It’s common to hear people say they are enamored with Poʻipū. With its picturesque beaches, top-notch restaurants and interesting archaeological sites, it’s no surprise.
The sunny town on the island’s south shore exudes the warmth and laid-back vibes characteristic of many beach communities in Hawaiʻi. And while Poʻipū is a popular destination among travelers, it often feels less crowded and quieter than other resort areas. Whether you’re staying nearby or just planning a day trip, here’s what to do in Poʻipū.
1. Poʻipū Beach
Photo: Getty Images/Christopher Ball
Year after year, Poʻipū Beach is voted one of the best beaches on Kauaʻi in HAWAIʻI Magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards, and for good reason. Its calm, clear waters and vibrant reef make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. You might even spot a honu or monk seal—just be sure to keep a respectful distance from all wildlife in Hawaiʻi.
READ MORE: The 5 Best Beaches on Kauaʻi
With on-duty lifeguards, restrooms, showers and a playground nearby, Poʻipū Beach is a family favorite. It’s easy to spend the entire day here, whether you’re snorkeling or just lounging on the sand. And for sunset views, it’s one of the best spots on the island.
2. McBryde and Allerton Gardens
Photo: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA)/Ben Ono
Tucked in Lāwaʻi Valley, these lush grounds are part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, a nonprofit that operates in Hawaiʻi and Florida. Here, visitors can check out impressive collections of native and exotic plants, on their own or with a tour guide.
Film buffs may recognize the iconic Moreton Bay fig tree at Allerton Garden, which was featured in “Jurassic Park.”
READ MORE: For Movie Buffs, These 5 Spots on Kauaʻi Will Look Familiar
At McBryde Garden, you can wander through the world’s largest collection of native Hawaiian plants, many which are threatened, endangered or even extinct in the wild. The collection is vital for conservation, but it also provides ample opportunities for research and education. Here, you can also explore a breadfruit agroforest and a garden of “canoe crops” that early voyagers to Hawaiʻi brought with them to the Islands.
3. Keoneloa Bay
Photo: David Croxford
Also known as Shipwreck Beach, Keoneloa Bay is picturesque with its striking coastline and powerful surf. Popular among locals, it’s a great place to watch bodyboarders get barreled during south swells. But beware: It’s not recommended for novice swimmers because of strong currents and powerful waves.
4. Māhāʻulepū Heritage Trail
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox
Beginning at Keoneloa Bay, this scenic 2-mile out-and-back trail meanders along Kauaʻi’s rugged southern coast. Māhāʻulepū Heritage Trail, which includes a heiau, offers insights into the island’s natural history and cultural sites.
After zigzagging past sand dunes and limestone formations, the trail ends at the Makauwahi Cave, the largest limestone cave in Hawaiʻi and one of the richest fossil sites in the Pacific. Although the cave closed to the public in 2023, the hike remains worthwhile for its fascinating history and stunning coastal views.
5. Spouting Horn
Photo: Getty Images/oceankane
Witness one of Kauaʻi’s impressive natural displays at Spouting Horn. Here, ocean swells force water through a natural lava tube, resulting in plumes up to 50 feet high. The powerful hiss and roar accompanying each burst ties into a Hawaiian legend about the site.
The lookout includes a convenient parking lot, and the vista is especially beautiful at sunset. Poʻipū is also a prime place for whale watching during humpback whale season, typically from November to May.
6. Kāneiolouma Heiau
This 20-acre sacred cultural complex contains remnants of an ancient Hawaiian village, including house sites, fishponds, kalo fields, irrigation systems, heiau and other structures dating back to the mid-1400s. For generations, the area was largely unknown and in disrepair.
In 2010, the County of Kauaʻi granted stewardship to Hui Mālama O Kāneiolouma, a local nonprofit working to restore the village. Although the site is closed to visitors, you can view the ongoing restoration work at Kāneiolouma from a platform, and learn about its history and plans for the future.
7. Red Salt
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino
A bit under the radar, Red Salt is an exciting culinary gem in Poʻipū. The restaurant’s menu celebrates fresh seafood and local produce in inventive dishes like vanilla bean-seared mahi and Kona lobster gnocchi. The sushi menu is equally creative, featuring rolls such as the Spicy Shiso, prepared with Yellowtail, salmon, shiso and jalapeño. The Aliʻi Surf and Turf is a must-try, prepared with purple rice infused with butterfly pea flower, shrimp tempura, lobster, Australian Wagyu strip loin aburi and embellished with 24-karat gold flakes. Located in the charming Koʻa Kea Resort, the Red Salt exudes the same warmth and Island hospitality that flows throughout the grounds.
8. Koʻa Kea Resort
Photo: Courtesy of Koʻa Kea Resort
Long loved for its intimate and romantic setting, this oceanfront resort channels the timeless charm Old Hawaiʻi. Koʻa Kea Resort recently underwent a $5 million renovation that deepened the resort’s connection to the area. The refreshed design, completed in 2022, incorporates elements and color palettes inspired by the island’s heritage and unique terrain, from its verdant valleys to its red earth. The rooms also feature beautiful art from local creatives. And guests just have to walk downstairs to enjoy Red Salt.
9. Little Fish Coffee
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox
Little Fish Coffee is a great pit stop on the way to or from Poʻipū Beach. Whether you’re starting your morning with a specialty coffee or tropical açaí bowl, or chowing down on a bagel or sandwich for lunch, the shop offers plenty of options for everyone.
10. Puka Dog
Puka Dog is a casual and popular joint thanks to its distinct and delicious hot dogs. Wrapped in homemade Hawaiian sweet bread, you can choose either a Polish sausage or veggie dog, which is then topped with tropical relishes like mango, pineapple or coconut. And you’ll want to add lilikoʻi mustard, too.
Grace Maeda is the editor of HAWAIʻI Magazine.
