Powerful turquoise ocean wave, dark rocky cliff
© RooM the Agency/Alamy Stock Photo
A beach in beast mode
Hanakāpī'ai Beach is a stunning and secluded spot on the island of Kauai. Known for its rough conditions and rugged scenery, the beach is accessible via the Kalalau Trail—which also has a rep for treachery, but offers incredible views of the Nā Pali Coast. Should you resolve to visit Hanakāpī'ai, time the trek well or there may be no beach to reach: In winter, thunderous waves power-wash away the sand shelf, leaving little behind but jagged rocks. Even in summer when sand is present, caution is advised, as the surf is still highly dangerous to swimmers—or even bystanders close to shore.
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