Lydgate Beach is a Kauai Family Tradition Rooted in Hawaiian Culture

Lydgate Beach has been a place of Kauai family celebrations and Hawaiian culture for centuries. Long ago the ancient Hawaiians built their Hikinaakala Heiau (temple) on this splendid Kauai beach to honor the sun. Nearby was their Hauola City of Refuge. Both artifacts were discovered by Revered John Lydgate in the early 1900’s. He petitioned the territorial governor to set aside this area as a public park and today it honors his memory.

Hollywood Movie Trivia: Lydgate Beach was featured in the Elvis Presley movie, Blue Hawaii, filmed here over 50 years ago.

Stop at this multi-use Kauai beach during your Kauai vacation rental stay.

This is one of the safest places for swimming and Kauai snorkeling. In addition to a beautiful sandy beach, there is a large seawater pool that is protected by a stone breakwater. It has plenty of fish to see and a smaller pool next to it is perfect for keiki (kids). Both were built in 1964 and restored in 2011 for future generations to enjoy. The currents can be strong beyond the pools so use caution in high surf.

A 2.5 mile bike and pedestrian path runs through the park. It will soon be linked to the coastal Kauai Path that currently starts in Kapaa and ends at Donkey Beach. There are two playgrounds for kids at both ends of the park that were built by local volunteers and designed by children with ocean themed multicolored mosaic tables. A large grassy lawn completes the park and is used for Kauai activities and sports.

Lydgate was a reinassance man whose legacy is still enjoyed today.

Born in Canada in 1854, he moved to the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1865 with his parents. Lydgate was a plantation manager, surveyor and minister. His toughest surveying job was laying out the 34 mile route for the power line running from McBryde’s Wainiha power plant on the North Shore, across Kaua`i, to the old McBryde mill at Numila on the South Shore. Work was completed in 1906 and today a stretch of his route, the Powerline Trail, is popular for Kauai hiking.

Kauai beach location: 10 minutes north of the Lihue Airport and halfway between our Kauai resorts and vacation homes on South Shore Kauai and North Shore Kauai.

Facilities: Showers and restrooms in three locations, lifeguard station, covered picnic tables and pavilions.

Perfect for: Kauai snorkeling, swimming, picnics and family gatherings.

Bookmark our Kauai Beach Explorer to stay current on Kauai beaches and facilities. Watch our Kauai video with important ocean safety information. It’s six minutes of your time that can save your life or that of a loved one.