The East Shore: Coconut Coast
The Royal Coconut Coast is a central, most populated, and convenient area—breezy with coconut palms lining the shore.
Explore The East Shore of Kauai
The Royal Coconut Coast
The East Shore of Kauai, often called the Royal Coconut Coast (or simply Coconut Coast), is a beautiful, accessible stretch of the island’s eastern coastline. It’s nicknamed for the abundant coconut palm groves that line the beaches and resort areas, giving it a classic tropical vibe. This region runs roughly from around Wailua and Lihue in the south to Kealia Beach in the north, with Kapaa as its lively central town.
It’s the most populated part of Kauai, offering a mix of local Hawaiian culture, history (much of it once reserved for aliʻi or royalty), golden beaches, and easy access to adventures. Its central location makes it a smart base. It is about 30-45 minutes’ drive to the North Shore (like Hanalei) or South Shore (like Poipu), without the isolation of those areas.
Good To Know…
Access/Things to DO…
The Top Coconut Coast Beaches
The east shore has windier conditions than the north or south, but protected spots shine.

Lydgate Beach Park and Rock Pool
Located south of Wailua and north of Lihue. It is ultimate kid haven with two rock-enclosed saltwater ponds for wave-free swimming/snorkeling (even on windy days), massive Kamalani Playground (one of Hawaii’s best with wooden structures, slides, tunnels), grassy space for picnics, lifeguards, and restrooms. Families spend full days here.

Waipouli Beach
Located near Coconut Marketplace in Wailua is a small, scenic lagoon (especially placid in summer) with gentle waters—great for wading, light swimming, or toddlers (hence “Baby Beach”). It is a quiet, protected stretch directly in front of the Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa (Outrigger-managed condos). Public access is limited parking/walk-in. Restrooms/showers at nearby resort or path.

Kapaʻa Beach Park
Kapaʻa Beach Park is located in the heart of Kapaʻa town. It is a nice sandy beach with blue waters and views—great for sunbathing, walking, or casual play. Scattered picnic tables/pavilions under trees are perfect for family lunches or watching the waves. Swimming conditions vary—rocky areas and currents make it unpredictable. No lifeguard, so safer for wading/picnics than full swims.
Kealia Beach
Kealia means “salt-encrusted area” referring to ancient drying salt-gathering practices here. It is an expansive half-mile stretch of golden-white sand, just north of Kapaʻa town along Kūhiō Hhy (Route 56). It’s one of the most easily accessible beaches on the island, hugging the highway curve with sweeping ocean views, ironwood trees, grassy picnic areas, and the scenic Ke Ala Hele Makalae coastal path running right alongside it. Surfing & bodyboarding is a primary draw—consistent sandbar breaks deliver fun waves year-round. Beginners/intermediates can find playable sections, but watch for currents and shorebreak. Parking, restrooms, showers, picnic tables/pavilions, and lifeguards (often on duty).

Anahola Beach Park
Anahola Beach is a laid-back beach park on the northeast shore tucked into Anahola Bay. This long, narrow crescent of golden sand is sheltered by a large offshore reef, creating relatively calm waters in the bay compared to more exposed spots; making it a favorite for locals and visitors seeking a quieter, less touristy experience. With consistent beach breaks it’s fun for boogie boarding and surfing (knee to head high on good days). It has grassy areas, shade, restrooms, showers, picnic tables/pavilions, free parking (two unpaved lots—arrive early). Lifeguards often present. It also has county campground on the south side—permits required. Popular with locals; check kauai.gov for reservations.

Kalapaki Beach
This beach is located in Nawiliwili Bay (Līhuʻe area), right in front of the Kauai Marriott Resort and adjacent to Nawiliwili Harbor. It is a crescent-shaped, half-mile stretch of golden sand and protected by a large breakwall. The bay’s natural shape creates consistently calm, gentle waves without the heavy power of north shore breaks, offering great swimming conditions. The beach is a top spot for beginning bodyboarders and surfers. Close to the airport (minutes away), it’s a popular first stop for visitors or a convenient day at the beach with nearby shops, restaurants, and amenities like restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and shaded spots. No lifeguards consistently, but generally safe.
The Top Coconut Coast Attractions/Activities

Wailua River
The island’s only navigable river (Wailua) with flat, gentle waters (no strong currents) is perfect for river kayaking accessible and family-friendly. Most tours are guided, provide tandem kayaks (kids ride with parents), life jackets for all ages, and snacks/water.
Top Operators: Kayak Kauai, Ali’i Kayaks, Kayak Wailua, Kayak Adventures Kauai.
Self-Guided Rentals:
Wailua Kayak & Canoe or Bring Me Rentals.

Waterfalls
The top waterfalls on the east side:
1) Wailua Falls: a double-tiered waterfall (~ 173–180′ tall) was featured in the opening credits of the TV show Fantasy Island. It cascades into a deep pool below. Location: Lookout off Maalo Road (Hhw 583), just N of Līhuʻe.
2) Opaekaa Falls: a powerful 151′ single cascade plunging into the Wailua River Valley. Location: Lookout off Kuamoʻo Road (Route 580), about 2 miles up from Hhw 56 (near Wailua).

Ke Ala Hele Makalae (Coastal Path)
Ke Ala Hele Makalae means “The Path that Goes by the Coast”. It’s a paved, car-free coastal path running along the shore for ~ 7–8 miles.
Southern part: From Lydgate Beach Park to Wailua Beach Park or central Kapaʻa: includes playground access and protected swimming areas. Northern part: From Kapaʻa town north to Ahihi Point (near Keālia Beach) or beyond toward Donkey Beach: more open coastal views and beach stops.

Kapaa Town
It’s a laid-back, charming beachside community with a population of around 11,652 (as of the 2020 census), nestled at the base of the Nounou Mountain (Sleeping Giant) and bordered by the Pacific Ocean. It has relaxed, community-oriented “old town” vibe with a mix of historic plantation charm, eclectic storefronts, art galleries, local eateries, and shops. Less touristy than Poʻipū or Princeville, but with plenty of aloha; locals emphasize ohana (family) and a slower pace.

Rum Tasting
Kōloa Rum tasting is one of the most popular activities, a fun stop to sample premium rums crafted from local sugarcane and pristine rainwate from Mount Waiʻaleʻale. Kōloa Rum Co. is the island’s first licensed distillery (since 2009), producing award-winning, small-batch rums that celebrate Kauai’s sugar plantation heritage.

Train Ride
The 105-acre Kilohana Plantation estate (once a sugar plantation) offers a 40-minute conductor-narrated train tour in an authentic mahogany-lined passenger cars. Views include original crops (sugarcane, taro), fruit groves, and working farmland. A fun stop: feeding animals (pigs, goats, sheep, and the beloved donkey Stiney).

Chocolate Farm
Lydgate Farms is a family-owned chocolate farm located in the hills above Kapaʻa (in the Olohena ahupuaʻa between Sleeping Giant and Mt. Waiʻaleʻale). It’s renowned for producing award-winning single-origin Hawaiian cacao chocolate, along with vanilla, honey, and tropical fruits/flowers. Offers a 3-hour “branch-to-bar” guided tour. Ages 7+

Hawaiian Village
Kāmokila Hawaiian Village (called Kamokila Hawaiian Village) is a recreated traditional Hawaiian village along the Wailua River and near Wailua. This 4-acre spot features thatched-roof hale (houses), native plant gardens (guava, mango, banana, ti), cultural displays, and educational info on ancient Hawaiian lifestyles, fishing, farming, and daily life.
Attend a Luau
Luaus and cultural experiences on Kauaʻi offer a wonderful way to connect with Hawaiian traditions; through music, dance (hula), storytelling, food, and aloha spirit. Luaus provide an entertaining introduction with feasts and performances, while deeper cultural activities allow hands-on immersion in history, crafts, and heritage. There are many options with popular shows running regularly (book ahead, especially peak seasons).

Luau Kalamaku
Luau Kalamaku (at Kilohana Plantation, Līhuʻe) offers theatrical storytelling (epic sea voyage from Tahiti), high production value, live music, graceful hula, fire poi, and knife dancing. Held under an open-air pavilion (covered for rain), with a delicious buffet and artisan market. Highly praised for being engaging, professional, and memorable. Operates Tuesday/Friday evenings; packages include train rides through the historic plantation.

Smith’s Family Garden Luau
A luau at Smith’s Tropical Paradise, Wailua River area, is a long-running favorite (generations of the Smith family) with a garden tour, imu ceremony (unearthing kalua pig), open bar, buffet, and a vibrant “Rhythm of Aloha” show featuring dances from HI, Tahiti, Samoa, Philippines, NZ, and Japan in an open-air amphitheater. Family-friendly, well-organized, and praised for authentic aloha. Great combo with their Wailua River/Fern Grotto tour.

Kauai Marriott Resort
Hawaii Alive Luau (Kauai Marriott Resort, Līhuʻe) is a long-running (53+ years) Polynesian cultural show emphasizing authentic Hawaiian elements like live music, traditional and modern hula, ancient chants, drumming, interactive hosting, and energetic dances (including fire performances). It’s held in the resort’s enchanting tropical gardens, creating an intimate, family-friendly atmosphere. It offers dinner and show package OR show-only option.
Where to Eat Ideas – Kapa’a Area
Kapaʻa has a great mix of casual local spots, fresh seafood, Hawaiian fusion, and oceanfront dining – ranging from affordable plate lunches to upscale options. It’s a laid-back town with plenty of walkable eateries in the main strip, plus nearby resorts and markets.
Supermarkets:
Safeway – 4-831 Kuhio Hwy, Kauai Village Shopping Center.
Island Country Markets – 4-484 Kuhio Hwy, Suite #101, Coconut Marketplace.
ABC Stores or small markets scattered around for quick grabs; Coconut Marketplace has additional eats/shops.

Bull Shed
The Bull Shed Restaurant is a local establishment that has been serving some of Kauai’s best steak, prime rib and seafood for the past 40 years. It was originally on the beach in Waipouli, now is located at the ISO Hotel.

Bubba Burgers
It is a classic, no-frills burger joint serving old-fashioned burgers since 1936. It’s famous for using 100% grass-fed Kauai beef, toasted buns, and simple toppings —plus a cheeky slogan: “We cheat tourists, drunks & attorneys.”

McDonalds
A convenient option for quick, familiar fast food like breakfast, burgers, fries, McNuggets, and McCafé drinks. When arriving late in Kauai and driving North from the airport it is a great spot for fast food meal for hungry kids.
Where to Eat & Shop Ideas – Lihue Area
Līhuʻe offers a great mix of casual local eats, fresh seafood, Hawaiian plate lunches, and resort-style dining. It’s convenient for quick stops or airport arrivals, with options ranging from iconic beachfront spots to hidden gems.
Supermarkets:
Safeway – 4454 Nuhou St, Suite 301, Hokulei Village area.
Walmart – 3-3300 Kuhio Hwy.
Costco – 4300 Nuhou St.
Times Supermarket – 3-2600 Kaumualii Highway, Kukui Grove area. Local Hawaiian chain.

Gaylords
The Plantation House by Gaylords located at Kilohana Plantation is a historic setting with island-influenced dishes (fresh local ingredients, Pacific Rim flavors). Great for lunch, dinner, or happy hour. Offers authentic Kauai dining and scenic courtyard.

Duke’s
Duke’s Kauai at Kalapaki Beach, Kauai Marriott Resort offers regional cuisine, fresh seafood (like grilled fish specials), steaks, and famous Hula Pie dessert. Relaxed vibe, live music some nights, and stunning bay views -perfect for sunset dinners.

Hamura Saimin
Hawaiian-Japanese noodle spot known for saimin (Hawaiian-style noodle soup); a true Kauai institution. Casual counter seating; don’t miss if you want classic local comfort food. Cash-only. Location: 2956 Kress St Lihue, HI 96766; (808) 245-3271
The East Shore – Attractions, Info & Map
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