Ke’e Beach

May 29, 2022 | General Information

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Like so many beaches on the North Shore of Kauai safety is a big issue for Ke’e Beach. This remarkably beautiful beach has been the scene of many drownings over the years and everyone entering the water here needs to be able to access the dangers clearly. As is true of the other North Shore beaches the largest waves will impact Ke’e in the winter months. In the summer months when the swells are much smaller you would expect that the drowning rate would be much less but people drown at Ke’e in the summer as well. As we have stressed with regard to other beaches on Kauai the keys to remaining safe are to one, have a healthy respect for the ocean’s brutal power and two only go in the water at beaches that have lifeguards and ask the lifeguard personally prior to getting in the water if it is safe to do so and ask him what portion of the beach you should be entering the water on that specific day based on the actual wave and current conditions. Just because Ke’e Beach may look safe to you does not mean that it is. The lagoon here is filled with water that just as swiftly exits out the channel on the Na Pali side of the beach in a wickedly dangerous current.

The Beautiful Sands of Ke’e Beach
Assuming that you’ve taken care of business regarding safety issues here you will be amazed at the beauty of Ke’e Beach. The sand is a luscious golden brown and leads you down to the portion of the beach that has a sand bottom and is fairly shallow and except under bad conditions fairly comfortable to wade about in. As you travel further down the beach you will run into rock and reef as your entry. In addition to the beach itself the lush vegetation on the mountain side of the sand and the incredible views and vistas of the Na Pali Coastline from this location are simply incredible. Many people travel out to Ke’e Beach for the expressed purpose of seeing the sunset as well which has the reputation of being spectacular. This beach has a high rating on the Blue Sea Holidays website.

Ke’e Beach Marks the Beginning of the Na Pali Coast
Since Ke’e Beach is literally the very last beach at the end of the road before reaching the Na Pali Coast it is often jammed with cars that have made the drive out to see what the road has in store for them. When they realize they are at the end they will park and get out to see what is happening. The inevitable bottle-neck of traffic occurs here and parking spaces are often at a premium. In addition, because it is the departure point for the Kalalau Trail which winds its way along the Na Pali Coastline many people park here for the hike as well. Most people will take the short version of the hike to the first beach on the shoreline called Hanakapiai. The round trip hike depending if you hike up the valley to the waterfall once you get to the valley is about four hours so a great many of the cars you see at Ke’e are left there by hikers on the trail. Your best bet is to get there early in the day to be able to snatch a parking spot and to beat the crowds.

Parking at the End of the Road
As far as amenities Ke’e Beach has restrooms and showers, parking areas and a lifeguard station.

Ocean Caution
Be advised that all beaches and ocean locations in Hawaii can be dangerous including this one. Be completely aware of the ocean conditions prior to entering any Hawaiian waters. Be certain that a lifeguard is on duty at this location and be certain to ask him where the best place for you to swim at this beach will be on the day you are there based upon the current ocean and wind conditions. Also, all shorelines and beaches in Hawaii, including this one, can be frequented by sharks, jellyfish and other sea creatures which can provide potential harm to people entering the water.