Hanakapiai Beach, Remote beach along Na Pali Coast in Kauai County, United States

Hanakapiai Beach sits on the rugged Na Pali Coast and shows golden sand in summer, while exposed boulders dominate the cove during winter. The shore forms a crescent-shaped bay between tall green cliffs, and a stream flows into the ocean here.

Hawaiian communities used the Kalalau Trail since precolonial times to walk along the coast between valleys. This coastal route connected fishing villages and farming areas across many generations.

The Hawaiian name Hanakāpīʻai means "bay sprinkling food," a reference to the freshwater stream that crosses the sand and meets the ocean here. Hikers on the Kalalau Trail pass this stream before continuing to Hanakapiai Falls.

The beach lies about 2 miles (3.2 km) from Keʻe Beach, where the Kalalau Trail begins, and roughly the same distance from Hanakapiai Falls. There is no road access; the only way in is on foot. The sandy shoreline is visible in summer but is washed away by powerful waves and high tides in winter.

A warning sign counts the number of people who have drowned here and serves as a stark reminder of the dangerous currents. Swimming is officially prohibited at this shore because the water can overpower even experienced swimmers.