Waipouli Beach
Waipouli Beach on Kauai's east shore offers a mix of scenic beauty and calm pockets of water for cautious swimmers. Located near the Coconut Marketplace in Kapa'a, this beach is fronted by several hotels and features a small cove frequented by sea turtles. Just north, Waipouli Beach Park has a natural breakwater that makes swimming safer during calm conditions, especially for families. While the main beach is better suited for relaxing and sightseeing, the park section is a gathering place for locals with picnic spots, parking, and a boat ramp.
Waipouli Beach, Kauai
Waipouli Beach is located near the Coconut Marketplace in Kapa'a on Kauai's east shore. It fronts the Kauai Sands Hotel, Islander on the Beach and Aston Kauai Beach at Maka'iwa. Swimming here is only possible when the ocean is calm and even then it is not that good because the ocean bottom is rocky in most areas. The surroundings are beautiful and on the southern end of the beach is a small cove where sea turtles can often be seen near the rocky outcropping. A public access trail leads from the road to this cove. There is also a paved trail along much of the rest of the beach.
Further north is Waipouli Beach Park, which is not as scenic as Waipouli Beach. It is a gathering spot among local residents. There is a boat ramp and a pedestrian bridge that leads over a stream to the neighboring Kapa'a Beach Park. The swimming at Waipouli Beach Park is good when the ocean is calm. A natural breakwater offshore acts as a barrier to incoming waves in one section of the beach (between Panihi Road and Makana Road). This area is a good place for novice swimmers and children because the nearshore waters are shallow.
Key Features of Waipouli Beach
- Scenic beach near Coconut Marketplace: Located in Kapa'a and fronted by several beachfront resorts including Kauai Sands and Islander on the Beach.
- Limited swimming options: Rocky ocean bottom and occasional strong currents make swimming safe only when the ocean is calm.
- Frequent sea turtle sightings: A small cove at the southern end is a favorite hangout for turtles.
- Natural breakwater at Waipouli Beach Park: Provides safer swimming conditions for children and novice swimmers when waves are gentle.
- Convenient beach access: Multiple public access paths from Papaloa Road and Aleka Loop; parking available at the Lihi Boat Ramp.
- Park amenities: Waipouli Beach Park includes restrooms, picnic tables, and a pedestrian bridge to neighboring Kapa'a Beach Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are sea turtles common at Waipouli Beach?
Yes, sea turtles are often seen near the rocky cove at the southern end of Waipouli Beach, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Is it safe to swim at Waipouli Beach?
Swimming is only recommended when the ocean is calm. The rocky ocean floor and lack of a protective reef can make conditions hazardous when surf is up.
Are there facilities at Waipouli Beach?
Waipouli Beach Park has restrooms, parking, and a boat ramp. The southern end of the beach has access paths but no restrooms.
Where is the best place to park?
The main parking area is at Waipouli Beach Park (Lihi Boat Ramp) on Kaloloku Road. Public access paths are also available near resorts.
Is there shade on the beach?
Yes, there are some shaded spots under trees along the beachfront, especially near the southern cove.