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NYTimes Misses on Polihale State Park | World’s Best Secluded Beach

One of our favorite Kauai beaches, Polihale State Park, received national attention yet again this week.

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14 thoughts on “NYTimes Misses on Polihale State Park | World’s Best Secluded Beach”

  1. It’s the “attitudinal approach” that makes all the difference when one visits Polihale Beacn! Go there with respectful attitude, anticipating being in the presence of serenity…meditative magnificence…joyous inner-radiance…the opportunity to feel the presence of a spiritual realm that is fulfilling and memorable! Be cautious…be considerate…be receptive! Enjoy! As a “life-long resident” of the island of Kaua’i for ALL of my 82 years (and counting), I “feel” the essence of Polihale, embedded in my heart and soul! Sincerely, MrB

  2. Absolutely a beautiful beach.. We were there in July 2017, and stayed all day until sunset, whew what an amazing experience for sure! It was breathtaking!

  3. I drove a rented Mini Van there, and yes it was bumpy and the car dirty but well worth it. It’s definitely not a swimming beach but it is quite beautiful and an adventure to get there. Just go to the car wash when you are done.

  4. People must realize that a Navy base is right there and the entire shoreline is under constant surveillance!
    No hanky panky!!

  5. We last took our rental car there in Feb 2018. No problems, just a slow bumpy drive, but we agreed that next visit we’d get a car with higher ground clearance for comfort. And a wash afterwards is absolutely necessary. Such a beautiful place, always worth it! It is hard when “secluded” places become more popular, but I think the fact that Polihale is as far west as you can go, and then a long bumpy 5 miles does deter non-locals and non-adventurous folk, so I think it will never be truly overrun.

  6. We love Polihale State Park Beach too. When were you last on the road? We were there on Feb.6. It was the worst we have ever seen the road in the last 12 years. It took us 45 minutes to drive it. We were in a 4 wheel drive truck. The road was very wet too. I have video of our drive back out, but it would probably make you car sick to watch it. It was worth it but it was a bad drive.

  7. I really do like Beat of Hawaii. However, I sadden when I read about “hidden gems” that are exposed by your site. Having been a former kamaaina growing up in Honolulu in the 50’s and 60’s I feel that some beaches be left alone and discovered by locals or adventurers. Hawaii is experiencing a boon to tourism never seen before 9/11 and is popular more than ever. Lanikai Beach is a good example of a once deserted beach enjoyed by local families now inundated with visitors.

    1. Thank you for this. I am also a former kamaaina that grew up in Hawaii during the 50’s and 60’s. I’ve lived on the mainland for 30 years now and I keep in touch with Hawaii news. Every time I read something like this it breaks my heart. Over tourism is hurting the Islands and controls are being discussed. Restrictions for Haunauma Bay were set up years ago with good results. I can only that more of these controls are implemented.

      Aloha!

  8. Thank you. Took that road years ago before it was paved, quit a ride, but once you reach Polihale it was worth it. This is my favorite beach in Hawaii. THe first time there me and my husband were the only ones there, we stayed about 3 hours, just the two of us. Truly magical! An experience I will never forget. Don’t get back there much any more.

      1. My favorite beach, ever. I go to there whenever I am on the island. The waves are scary, but the location is devine.

    1. I’m sorry Linda but the road to Polihale Beach has never been paved. Perhaps you meant another beach.

  9. I believe that many car rental companies specifically prohibit driving to Polihale, correct? Not that you can’t, but if you do and damage the vehicle, you’re on your own for the repairs, regardless of whether you have purchased their damage waiver insurance or are covered by your credit card company. (AMEX’s insurance coverage specifically excludes damage incurred in the process of violating the rental agreement)

    Just an FYO

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