A complete guide
Kealia Beach Park
Kauai

Kealia Beach Park is a popular beach located on the island of Kauai, Hawaii. It is known for its long, wide sandy beach and is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and bodyboarding. The beach is also surrounded by lush vegetation, making it a picturesque spot for outdoor activities. The park has picnic tables, restrooms, showers, and a lifeguard on duty during certain hours. The nearby town of Kapaa offers a variety of dining, shopping, and lodging options for visitors.

In addition to its recreational opportunities, Kealia Beach Park is also a prime spot for wildlife viewing. The beach is a known habitat for several species of shorebirds, including the endangered Nene (Hawaiian Goose) and is a popular location for birdwatching. The area around the beach is also home to several hiking trails, including the Kealia Coastal Trail, which offers stunning views of the coast and offers the opportunity to see native Hawaiian plants and wildlife.

Visitors should be aware that the ocean conditions at Kealia Beach Park can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous, with strong currents and high surf at times. Swimming and water activities should only be done under the supervision of a lifeguard and in designated areas.

Overall, Kealia Beach Park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists visiting Kauai and is a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the island and experience its outdoor recreation opportunities.

Weather - best time to visit?

Kauai's climate is tropical, and the water temperature is consistently warm, making it possible to swim all year round. More information about the temperature and beach conditions in Kauai

Where to park

Kealia Beach Park has a large parking lot for visitors to use. The parking lot is located just a short walk from the beach, making it easy for visitors to access the beach and surrounding facilities. The parking lot is open during regular park hours, and visitors should be aware of any posted parking regulations and fees. Visitors should also take appropriate precautions to secure their vehicles and personal belongings, as theft can occur in any parking lot. It is always recommended to lock your vehicle and take valuables with you when visiting the beach.

Popular activities

Kealia Beach Park is a popular destination for a variety of activities, both in and out of the water. Some of the most popular activities at the park include:

Sunbathing and Swimming: The wide, sandy beach and warm waters make Kealia Beach Park a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming.

Surfing and Bodyboarding: The beach is known for its good surf and is a popular spot for both surfers and bodyboarders.

Wildlife Viewing: The beach is home to a variety of wildlife, including shorebirds and sea turtles, making it a popular spot for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.

Hiking and Nature Walks: The nearby Kealia Coastal Trail offers scenic views of the coast and provides opportunities for hiking and nature walks.

Picnicking: The park has picnic areas and facilities available for visitors to use, making it a popular spot for families and groups to gather for a day at the beach.

Fishing: Visitors can fish from the beach or from boats in the nearby ocean, making Kealia Beach Park a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.

These are just a few of the many activities available at Kealia Beach Park. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area to find additional recreational opportunities and attractions.

Wildlife

Kealia Beach Park is home to a variety of wildlife, both on land and in the water. Some of the most notable species include:

• Endangered Nene (Hawaiian Goose): This species of goose is the state bird of Hawaii and is a common sight at Kealia Beach Park.
• Shorebirds: The beach is a known habitat for several species of shorebirds, including the Wandering Tattler, the Ruddy Turnstone, and the Sanderling.
• Humpback Whales: During the winter months, humpback whales can often be seen off the coast of Kealia Beach Park as they migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii to breed and give birth.
• Green Sea Turtles: Green sea turtles, also known as honu, are a protected species in Hawaii and are often seen basking on the sand at Kealia Beach Park.
• Dolphins: Bottlenose dolphins are frequently seen playing in the waters off the coast of Kealia Beach Park.

Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the wildlife and to follow established guidelines for wildlife viewing, such as keeping a safe distance and not disturbing the animals.

What to eat

There are several dining options available near Kealia Beach Park for visitors looking for a bite to eat. The nearby town of Kapaa offers a variety of restaurants serving a range of cuisines, including Hawaiian, American, Mexican, and Asian. Some popular options include:

• Coconut's Fish Cafe: Known for its fresh, sustainable seafood, this casual eatery offers a variety of fish tacos, poke bowls, and grilled seafood dishes.
• Ono Family Restaurant: A local favorite, this family-owned restaurant serves up traditional Hawaiian cuisine, including kalua pork, laulau, and poi.
• Java Kai: A popular coffee shop and cafe located in Kapaa, Java Kai offers a range of coffee drinks, smoothies, and light bites.
• Island Taco: This casual eatery serves a variety of Mexican-style tacos, burritos, and other Mexican-inspired dishes.

These are just a few of the many dining options available near Kealia Beach Park. Visitors can also find a range of convenience stores and grocery stores in Kapaa for those looking to prepare their own meals.

Nearby landmarks

Kealia Beach Park is located on the east coast of the island of Kauai in Hawaii. The following are approximate distances to some popular landmarks and destinations:

• Lihue Airport: 21 miles (34 km)
• Waimea Canyon: 36 miles (58 km)
• Na Pali Coast State Park: 44 miles (71 km)
• Hanalei Bay: 17 miles (27 km)
• Poipu Beach: 41 miles (66 km)

These distances may vary slightly depending on the route taken and actual driving conditions. Visitors to Kealia Beach Park can rent a car or take a taxi to explore the surrounding area and visit nearby destinations.

Who visits

Kealia Beach Park is a popular destination for a variety of visitors, including tourists, locals, and surfers. People visit the beach for a number of reasons, including:

• Sunbathing and Swimming: The wide, sandy beach and warm waters make Kealia Beach Park a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming.
• Surfing and Bodyboarding: The beach is known for its good surf and is a popular spot for both surfers and bodyboarders.
• Wildlife Viewing: The beach is home to a variety of wildlife, including shorebirds and sea turtles, making it a popular spot for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
• Outdoor Activities: The nearby Kealia Coastal Trail offers scenic views of the coast and provides opportunities for hiking and nature walks.
• Scenic Beauty: The lush vegetation surrounding the beach and the clear blue waters of the ocean make Kealia Beach Park a picturesque destination for visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Kauai.

Visitors come from all over the world to experience the stunning beauty and recreational opportunities offered by Kealia Beach Park and the surrounding area.

How to get there

Kealia Beach Park is located on the east coast of the island of Kauai in Hawaii. Visitors can reach the beach by several means of transportation, including:

Car: Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach Kealia Beach Park, as it allows visitors to explore the surrounding area and nearby attractions at their own pace. From Lihue Airport, it takes approximately 45 minutes to drive to the beach.

Taxi: Taxis are available at Lihue Airport and in nearby towns, and can take visitors directly to the beach.

Shuttle: Several shuttle companies operate on Kauai and offer transportation services to popular destinations, including Kealia Beach Park.

Bicycle: For those looking for a more active mode of transportation, bicycles can be rented in nearby towns and used to reach the beach.

Regardless of the mode of transportation chosen, visitors should be aware that the road to Kealia Beach Park can be narrow and winding in places, and take appropriate precautions when driving or biking.

Safety considerations

Kealia Beach Park is generally considered a safe place to visit, however, as with any beach, there are certain safety considerations that visitors should be aware of. Some of the most important safety tips include:

• Swim Safety: Visitors should only swim in designated areas and be cautious of strong currents, especially near the river mouth.
• Sun Safety: Sunburn and skin damage can occur quickly in the strong sun, so visitors should use sunscreen, wear a hat, and seek shade when necessary.
• Wildlife Safety: Visitors should always be respectful of the wildlife in the area, keep a safe distance, and not disturb the animals.
• Shorebreak Safety: The shorebreak at Kealia Beach Park can be hazardous for swimmers and bodyboarders, so visitors should be cautious and only engage in water activities in the presence of lifeguards or when the surf conditions are safe.
• Surf Safety: Surfing can be dangerous, and visitors should only surf in areas where lifeguards are present and the surf conditions are safe.

By following these safety tips, visitors to Kealia Beach Park can help ensure that their visit is enjoyable and safe. Visitors should also be aware of any posted signs or warnings and follow the instructions of lifeguards and other beach personnel.

History

Kealia Beach Park is located on the east coast of Kauai, Hawaii, and has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The area was once home to the native Hawaiian people and was used for fishing and agriculture.

In more recent history, the beach was used for sugar cane cultivation and later became a site for the production of sugar, one of Hawaii's most important crops. The sugar industry in Hawaii played a significant role in the state's economy and was a major employer for many years.

After the decline of the sugar industry, the area surrounding Kealia Beach Park was used for cattle ranching and other agricultural purposes. In the 1970s, the beach was designated as a park and opened to the public, and today it is a popular destination for visitors seeking a day at the beach, a scenic walk along the coast, or a chance to view the local wildlife.

Throughout its history, Kealia Beach Park has played an important role in the development and economy of Kauai and remains a beloved destination for visitors and locals alike.

More beaches on Kauai

• Kekaha Beach Park
• Salt Pond Beach Park
• Poipu Beach Park
• Lydgate Pond
• Lydgate Beach
• Kealia Beach Park
• Anahola Beach Park
• Hanalei Bay
• Haʻena Beach Park
• Keʻe Beach