This relatively safe swimming beach on Kauai’s sunny south shore is one of the island’s most popular beaches. The beach is about 3 miles long and 100 feet wide providing plenty of room for tourists as well as many locals who come to Poipu to enjoy the sparkling white sand beach and ride the waves at the numerous offshore surfing breaks. The eastern side of Poipu Beach is known as Baby Beach because it is shallow and safe for kids with the protection of a jetty while the western side of the beach is favored by surfers and is also more popular for fishing and snorkeling. Bodyboarders favor the area on the western side of the beach where the waves break gently on the sandbar. Fronting Poipu Beach are plenty of grassy and shady areas for relaxing.
Great For
Swimming, snorkeling, surfing, bodyboarding, stand-up paddling, windsurfing, kitesurfing, sunbathing, beach walks.
Highlights
Poipu Beach has earned numerous “Best Beach” designations and is often ranked among the finest beaches in the country as well as the world. The strip of sand dividing the Poipu Beach is called a tombolo and results from ocean currents moving in opposite directions and depositing a sandbar which is known as Nukumoi Point. Poipu Beach is ideal for a picnic or for watching the sunset.
Need to Know
Recreational swimmers and snorkelers should stay close to shore in order to avoid open ocean currents and dangerous conditions. Never go in the ocean during times of high surf or rough seas.
Lifeguard
Yes
Facilities
Restrooms, showers, picnic facilities, children’s playground, water activities equipment rentals.
Access
To get to Poipu Beach from Koloa, turn right onto Poipu Road at the T-intersection by the gas station. Drive about 1.75 miles past the “Welcome to Poipu.” Poipu Road follows the shoreline to Hoowi Road where you turn right. The beach park is at the end of the road.