📸 Kauapea (Secret Beach) Trail Head | Kauai, Hawaii
📝 My Story:
Hidden along the north shore of Kauai, the trail to Kauapea — better known as Secret Beach — feels like stumbling upon a real-life tropical treasure.
If it weren’t for GuideAlong steering us here, we would have never found it. There's no big sign or obvious trail marker — just a small dirt road that leads to a discreet parking area and a rugged path descending through dense greenery.
After a short but steep hike down, we were rewarded with one of the most breathtaking beaches on the island: golden sand, endless turquoise waters, and hardly a soul in sight.
It felt like having our very own private island.
One of the best surprises? A wild chicken casually strolling along the shoreline, posing perfectly for photos. Only in Hawaii.
🌎 Location:
📍 Google Maps: Open Kauapea (Secret) Beach Trailhead ➔
📌 Quick Info:
🏙️ City: Kīlauea, Kauai
🅿️ Parking: Small dirt parking area at trailhead (no official lot)
🚻 Bathrooms: None — plan ahead
🚲 Bike Rentals: Not available directly at trailhead
🧭 Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes — trail can be muddy and slippery
📸 Photographer’s Note: Go early for softer light and fewer crowds
🛐 Etiquette: Respect the environment and pack out what you bring in
🕰️ Best Time to Explore: Morning or late afternoon
♿ Accessibility: Not accessible (steep, uneven trail)
💡 Pro Tip:
If you have water shoes or hiking sandals, bring them — they’ll make the slippery descent much easier (and safer).
📸 Photography Tip:
Capture wide shots from the trail looking down at the beach before reaching the sand — it’s an incredible perspective you’ll want to remember.
🎉 Fun Fact:
Kauapea Beach gained its nickname "Secret Beach" because for years it was relatively unknown to tourists and mostly frequented by locals — despite being one of the largest beaches on Kauai!
🌺 Return to Main Hawaii Travel Story
Want to read the full story of our unforgettable adventure across Kauai and Maui?
👉 Click here to explore our complete Hawaii Travel Journal ➔
🗺️ Planning Your Own Hawaii Adventure?
If you’re planning your own trip to Kauai (or anywhere across Hawaii), you can find this hidden gem — and many more — on my public travel map:
👉 View My Hawaii Travel Map Here ➔
