Remote and idyllic, Mahaulepu Beach on Kauai’s southeast coast is a haven for local families, fishermen and hikers passing through on the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail.
Mahaulepu Beach is the name for the two-mile stretch of coastline, though Mahaulepu has three distinct beaches. On the west, Gillin’s Beach is a thin sliver of golden sand with a close treeline. To the west, is sun-drenched Haula Beach.
In the middle, at Kawailoa Bay is the beach traditionally known as Mahaulepu Beach. It is here that local families and fishermen, arriving by four-wheel-drive Toyota trucks, visit for rest and relaxation to get away from it all.
There’s plenty of shade at Mahaulepu Beach, perfect for setting up a base camp for a day of beach activities. Immediately to the west of the shaded area is a stretch of sunny beach that is a favorite spot for sunbathing and beachcombing. Though remote, plenty of items (both man-made and natural) wash ashore here on Kauai’s choppy southern coast.
The waters are generally rough in this exposed area of southern Kauai, though Kawailoa Bay does provide some protection for swimming and snorkeling. Farther out, the waves can be treacherous and should be avoided.
Immediately to the east of Mahaulepu Beach is a rocky section of coastline sculpted by crashing waves. This uniquely beautiful section, which extends to Kamala Point and Haula Beach, is a favorite spot for fishermen.
Though some tourists reach Mahaulepu Beach by hiking from Shipwreck Beach on the Mahaulepu Trail, the beach is decidedly a locals beach reached by four-wheel-drive vehicles on bumpy dirt roads.
The roads are on Grove Farm property (owned by Steve Case of AOL fame) and access is provided during the day. A gate on the road is closed and locked promptly at 6PM so be sure you depart the beach in time. See the Google Map link below for directions assistance if you are driving.
Caution is urged when visiting Mahaulepu Beach. Surf conditions are often rough and there are no lifeguards at the beach.
There’s plenty of shade for picnics and cookouts at Mahaulepu Beach.
Mahaulepu Beach as seen from the rocky coastline east of the beach. Beachcombing is a favorite activity at Mahaulepu Beach and the rocky coastline allows fishermen to get close to the action. The pounding waves have created a jagged and spectacular coastline east of Mahaulepu Beach.