Explore Kauai’s East Side on the Kapaa Bike Path

On the Kapaa bike path, anyone can enjoy the magnificent scenery, gentle offshore breezes, and array of photo ops. Get ready to coast your way along almost eight miles of the east side of Kauai.

Formally known as Ke Ala Hele Makalae (The Path that Goes by the Coast), this multi-use path is the perfect place to exercise while taking in Kauai’s mesmeric scenery. Currently, the path stretches from Lydgate Beach to Kuna Bay (AKA Donkey Beach). Eventually, it will be lengthened to about seventeen miles, from Nawiliwili to Anahola.

Biking the path is the most popular mode of transportation; however, walking, running, or skating is just as entertaining. If you’re in the mood for some pedaling, many bike rental locations in the area make it easy to do so. The average full day rental costs $15-$20 per bicycle.

For a long bike ride or walk, start near the Kapaa Beach Park and head north towards Kealia Beach. Sidenote: Kealia Beach is lifeguard protected, but is known for its wind swells and strong currents. Use caution, and ask a lifeguard if it’s safe to swim when you visit. Kealia is also a great beach to stroll upon mid-bike ride, or to enjoy a beach picnic. Cruise through the gentle palm trees of the east side and breathe in the salty ocean air for almost four miles. To the end of the path and back makes for a great workout and excellent views.

About a mile up the path from Kealia Beach, lies the historic Pineapple Dump Bridge. The concrete pier was built by a local pineapple company as a place to dump their pineapple waste (like crowns and skins) in the 1900s. A Lihue Plantation train was hired to transport the scraps to the pier, where they were thrown into the ocean. When the wind and currents weren’t right, the floating pineapple pieces sometimes drifted back to east shore beaches, causing a mess and a terrible odor. Railings don’t allow you to walk the small pier, but there are multiple viewpoints to check out this neat place of Kauai history.

While enjoying your time on the path, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. There is minimal shade, so a hat is always a good idea. Little pavilions line the path every couple of miles or so, and each shelter a picnic table; perfect for a pit stop. Please help keep Ke Ala Hele Makalae clean by always packing your trash. Practice path etiquette by following this list, provided by the Kauai Path, Inc.

The Kapaa bike path is an idyllic way to spend the day exploring the east side of Kauai. Set off on Ke Ala Hele Makalae for an active outdoor adventure.