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.

The “cave” is actually a giant sinkhole that was once part of a large limestone cave, and it’s the the largest in all of Hawaii Nei. In fact, geologists believe that the cave began its formation about 400,000 years ago as a sand dune. Overtime, the heat from the sun actually turned it to stone. Eventually, groundwater eroded the limestone and dripped down from the cave’s ceiling, creating a fresh water pond inside the cave.

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

Moir Gardens

This place used to be the estate of sugarcane plantation manager. Back in the day, Hawaii was the top exporter of sugar in the world. Sugar was a big business. So the plantation manager was, of course, a major big shot in town. Lavish parties were frequently thrown here. Recently, however, the home itself has been turned into an award-winning restaurant. The gardens started as a hobby of the manager’s wife. But it kept getting bigger and more elaborate. Today you can find cascading pools, koi ponds, rare cactus, bromeliads, orchids and many other plant species. It’s quite a quaint little place to walk around. Now, 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.

Moir Gardens

Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation, 

2253 Poipu Road, 

Poipu, Kauai

In the mid-1800’s this was the main shipping port for the entire island of Kauai. Back in the days when ocean voyages across the pacific easily took months to complete, a stop where supplies and provisions could be replenished was really important. Hawaii’s location made it the perfect stopping point for trading routes between the Americas and Asia, and here in Koloa Landing, merchant ships would stop to get fresh water and food items. Later, more ships came with the rise of the whaling industry.

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.

Spouting Horn

Called Puhi by ancient hawaiians, Spouting Horn is a geyser-like blowhole that has a narrow chimney through the roof of an underwater sea cave. When ocean water rushes underneath the lava rocks, it shoots up through the opening, spraying salt water into the air. Each large wave creates another spray, sometimes reaching 50 feet in the air.

Spouting Horn

Lawai Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

Pu’uwanawana Volcanic Cone

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.

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

“Brennecke's Beach Center is one of the leading waterfront eateries in the United States. Brennecke's offers contemporary American and Mediterranean cuisines, specialty drink and wine list.” The menu includes crispy calamari, coconut shrimp, chicken lettuce wraps, and mozzarella bake.

https://www.yelp.com/biz/brenneckes-beach-broiler-koloa-2

Brennecks Beach Broiler

2100 Hoone Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

808) 742-7588

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

If you’re looking for something sweet and cold on a hot day, look no further than Lappert’s Hawaii. Lappert’s offers handmade gourmet ice creams, sorbets, and gelato. Fresh pastries and cookies baked daily. 

Lappert’s Hawaii

The Shops at Kukuiula

2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka

Ste K-160

Koloa, HI 96756

(808) 742-1272

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.

Poipu beach

1959-2177 Hoone Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

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

A small strip of beach fronting the Lawai Beach Resort, Lawai beach is a great place to watch experienced surfers do their thing. This beach is a go-to for snorkeling and the sunsets here are gorgeous. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some turtles and the rare Hawaiian monk seal.

Lawai Beach

5022 Lawai Rd

Koloa, HI 96756

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

Spanning 13 acres the K?neiolouma complex, or Ke Kahua O Kaneiolouma is a Hawaiian cultural site where the remnants of an ancient village has been discovered. The efforts to restore this complex have been going on for more than 10 years. Among the discoveries are structures dating back to the 15th century. For example, there is a system of walls and terraces to grow and water crops. There are also remains of houses, fishponds, religious shrines and altars with carved idols that have lain undisturbed for centuries. At the center of the complex is an intact arena where sporting events were held. There is also a fresh water spring known as waiohai. Eventually when the restoration efforts are finished, Kaneiolouma will be the first ancient hawaiian village in the state, to be completely restored.

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