Wainiha Beach - Kauaʻi (Hawaii) by Thomas Bugdoll

Wainiha Beach Park is located on the north shore of Kauai, not far from Hanalei. Wainiha Beach Park is located at the end of the Wainiha River. This is where the river empties into the ocean. This secluded, less visited beach is ideal for picnics and leisurely walks along the shoreline. With few people on the beach, it is also a prime fishing spot.

Swimming is completely off limits on the beach. The name Wainiha means "unfriendly water", and the beach is aptly named.
This beach is one of the few off Kauai that does not have an offshore reef. The offshore reef protects a beach from large ocean waves, and because there is none, Wainiha is too dangerous to swim in. Swimming and snorkeling are not allowed on this beach because of the rip currents, strong shore break and heavy backwash. The mixing of river and sea water also makes the water turbid, which means it attracts sharks. This increases the danger of the water. Since swimming is not allowed, this beach also has no lifeguards.

For beachgoers who are not interested in swimming, Wainiha Beach Park is a beautiful destination. It is lined with coconut trees and pineapples, as well as a few mansions. The lack of waterfront activities means it's less crowded than other more popular beaches, making it a great destination for a relaxing picnic by the water or a walk along the beach. The views are hard to beat, and being alone on the beach is common.