Sunset Picnics and Stargazing on Kauai

Sunset at Kauai's Polihale Beach. Niihau,
the Forbidden Isle is on the horizon

Polihale Beach on Kauai's northwest shore, long favored by artists for its sunlight and brilliant colors, is the perfect place from which to enjoy a secluded Hawaiian sunset picnic. Be sure to linger past nightfall to see billions of stars illuminate the crystal clear Kauai sky.

Hotter and drier than the rest of Kauai, the northwestern shore has a "frontier town" charm all its own and miles of white sand beaches. For an off the beaten path treat, plan a stop at Barking Sands Beach in the Pacific Missile Range Facility, just west of Kekaha. This long sandy beach is often open to the public. Just show a driver's license and auto insurance at the gate to get a day's pass.

PoliHale's sandy beach
stretches for miles ending
where the NaPali begins

Hawaii's Polihale State Park is adjacent to Barking Sands and literally at the end of the road. In fact to get there you must traverse the last few miles on a bumpy cane road. Those who make the trek are rewarded with dramatic vistas, breathtaking sunsets and enough beach for everyone to have their own private picnic. Park bathrooms and showers are available, as are some cabanas with barbecues.

Should your sunset picnic carry over into early twilight, you can lay back and enjoy nature's light show. The lack of streetlights and usually cloudless skies make the area perfect for stargazing. Watching the stars gather while the moon rises over Polihale is a memory that you won't soon forget.

Once a month on the Saturday nearest the full moon, Kauai astronomy buffs gather at the Barking Sands Observatory to scan the galaxy. For a schedule of events write: K.E.A.S.A. • P.O. Box 161 • Waimea, HI 96796

For information on Poipu Beach Park and other Kauai beaches click here.

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