Maha'ulepu Beaches
Maha'ulepu Beach is a rugged, undeveloped stretch on Kauai's southeastern shore, offering secluded beauty across three beaches - Gillin's, Kawailoa Bay, and Ha'ula Beach. This 2-mile coastline features golden sands, lava cliffs, and archaeological sites, making it ideal for hiking, beachcombing, and exploration. While swimming is limited due to rough ocean conditions, Maha'ulepu remains a peaceful escape into Kauai's natural past.
Maha'ulepu Beaches, Kauai
Even though it is just about 10 minutes from popular Poipu, the Maha'ulepu area on Kauai's south shore is pristine, beautiful and undeveloped and few visitors come here, partly because it takes a bit more effort to get here than to other more popular beaches on Kauai.
Maha'ulepu actually consists of three separate beaches, known as Gillin's Beach, Kawailoa Bay and Ha'ula Beach. To get to the first beach, Gillin's, drive past the Hyatt on Poipu Road. After the road becomes dirt, there is an old guard shack. Drive past it and park in the area where the road continues to the left. From here, take the short trail to the beach. Gillin's is named after the late Elbert Gillin who built a house on this beach, which is now a vacation rental.
Near Gillin's Beach is a site known as the Maha'ulepu cave, which is actually a sandstone sinkhole and an ongoing archaeological project. It is sometimes gated off. On Sundays, there is an interpreter on site who explains what it is and how it was used as an ancient habitation site. Ancient artifacts have been found here. To reach the cave, walk past the vacation rental until you see a stream. Take the trail that follows it on its far southern side. After a two-minute walk, you'll see the sinkhole on your left. (Alternatively, it is accessible from the trail above CJM Stables).
To get to the next beach, Kawailoa Bay, continue on the dirt road to the east. Windsurfing is a popular activity here. If you want to continue further to Ha'ula Beach, you need to walk along a sandy trail, which starts near the edge of the cliff. It's about a 10-15 minute walk. Because it is the most difficult to access, it is also the least visited. So on most days, you're likely to have it to yourself. The area is mainly frequented by local fishermen and occasionally by some horseback riders. Even further to the northeast, over the ridge, is Kipu Kai Beach. It is best to see this beach from a helicopter tour or boat because the trail over the ridge is difficult.
In 1796 when King Kamehameha launched the first of his two invasion attempts on Kauai, more than 1,200 of his canoes carrying 10,000 warriors left Oahu at midnight, hoping to get to Wailua on Kauai early the next day. However, many of the canoes sank during a storm in the Kauai Channel. A few of the warriors managed to get to shore at Maha'ulepu, where most of them were killed. The ones who escaped paddled all the way back to the Big Island instead of to Oahu because they feared facing the King's wrath.
Key Features of Maha'ulepu Beach
- Three connected beaches: Gillin's Beach, Kawailoa Bay, and Ha'ula Beach form the greater Maha'ulepu area.
- Remote and undeveloped: Located east of Poipu, the area is accessed via a rugged dirt road with minimal signage.
- Excellent for hiking and beachcombing: Trails lead to sinkholes, sand dunes, cliffs, and cultural landmarks.
- Historic and archaeological sites: Visit Maha'ulepu Cave to learn about ancient Hawaiian habitation and fossils.
- Limited facilities: No lifeguards or restrooms; visitors should pack out everything they bring.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Maha'ulepu Beach?
Drive past the Grand Hyatt on Poipu Road and continue on the dirt road past the old guard shack. Park at the end and hike to the beach.
Is Maha'ulepu Beach safe for swimming?
Swimming conditions are generally rough due to exposed shoreline and strong currents. Use caution and avoid ocean entry during high surf.
What is the Maha'ulepu Cave?
It's an ancient sinkhole and active archaeological site near Gillin's Beach where artifacts and fossils have been discovered.
What are the three beaches in this area?
Maha'ulepu includes Gillin's Beach, Kawailoa Bay, and Ha'ula Beach - each offering unique terrain and scenery.
Are there any facilities or lifeguards?
No. Maha'ulepu is a natural, undeveloped area with no restrooms, showers, or lifeguards. Visitors should come fully prepared.