Polihale State Park
It was here that I saw my first sunrise at the western end of Kauai Island in the Hawaiian Archipelago. It must be said that this was not the worst place to live this experience. The colours I saw at that hour far surpassed the show offered by the sunset of the day before. That’s why I recommend spending the night on the spot and set up your tent directly on the beach, as we did. Anyway, there are no other options, no hotel on the horizon!
It must be said that we were lucky because Mom’s friends who live on the island kindly lent us all the camping equipment: tent, inflatable mattress, gas stove, pots, cooking utensils, a water container, and even paper towels. It was deluxe wilderness camping! Otherwise, you can bring your tent by plane or buy one at Lihue’s Walmart and minimally equip yourself if you plan to camp throughout your stay.
At the park’s entrance, toilets and showers are available for visitors. However, we had pitched our tent at the end of the park, close to the huge mountain, which was very far from the toilet. If you want easy access to these services, plan to set up your tent nearby. Several roofed picnic tables are accessible to have lunch without burning under the bright sun. Remember, Hawaii is very hot and Kauai is very humid. A day in the sun is intense and the risks of sunstroke are real. As you are far from everything in this park, redouble your caution.
Throughout our stay, I faced the biggest and most violent waves of my short life. Here too, it’s worth paying attention. Violent currents can overtake someone in seconds, and again, you’ll be far from emergency services. My mother and I just sat on the sand by the water while my father ventured off a few times. A great time with my family, colours I will never forget, an atmosphere I’ve never felt elsewhere, quiet and emptiness against waves crashing on the mountain.
Good to Know
When to visit
When to visit
How long to expect
How to dress
Things to know
Cost
Message From My Parents
We really enjoyed this moment withdrawn from the world on this corner of paradise beach. Without drinking water and electricity, our stay was spoiled when our baby spilled the last gallon of spring water we had to spend an extra day. Plan on bringing enough clean water for your entire stay. The night falls very early, so don’t forget to bring a flashlight and a lantern, or wood to make a fire on the beach. Otherwise, it’s one of the best wilderness experiences of my life.
