A. There is no beach like this one B. Nobody there to hassle us C. No tourists traps D. No lifeguards, or at least I couldn't find any E. Secluded...for miles F. No stores or bars to be seen I hit this beach (as well as Kauai) once a year. read more

If I could give this beach a 6 star, I would. 1st: The map shown by Yelp as of 10/11/2011 is wrong. Polihale is not located in Waimea. Now onto the review... To get to this beach, from Poipu, give yourself a good 1.5 hours on a good weather day. You will want a 4WD as parts of the road start to get sandy. We saw some crazy folks in a Toyota Camry and a couple Dodge Caliber rentals out there, so I guess it's possible to make it with just anything. Be ready to get stuck if you drive yourself onto the beach, though (even with a 4WD car). If you don't have experience driving off-road, I suggest being adventurous elsewhere as this location is quite remote and the roads are small. I'm not going to cover too much of how to get there as I think part of the fun is finding your way. It's not hard, so don't over think it. When you finally do reach the beach, it's absolutely breathtaking. Bring a large beach umbrella and some beach chairs and you're golden. Add in some snacks and some beers and you'll be in heaven. The water is truly pretty rough, and I would not recommend swimming here. There are some that surf here, but other than that, most people are here to take in the views. If you plan to head out here, sunsets here can be really amazing. Check online what time the sun will go down and get out there an hour or two in advance. We had a great time and took some really beautiful photos out there. Do not miss this beach if you're in Kaua'i. It's a beautiful secluded beach that will not get busy, so find the right time in your schedule during your trip and spend some time here. It's really one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen. read more

This beach is unbelievable, and definitely worth the difficult trip. You've got to work for it, but it's worth it. 5(ish) miles if seriously jacked up dirt road, and you'll be on literally the most amazing beach you've ever seen. Possible (but slow) in a 2-wheel drive; definitely better with a truck. When we there, there were literally less than ten total people as far as the eye could sea. The water is warm and clear. Be careful swimming, because there are no lifeguards, or even many other beach goers who could help you if you needed it. Make sure you bring drinks and some form of shade if you plan to stay awhile! read more

One of the true treasures on the island..not for the faint of heart .. rough road Bumpy littered with potholes..

Positives: Huge beach. At the end of the Napili Coast. Long, bumpy dirt road to get there. Makes it feel like an adventure. Less populated than other beaches. Negatives: Rough tide. Cars and Trucks on the beach. Beach Fishing (I got caught in someone's line). Will make it back here every time I come back to Kauai. I have to remember to not just tack this beach onto the end of the day after Waimea Canyon. I have visited Kauai four times over the past 30 years. And I make the same mistake every time. Get here around 2pm and not 5pm. read more

This beach takes effort to get to; 5 miles down a dirt road - but so worth it! Since it is out of the way - you will be reap the rewards of being on a beach that has maybe 20-30pp - and it's a long beach so it's easy to get solitude by just walking a little further. The waves were pretty strong - but we just waited between sets of waves to jump in the water. I wished that I had a boogie board to enjoy it more! Bring everything you need for the beach - umbrella, LOTS of sunscreen, snacks and water - and defintely wear shoes to save your feet from the burning sand! You will not want to make many trips back to the car ... In some of the marketing magazines - they tell you that your rental car contract is null & void if you take the car here - but my rental company didn't say a thing about it and they use a standard company contract. Also - the beach was closed down for about 4 months this year in order to grade the road and improving the facilities and has only been open for 1 month. You could tell as the dirt roads were very good! It was even better than the paved road to the overlook at Waimea Canyon! I would love to go back to Kauai just to get to this beach again. I think this is the most beautiful beach in the world. read more

Kind of hard to get to with the dirty, rocky road. Make a left up the hill at the fork where there's a tree if you don't wanna risk the sandier road. I have been to a lot of beaches and have lived on Oahu, gone to every Hawaiian island (that I'm allowed to go on), and to several international beaches, and I don't believe I've ever seen anything like this one. A long stretch of white sand, different shades of blue water hitting the end of the Na Pali Coast. GORGEOUS. Gentle shore break at this time of year also made for great swimming. There's no shade, which wasn't a problem for me, but was for my sun-fearing friend. It was definitely hot though so bring a tent or beach umbrella and get ready to relax. read more

Just an outstanding place. This place is hard to get to. But that's what keeps it outstanding. 5 miles of dirt road off one of the main highways in Kauai separates you from what I think is the best beach on Kauai and possibly the islands. Yes, it's that good. Just made my 2nd trip there. 1st one was 6 years ago. This time I took a Jeep and it was much easier. The road has improved from 2007. Just do not try to drive on the beach. A guy who wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed got his car stuck in the sand and was still working on it when we left 4 hours later. When the water is calm or moderate, Polihale is a great place to be. I can see why many locals don't come here in fear of the surf and isolation. Bring your food, make it a day, and be smart. read more

The most beautiful beach I've been to and I live on Maui!!! Pristine sand, miles of it, gorgeous views, not too crazy water, and hardly anyone there! The bumpy ride to get there was so fun. And a shower for after. Amazing. read more

What a crazy drive in. 20 min of bumping around on a dirt road. But after a few trips in a sedan no less, you get used to it! We arrived at night and thats a hard way to figure things out. But the next morning, we found a great spot shaded from the crazy wind and sand. The first night we were camped at at a site (not an official site) and were literally sand blasted. Once we settled in to the official spot, we could enjoy the really nice campgrounds. Right next to a roaring ocean (it was during a crazy weather pattern that locals were saying was crazy) and sand dunes. Just beautiful. Bathroom, we only saw one. So that kinda limits how far u can camp. Lots of sandy hills to climb up but, far from bathrooms and difficult to reach by car. read more

So to be clear I'm from Miami. My wife and I have traveled many beaches around the world and had to laugh when we showed up to see how overhyped this beach was.The only fun part of this beach was the drive to get there. I had a Jeep Wrangler with 4x4 which I didn't even use. If you have a Jeep, truck or SUV you can get to the beach without a problem. No issues...have fun. The surge at this beach doesn't make it swimable. It's actually dangerous. No life guards. I definitely would NOT recommend this beach if you have kids. The surge creeps very high and can make it very dangerous. I was at the beach for 15 minutes and witnessed two other couples that lost their phones due to the high unexpected surge. If you're in for a adventure go check it out, just don't expect a beautiful beach with crystal blue swimable waters. read more

Want to get away? Go here. Even on a holiday weekend, it was easy to find solitude on this beautiful stretch of sand and blue water. That being said, getting here is not easy, and you do have to plan ahead. Bring your own shade, because it's often HOT here and there is no shade to be found. Bring your own drinks/snacks, because this is truly remote and there are no amenities at all. If you've got a four wheel drive, you're golden. You can literally drive right up onto the beach and make camp. Otherwise, you've got a pretty easy hike through sand from the dirt road to the water. Next time I'm on the island, I want to camp here and experience sunrise and sunset. read more

The beach was very intimate and isolated. There was barely anyone there when we came in the evening. It is tucked away, but doesn't really require an all wheel drive car. You can drive as far as the dirt road will take you and walk a few minutes to the sand and beach. You'll know when to stop cause you'll see other cars parked too. My husband and I were fine driving in a sedan. There wasn't any restrooms near by, except the state park facility. Overall, I think this beach is nice if you want some private alone time to relax. Be sure to bring snack and water if you stay here for the day. read more

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First a warning. If you are in a rental, this is a rough road even for a stock jeep. You will hit the stoppers a lot on this road. At the end, we saw multiple vehicles stuck in the sand. Most were retrieved but there was one jeep that had grounded and was waiting for a larger tow to winch it out (we were there about five hours and the tow had still not arrived). I've driven in deep sand quite a bit and had no issues, so it's up to your experience and willingness to venture in. Second the sand gets sun exposure nearly all day. This makes the sand unbearably hot. Do not attempted to walk without shoes. One of our party had burned feet from attempting to walk up the beach. The beach was amazingly beautiful. By far the best on Kauai. There were also few people on the beach (prob due to the drive in). We picked a location with no one in either direction for hundreds of feet and set up at the edge of the water. Our favorite place in Kauai! read more

I think this was the most beautiful/favorite beach I went to on Kauai. It was absolutely gorgeous and the beach stretches for miles and miles. Best of all, it is practically empty. I think we saw under 10 people there all day. You can take a walk and look as far as the eye can see and see no one. Just gorgeous. Also, the water was gentle enough that we could swim, but not too gentle that it was boring. Not good snorkeling though. The beach is at the end of a long bumpy road but is well worth the trip. This barely beats out Tunnels as my favorite beach because of the relaxing emptiness and beauty of the place. Incredible! read more

This is the beach at the end of the road on the island at the end of the earth. Yes the road is not four-lane blacktop. Take your time. If you aren't comfortable driving over the bumps or in the mud after a rain (our apologies to the rental company - no damage, just lots of mud), then look at someone else's photos or have them drive. This is an open stretch of fairly secluded beach with few people. You won't be "let's go naked alone" but damn close. The south end is marked by the barking sands base and the northern end by 1000 foot cliffs. This is the start of the Na Pali coastline. If you can't get out onto the water, then this is a good way to get an idea of how massive these cliffs are. Well worth the drive. read more

Can't say enough about this beach. It takes your breath away. Yes, the dirt road drive is horrible, and maybe it makes the beach feel that much better. I was 6 months pregnant and probably shouldn't have taken the ride down that road, but it was certainly the best beach I've ever been to and would love to be back at some point. No other beach came close. Got there in time for the sunset. Next time I'll bring a picnic and relax a while. We were essentially alone with the only other humans a local family just pin points down the beach. Water is DEFINITELY too rough, however. read more

After hearing and reading from several sources that the dirt road taking one to the campsites at Polihale was a nightmare and shouldn't even be attempted without a 4WD, I cautiously proceeded to the beach in my rental 2WD SUV. I can report at as of last week, the road was absolutely nothing to worry about - unpaved, yes; bumpy, a tiny bit; dusty, to be sure - but I had zero problems and even little sedans were happily zipping back and forth. To get the campsites, head right at the Moneypod tree and then take the next left about 8/10 mile further along. Here's a tip, unless you know what the hell you're doing, prevent an embarrassing situation and don't drive on the beach or on the parts of the "campsite loop trail" which is only sand. Easy, right? It really was. You'll love it. read more

Beautiful, long and uncrowded beach! Polihale is majestic! The currents are very strong, it would pull you out to the ocean easily, so watch out! Temp was great, barely any clouds so you would definitely get an even tan here! Would get too hot at times but that's what the ocean is for. Road to this beach is a rugged 4 mile drive...would highly recommend a Jeep or other SUV, but even a small car would do (we drove a Chevy Camaro with the top down! Lol). Didn't even get too dusty! Very secluded and romantic beach. Would try waiting for the sunset next time, but the drive out of there on the rugged road at dusk would be a little sketchy! read more

Bumpy ride in but amazing place but for the tons of trucks on the beach and light smell of weed. Very hot so come prepared with a tent, lots of water, and lots of sunscreen. We Honolulu townies checked our pop up tent as checked luggage to make sure we'd have shade here. Strong currents and undertow. Fun to get tossed around in but could be dangerous if you get caught off guard. Far away from any help. Also don't mind the people smoking weed in the truck near you. . . . read more

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Drive out to Polihale. The road out has always worried me as it was either closed or real rutted and muddy every time we checked it. It's a marked dirt road near the end of the hwy. Well, the road has been graded and is now in good shape nearly all the way out (as of Oct 2010) This beach is the furthest West you can get by car and the start (or end) of the Napali coast. Very dry and hot. I'm glad we finally got out to it, but in all honesty, I don't think it's all that great - It's very similar to beaches I'm used to here in So Cal. Wide with no shade and HOT! It's real pretty, but I don't need to go again. Photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/3ChihuahuasMama/Polihale# read more

Sublime. No words to express its secluded beauty. Although not for everyone, certainly not the average tourist crowds, it is a must see for those in search of the "real Kauai". We are drawn back year after year to this pristine beach at the edge of the Napali cliffs. Be careful, no lifeguards, and this beach can be powerful and dangerous with its consistent rip current activity and undercurrents. And it takes a hearty 4 wheel drive to get to the end of the bumpy, pot-hole-ridden dirt road where the best part of the beach is located. read more

Top Three beaches of all time. Stunning. Remote. Breathtaking. Dirt Road. Gravel Road. Pristine sands. Secluded. You may see a grand total of seven people not including your own party within eye's view. Mountains behind are jaw dropping background. THE WAVES.. read more

Gorgeous, serene, isolated beach. Can't wait to camp there:) This place will be calling me back for a long time. read more

Polihale Beach State Park - Wow! It's stunning there. Long, rough road which holds back crowds of people. Can't wait to take all of our kids there for camping. - Parks Near Me - Waimea, Hawaii

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The beach is definately worth the bumpy drive. Do beware when you head out, especially if you're in a rental car. 4x4 would be ideal for this drive but we did manage it alright in our sedan by going slow. This beach is pretty rain or shine. We drove out even though it was cloudy simply because we wanted a look. This beach is unique because it has tall cliffs at one end. It's remote, no life guards, basic facilities and not very crowded. It's a great spot to camp. It's also popular with the locals. It's a great place to come for a picnic too. There are some grills and picnic tables. Do be careful if you swim, the current is strong in places and the waves can be rough. read more

This was my favorite beach while we were in Kauai. The two local guys that took us to the beach shared that this was one of their favorite beaches- where families go for the holidays and to spend time together. After offroading a bit and driving on the sand, when we got to the beach, I then knew why. The beach was gorgeous! Not only was the beach relatively empty, but everyone you did come across was so nice. We swam a lot, ate our poke and seaweed salad and of course had some drinky drinks. A little word of warning though.. careful for the rogue waves. A few of us girls were sitting on top of the sand looking down at the waves, and when we weren't looking a rogue wave took us out. It was pretty funny, but I didn't have sand coming out of my ears, hair and other places for the next few days lol! read more

Beautiful hidden gem of a beach with plush sand you can sink your feet into. There is a bathroom and eating area with picnic tables and also an emergency call box. If you are looking for a beautiful beach in Kauai this is the place. The only possible con is that you must have a 4WD vehicle and be prepared for a jarring ride but it is definitely worth it. read more

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The drive was not hard at all in an SUV. Just go slow and respect other drivers. The beach was not very busy which in Kauai is amazing but it is very dangerous swimming and kids should stay out of water as should anyone who could get swept away. Waves crash quick and hard. It is a lovely place for a picnic and to get your feet wet while you just relax and watch the view. read more

We hit up a total of 7 beaches while visiting Kaua'i this summer and this one stole my heart. By far the most beautiful. Totally worth the rough drive to get to it. Magical. Secluded. Gorgeous, soft sand and lots of it. A lot of the shores we visited were quite short in Kauai but this one is nice and deep because of the sand dunes. The Napali Coast is right there and wow what a view!!! Hands down the most beautiful beach we saw while visiting. read more

Yes, the road is extremely bumpy, but it is all worth it once you arrive to the beach. I highly suggest a 4-wheel drive, just to be on the safe side. We drove our Jeep Wrangler to the sand, but if you really want to get ahead, release pressure from your tires. We got stuck in the sand for a few minutes, but we managed to get out. Also, bring a beach umbrella or a tent because there are no trees for shade and it gets hot during the summer time. Especially the sand, it's piping hot! It doesn't appear you need a permit to camp, so enjoy the ocean view stay! read more

Hands down this is my favorite beach in Kaua'i! It's pretty secluded due to the fact that you have to drive at least 30 minutes on a dirt road to get here so there aren't many tourists. read more

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This was my favorite beach in Kauai! Secluded and just beautiful. About 5 minutes from the monkey tree right after you get off the gravel road there is a sand dune we walked about 100 feet pulled overt walked over a dune across a dirt road over another dune and to the most beautiful beach. We were right near the cliffs and on secluded beach. read more

Out of this world. Pack food and a lot of water and bring shade! You will never forget it. So what the dirt road is a long and bumpy! It's worth it. Take your time. And go there! read more

Very secluded, I truly undiscovered beach. Takes four wheel to get all away out to the end. Great place to picnic or camp overnight. You can drive your four Wheeler right to your campsite that you choose read more

Not my favorite drive by any means, but the beach itself is fantastic. The sand is so fine and soft on your feet, although burning hot in the summer if you're not wearing your slippers. Lots of people camping and driving their trucks on the beach, something I'm not used to seeing in Hawaii. The water was nice and cool, the swim was great, and the views were stunning. I just wish it was a little smoother to get to. read more

Probably the rate rating for this place but it's just a beach. It's hawaii, of course it's beautiful but there's nothing too special in my opinion. The 3.5 miles of absurd terrain to get to the beach is ridiculous. It was fun and funny for like that first mile but then it got old and very frustrating. Not sure how people without jeeps or cars they don't care about even go there. I wouldn't really recommend since you can go to a lot of other beaches. read more

Oh my goodness...do yourself a favor and make sure you're in a 4 wheel drive vehicle before even attempting to drive to Polihale Beach State Park. The dusty, bumpy road was not the problem for us, it was the sandy part (although I'm sure if it's raining, the road becomes muddy which would create more headaches). Also, make sure the person driving is confident and does not slow down, otherwise you may get stuck (and incur tons of rental car fees)! Or, just throw caution into the wind, and get out there, because it is BEAUTIFUL!!! Huge stretches of sand, simply spectacular and gorgeous views of the Na Pali Coast mountains, and the island of Niihau. The beach itself is so vast, you really feel like you've got your own little spot of paradise. read more

Do this. The drive is on a bumpy bit paved road with potholes, so go slow in a vehicle that is not mentioned for those conditions. Stick to the right and you'll make it to the beach. Incredible views. read more

Like, O-M-G!.... This beach is GORGEOUS! Stunning! and there's a Half Dome-ish formation which is the Na Pali cliffs. There's about a 7-mile long stretch of beach blissfulness. Amazing sunsets over Ni'ihau island, and awesome star-gazing. ***Word to the wise: the ocean here can be VERY dangerous*** (severe shore break/rip currents) - no lifeguards/remote location. The waves are deceiving (and WILL knock you on your lil behind, or maybe carry you out to sea forever). Don't leave any valuables unattended. Bring plenty of sunscreen & water. Be sure to check: http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/announcements for road conditions & closings due to heavy rains, etc. FYI: Camping is by permit only. It's a little adventure, but SO worth it! PLEASE do NOT litter! read more

five miles down a dirt road past the end of kaumuali'i highway on kauai, you'll find one of the most wonderful beaches in the world. this is basically the start of the inaccessible na pali coast line. the beach stretches for miles, making it feel like you're the only person on the beach. holiday weekends can be pretty busy, however. if you plan to camp, a permit is required. if you bring your dog, make sure you keep them on a leash (maximum 8 feet long) because the department of land and natural resources sometimes makes visits to issue citations for infractions. don't drive on the sand unless you've got a 4wheel drive. and even if you do have a 4wheel drive, don't drive on the sand unless you really know how to use it. getting stuck in the sand is really not fun. at minimum, for a tow company to come bail you out, it'll cost you a grand. if you ask for assistance from some locals, be prepared to shell out some dough, or at least give them the six pack you brought to enjoy on the beach (locals prefer heinekens!! haha) bring a beach umbrella (the sun can get superrrrr intense!), cooler for drinks, food, and everything you need to be comfortable. polihale is only flat several days throughout the year. make sure that you're very cautious when swimming, because there is no life guard & medical attention can take some time to get out there. plus, there's not really any cell phone reception. verizon is the only carrier that has any kind of signal. when you're leaving, make sure to pack your opala (rubbish)! keep our island clean. read more