Nearly five years since my last trip home, June brought me back to Kaua’i for the anticipated (or dreaded for some…most?) high school reunion. My friends and I took our short visit to return to some of our favorite spots. Here, the first in a three-part series on my Garden Island’s must dos.
Polihale, West side
Polihale feels like you’re at the edge of nature. Facing North, the sand runs from the ridgeline of the Na Pali Coast and stretches for several miles. The open ocean reaches out in every direction, the waves washing up to shore a welcome soundtrack to while away the afternoon. Sunset is particularly popular with the locals, but even with the surge of people at this time the vibe remains mellow with plenty of space for everyone.
Visitors to the secluded beach are for those willing to rumble through an extended stretch of unpaved road, through the old sugar cane fields and a long patch of sand (don’t get stuck!) before opening up into the “parking” area. The bumpy anticipation is part of the experience and well worth the trek.
Back in June, I remember the brief exchange while paying for our brews at Living Foods in the Kuku’iula Shopping Center in Po’ipu before we headed West from the South side. The cashier glanced at our six-packs, bag of ice, and, noticing our swimwear peeking out from our casual dress made an accurate guess.
“Headed to Polihale?” she asked.
“You nailed it.” said Paris, a good friend whom was also in town for our reunion.
We all shared a quick laugh before we stepped out to chase the sunset, provisions in hand.
Editor’s note: The best part about returning to this slice of serenity over the last ten years is that the beach remains unchanged. No having to fork over cash to enjoy a public space, no fighting for a coveted parking spot, no feeling of subdued defeat as you set up shop just inches from other beach-going patrons.
[…] Warm Weather Escapes,” Darling – Call me a creature of habit if you want, but I love the island life; the spontaneity that can ensue when you know sandy shores are just a short ride away, the slower […]
LikeLike
[…] Looking for more things to do on Kaua’i? Check out a few of my must-dos, including a Na Pali Coast sunset cruise and a trek to Polihale. […]
LikeLike
Is the “ride” still bumpy and full of pukas on the final stretch to get to Polihale? I grew up in Kekaha, but never make it out to Polihale when I occasionally visit home (like every 4 years or something). My dad complains if I use his truck because it “buss up the suspension”. Queen’s Bath…what fond memories!
LikeLike
Yes, yes it is! The biggest difference about the ride is that the sugar cane is all gone, so you can see further out, but the bumps remain. Thanks for reading!
LikeLike
[…] the curious passport « Kauai Must-do: Polihale beach […]
LikeLike