Where to Watch the Sunset on Kauai

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Good news: you can catch a great Kauai sunset from almost anywhere the coast juts into the ocean. The West Side and North Shore face the sunset head-on, but the South Shore’s points and headlands around Poipu have gorgeous views too. Check the sunset time, arrive 30 minutes early, and stay 15 minutes after. The afterglow is often the best part.

South Shore (Poipu)

• Poipu Beach Park and Kiahuna Beach: the sun drops over the ocean to the west, often with turtles hauled out on the sand. Grab a drink at Brennecke’s across the street.
• Shipwreck Beach and the Makawehi headland: walk up the bluff for a wide-open ocean view.
• Makahuena Point: the rocky headland by the Poipu condos, a favorite of ours for watching the sky light up.
• Note: the Sheraton Kauai’s oceanfront bar, a famous sunset spot, is closed until about December.

North Shore

• Hanalei Pier and Hanalei Bay: the classic. The sun drops behind the Na Pali ridges while the bay turns pink. Bring takeout and a towel.
• Kee Beach: the sun sets right down the Na Pali Coast. Haena State Park closes at 6:45 p.m. and requires reservations, so it works from about October to March, when the sun sets before closing. In summer the sun sets after the park closes.
• Princeville: a cocktail at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, formerly the St. Regis Princeville (reopened Sept. 28), overlooking the bay. A worthy splurge.

West Side

• Kekaha Beach: a long, wide-open beach where you can see Niihau on the horizon. Kauai’s most reliable sunset. It’s accessible and has a lifeguard; check the ocean conditions.
• Salt Pond Beach Park: CLOSED right now for dune reconstruction.
• Polihale: CLOSED with the other state parks.

From the Water

Sunset and dinner catamarans leave from Port Allen on the South Shore and cruise up the Na Pali Coast: Capt. Andy’s Star Dinner Sunset Sail (about 4-4.5 hours, chef-cooked dinner), Holo Holo (3.5-hour power cat or 4.5-hour sail on Leila; back from Oct. 15 on a temporary schedule, regular tours expected Oct. 18) and Kauai Sea Tours’ Lucky Lady (running since Sept. 21). Port Allen’s launch ramp has reopened but its slips and moorings are still closed, so confirm your check-in details. Bring a light layer for the ride home.

Sunrise Bonus (East Side)

Kapaa’s coastal path, Lydgate and Kealia catch the sunrise. Jet lag from the mainland makes it easy on your first morning.