Introduction
Polihale State Park Campground features the longest stretch of beach on any Hawaiian island and more perfect, sunny days than anywhere else on Kauai. It’s really far out there, but the journey is absolutely worth it. The only view better than the Polihale sunset might be the Milky Way that you see after the sun goes down. And right before it goes down, if you’re lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of the elusive green flash. Click here to reserve a spot at the campground.
With no road that circles the island, this is as close as you can get to the cliffs of the Na pali coast by driving. The only way to get there is with caution and ideally a 4WD vehicle.
To see a quick preview of Polihale, check out the first 30 seconds of this video that includes driving out to Polihale and the beach that you’ll find there:
But this article isn’t just about the beach, but about the campground so here’s what you’ll find.
There are bathrooms and drinking water. For most anything else you are on your own. Plan ahead and bring what you want/need. Be sure to bring plenty of food and water. Bring some portable shade, perhaps an umbrella, a sun hat, and sun protection. The sand is hot so be sure to bring slippahs (flip-flops) and/or water shoes. Open fires are not allowed, but you’re likely to see some along the beach.
Campground Amenities:
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Picnic Tables
- Camping Area
- Trash Cans
- Drinking Fountains
- No Cell Phone or Wifi Service
How to Get to Polihale State Park Campground
To get to the park take HWY 50 until it ends, then take a slight right. Travel half a mile and then turn left onto Lower Saki Mana Rd. About 4 miles on a bumpy gravel road. It’ll take about 20 minutes.
You’ll then be on a road that is not quite as nice for about half a mile before you will turn left onto a dirt road which will lead to Polihale State Park.
Once you turn off for Polihale State Park you can reset your trip meter to keep track of how far you’ve gone. The drive can get pretty shaky so we recommend taking your time getting out there. You’ll be driving about 4 miles on the dirt road.
After just over half a mile you’ll cross a bridge.
At around 3.2 miles you’ll then see this huge Monkeypod tree. Turn left to Queens’ Pond for swimming; turn right to continue to the State Park for camping. The road is rough but if your vehicle has the clearance and you stay off of the sand you should be fine.
Don’t let the ride dissuade you; you will be rewarded at the end with miles of pristine sand, amazing views and breathtaking sunsets.
A little bit further and you will see the campsites 1-4 on your left, or you can bypass them and head straight to the picnic area. The picnic area will take you to the cliffs and will get you to about 4.1 miles total.
Polihale State Park Campground Fees and Reservations
This is a State Park and permits are required. Log onto the official Polihale campground website to get your permit. The website also does a good job in describing the park. Read up on it when making your reservation and be prepared. Prepared to be amazed.
Best Time to Visit Polihale State Park Campground
There’s *almost* no wrong time to visit Polihale. In the summer it can be hot and dry, but what do you really expect from a long beach? During Kauai’s wet season (November to April, but especially December and January), Polihale can be the perfect escape from all the rain.
That being said, there is a wrong time to visit Polihale: During those rare instances when there is rain and even flooding that washes out the roads that take you there. In that case, don’t risk it because you can really get stuck and have a bad time.
Is it camper van or Roof Top Tent friendly?
Yes! Absolutely. Your best bet here is to come in a 4×4 with a roof top tent, though you also see lots of camper vans out there. I’ve been pretty amazed about the kinds of vehicles drive out there, but I would keep three things in mind:
- What kind of vehicle you’re in – If you have a rental car it could be explicitly called out that you cannot take it off paved roads or to Polihale. On the other hand, if you’re in a truck with roof top tent you might even be encouraged to visit Polihale! So check out what campers and trucks are available here.
- How experienced you are – Don’t assume you can drive anywhere in the sand just because you have 4WD! Oftentimes it’s people who think they can get anywhere because they’re in a truck or SUV with 4WD that end up getting stuck deep in the sand. Tow companies usually won’t go to out Polihale but friendly locals might be willing to help – just be sure to offer them a pack of beer or something as a token of gratitude!
- Recent weather conditions – The road can get washed out so be sure to check the official website for updated info, especially during rainy season (Nov-Mar but especially Dec/Jan)
Camping in Polihale Tips
The ocean is amazing, but dangerous. Be very aware and very careful not to get yourself into a dangerous situation. Although a very beautiful beach, Polihale has some of the most powerful rip currents on the island. Swimming anywhere besides Queen’s Pond should be done with much caution, especially because there are no lifeguards on duty.
How do you describe the indescribable? Words don’t work. Pictures are not enough. You need to see it with your own eyes. Books and blogs that discuss the places to see before you die, your bucket list places, almost without exception include Kauai, the Na Pali Coast and Polihale.
If you have the chance don’t miss it.