Tavares Beach

Also known as Ku'au Bay, this 100-yard-long white sand beach is located just outside of Paia, a half-mile from the center of town. It has great views, soft sand, and gentle near-shore surf. A protective outer reef break reduces the amount of wave energy that reaches the beach. It has easy parking access , so you can just drive up and have a picnic while enjoying some beach time. Perfect for escaping the hustle-bustle of mid-day Paia.

The beach is less busy than other Paia beaches, and easy parking, short walk to the sand and some tree shade in the morning make it a popular area for families with small kids and local picnickers. At low tide there's a baby pool protected by near shore reef on the right end of the beach , and it is a perfect place to let kids play in the ocean, while staying close. When getting in and out of the water be aware of the rocky reef in the center of the beach close to shore. The ends of the beach are better points of water entry.

Tavares Beach is also a favorite access point for stand-up paddlers and surfers. There is a surf break to the right (facing the ocean) of the beach further out in the bay.

AT A GLANCE:

HIGHLIGHT: Protected swimming, usually less crowded, close to Paia town

LIFEGUARD: NO

AMENITIES: Portable rest room.

WARNINGS!: No lifeguard, so please assess surf conditions carefully. Note near-shore rocks and reef in center of beach. There can be a rip current at the far left end of the beach during strong winter swells. If in doubt, ask a local or do not go out if you see no one else entering the water.

GETTING THERE:

From Paia head east on route 36, aka Hana Highway driving for 0.6 miles.

Details:As you pass the Buddhist temple on the left, the road will rise then fall, the turn is on the left at the bottom of the hill just past the "Ocean access" sign.