Start your visit to Shipwrecks with a hike up the Shipwrecks Beach Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail for some panoramic views of the bay. We’ll tell you how to find it on the tour. From there, spend some time enjoying this breathtaking beach with expansive white sand and pristine water.

Just a few miles from Shipwrecks Beach is a Makauwahi Cave, which is a sinkhole inside a large limestone cave. Geologists believe that the cave began its formation up to 400,000 years ago as a sand dune. Take a hike down into the cave, at the end, there’s occasionally a volunteer with turtles to tell you about the caves and these animals.

Mahaulepu Heritage Trail

This trail goes on for miles starting from Shipwreck’s beach and all the way out to the Cave. 

Shipwreck Beach to Punahoa Point is a 3.7 mile out and back trail. But it goes on even longer!

“Kauai’s southern coastline, stretching from Keoneloa Bay to Kawailoa Bay, features a fascinating hike along the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail, with a treasure-trove of geological and cultural sites. 

This website takes you on a virtual tour of the trail and provides information on significant points of interest, along with notable plants and wildlife in the area”.

http://www.hikemahaulepu.org/

This trail is a flat walk along the coast with minimal elevation change. The vantage point from the top of the cliff is a breathtaking, panoramic ocean view. if you’re here between december and april, you might even be able to spot the humpback whales that migrate from alaska to hawaii to breed.

Mahaulepu Heritage Trail 

http://www.hikemahaulepu.org/

Ainako Street, Poipu, Kauai, HI

Go for a leisurely stroll through a well-kept garden where you’ll find cascading pools, Koi ponds, rare cacti, bromeliads, orchids and many other plant species. If you have time, meander to the end of the garden, and cross the street to Kiahuna Beach. It’s a white sand beach, good for beginning surfers, snorkeling and boogie boarding.

We’ll guide you to another pullover spot to learn about a former Kauai shipping port. Koloa Landing doesn’t look like much now, but in the mid-1800’s this was the main port for the entire island. Back in the day when ocean voyages across the pacific easily took months to complete, this spot was used to replenish supplies and provisions because of its ideal position between the Americas and Asia.

Located on the way to Koloa Town, this cinder cone called Pu’uwanawana is Hawaiian for “Thorny Hill.” You can kind of think of it as a mini-volcano. Since the Hawaiian islands are made by volcanoes. This cinder cone, the lava rocks on the beach, and many other volcanic features, dot the islands from top to bottom. Together they tell the story of how Hawaii came to be. Scientists say that more than 5 million years ago, a hotspot in the earth sent lava upward through the ocean, and formed the island of Kaua’i. Each one of The hawaiian islands were formed in the same way with Kauai being the oldest of the bunch and the Big Island, the youngest.

At Spouting Horn, watch as the waves roll in, and a blowhole shoots water up to 50 feet in the air! This is more than a natural wonder, the site also has a mythical backstory that we’ll tell you along the way. Note, this spot has plenty of parking and public restrooms.

Here we will pull over to see a cinder cone, which you can think of as a mini-volcano. This cinder cone along with lava rocks on the beach, and other volcanic features that dot these islands, tell the story of how Hawaii came to be.

Puka Dog is the home of THE Hawaiian hot dog. These polish sausages are completely enclosed in a bun with different tropical relishes, sauces, and mustards. The buns are toasted from the inside and then lined with the yummy sauces. The mango relish is a must-try! Order some of their fresh squeezed lemonade to refresh you on a hot, sunny day.

Puka Dog

2360 Kiahuna Plantation Dr

Koloa, HI 96756

808) 742-6044

A great breakfast option, Anuenue Cafe offers traditional American style breakfast foods as well as local favorites. Try their famous macadamia nut French toast. Most of the seating is outdoors so come prepared.

Anuenue Cafe

2360 Kiahuna Plantation Dr

Koloa, HI 96756

808) 295-0109

Grab a bite to eat at Brennecke’s Beach Broiler before heading to Poipu Beach. Brennecke’s is known for its pupu platters, ahi burgers, and variety of seafood options to choose from. After lunch, head to the beach for some snorkeling. Pro Tip! The next beach is one of our favorites on the tour, if you just want to grab a bite then head to Shipwrecks, skip Poipu Beach.

As the name suggests, Bubba’s offers juicy burgers with freshly baked buns at affordable prices. Make sure to try their special onion relish. Fries come hot and crispy. 

Bubba’s Burgers

2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St

Bldg L

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 742-6900

If you’re looking for solid portions and creative ingredients come to Da Crack! Da Crack is a good spot for quick Mexican food. Da Crack is literally a hole in the wall and seating is limited. Vegetarian options available. 

Da Crack

2827 Poipu Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 742-9505

Makai is a delicious sushi stand located inside of a grocery store. Locals recommend their Gorilla poke bowl and their hapa sushi roll. 

Makai Sushi

2827 Poipu Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 639-7219

“Keoki's Paradise invites guests to relax in a lush tropical paradise with delicious island style cooking, exotic drinks & live music. Cascading waterfalls, meandering streams and lush foliage make this open-air restaurant one of the Island's most striking destinations. The enticing menu features premium fresh fish and prime steaks. The lively Bamboo Bar features tropical cocktails, appetizers, casual fare and live Hawaiian entertainment.”

(https://www.yelp.com/biz/keokis-paradise-koloa)

Keoki’s Paradise

2360 Kiahuna Plantation Dr

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 742-7534

Just outside of Hanapepe there is a famous local ice cream store called Lappert’s Ice Cream. They’ve got some local flavors like macadamia nut, coconut and pineapple – all homemade, and tasty.

Stop by if you’re looking for a sweet treat to end your day.

If you’re craving some seafood check out Savage Shrimp located in Lahaina Mall. Locals highly recommend their coconut and garlic shrimp. Seating is limited. 

Savage Shrimp

The Shops at Kukuiula

2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 742-9611

Come here for authentic Hawaiian shave ice. Many syrup flavors to choose from with up to three flavors per cone. Try the island nectar - lilikoi, mango, and guava!

Uncle’s Shave Ice

The Shops At Kukui'ula

2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka, Ste K158B

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 742-2364

A very popular family-friendly beach located along the South Shore of Kauai. With an big open park area and gentle waters, Poipu is an excellent location for a picnic as well as snorkeling and swimming. Make sure to bring a boogie board or surfboard if you wanna catch some waves further out. Lifeguards on duty during day, showers and restrooms available.

If you’re looking for a place to surf, then head out to Shipwreck beach. The scenery is beautiful and the waves are big. If you’re brave enough you can even jump off the cliff located next to the beach, but it is not recommended if you aren't a strong swimmer. Parking can sometimes be limited, but if you can’t anything there is street parking.

Shipwreck Beach

To The Side Of The Grand Hyatt Hotel

Ainako Road

Poipu, HI 96756

Time to hit the beach! Start the day with a quick dip in the ocean. The beach is small, but it’s a great spot for snorkeling and swimming. While you’re there, look out for Hawaiian sea turtles! If you see them, keep your distance -- these are protected animals and getting to close will result in a large fine.

Kukuiula is a fun stop on your way to Spouting Horn or the Kauai Gardens. The boat harbor is calm and a popular place for long-pole shore and throw-net fishermen. Relax at the small Kauai beach or walk along the harbor and enjoy the activities. 

Kukuiula Small Boat Harbor

Amio Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

Kiahuna is one of Poipu's most popular beaches. Fronting the Kiahuna Plantation condominiums, this beach offers good swimming, boogie boarding, and snorkeling. This beach is also the preferred location for beginner surf lessons. Parking is super limited, best bet is to park at Plantation Gardens and then walk down to the beach. 

Kiahuna Beach - Walk down from Moir Gardens

2235 Poipu Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

This tour packs a lot of culture in a small radius. At Kāneiolouma Cultural Complex you’ll visit another cultural site. This ancient fishing village dates back to the 1400’s and spans 13 acres. Here you can find remains of houses, fishponds, religious shrines and altars with carved idols that have lain undisturbed for centuries.

Kiahuna is what remains of an ancient community. What is left of this once large settlement now looks like nothing more than piles of rocks. But those rocks were once the foundations of homes and structures that housed the villagers who lived here. Here in this arid land, taro and sweet potatoes were grown, using the irrigation system that channeled water from far away streams. What makes this site unique and sacred is that it also has the remains of a Heiau. A Heiau is a religious temple where priests lived and performed religious rites, sometimes even human sacrifice.

Prince Kuhio Birthplace

In ancient Hawaii, lands were divided into Ahupua’a, or districts. Only chiefs controlled the land, but not the Maka’ainana or commoners. Before foreigners arrived, Hawaiians had never known the concept that land could be possessed or sold. However, as newcomers flooded, the islands beginning in the 18th century, new systems and business practices were introduced. Over time, many hawaiians lost the rights to the lands they had lived on for generations. Prince kuhio, was actually next in line to be the king of Hawaii, that is, until Hawaii was overthrown in 1893 and later annexed by the U.S. as a territory. Instead of being a king, Prince Kuhio managed to get elected as a U.S. Senator. One of his greatest concerns was the welfare of his people. He introduced and helped pass a bill to redistribute over 200,000 acres of land back to the Hawaiian people. Thanks to him, there is land on every island that hawaiians still homestead, even to this day. For his effort to maintain the land and dignity of his people, Prince Kuhio will always be remembered as Ke Ali’I Maka’ainana, or “prince of the people” and this park was dedicated in his memory. 

Prince Kuhio Birthplace

Lawai Rd, Poipu, Kauai, HI 96756

Come here for a huge selection of fish and other seafood. This market is known for its delicious fresh poke but offers other local plates such as Kalua Pig and Lau Lau.

Koloa Fish Market

5482 Koloa Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 742-6199

Come here for the classic pizza parlor experience. Pizzetta offers pizza, pasta, salads, antipasti, and desserts. In addition to a friendly staff and fun atmosphere, your food comes quick.

Pizzetta

5408 Koloa Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 742-8881

Sueko’s is a cool, old school market that has all of the essentials. A good place to stop to pick up groceries, refreshments as well as hot plate lunches. This is definitely where the locals come for some ono local grindz - teri beef and fried chicken wings are solid. 

Sueoka Store

5392 Koloa Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 742-1611

“If your looking for something that's delicious and not nutritious, then we have what you desire.” Koloa Mill Ice Cream & Coffee carries Roselani Ice Cream, which has been made on Maui since 1932, and 100% Kauai Grown and roasted Coffee. All bakery items are made locally and the snacks are all made on the Islands. 

Koloa Mill Ice Cream & Coffee

5424 Koloa Rd

Tao Building

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 742-6544

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious Mexican-style meal, go to Chalupa’s. This place offers generous portions at affordable prices. Locals recommend to try their fish taco combo with beans and rice. 

Chalupa’s (Tacos)

3477 Weliweli Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 634-4016

Come here if you’re looking for excellent, healthy Thai food at moderate prices. Try the Pad Thai, Curry, and the Spring Rolls. Great spot for lunch and dinner. 

Craving Thai - food truck

3477 Weliweli Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 634-9959