Travel Guide

Travel Guide
Kauai Attractions

Kauai Attractions

Poipu Beach Park

Poipu Beach Park

Poipu Beach Park

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  • Topics:Natural Wonders
  • Location:On the South Shore, 25 minutes west of Lihue
  • Hightlights:Once named America’s Best Beach

Info

Head to the South Shore of Kauai and see why the "Travel Channel" once named Poipu Beach America's Best Beach. Nestled in the Poipu resort area, this beach is conveniently located near some of Kauai’s best shopping, dining and golf. This is one of the most popular and safest beaches on the island.

The inviting waters of Poipu make it very popular with visitors, locals and even local marine life. From December through May, it’s not uncommon to spot humpback whales spouting off shore. Large honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) also swim in these waters. But Poipu Beach is most famous for the endangered Hawaiian monk seals that sometimes sunbathe on the shore. There are only about 1,200 Hawaiian monk seals remaining and many swim in the waters of Kauai. Note that you should always stay behind barricades and signs or at least 150-feet from these 400 to 600-pound endangered animals when in an unmarked area. Never feed the seals.

Snorkeling in Poipu reveals a variety of colorful fish including the state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapuaa, and there’s a wading pool for toddlers and young swimmers. Or if you just want to relax, pack a picnic and spend the day with the family. The park has restrooms, showers and picnic tables, and lifeguards protect the beach (a Monk Seal Watch team protects the seals). Make your escape and spend a day on the sands of Poipu.