Polihua Beach at a Glance
If you’re in the mood of a little adventure, then the white
sand Polihua Beach won’t disappoint. Located on Lanai’s
northwestern end, Polihua requires the assistance of a four-wheel
drive vehicle to maneuver the rugged, four-mile-long trail
that leads here.
Polihua Beach is over 1.5 miles long and is the longest
white sand beach on Lanai. Characterized by rough waters
and high winds, Polihua is more of a scenic beach rather
than an interactive one. The winds are sometimes so strong
they create sand storms, so if you go here on a windy day
you’ll most probably get sand blown all over yourself. On
windless days, this beach is a good spot for sunbathing,
picnicking and picture-taking. On a clear day, you can see
across the Kalohi Channel all the way to Molokai or even
to Oahu’s
Diamond Head.
Swimming and ocean sports are not recommended here due to
the unpredictable surf and strong currents. The nearshore
ocean bottom is steep and drops off sharply to overhead
depths. Furthermore, Polihua Beach is completely exposed
to the open ocean. It has no protective reef or rocks. The
powerful alongshore current is always strong and will easily
sweep you out to sea, even on a calm day. So no matter how
calm the ocean looks, swimming is not safe here at any time
of the year.
Polihua, which means “egg nest” in the Hawaiian language,
was once one of the most famous green sea turtle nesting
beaches in Hawaii. Although the endangered green sea turtles
are slowly making a comeback, they are hardly seen here
now. You’re much more likely to see whales if you come in
the winter months. They often pass by very close to shore.
To get to Polihua Beach, start at the Garden of the Gods
and head “makai” (toward the ocean). At the trail’s end,
just a short hike from your parking spot you’ll be rewarded
with vast sand dunes shaped expertly by the relentless ocean-driven
winds. Despite the lack of ocean activities at Polihua Beach,
many visitors love the remoteness of it and appreciate the
unique and beautiful landscape.
Polihua Beach in Bullet Points
- Remote beach on Lanai's northwestern end
- Accessible only by four-wheel drive
- Not a swimming beach, but good for picnicking, sunbathing,
picture-taking and long beach strolls
- Longest white sand beach on Lanai
Polihua Beach Facilities (top)
- No facilities
- No lifeguards
Polihua Beach Water Activities
Polihua Beach Location
Address: End of Polihua Trail Rd., Lanai 96763
Polihua Beach Map (top)
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Polihua Beach Weather (top)
Now
80°F
Windchill:
80°F
Mostly Cloudy
|
Location: Lanai City, HI, US
Wind: 6 mph N
Humidity: 64%
Visibility: 0.1 mi
Pressure: 30.04 in falling
Sunrise: 6:33 am
Sunset: 5:49 pm
|
Sat
Hi: 79°F
Low: 69°F
Partly Cloudy
|
Sun
Hi: 78°F
Low: 69°F
Partly Cloudy
|
Polihua Beach Photos (click to enlarge)
(top)
Polihua Beach Reviews and Comments
(top)
Safety Tip
Whatever beach in Hawaii you visit, please have in mind that the ocean can
be very dangerous. Never turn your back against the waves and watch out for underwater
currents and always check the surf conditions. Pay attention to signs posted on
the beach. If you are not sure about the conditions, ask the lifeguards (if any
on the beach). Please
click here to
read more about ocean safety in Hawaii.
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