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Polihale State Park, Waimea

4.7
#2 of 18 in Things to do in Waimea
Beach · State Park
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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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Polihale State Park reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
963 reviews
Google
4.8
TripAdvisor
  • This place is otherworldly It’s beautiful and special although the road to get there is not I don’t advise going there if you don’t have 4WD However, it’s probably one of the most beautiful places... 
    This place is otherworldly It’s beautiful and special although the road to get there is not I don’t advise going there if you don’t have 4WD However, it’s probably one of the most beautiful places...  more »
  • Whether driving in on the unimproved "road", looking at the impressive ocean swells, miles of beach or the beginning of the Napali coast the park the park is simply fascinating. The roars of the... 
    Whether driving in on the unimproved "road", looking at the impressive ocean swells, miles of beach or the beginning of the Napali coast the park the park is simply fascinating. The roars of the...  more »
Google
  • Super fun "off-road" drive to get to this beach and super beautiful once you do arrive! This is certainly reachable by a normal car it's just gonna take you a lot longer than a jeep or truck due to the amount and size of potholes and bumps on the road. Highly recommend visiting though. We arrived just before dark and left after dark. Didn't have any issues finding our way.
  • Best place for sunsets! This is as far south as you can go on the island, but worth the drive no matter where you are staying! Great white sand beach with an unbeatable sheer wall backdrop. Not the best swimming or snorkeling beach due to the large waves and current. HOWEVER, hands down, the only place to view a beautiful sunset at the western most point of the US.

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