Kauai Beach Guide

Kahili Quarry Beach

Kahili Quarry Beach, also called Rock Quarry Beach, is a north shore Kauai beach near Kilauea with river-mouth scenery, surf, shade and no lifeguards.

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Kahili Quarry Beach

Kahili Quarry Beach, Kauai

Kahili Quarry Beach is located where Kilauea Stream empties into the Pacific Ocean on Kauai's north shore. This small beach is bordered by a densely vegetated hill and a rock quarry, which is why this beach is known as Quarry Beach or Rock Quarry Beach. The rocky quarry, which overlooks the bay, was used during the plantation days and has long been abandoned.

Kahili Quarry Beach has a large pool where the Kilauea River flows into the ocean. When the ocean is calm, the pool is great for swimming. Most days, though, the nearshore water turns murky from the silt and mud carried by the Kilauea River. The beach doesn't have a reef barrier to protect it from high ocean waves. When the surf is up, it's not a good idea to swim or snorkel here. During high surf season the beach attracts surfers and bodyboarders.

Key Features

North shore Kauai beach near Kilauea and Wailapa Road
Also known as Rock Quarry Beach because of the old quarry near the bay
Wide sandy shoreline backed by trees and shade
The stream mouth creates a different shoreline setting from open beach areas
Murky water and stronger flow can happen near the stream mouth after rain
The ocean side can have rough surf, currents and changing sandbars
No lifeguards are stationed at the beach
Informal parking sits near the dirt road and beach area
Surfing and shore fishing are part of the local beach scene when conditions allow
Kahili Quarry Beach is mainly a low-key shoreline visit with surf, shade and river-mouth views

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Kahili Quarry Beach also called Rock Quarry Beach?

The nickname comes from the old rock quarry near the bay, and many local beach references still use Rock Quarry Beach for the same shoreline.

What should visitors know about the stream mouth?

The stream mouth can have murkier water, uneven footing and stronger flow after rain. Visitors should give that area extra room when the water looks stirred up.

Is Kahili Quarry Beach a quiet beach?

It is often quieter than larger north shore beach parks, especially on weekdays, but surfers, families and shoreline walkers still come when conditions are good.

What is the dirt road like?

The road is unpaved and can change after rain. Visitors should drive slowly, watch for ruts and park only where the road and signs allow.

Are the rocky areas safe to cross?

Only cross rocks when the ocean is low and calm. Wet rock can be slippery, and waves can wash across low areas without much warning.