Sandy beach
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Surfing
No
Snorkeling / SCUBA
Yes
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Nukoli'i Beach Park, sometimes referred to as Kitchens by the locals, lies between Lihue and Kapa'a, however it's sole access by vehicle (with the exception of those staying at the adjacent resorts) keeps the park uncrowded, and often completely empty altogether.

The beach park is easy to miss, lying down a road signed for the resorts. The public beach park can often feel like an afterthought to the upscale resorts, and much of the beach fronts a private golf course. Nukoli'i Beach Park stretches about two miles, though the only access point is via the small parking area at the end of the access road. Here, a small bathroom and picnic table sit beside the lot. A short path leads to the water.

The beach itself can often have stronger currents, making it often a poor destination for swimming or snorkeling, although both may be options when conditions are very calm. Tides also tend to wash a lot of sea flotsam onto its shores, so walking the sandy beach might often require maneuvering around or over the large amount of driftwood and sometimes sea nets sitting on its shores.

Nukoli'i Beach Park may be good to visit if you've gotten tired of the island's crowds. Though the sand tends to be narrow and portions of the beach can feel a bit claustrophobic between the ocean tides and the private resort and golf course property immediately behind the shoreline.

Nukoli’i Beach Park is open from 5:30 AM - 6:30 PM daily. There is no cost to visit. There are no lifeguards here.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Good location. Uncrowded.

Cons

Limited hours. Access road controlled by neighboring resorts.

Pets allowed

Not Allowed

Features

Family friendly
Flushing toilets
Picnic tables
Snorkeling / SCUBA
Potable water

Location

Comments

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