Salt Pond Beach Park
Salt Pond Beach Park is a family-friendly golden sand beach on Kauai's south shore, known for its calm, protected swimming areas and cultural salt harvesting ponds. With lifeguards, picnic shelters, and year-round accessibility, it's a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing, it also allows permitted camping under the stars.
Salt Pond Beach Park, Kauai
Salt Pond Beach Park is the only place in Hawaii where salt is still produced in natural salt ponds. First, the salt ponds at the southern end of the beach are filled with ocean water and are then left to evaporate. What's left are rock crystals that are then bagged and used for cooking and medicinal purposes. Salt is produced during the dry and hot summer months.
Salt Pond Beach Park is a wide, reddish-golden sand pocket beach on Kauai's south shore that is generally safe for swimming year-round. At both ends of the beach are rocky outcrops; a natural rock ridge connects the outcrops, creating a small lagoon. This pool-like area is where families with children like to swim. The beach is usually safe for swimming, except during times of high surf, when rip currents form in the channels between the rock barriers.
The area in the middle of the beach is unprotected. If you choose to swim in here, stay close to the shore. For snorkeling, the area near the lava rock outcrops - particularly the one near the salt ponds - provides excellent snorkeling opportunities. Moorish idols, goatfish, butterflyfish and unicornfish are some of the underwater creatures that can be seen here.
Camping is allowed here, but you need to get a permit from the county before heading to the beach if you plan to camp. More info about camping permits.
Key Features of Salt Pond Beach Park
- Natural salt ponds: The only place in Hawaii where traditional salt is still made using natural evaporation ponds during the summer months.
- Safe swimming: Protected by lava rock outcrops and a ridge, creating a calm lagoon ideal for children and families.
- Excellent snorkeling: Clear water and abundant marine life near the rocky points make this beach great for underwater exploration.
- Full amenities: Includes restrooms, showers, lifeguards, and shaded picnic pavilions for a comfortable day at the beach.
- Camping permitted: Overnight camping is allowed with a county permit, offering a scenic and spacious setting under the stars.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Salt Pond Beach safe for swimming?
Yes, the beach has a protected lagoon area ideal for families and children. Caution is advised during high surf as rip currents can form.
Is snorkeling good at Salt Pond Beach?
Yes, snorkeling is best near the lava rocks, especially by the salt pond end of the beach. You'll often see butterflyfish, goatfish, and other tropical species.
Can I camp overnight at Salt Pond Beach Park?
Yes, camping is permitted with a county-issued permit. Facilities include restrooms, showers, and shaded picnic areas.
What are the salt ponds used for?
The salt ponds are used to harvest natural sea salt, a tradition passed down through generations. Salt is gathered during the dry summer months.
Is there parking available?
Yes, there is a spacious beach parking lot with easy access to the shoreline and facilities.