The best camping near Polihale State Park

This ultra-secluded beach on the west side of Kauai where the Na Pali Coast begins is a beach camper's dream. Not quite as hypnotic is the long and rutted dirt and rock sugarcane road that gives you access. But once you survive that, it's nothing but 17 miles of wild beach and sand dunes ahead.

Grab a camping permit, and pitch the tent anywhere you like among the 100-feet-tall dunes. Shelling, beachcombing, sunset watching, and shore fishing are perfect ways to pass the day. Swimming, not so much.

Strong offshore currents make Polihale State Park beach's lifeguard-less waters a dangerous choice. However, at times Queen’s Pond at the southeast end offers a safe place to jump in the hard-to-resist sea.

It's very hot and dry here with very little shade, so bring umbrellas and sunscreen. The park does offer running cold water, toilets, picnic shelters, and outdoor showers. This idyllic island beach setting beneath the high sea cliffs is truly a bucket-list-worthy adventure.

• Unwind and reconnect with nature while camping near Anini Beach Park. Tucked away on the northern shore of Kauai, this secluded gem is perfect for a beach camping adventure.
• Experience the magic of camping near Anahola Beach Park. Located on the eastern coast of Kauai, this beach park offers a tropical paradise for campers. Set up camp near the pristine sandy shores and enjoy activities like swimming, snorkeling, and beachcombing.