Poipu locals and visitors enjoy a beautiful region of lush jungle, rugged coastline, and sandy beaches along the southern coast of Kaua'i. Originally home to the indigenous people of Hawai'i, by the mid-19th century much of the land was transformed into sugarcane plantations with acres of sugarcane fields.
Today many parts of Poipu have become home to luxurious resorts, modern shopping centers, and rolling golf courses. However, places like Old Koloa Town still retain their sugarcane plantation era charm., and many sites around Poipu recognize, preserve, and celebrate the original Hawaiian culture. Venturing outside Poipu to nearby areas of southern Kaua'i leads to amazing destinations such as Waimea Canyon, charming towns such as Hanapepe, and boat tours up to the Na Pali coast. Visitors find so much to explore and do that often a a two-week stay is not enough.
Along the Poipu coast sparkling sandy beaches draw waders, sunbathers, snorkelers, and surfers. The main Poipu Beach is the most popular and among the safest. Other equally as attractive beaches spread in front of the major resorts. A little exploring leads to scenic beaches scattered all along the coast, some often unoccupied and pristine. Beaches
Beyond the beaches and resorts are special places not to be missed. At the end of Lawa'i Road find the Spouting Horn and the fascinating Allerton/McBryde Gardens. From Old Koloa Town drive out a solitary road and view the rusted structures of the 1835 Sugar Cane Mill. North of Lihue enjoy the beautiful Wailua River valley and its scenic waterfall. Helicopter tours of the island launch from Lihue Airport. Read about many other wonders of the area - Sights
Adventures abound all around Poipu and in outlying areas. Among the most popular are guided kayak tours on Wailua River north of Lihue, inner tube rides along old plantation canals and flumes, and zipline rides high above jungle and valley. Out to the west in Hanapepe is a famous swinging bridge. Guided snorkel and scuba outings are plentiful. Captain Andy's boat tours cruise the rugged Na Pali coast. Helicopter tours are a great way to explore the remote areas of Kaua'i. Adventures
Koloa Town is the heart of Poipu. Soon after the opening of the sugar cane mill in 1835, Koloa was came to life with shops, restaurants, and surrounding housing. Today Koloa retains much of its early charm. Nearby, out connecting roads, are other communities, from the city of Lihue to smaller towns like Kalaheo, Hanapepe, and Waimea - each with its unique personality. Wonderful eating establishments range from lavish resort area restaurants to quaint local eateries. Towns
Inviting restaurants and food stands can be found throughout the Poipu area, with menus and ambiance to fit your mood. Shave ice and ice cream shops abound, serving an assortment of refreshing treats. For tasty meals to take with you when you are on the go, stop by one of the unique take-out restaurants we suggest. Casual dining experiences usually offer everything from traditional fares to unique, Hawaiian dishes. When it is a special evening, consider one of the fine dining establishments in the Poipu area. While the food and ambiance are exceptional, Island dress is appropriate. Tasty Bites
Golf is one of the most popular sports around Poipu. A host of golf courses open to the public are spread around the area. Poipu Bay Golf Course adjacent to the Grand Hyatt Resort runs along bluffs overlooking the Pacific. Nearby the Kiahuna Golf Club attracts many players. Disc golf and miniature golf can also be found not too far away. Tennis players will find courts in many local parks as well as at most of the larger resorts. Pickleball courts are becoming more common. Public parks offer softball fields and large grassy areas ideal for soccer. Sports
The iconic tree tunnel is the gateway to Poipu. Five hundred swamp mohogany eucalyptus trees that form the mile-long tunnel were planted in 1911, a gift from pineapple king Walter McBryde. Today the trees stand over 100 feet tall, arching over the road and bathing it in shadow.
The tree tunnel begins immediately after turning from Highway 520 (Muluhia Road) onto the main road leading to Poipu.