Salt Pond Beach

As far as beaches go on Kauai, Salt Pond is one of the most people friendly. Foremost in importance is that it has a lifeguard on duty. Secondly, it has all the amenities you would need at the beach. There are protected cabanas to sit under and visit with friends. There are clean bathrooms available in addition to fresh water showers and drinking fountains. Barbecue areas are scattered about as well as fish cleaning stations and picnic tables. There is usually ample paved parking. There are large areas of grass and park suitable for throwing a football around or a Frisbee. There is even a pavilion available for large group occasions although you will need to get a simple permit for its use. This beach park even has lamp posts to light the parking lot area up after dark. With regard to its amenities this beach is right at the top of the list.

Salt Pond is a People Friendly Beach
With regard to the beach itself, it’s really quite nice. It is a crescent shaped beach with ample sand providing easy access to what is initially a sand bottom underwater but it does have reefs for exploring and snorkeling further out. Rocks provide a barrier at the perimeter and the gentle and somewhat compacted sand makes a good surface for a nice walk. The beach is often quite calm and is suitable for children but the lifeguard should always be queried before entry.

The Salt Ponds at Salt Pond Beach
Salt Pond Beach gets its name from the adjacent area of salt flats that were used extensively by the Hawaiians. When you view the pond from the beach you can see a thin layer of salt that covers the area and there are certain areas visible in the center that show signs of salt cultivation which is done using the creation of a series of earthen formed modules similar in shape to a bath tub but larger and very shallow. The pond flats are private and should not be entered onto without permission. The salt is harvested in the traditional way and it is the custom that it is not to be sold but only to be given away.

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.