Straight as a palm tree, the light-hued sands of Papohaku Beach run for an astounding 2.5 miles. The sand is soft and you can often stroll from one end to another without seeing another soul. Offshore, Third Hole is one of the island's most challenging surf breaks.
But just when you think you may have found the ultimate strand, consider a few leveling details. That intoxicating surf is also a tangle of undertow and unpredictable currents. And there's no easy shade. You can bring an umbrella, but the often strong winds may send it Oʻahu-bound. Those same breezes kick up the fine sand, which can sting on blustery days. So come here for the solitude, but do so with your eyes figuratively, if not literally, wide open.
There are seven turnoffs from Kalua Koi Rd that access the beach and have parking. The first leads to Papohaku Beach Park , a grassy place with picnic facilities under gnarled ironwood and kiawe trees. Bathroom and shower facilities are rugged. You can camp here to the left of the restrooms as you face them from the parking lot, the 'no camping' sign only applies to the area to the right (be sure to read the signs that explain which areas are soaked by the automatic sprinklers on which days). There are seldom any other campers here and the view of the stars at night and the sound of surf is mesmerizing. However, the park can be popular with rowdy folks young and old and occasionally some try to stay the night. Guards are meant to check permits but you may be happier here if you are not alone.
