The public beach of Lihue in Kauai, it also serves as the easily accessible beach for the Marriott Vacation Club and for cruisers coming off of ships at the nearby Port. The crescent shaped area has distinct edges/ends, and the flat sandy beach is easy for short walks on the water (the beach is about a quarter mile in length). The water is protected by the bay and its calmness and easy entry encouraged paddleboarders and swimmers. As for the beach, it has calm, clear, no-debris waters and the water was warm during our day visit. The golden sand didn't get too hot, even under the afternoon sun. It had a lot of unused loungers for the guests of the hotel, which slowly filled up as the afternoon went on. read more

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Great little calm beach with shopping and eating. We walked here from The Pride of America cruise ship on our last day of cruising and had a blast. read more

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Our friends recommended this beach to us. They said it was their favorite beach of their trip. The views at this beach at absolutely stunning. The water was calm enough for swimming which was nice. We did see a sign by the mouth of the stream saying that there can be high bacteria levels in the water. I read online that it is riskier after a heavy rainfall and by the mouth of the stream itself. We got in the water on the beach, and it ended up being fine for us. I would recommend looking it up before going! I also really liked this beach for just lying out. There isn't much shade on the beach, but the grassy area had a bunch of trees that provided shady spots for hanging out. The other nice thing about this beach is that it has a lot of great food options really close by like Duke's, the Musubi Truck, and Island Treats & Gift Shop. Parking was easy in the free parking lot. The bathrooms are okay. They have an outdoor shower by the bathrooms to rinse sand off. Overall, we really enjoyed hanging out here. read more

Kalapaki Beach - Beaches Near Me

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Okay, some of the island is Tropical Paradise and some Tropical Trashcan. This one is the Paradise one! Beautiful crashing waves create a reach rugged ocean feel yet it is in a cove so it also have some calm. Home to beautiful resorts and hotels and some great food and shopping! If you want the Paradise part of the island, this is where you stay! read more

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We did the outrigger surfing and it was awesome! Our instructor was great and had clear direction. If you are in seat 1 and 4 be prepared to paddle the whole with some rest intervals waiting on waves. We rode 6 waves and had a great time. It was super safe.. read more

Public parking is near Duke's and The Musubi Truck. There's a decent sized lot down a little hill that you can park at. The beach is in front of Duke's and the Royal Sonesta as well as the Marriott. There were lots of people swimming and canoes going out from there. After spending some time there and walking back to our car, we saw one tiny little sign posted to a tree that said that the water in this location has high levels of bacteria. I didn't think of it, but that makes sense due to the runoff going into the beach area. Why wasn't I thinking or the sign bigger? It wasn't a bad beach, but the views weren't any thing great and with the higher levels of bacteria, I wouldn't go here. Free parking...that's the only good thing. This made me realize staying at the Sonesta and the Marriott here to be close to the beach is not a plus. read more

Another beautiful beach and this one is right at a hotel's backyard. Even if you're not staying at the hotel, you can visit the beach by parking in the nearby park. The waves are very manageable. Shopping centers nearby. read more

A great wonderful beach right next to The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue (formerly Kauai Marriott). There is free beach access parking next door even if you are not a hotel guest. Waters are relatively calm and you can walk across the beach pretty easily or relax on the sand. Plus, there are restaurants on-site like Duke's and Cafe Portofino, or you can go across the street to the Harbor Mall. read more

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The day we landed Kauai, this is the 1st beach we've been through. And if you're staying in Marriott Hotel this would be perfect & closest beach you'll ever have. Located on the East side of the island (5mins. drive from the airport) Kalapaki Beach is a great for swimming, learning to surf, boogie boarding & stand up paddle boarding. Partially protected from the open ocean by a large break wall your kids will probably enjoy in here. We haven't stayed longer in this beach. Just checking how it was & because there were plenty of beach-goers at that time we immediately hop back in our car & drove a little more. Public parking is available. Restaurants around the beach & plenty of sandy spots to lay down & work on your tan! Most of the time, you'll see people paddle boarding on here according to other reviews. So if you are into kayak & boogie board, mind as consider this place in your itinerary. Mahalo & happy juandering fellow yelpers. @hello.juanderpinay www.juanderbandit.world read more

Kalapaki Beach - Beaches Near Me

What a wonderful empty beach. So beautiful, lava rock, water, picnic tables. I'm walking distance to ship we were on. We had our bathing suits. Got a 6 pack and snacks from store and had a fun day at a beautiful area with a photo shoot on our honeymoon where we were the photographer. Visit this beautiful area. read more

Kalapaki Beach - Our rock tower - Beaches Near Me

This beach was really fun for our kids. We originally came here to go to the restaurant along the beach and grass area and it was a little wait so we took our shoes off and took a dip and it was really fun. there was this big sandy hill and then this little area where the water would go and then almost turn into a river and the kids loved that part. The waves came in at a descent speed, not too crazy and the little divot was nice because it had some fish and tadpoles they could see and it was safe. Overall we had a great time here and with the high rocks on one side too, it kept the kids from venturing too far. Also there were bathrooms near and an outside shower, so that was nice to rinse off our legs and feet before dinner. read more

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My husband and I went to this beach yesterday for the first time and had the best time's We have lived in Kauai for almost a year and we usually stay close to home however, yesterday we decided to venture into Lihue because someone recommended this beach to us. We were so glad that we went!! The water was calm, the beach was beautiful and we had a great day of swimming and relaxing. This beach park was definitely with the bus ride that it took to get there!! read more

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Beautiful gorgeous coast line with a scenic golf course along it. Would come again a ton of restaurants and mariachis near by read more

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Water is not as clear as I hoped. Beach is by two hotels so it's not so crowded. Waves aren't too wild. read more

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Love this beach in Kauai. I found it while browsing trip advisor, so we decided to give it a try. Nice place to relax and it was easy to get to from our cruise ship. This beach is located in a protected bay, so you won't be catching any huge waves as the water is pretty calm. My husband & I spend the entire day here. We walked to the Marriott resort just behind the sand to get drinks & food. I would recommend to anyone in the area looking for a beach to relax or to watch the sunset. read more

Beautiful beach for paddle boarding and swimming. We arrived at 9:30am and found a parking spot in the small lot. Used the shower in front of Dukes when we headed out, which was convenient. read more

In the States -- all of 'em -- virtually every square mile of land is owned by somebody (aside from federal dirt, like national parks). This beach, like the rest of the island oceanside, is a fantastic contradiction to the rule at large. Two thirds flanked by a Marriott resort, the beach is open to the public, and while the sands are generally bellied up with tourists, check the west edge, you'll find locals at picnic tables, passing the kutchie, hangin' loose. It's a beautiful example of a corporate behemoth that cannot, try as they might, own a little slice of paradise. Before I go on, I just wanna note that some Local dude came up to me, near the picnic tables, and said "Hey, is this your first day on the island? What do you think?" Maybe my cat swimsuit gave away my mainland roots, whatever, I bled foreigner. I told him I had family in Kapaa, which gave me some street cred, and we had a brief conversation, the guy was super cool. So anyway, this beach is perfect for boogie/body boarding, amateur surfing, and everything in-between. People have these foil surfboards, have you seen these? They look like they're gliding across the water, very Jesus-ish, if he relied on a hoverboard, weird. Anyway, you don't need any equipment, nor spiritual enlightenment, to enjoy these waves. Rolling 100 yards+ away, kids ride to the shore, swallow salt water, swimsuits get slammed in sand, it's all good. No shade, save the Marriott palm trees near the resort, bring a beach umbrella (if you're a pasty white guy like me) and don't hesitate to say hi to a Local. He might offer you a toke. read more

This is the beach in front of the Kauai Marriott. You can either drive up to see the shoreline view or actually go onto the beach itself. It's a protected bay, so you don't have to worry about crazy waves or anything like that. Very small actual beach area though, but great views at sunset. read more

Eh. Not an impressive beach in terms of beauty in comparison to others I've been to on the island. But it is a cove/protected from the open ocean by a break wall making it good for swimming, learning to surf and stand up paddle boarding. Nestled at the Marriot, you can park along the curb at the lower parking lot of the hotel, but not in the hotel parking lot or you will be towed. One advantage of this loacation is the ability to use the Marriot restrooms. I added a star for that convenience. :) read more

Kalapaki Beach - Beaches Near Me

One of the best swimmable beaches we visited in Kauai definitely recommend this beach

It's been a long time since I've been to Kauai, but my last visit was extended. A month, which is a long time for most. I was here for work so it wasn't all fun and games, but I think that made me appreciate more my off time. Pro's: Right in front of the Marriott Right in front of Duke's Can drink on beach Water is pretty calm and the waves don't break for a while so it's good for beginners. Parking is plentiful Con's:Water isn't crystal clear like other beaches (other side of the island gets the swells which help with this). Minimal shade Locals don't like non locals drinking on beach Some unsightly features on the landscape Really the only downfall of this beach is it isn't on the North Side of the island where the big waves are, but unless you're a strong swimmer, snorkeler or surfer I don't suggest heading that way except to take pictures as many people had died that way. I was nicely spoken to by a local for drinking on the beach even though I saw others drinking on the beach days prior (granted they were locals). At your own risk, but stay covert with this one or just go to Duke's. They aren't a full surf dive bar so at least dry off before going, there are other options nearby. This isn't the Caribbean in that aspect. read more

I love the beach. It's stretches in front of the awesome Marriott and is a private bat. At times of the year you can see whales. This is a great beach to learn to surf or rent other beach equipment. read more

A public beach shared with a few surrounding hotels. It's nice views of the natural landscape from the beach make for great pictures. Pretty calm waves so it made it easy to wade, swim, and snorkel (for my daughter). We did see some amateur surfers/boogie boarders catching some small waves. Beach chairs, umbrellas, stand up paddle boating, kayak rentals available. Walking distance from the cruise terminal making it a great beach day trip before setting sail. read more

Kalapaki Beach - Beaches Near Me

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The beach is beautiful and there is great eating options here: Duke's and the Marriott hotel. The water level is perfect for swimming and the waves never really get too rough. My only warning is: when the water looks dirty- it is! When it smells weird- it is! I have heard from many people that have lived here all their lives that ships "dump" here and that is why sometimes it looks and smells gross. Follow your senses at these times and DON'T go in. I have swam here less knowing this information. It is also a huge tourist beach for the hotel and the ship guests. Great place for volleyball and it is a beautiful harbor. read more

While most other cruise stops on our adventure required a bus or car to get to an actual destination, this beach wins serious brownie points for being so close (walking distance) to the cruise pier in Lihue! As other reviewers note, there's a Marriott smack dab in the middle of this beautiful cove beach, but the beach itself is completely public, and if you're in the mood for some killer Mai Tai's, there's a Duke's just a stone's throw away! read more

The water wasn't as pristine as some of its counterparts in the Northern or Southern region of Kauai but it's right in front of some dining restaurants which makes for prime real estate. Who doesn't love eating with a beachfront view? The hubby and I walked along those big rocks they have on the side and we spotted all these little black crabs. It was crazy, they could jump from rock to rock. It happens so fast so if you blink you'll miss it. read more

Its a nice, super cruise beach. There is a place to rent stand up boards right on the beach. Dukes and some other places to eat plus a hotel right there too. Can accommodate tourist and locals. There is decent surf there, small but fun. read more

kalapaki beach is good for stand up paddle as well as body boarding and surfing. my only complaint is that i don't feel like the water here is very clean. when i was swimming for mokihana aquatics, we would have beach practice here during the summer. there are definitely sea fleas in this water. they get between you and your swim suit and bite because they become irritated from the rubbing. i have also been bit on the sand. wouldn't recommend this place too much, but, it is nice to sit and watch people play volleyball and do their water sports. read more

Just a short walk (.5mi) from the cruise terminal or a free shuttle ride to Anchor Cove mall. Bring your beach towels, sunscreen and anything else you typically bring to a beach. The beach sits in front of the Duke's and Marriott hotel. A great place to relax then a quick beverage from Duke's when you need to get out of the sun. You can spread your towel and layout on the sand or the strip of grass; well I chose the strip of grass and hid under some shade. There are plenty of activities if you choose to rent a Paddle Board, Surf Board, Snorkeling outfit or jump on a Catamaran. Since this beach sits in a bay, there are no breaking waves. There are places to grab a bite to eat, like Duke's, Marriott Hotel, JJ's Broiler and Nawiliwili Tavern. Hint: The Marriott Hotel has a few loungers on the beach for their guests. If you are from the cruise ship, do not use the ships beach towels or bags while on those loungers as the hotels attendant will ask and wait until you vacate the lounger. read more

Good place to learn how to surf. There is a surf rental place (Hawaii beach boys) that rents for 12/hour near the beach. The beach isn't as pretty as the other beaches but the waves are milder than Hanalei for surfing.The water isn't blue or green, and has some brown bubbles (ewww) probably because the water is connected to Nawiliwili port I think. There are commercial places here like restaurants and bars too, if you are hungry after surfing. read more

This is a great beach for families. There are lots of recreation options from the activity shack, as well as a couple of dining options. The beach itself is mostly protected by a breakwater, so you have a calm side and then a rougher side. You can actually surf on the south end on a longboard or SUP. Good dining options from Duke's to more casual shacks. Why not 5 stars? The sand is good but not great, with a few rocks here and there. Also, there is a container port and cruise ship dock next door. Usually not an issue, but it does ruin the perfect tropical scenery. read more

Meh. I feel like there are so many better beaches in Kauai in terms of views. Water is too murky for snorkeling. Probably decent for paddle boarding. read more

Small beach right in front of a big hotel and Duke's. It didn't give me much of a Hawaiian vibe, seemed more like a bay really and forget it once the cruise ship pulled in. There are many other way more beautiful beaches on Kauai! read more

This beach was in front of our hotel and we spent some time there when not using the pool. The water is not as nice as other Kauai beaches. It was murky and reminded me of Boston beach water. Still it was never crowded and a nice place to chill. It's good for surfing lessons or paddle boarding but for pristine beauty, you can find many more better beaches in Poipu or Hanalei. read more

This beach was across the street from our condo. It is the beach by the Marriott complex, but wonderful Hawaii requires all beaches to be public access. Woo hoo! We have the same beach as the people paying $300/night! It is a beautiful beach that is protected so waves are low and I saw lots of people paddle boarding and learning to surf. When we were here in February, it was not crowded at all. Duke's is right there if you want a bite to eat or there are some other reataurants in the shopping center next to the Marriott. Some of the other reviews complained about the water being dirty. I did not notice that, but I was not in the water a ton. I mainly laid on the beach and read a book. Heaven! read more

Even tho the water is pretty gross, I come here a lot when I'm home. It's pretty close to my house, therefore it's convenient. I've spent a lot of time surfing here and I haven't grown any extra toes from the lepto LOL. It's a pretty safe place to swim, since it is a protected bay, though it can get rough as all beaches do at some time or another. Just be mindful. There are bathrooms and eateries right there, thanks to the Marriott. So, I come here and lie out on the grassy area (Sidewalks side) a lot. You can park in that lot or above by the tennis courts and catch the elevator down. Easy peasy and relaxing. read more

This is a swimmable beach and safe for kids. There are sections where the waves are large enough for beginning boogie boarders to learn. A little further out people were taking surf lessons. Nice sand for sand castles. Parking is available but parts of the parking area have huge pot holes that standards cars would not be able to cross. read more

If you are staying in the Marriott or somewhere else nearby and do not want to drive to another part of the island, then I suppose this beach would be good for you. However, I was hoping for either clear water or no crowds, but got neither at Kalapaki. The water was dirty and it was pretty crowded in June compared to some other beaches. (Of course, other beaches on the island are even more crowded, so I guess it is relative.) But in the end, I highly recommend you drive to another part of the island for better water. I went to Kalapaki for about 30 minutes one day and never returned. read more

Small beach set in a cove. We stopped here one morning to eat our breakfast. A couple of picnic tables and a set of bathrooms. Right off of a small strip mall and the Marriott. Not a bad place but nothing extraordinary. read more

Never came here while I was growing up, but back then, it wasn't like it is today. When the Westin came in and redid the old Kauai Surf, they changed the beach and now it's not a trip back home unless I come here at least once with my hanai sister and her family. Since the Marriot is right there, there is access to toilets and showers, as well as restaurants read more