Barking Sands Beach

Barking Sands Beach is a long, quiet stretch of sand near Waimea on Kauaʻi, reached by an unpaved road. Its wide shoreline and dunes make room for sunbathing and boogie boarding, with views across the water to Niʻihau. The beach is part of Polihale State Park, but access is restricted because the area is within a military base. Strong currents can make swimming unsafe, so plan to enjoy the shore and scenery instead. Bring your own shade, and check that you are eligible to enter before setting out.

A long shoreline and high dunes

Barking Sands is part of Polihale State Park and stretches for more than 12 miles. Sand dunes rise as high as 100 feet along the coast. With so much open shoreline, the beach can feel quiet and spacious, and there is room to walk, sunbathe or try boogie boarding.

The beach’s name refers to the sound sometimes made when wind moves sand across the dunes. From the shore, you can see Niʻihau in the distance.

Access and conditions

The beach lies within a military base, and access is restricted to people with a military ID. Confirm that you are eligible to enter before making the trip. The approach follows an unpaved road, which can be rough and challenging to drive.

Strong currents and large waves can make swimming unsafe. There is no natural shade on the beach, so bring an umbrella or beach tent. The open shoreline is also a good place to watch the sunset.