an SUV since the access road is rutted and not maintained like the farm roads next to it. I.... more »
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Huge pristine beach. Surprisingly had good facilities even for the remote location (washing areas and bathrooms). The road was longer than expected but definitely didn't require 4wd - we had a jeep but saw many rental sedans. Pretty much a regular gravel road but with massive potholes and speed humps.
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An absolutely gorgeous stretch of beach, the road to get there is very very very rough. Bring beach gear and spend some time and possibly catch a sunset. Waves were big here, so make sure you are a strong swimmer.
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