Camping by permit is plentiful at Papalaua State Wayside Park. There’s a long stretch of narrow sand and patches of dirt to set up camp. Shade is provided by scattered trees, but still allows decent sunbathing. Although there are no picnic areas or grills, it’s a quiet and spacious park to swim, snorkel or kayak. Adjacent to the Pali on Highway 30 near mile marker 11, it seems secluded from the hustle and bustle of developed beaches. Views of the curvy highway ahead make excellent snap shots.
During winter, Papalaua offers plenty of room to pull over and do some near shore whale watching.
Surfing here is very popular on a south swell with typical offshore winds.