Kekaha
Kekaha is the westernmost town along Highway 50 on Kauai, known for its quiet atmosphere and oceanfront location. It serves as the last stop for travelers heading to Waimea Canyon. While Kekaha itself has few tourist attractions, it offers scenic views of Ni'ihau Island and a two-mile-long beach, and retains the character of its sugar plantation past.
Kekaha, Kauai
Kekaha is the last town along Highway 50 on Kauai's west shore. The highway runs right along the ocean. The town's main road (Kekaha Road) veers off near the Kikiaola Harbor and leads toward Kekaha's shopping plaza. Most visitors come to Kekaha because it is on the way to Waimea Canyon. This is the last town where you can get some food before you take a ride up the road to the state park.
Kekaha itself doesn't have major tourist attractions. There is a two-mile long beach, Kekaha Beach Park, which is not a good swimming beach, but it is still worth stopping by because you can enjoy nice views to the island of Ni'ihau on the horizon.
Kekaha is a former sugar plantation town. Up until 1996, large cane trucks could be seen here daily as they brought their load to the Kekaha Sugar Company mill.
Key Features of Kekaha
- Last town on west Kauai's Highway 50: A gateway stop before ascending to Waimea Canyon State Park.
- Oceanfront setting: Offers sweeping coastal views and sunsets, with a view of Ni'ihau on clear days.
- Historic sugar town: Once home to the Kekaha Sugar Company mill, which operated until 1996.
- Kekaha Beach Park: A long, quiet beach - better for strolling and scenery than swimming.
- Population and ZIP: 3,715 residents (2020 Census); ZIP code 96752.
|
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kekaha located?
Kekaha is on Kauai's west shore, approximately 27 miles from Lihue, at the end of Highway 50.
Why do people stop in Kekaha?
Kekaha is the last town before the road to Waimea Canyon, making it a convenient place to grab food or fuel.
Can you swim at Kekaha Beach?
Kekaha Beach is scenic but not ideal for swimming due to strong currents. It's great for sunset views and beach walks.
What is Kekaha's history?
It was a sugar plantation town. The Kekaha Sugar Company mill operated until 1996 and played a key role in the area's development.
What can I see from Kekaha?
On clear days, you can spot the island of Ni'ihau across the channel from Kekaha Beach Park.