Kauai's East Shore beaches are some of the most easily accessible beaches on the island. The condominiums, vacation rentals, hotels and residents in Kapaa, Wailua and Waipouli make these beaches very popular. These beaches tend to be a little bit windy and sometimes rough since they are subject to onshore breezes. Many east side beaches are accessible from the Ke Ala Hele Makalae (Hawaiian for "The Path that Goes by the Coast"), linking Lydgate Beach park all the way to Donkey beach.

Donkey Beach: It's Hawaiian name is, Paliku Beach, and is about 1.5 miles from Kealia Beach. It's a great beach for sunbathing, offering plenty of sand and some shade trees. It is accessible from the bike path or a parking area off the main highway.

It is not ideal for swimming or snorkeling because the water can be choppy and rough with no lifeguards. When conditions are good, surfers and bodyboarders can be seen at the beach.

The beach has been referred to as Donkey Beach for a long time. The official name is Paliku, however it is also called Kuna Beach and Kumukumu Beach. It was nicknamed Donkey Beach because of the mules that lived in a pasture nearby and once used for hauling sugar cane.

Kealia Beach: The town of Kealia was once a thriving plantation town. Although the town is no longer there, except for a tiny post office, and a large beach. The word Kealia means "salt encrusted". Nearly every Hawaiian Island has a beach or stretch of sand called Kealia.

This white sandy beach is about one half mile long and is great for surfing and body boarding. During winter months whales are seen almost daily from the beach, bike path and various lookouts. The northern end of this beach is generally calmer and better for swimming and body boarding. There are strong currents present at all times of the year. At high surf, it's not recommended to surf or attempt water activities at this beach. There are lifeguards on the beach, so it is best to check with them before entering the water.
Lydgate Beach Park: Lydgate beach is protected from the open ocean by a lava rock wall which makes it fairly calm. The snorkeling lagoon at Lydgate is a popular place for keiki (children). There is a large grass field, ideal for kite flying and frisbee, a large playground for the kids, covered tables for picnics, bike paths and plenty of parking.
 
Kalapaki Beach: This natural harbor makes for great swimming, stand up paddle boarding and sailing. The beach provides surf for a variety of levels. The beach is perfect for the whole family with a stretch of sand suitable for sandcastles, volleyball and sunbathing. Beachfront dining with shops and other restaurants are all within a short walk. 

DONKEY BEACH
donkeys

KAUAI'S EAST COAST
East side

KALAPAKI BEACH
Kalapaki