The Hawaiian Islands are home to 750 miles of stunning coastline — putting the island state behind Alaska, Florida, and California when it comes to coastline length. And while among that coastline you will find countless rock formations and sea cliffs, the beaches are what truly matters. With so many stunning stretches of sand throughout Hawaii, it can be hard to choose your favorites, but this breathtaking gem tops our travel wish list this year and you’ll want to see why. 

Tucked away on the island of Kauai in Lihue at the entrance of Nawiliwili Harbor is the unparalleled Kalapaki Beach. This is one of the island’s most popular beaches, due in part to its fantastic swimming conditions and convenient location to area resorts.
Micah Camara/Flickr
Backed by shops and restaurants as well as the Kauai Marriot Resort and a paved walkway, Kalapaki Beach is not only convenient and easy to find but quite beautiful as well.
Sarah Browning/Flickr
At Kalapaki Beach, a crescent of golden sand is contrasted by the sparkling blue of the Pacific Ocean, and the ocean breeze swaying through the palm trees is sure to beckon you to make a splash.
Melissa Emmons Photography/Flickr

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With a sandy, gently-sloping ocean floor, Kalapaki offers phenomenal swimming, and when the ocean conditions are right, it’s an excellent spot for beginners to try bodyboarding and surfing.
Frank DiBona/Flickr
Please note that while the waves are mostly gentle, rolling across a shallow sandbar, strong rip currents can form when the surf is up.
Ron Cogswell/Flickr
Whether you visit Kalapaki Beach to relax and sunbathe or to enjoy swimming or a game of beach volleyball, you’re sure to love this picturesque gem. You can always just sit back and watch the outrigger canoes and cruise ships head in and out of Nawiliwili Harbor.
Melissa Emmons Photography/Flickr
Despite Kalapaki’s proximity to the Kauai Marriot and docking cruise ships, visitors maintain that its a serene slice of paradise and we certainly agree. That’s why it tops our travel wish list this year.
Prayitno/Flickr

Have you ever been to Kalapaki Beach before? If so, share your experiences and opinions in the comments below, then check out our previous article on the nearby Ninini Point Lighthouse, also found in Kauai’s Nawiliwili Bay.

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Kalapaki Beach, Lihue, HI 96766, USA