The South Shore Kauai
Kauaʻi’s South Shore is the sunny, drier southwestern coastal region of the island, centered around the towns of Poʻipū and Kōloa, with the broader area extending roughly from Lāwaʻi (near Spouting Horn) in the east to to Waimea in the west.
Explore The East Shore of Kauai
The Gold Coast
The South Shore of Kauaʻi is the island’s sunniest and driest coastal region, centered around the towns of Poʻipū and Kōloa. The area generally stretches from Lāwaʻi (near Spouting Horn) in the east to Waimea in the west, though Waimea town is often considered the transition point to the West Side.
This region delivers the classic, relaxed Hawaiian beach-vacation experience: golden sands, protected coves, stunning sunsets, and a laid-back pace perfect for unwinding.
It receives far less rainfall than the North Shore (typically under 30 inches annually compared to 80+ inches up north), with calm, reef-sheltered waters year-round—ideal for families, swimmers, snorkelers, and marine-life spotting.
Good To Know…
Practical Tips/Activities…
Top South Coast Beaches
The south shore is the island’s sunniest and most protected for swimming and marine life viewing.
Poʻipū Beach Park
A family-friendly beach, located in the resort area of Poʻipū with golden sands, calm protected waters, reliable sunshine, and abundant marine life. This crescent-shaped beach is actually two connected coves divided by a natural tombolo (sand spit), creating ideal spots for different activities.
Lifeguards, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, shade trees.
Keiki Cove Beach
Located near The Beach House Restaurant on Lawai Road is also called Lawai Beach or Baby Beach. It’s one of the south shore’s best “hidden”, beginner-friendly snorkeling spots. It is a small, uncrowded cove with rich marine life: lots of fish, healthy coral, and frequent turtle sightings. Enter from the sandy area. No lifeguard, no restrooms/showers. Less crowded than Poʻipū.
Brennecke’s Beach
Located just east of Poʻipū Beach Park (adjacent to it, at the end of Hoone Road in Poʻipū), it is a crescent-shaped cove with golden sand, rocky edges, and consistent shorebreak waves that make it one of the island’s premier spots for boogie boarding. Great for intermediate riders as shorebreak is powerful. Snorkeling is decent on very calm days around the edges.
Shipwreck Beach
Known as Keoneloa Bay or Makawehi Point, it is a rugged beach located just east of Poʻipū in the Mahaʻulepu area. It’s named for the old shipwreck remnants visible at low tide and the nearby cliff, a striking red-rock bluff overlooking the ocean. It is great for boogie boarding (intermediate level; fast rides on good days). Surfing possible on the right side, but conditions vary, check surf reports.
Koloa Landing
Located near Poʻipū and recommended for snorkeling. It features large coral heads (rare for shore snorkeling on Kauai) and diverse underwater life, including turtles and schools of fish. Enter via the historic ramp, it’s great for all levels with good visibility, but entry is rocky/slippery. Also check for occasional bacteria from nearby streams (reports online). Less crowded with a more exploratory vibe.
Palama Beach
It is located near the western edge of the Poʻipū area, close to Koloa Landing and the old Koloa Boat Ramp (near Lawai Bay/Spouting Horn). It’s a small, quiet cove with a mix of sand and rocky shore—more of a local hangout than a major tourist beach. Generally calm for wading, light swimming, or casual snorkeling. Occasional small waves for bodyboarding on good days. Uncrowded, with a relaxed local feel.
Salt Pond Beach Park
It is a family-friendly beach park near Hanapēpē town, just west of the resort area in Poʻipū. It’s a local favorite for its calm, protected waters, scenic setting. It is named for the traditional Hawaiian salt ponds (loʻi kai) still used today by families to harvest sea salt. Parking, restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables/pavilions with grills, shaded grassy areas. Lifeguards are often present (check daily).
Top South Coast Attractions
Spouting Horn
Spouting Horn is one of Kauai’s most iconic and photographed natural wonders, located in the Poipu area (technically near Kolo). It’s a dramatic blowhole formed by lava tubes where powerful ocean waves crash in, compress the water, and shoot it skyward, often up to 50 feet high, with a loud hissing or roaring sound. According to local folklore, a giant lizard (mo’o) once guarded this coastline and would attack anyone who approached. Warriors trapped it in the lava tube, and now its angry roars echo through the blowhole whenever water blasts out.
Old Kōloa Town
Established in 1835, Kōloa was home to Hawaii’s first successful sugar mill, a game-changer that kicked off large-scale commercial sugar production across the islands. This drew waves of immigrants (from places like Japan, China, Portugal, and the Philippines), shaping HI’s multicultural identity today. The town started as a small fishing village before booming into a plantation hub. Many original buildings still stand (with plaques detailing their stories), and the area is part of the Kōloa Heritage Trail, a self-guided route hitting 14 historic, cultural, and geological sites nearby.
Tunnel of Trees
The Tunnel of Trees (or Koloa Tree Tunnel) is one of Kauai’s most iconic scenic drives. It’s a roughly 1-mile stretch of Maluhia Road (Hwy 520) lined with over 500 towering Eucalyptus Robusta trees (also called swamp mahogany). Their branches arch overhead, forming a lush, green canopy that creates a dreamy, shaded “tunnel” effect. Planted in 1911 as a gift to the community by Walter Duncan McBryde (a “Pineapple Baron” and philanthropist), the original trees were meant to beautify and shade the road. It’s often described as a natural gateway to the sunny South Shore.
Botanical Gardens
1) Allerton Garden (near Poʻipū): A 100-acre landscaped masterpiece blending art, history, and nature. It was created by Robert and John Gregg Allerton in the 1930s–1940s on land once owned by Queen Emma. Guided tours only. Book ahead as tours sell out.
2) McBryde Garden (by Allerton in Lāwaʻi Valley): The NTBG’s flagship “botanical ark”, 259 acres with the world’s largest collection of native Hawaiian flora. Self-guided walks showcase palms, flowering trees, orchids, ornamentals, and a living lab for research.
Horseback Riding
It is a fantastic way to explore the island’s scenic coastal trails, hidden valleys, secluded beaches, and rugged Mahaʻulepu wilderness.
CJM Stables, near Maha‘ulepu Beach, is the primary option. They offer a 2-hr beach tour and a 3-hr picnic beach ride. 808.742.6096 Closed on selected Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. Tour guides are very friendly and provide historical information as well as photo-opportunities.
Attend a Luau
1) The Grand Hyatt Luau offers a full Polynesian show with hula, storytelling, fire dancing, and buffet—officially called Drums of the Pacific Luau. Pre-show unveiling of the kalua pig roasted in an underground imu oven, adding cultural depth and aroma.
2) National Tropical Botanical Garden (nearby in Lāwaʻi) sometimes hosts traditional hula demonstrations (check ntbg.org for events).
Kauai Coffee Estate
Kauai Coffee Estate (Kauai Coffee Company) is the largest coffee farm in the U.S. with over 4 million trees across 3,100 acres on the southwest side (near Kalaheo, between Poʻipū and Waimea). It’s the go-to spot for most visitors, offering free tastings, tours, and a deep dive into the process from seed to cup. Location: 870 Halewili Road, Kalaheo, HI (~ 20–30 min. from Poʻipū). Exit from Hhwy 540.
Port Allen
Port Allen is a small harbor and boat launch area about 15–20 minutes west of Poʻipū. It’s the main departure point for many of the island’s most popular boat tours to the Nāpali Coast, offering smoother, leeward waters compared to North Shore departures (like Hanalei). Reserve in advance (especially peak seasons)—most tours sell out. Most include gear, meals, and drinks. Duration: 4–6 hours typical.
Where to Eat Ideas – Poipu Area
The Poipu area (including nearby Koloa) offers a fantastic mix of dining options, from oceanfront sunsets and upscale Hawaiian-inspired cuisine to casual local spots and quick bites. It’s perfect for pairing with beach days, Spouting Horn visits, Old Koloa Town strolls, or the Tree Tunnel drive.
Supermarkets:
Big Save Market – Koloa – 5516 Koloa Road, Koloa, HI 96756.
Kukuiula Market – A locally owned gem with a focus on organic/local products. 2827 Poipu Road, Koloa, HI 96756 (near The Shops at Kukuiula).
Sueoka Market (Sueoka Store) – A historic, family-run spot (over 100 years old) with groceries. 5392 Koloa Road, Koloa, HI 96756.
Merriman’s Fish House
Casual yet elegant plantation-style dining with ocean (makai) and mountain (mauka) views, plus spectacular sunsets over the Kukuiʻula resort area. Address: 2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St, Suite 42, Koloa, HI 96756 (inside The Shops at Kukuiʻula). Reservations highly recommended.
Bubba
Bubba Burgers, located right in Kukui’ula Village, is a classic, no-frills burger spot that’s been a Kauai staple since 1936—famous for its juicy, old-fashioned burgers made with 100% grass-fed local Kauai beef. It’s a casual, counter-service joint that’s perfect for a quick, satisfying meal after beach time.
Brennecke’s Beach Broiler
A casual spot right on Poipu Beach is offering some of the best beachside dining views on the island. It’s the only full-service, open-air restaurant directly overlooking Poipu Beach, with waves crashing just steps away. It’s great for families, couples, or groups, and sunset watching.
Where to Shop Ideas – South Shore Area
The South Shore of Kauai (centered around Poipu and Koloa) offers a charming, relaxed shopping scene—think open-air centers with plantation-style architecture, local boutiques, art galleries, Hawaiian-inspired gifts, beachwear, jewelry, and high-end touches mixed with authentic island finds. No massive malls here, but plenty of walkable, scenic spots perfect for browsing after beach time.
The Shops at Kukui’ula
A beautiful open-air village with lush landscaping, plantation-inspired design, and a mix of local boutiques, national brands (like Lululemon), art galleries, home decor, fashion, jewelry, and specialty stores. Great for unique souvenirs, resort wear, fine art, or gifts.
Poipu Shopping Village
A lovely garden-style open-air center with tropical vibes—boutiques for clothing, jewelry, beach gear, home decor, art, and souvenirs. Eclectic mix of shops plus restaurants. Highlights: Live entertainment like free hula shows and Hawaiian music (Mondays & Thursdays afternoons).
Warehouse 3540
A short drive west of Koloa (in Lawai), this is a cool, community-focused spot with small locally owned businesses, artisan goods, home decor, gifts, and gourmet food trucks. Includes Kind Koffee Kauai for great coffee. Unique, magical local pieces. It’s less touristy, more creative vibe.
South Shore – Attractions, Info & Map
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