Papa'a Bay

Kauai Beach Guide

Papa'a Bay

Papa'a Bay is a secluded northeast Kauai beach known for white sand, shallow reef scenery, movie history, public trail access and calm-condition swimming.

Backed by Trees
Backed by Trees

Papa'a Bay, Kauai

If you have seen the action adventure movie Six Days, Seven Nights starring Harrison Ford and Anne Heche, you may recognize this beach, since it was the setting for the plane crash scene. Movie producer Peter Guber found Papa'a Bay so picturesque that he purchased all 174 acres surrounding the bay and built a large luxury oceanfront estate, which he called Tara.

In November 2009, the property was sold for a record sum of $28 million, the highest price ever paid for an existing home on Kauai. The estate had been listed for sale since 2004 with an asking price of $46 million.

There have been access issues to Papa'a Bay in the past, and even a few arrests were made because people were allegedly trespassing through private property. The existing public access trail to the bay involves a 5-10 minute hike across a somewhat steep hill and through the brush and about 100 yards of boulder-hopping.

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Location, Parking and Directions

Papa'a Bay is located near Kalalea View Drive on Kauai's northeast coast. From Highway 56, turn onto Aliomanu Road and then onto Kalalea View Drive. Turn right onto the road that leads near the bay and look for the beach access trail. Use only public access routes and respect private property.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Papa'a Bay located?

Papa'a Bay is located on Kauai's northeast coast near Kalalea View Drive.

How do you get to Papa'a Bay?

Access is by a public trail that includes a short steep section, brush and boulder-hopping. Visitors should stay on the public route and avoid private property.

Was Papa'a Bay used in a movie?

Yes. The source page says Papa'a Bay was used for the plane crash scene in the movie Six Days, Seven Nights.

Can you swim or snorkel at Papa'a Bay?

The source page lists swimming and snorkeling, but visitors should only enter when the ocean is calm, clear and safe.

What facilities are available at Papa'a Bay?

There are no facilities and no lifeguards at Papa'a Bay.