People paddleboarding on a sunny day with palm trees in the background, under a partly cloudy sky.
Coraltree Residence Collection

The Best Beaches on Kauai’s South Shore

Dramatic rocky coastlines or silky smooth sand? Tranquil waters or waves for surfing? Quiet shores or a coastal playground for the family? When it comes to the beaches on Kauai’s south coast, these are the types of decisions you’ll need to make, but once you do, it’ll be time to kick off the shoes and put your feet in the sand (or maybe even learn to hang ten).

When staying in the Kukui’ula neighborhood, beach access is always right around the corner, but to help with where to go, here are a few of our favorite local Kauai beaches. You can tell us “mahalo” later.

A person holding a surfboard stands on a beach during a vibrant sunset, with waves gently lapping at the shore.

Shipwreck Beach

~3.6 miles, 10 minute drive

Although the shipwreck that gave the beach its name is no longer visible, what is within sight is a stunning beach with excellent views and a launch point for popular hikes. Shipwreck Beach is one of the best spots in southern Kauai for surfing and boogie boarding, but we recommend caution for novice swimmers.

A person relaxes on a beach chair under an umbrella, facing the ocean waves, with kayakers visible in the distance on a sunny day.

Poipu Beach

~2.4 miles, 6 minute drive

Poipu Beach is a family favorite because of its proximity to the town of Poipu and its calm waters, which are great for kids. Poipu Beach is a favorite hangout—not just for visitors, but for some of the island’s most beloved residents. Keep your eyes peeled for green sea turtles and monk seals lounging in the sun. Based on the time of day and tides, you may be able to walk a natural sand bridge out to a fun island of sand.

A serene beach scene with golden sand, clear blue water, distant waves, palm trees on the left, and a partly cloudy sky.

Baby Beach

~1.7 miles, 5 minute drive

Thanks to its protective reef offshore, Baby Beach has some of the easiest waters in Kauai for young kids to play in. The beach is also an easy walk to the Shops at Kukui’ula for those wanting a break from the sun or a post-beach snack.

A person is stand-up paddleboarding on the sea, with a distant canoe and buoys nearby, under a cloudy sky.

Kiahuna Beach

~2 miles, 6 minute drive

Another family-friendly swim spot, Kiahuna is popular for snorkeling and novice surfers hoping to score their first wave. As a bonus, try Kiahuna at sunset for uninterrupted views of dramatic Hawaiian skies.

Two people running with bodyboards towards the ocean on a sandy beach, with a group sitting in the background.

Brennecke’s Beach

~2.6 miles, 7 minute drive

A sandy cove wedged between rocky outcroppings, Brennecke’s has some good waves for families with older kids hoping to try out boogie boarding or body surfing. We recommend wandering off the beach to find one of the vendors selling famous Hawaiian shave ice.

A person jumps on a dock over water with the sun setting in the background, creating a silhouette effect.

Kukui’ula Harbor Beach

~2.5 miles, 7 minute drive

Kukui’ula Harbor Beach is a diamond in the rough when it comes to beaches on Kauai’s southern shores. It is not uncommon to have the whole beach to yourself. Relax on the strip of soft sand as the kids take turns jumping off the wooden boat platform that extends into the bay.

    • Three people are jumping into clear blue ocean water from a ledge, under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.

    Bookable Water Activities around Kauai

    Ready to elevate your beach day? Contact our concierge team to book incredible adventures like sunset cruises for couples or kayak tours for the whole family. When staying with us here at CoralTree, you tell us what you want, and we’ll take care of the rest with handpicked activities.

    Book Your Activities in Advance

    Book Your Stay by the Sea

    With some of Kauai’s best beaches surrounding you, when you stay in one of our private estates you’ll never be far from beach bliss.

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