Poipu Beach

Poipu is the most popular beach on Kauai’s South Shore and by all accounts one of the most highly rated in all Hawaii (or at least according to Dr Beach). The island of Kauai itself is the least developed and with its abundantly lush interior is often referred to as the Garden Isle. So, despite the fact Poipu borders a number of resorts it still has plenty of pristine, tropical appeal.

The beach at Poipu is a series of three golden crescents of sand with the turquoise ocean to the front and swaying palms behind. On part of the central beach the rocks wrap around to form a natural breakwater inside of which is a shallow pool prefect for kids to play in. 

A lifeguard service operates on the beach too making it one of the safest to swim at on Kauai. Another family-friendly feature of Poipu is the large grassy picnicking area among the trees behind the beach. The park has plenty of amenities including showers, rest rooms and picnic tables.

Activity-wise there plenty to do in the water. With coral reef just off the shoreline the snorkeling here is great - keep your eyes peeled and you may even spot one of Hawaii’s famous humuhumunukunukuapua’a fish! In terms of surf there are a few spots off the beach but these break over the sharp coral reef so are best left to those with some experience.

Poipu Beach Park is also a protected conservation area making it a veritable haven for wildlife. Humpback whales can often be seen breaching offshore and the waters inshore are home to Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) and the endangered Hawaiian monk seals. All in all not difficult to see why Poipu was once named America’s best beach.