There are over 50 beaches around the island, all unique.  These are pictures of just a few locations.  Many are easily accessible; some are remote and require a 4X4 vehicle; some require a tricky hike down (and climb back up!).  Only a small number of beaches have lifeguards.  SAFETY needs to be the number one rule at all times.  A tranquil-looking beach may hide sharp corals or strong rip currents.  Shoreline rocks and reefs can be deceptively slippery.  Do not walk on any reef, shoreline or offshore.

Beaches are shown here in order from the north end of the road (Ke'e) to the west end (Polihale).

A useful and well organized guide to the island's beaches can be found at Kauai Beach Scoop.  Surf conditions and forecasts for Kauai's north and south shores can be found at Surfline and Surf-Forecast.

The majesty and power of the Pacific ocean are visible throughout the Hawaiian islands.  From tranquil tidal pools and sun-lit waves to huge surf, the allure of the sea is everywhere.  Kauai's many beaches and coastal parks are perfect locations to observe and experience the Pacific, from sunny summer days to stormy winter surf.

Always use common sense and caution around the ocean.  Even in calm conditions, never turn your back to the waves!

The oldest of the 8 major islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, Kauai is a geologic wonder.  It is indeed Jurassic Park, with many parts of the interior inaccessible and sheltering plants found nowhere else in the world.  The cathedral-like Napali Coast and the shifting light and shadows in the Waimea Canyon are spectacular.  It is a great place to hike, bike, and explore.  Just be prepared with adequate water, sun protection, good footwear, and pay attention to weather forecasts.  

Beautiful sunrises and sunsets are frequently seen across the Hawaiian islands.  A sunset cruise, especially during whale season, is a great experience.  On a dark night, literally millions of stars are visible. The Milky Way season in summer and fall is a spectacular time for stargazing.

The intricate structure, delicacy, and visual power of flowers and plants are amazing.  The camera captures details that can be easily missed by the human eye.  The Garden Island has a rich and diverse population of plants, flowers, and trees; some common and some rare and endangered.

The National Tropical Botanical Gardens are magical locations to experience, enjoy, and learn about the flora of Kauai and other Pacific islands.  

Many of the houses, churches, and other buildings around the island date back to the time when sugar was king across all of the islands.  There is a quiet, often fading, presence to many of the structures that offers a small glimpse into what life on the islands might have been like in the heyday of sugar.  

The Kauai Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the island, from ancient to more recent times.  The Grove Farm homestead captures some of the essence of the sugar plantation era.

If you live in Hawaii, where do you go for a vacation?  Being at least 2400 miles from any mainland, there are many options.  Having previously resided in northern California, that is an easy and attractive place to re-visit.  From the always-photographed Golden Gate to wine country to the Sierra and all points in between, the Golden State is a great place for a camera!