Kekaha

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

Far west Kauai setting: Quiet town west of Waimea along Kaumualii Highway

Beach views: Kekaha Beach Park has long shoreline scenery and Niihau views

Ocean caution: Winds, surf and currents can make swimming dangerous

Former sugar town: Community shaped by Kekaha Sugar Company and plantation-era work

Sunset scenery: Open west-facing coastline with broad evening views

Nearby harbor: Close to Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor and west-side boat access

Route planning: Useful stop near Waimea and canyon routes

Population: 3,715 at the 2020 Census

Zip code: 96752

Plan Your Visit

Use Kekaha as a quiet west Kauai stop for beach views, sunsets and plantation-era context. Check ocean conditions before swimming and plan fuel, food and canyon routes around Waimea.

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Photo gallery

Kekaha Photos

Browse Kekaha photos featuring the post office, school, Waimea Canyon Plaza, local signs, long west-side shoreline views and small-town scenery on Kauai's west side.

Location, Parking and Directions

Kekaha is located on Kauai's far west side, west of Waimea along Kaumualii Highway. From Lihue, drive west through Hanapepe and Waimea, then continue toward Kekaha. From Waimea, follow the highway west along the shoreline toward town.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kekaha on Kauai?

Kekaha is on Kauai's far west side, west of Waimea along Kaumualii Highway. It is one of the last towns before the road continues toward the island's remote western areas.

What is Kekaha known for?

Kekaha is known for its long beach park, Niihau views, sunsets, former sugar plantation history, dry west-side scenery and its location beyond Waimea.

Is Kekaha Beach good for swimming?

Kekaha Beach Park has lifeguards and beach facilities, but strong winds, currents and surf can make swimming dangerous. Check current conditions before entering the water.

Can you see Niihau from Kekaha?

Yes. On clear days, visitors can often see Niihau across the channel from Kekaha Beach and other west Kauai shoreline viewpoints.

Is Kekaha a good stop before Waimea Canyon?

Kekaha is west of Waimea, while most Waimea Canyon routes begin from Waimea. It can still work as a quiet west-side stop before or after canyon and Kokee drives.