Wainiha Beach Park
Wainiha Beach Park is a remote and rugged stretch of coastline on Kauai's north shore, known for its powerful ocean conditions and year-round unsafe swimming. Backed by dramatic greenery and located at the mouth of the Wainiha River, this beach offers a wild, scenic setting ideal for photography, fishing, or quiet contemplation - just not water activities. Strong currents and lack of reef protection make it one of Kauai's most dangerous beaches, adding to its untouched and uncrowded allure.
Wainiha Beach Park, Kauai
Wainiha means "unfriendly water" in the Hawaiian language. Wainiha Beach is one of the few Kauai beaches that is off limits to swimming at all times of the year. The beach has no reef to shelter it from large ocean swells. Anyone who dives into the ocean here has to deal with dangerous rip currents, a powerful backwash and strong shorebreak. A few drownings and near-drownings have happened here in the past.
Wainiha River flows into the ocean at the eastern end of the beach. The nearshore water tends to be murky from the silt deposited by the river. When the conditions are right, surfers can be seen on the river side of the bay riding a break.
Key Features of Wainiha Beach Park
- Year-round swimming ban: Due to strong rip currents, backwash, and powerful shorebreaks, entering the water here is not safe at any time.
- Located at river mouth: The Wainiha River flows into the ocean at the east end of the beach, adding to murky conditions and unpredictable currents.
- Good for solitude and fishing: The beach is rarely crowded and can offer decent shoreline fishing opportunities.
- Scenic but undeveloped: No lifeguards or facilities are present, and the raw beauty of the area is its main appeal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Wainiha Beach Park?
No, swimming is not recommended at any time due to extremely hazardous ocean conditions, including rip currents and strong shorebreak.
Where is Wainiha Beach located?
It's located on Kauai's north shore along Highway 560, between mile markers 6 and 7, near the mouth of the Wainiha River.
Are there facilities at Wainiha Beach Park?
No. There are no restrooms, showers, or lifeguards at this beach.
Is fishing allowed at Wainiha Beach?
Yes, shoreline fishing is permitted, and some locals fish here when surf conditions allow safe access to the shoreline.