Ride the Kapaa Bike Path, Kauai in Hawaii
Ride the Kapaa Bike Path, Kauai in Hawaii
The Ke Ala Hele Makalae, or Kapaa Bike Path, offers a breathtaking coastal ride along Kauai’s eastern shore. Stretching approximately 8 miles, this paved, multi-use path provides sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, access to secluded beaches, and a leisurely way to experience Kauai’s beauty. The path’s relatively flat terrain makes it ideal for cyclists of all skill levels, walkers, and runners.
Adventure Guide To Ride the Kapaa Bike Path, Kauai
Kealia Beach to Donkey Beach
- Location: Northern section of the path, starting at Kealia Beach and continuing to Donkey Beach.
- What Makes It Special: This stretch features panoramic views of the coastline with frequent sea turtle and humpback whale sightings (in winter months). The path runs atop coastal bluffs, offering a vantage point over the waves.
- Key Features: Multiple scenic overlooks, shade from ironwood trees near Donkey Beach, and resting areas with benches. Donkey Beach is a secluded spot great for relaxing, though strong currents make it unsafe for swimming.
Kapaa Town to Lydgate Beach Park
- Location: Southern portion of the path, running through Kapaa’s beachfront before leading toward Lydgate Beach Park.
- What Makes It Special: This section offers easy access to Kapaa’s shopping, cafes, and the protected Lydgate Beach pools, which are safe for swimming.
- Key Features: Restrooms, picnic tables, and bike rental shops nearby. Families love the calm snorkeling lagoon at Lydgate, ideal for beginners.
Waipouli Beach to Kealia Beach
- Location: The central segment connecting Waipouli Beach Resort area to Kealia Beach.
- What Makes It Special: A perfect stretch for sunrise bike rides, with golden light illuminating the coastline. This section has fewer crowds and a peaceful ambiance.
- Key Features: Numerous beach access points, native coastal plants, and shaded resting spots.
Local Insights
- Historical Significance: The path follows ancient Hawaiian coastal routes, once vital for fishing communities and trade.
- Cultural Tip: At sunrise, you may see local kupuna (elders) practicing hula or oli (chanting) near the shoreline—show respect by observing quietly.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Late afternoon offers stunning golden hour lighting.
- What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, hat, and camera. Rentals available at Coconut Coasters and Hele On Kauai for bikes.
- Getting There: From Lihue Airport, drive 20 minutes north via Kuhio Highway (Hwy 56) to Kapaa. Multiple parking lots are located along the route.
Adventure Map
Reviews
Amreen Shafiuddina year ago
Cute little beach. Calm waters. The sunset is very pretty to see from here!! The area has a lot of restaurants and food trucks to choose from. Can easily spend an evening here. This location is perfect for a walk along the coast..
Ben Rotha month ago
Nice little beachside park that makes for a great spot to watch a sunrise or moonrise. It was the perfect spot for us to enjoy our first morning in Kuaui, especially since we stayed at the hostel right on the beach. A nice paved bike path runs right along the beach, and there’s plenty of development right along the park which can be both a blessing and a curse. I wouldn’t recommend it much for swimming, as the sand isn’t very fine and the waves leave a lot to be desired, plus there are just many superior options on the island. All in all, though, you can never go wrong with a beach in Kuaui, and this one is easily the most accessible if you’re staying in Kapa’a. Just make sure to get out there and see some of the more well known ones, too.
Lenora-Ann Matthewsa year ago
The beach is beautiful! Great view of King Kong Mountain! Water was a beautiful turquoise blue. Watch out for rip currents (pic where it looks calm). I grew up swimming in the ocean, but myself and my sister got caught in a current and didn't realize it, so we were getting tired swimming(it was like being in one of those infinity pools...a water treadmill). Luckily, a firefighter (Aaron) was there and came to tow us in on his surfboard! If anyone knows a local firefighter named Aaron, make sure you give him a pat on the back for us and let him know he's a hero!! Enjoy the beach & stay safe!!
Jacqueline Telljohann4 years ago
We spent our last afternoon in Kauai relaxing here.
There's not a lot of shade on the beach itself. We found some trees back in the grassy area to relax under.
The beach itself is nice. It's not crowded which is definitely a perk.
There's a nice walking trail that goes behind it along the town for a bit (and off of the main street).
There are a couple of picnic tables on the far side a bit off of the beach.
We found a shop to rent some beach chairs at about a 5 minute walk away (since we were flying out that day).
Overall, it's a nice place to spend an afternoon.
JIA JIAN TIN11 months ago
Nice a simple beach. Decent for swimming and just hanging out. It has a nice walking path along the coast too.
