Activities & Outdoor Adventures
Poipu is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of exciting activities and adventures. Explore scenic trails like the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail, ride horseback along the coast with CJM Country Stables, or cruise through town on a Pedego Electric Bike. Water enthusiasts can snorkel at Lawai Beach, kayak from Kukuiula Boat Harbor, or take a surf lesson with Kauai Surf School. Whether hiking, biking, paddling, or simply soaking in the island’s beauty, Poipu is the perfect place for adventure and exploration.
Aloha Spirit Shuttle
Give your feet a rest and let the Aloha Spirit be your guide.
Catch a ride on Poipu’s very own open-air shuttle. Fun fact: the shuttle was actually built for Disney in the 60s and has been in operation for over 50 years. It’s a simple and inexpensive alternative to making your way around the Poipu area, whether you’re feeling like doing a little shopping or taking your special date out to dinner; they will be able to shuttle you to and from your vacation rental for free.
Their hours of operation are from 6 pm to 10 pm, Sunday to Thursday. Call for pick-up at (808) 651-9945.
Location: Poipu
Phone: (808) 651-9945
Kukuiula Boat Harbor
Kukuiula Boat Harbor on Lawai Road is a hidden gem on the south shore of Kauai. This picturesque harbor offers access to some of the most beautiful and pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean. The harbor is a popular spot for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, fishing, and sightseeing, and is known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere. Built in 1955, Kukuiula Boat Harbor was originally constructed as a commercial fishing port. Today, it serves as a recreational harbor with restrooms, and showers for visitors.
The marina is a popular spot for sport fishing charters, whale-watching tours, and snorkeling cruises that showcase the incredible marine life of Hawaii. The harbor is located in an area known as Sunny Poipu, which boasts consistent sunny weather year-round. The clear blue waters of the harbor will leave visitors spellbound with stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can also take a stroll along the shoreline and bask in the beauty of the oceanfront. There is a scenic walking trail that follows the coastline, offering sweeping views of the harbor and the ocean beyond. Visitors can also explore the quaint shops and restaurants nearby, which offer local souvenirs, art, and delicious Hawaiian cuisine. Whether you are an avid boater or a sun-seeker looking for a tranquil escape, Kukuiula Boat Harbor on Lawai Road is a must-visit destination on Kauai`s south shore. The harbor`s serene ambiance and breathtaking views will leave you rejuvenated and ready to explore more of Hawaii`s stunning natural beauty.
Hapa Trail
Hapa Road Poipu is part of the Koloa Heritage Trail an easy 1.3-mile out-and-back trail that follows the old “Hapa Road”, dating back to the late 1800s. This section of the trail is ~1/2 of its entire length – making the whole trail`s out-and-back mileage closer to 3 miles in total; however, this half of the trail gives hikers a view of the Kahili Mountain range from the inland valley in Koloa.
This hike begins at the southern trailhead, located right behind Little Fish Coffee. The road follows lava rock walls as it meanders it`s way north through inland valleys. The trail is eventually adjacent to the Kiahuna Plantation Drive, lined with palm trees and resort or residential buildings. Around mile 0.5, the Kahili Mountain range comes into view.
Hikers will find parking along the road just behind Little Fish Coffee.
This road dates back to the late 1800s; however, lava rock walls located near Hapa Road indicate the presence of ancient Hawaiians, circa 1200 A.D. Nearby railroad tracks were once used to haul sugar cane to the Koloa Plantation for milling. Hapa Road served as an emergency evacuation road during WWII and at various times, as a foot and bicycle path.
Hawaiian land is considered sacred to the natives, so please stay on the trail, take nothing but photos, and leave nothing but footprints.
Location: 2360 Poipu Rd.
Nukumoi Surf Co.
Nukumoi is a Core Surf Shop with everything that you need for fun in the ocean. We specialize in quality rentals from Surfboards to Body Boards, S.U.P.s (Stand-Up Paddle), snorkel gear, umbrellas, beach chairs, and more. We also have the largest selection of Surf Board Rentals on the Island and the most affordable.
We also have a great selection of Mens Board Shorts, Rash Guards (SPF Surf Shirts), T-shirts, Hats, and Surf Accessories. Our Womens selection of Bikinis, Dresses, Tops, and Slippers is always commented on as being the best of the best. Additionally, we have kids` bathing suits, rash guards, slippers, hats, and board shorts as well. We’ve got everything you need from head to toe for fun in the sun and in the shade. And don`t forget our specialty Nukumoi Surf shop tees and other logo wear!​
Phone: 808-742-8019
Pedego Electric Bike Rentals
Enjoy the beauty of Kauai On a Pedego Electric bike. Stop and go at your own speed.
Kauai has many off-the-beaten-path wonders to explore. Nothing like riding your Pedego Electric bike with your family and discovering things you would have never found in a moving vehicle.
Located under Kalapaki Joes.
Phone: 808-635-3462
CJM Country Stables
CJM Country Stables invites you to join them for a horseback ride on Kauai`s magnificent South Shore. Be our guest for a guided horseback tour into the beautiful and legendary Mahaulepu wilderness area.
Their varied and diverse rides offer picturesque coastal views and spectacular mountain scenery. Experienced guides share this very special area known as Mahaulepu. Small personalized groups offer a relaxed and memorable horseback experience.
Saddle up for our Kauai horseback riding adventures!
Mahaulepu Heritage Trail and Makauwahi Cave Reserve
This trail is ideal for every member of the family and it is right in Poipu. It is not too strenuous, and you can walk as far as you are comfortable. I walk my dog on the trail almost every morning. The trail is 3.7 miles out and back. It goes from Shipwrecks Beach to Mahaulepu Beach.
The best place to start your hike is at Shipwrecks Beach. There is a small parking lot and plenty of parking down the dirt road at the top of the driveway or along the road next to the Hyatt. This trail has sacred spots and a huge variety of scenic views. Please make sure you pack out what you take in and be respectful of all of the wildlife, some of which are classified as endangered. You will see a variety of cliffs and sand dunes that have hardened into limestone. After you pass the limestone cliffs the trail goes down to a rocky beach and then passes the Waiopili Heiau, a very sacred Hawaiian place. You continue onto the edge of the Poipu Bay Golf Course where Tiger Woods won the PGA Grand Slam several times.
After walking along the edge of the golf course you will enter a pedestrian tree tunnel and move through some shrubbery and a rocky trail coming out to a view of CJM Stables and Gillin Cottage in the background, right on Mahaulepu Beach. From this part of the trail, you can see the Makauwahi Cave Reserve. If you wish to go inside, keep in mind that the cave is open from 10 am to 4 pm. A short walk east of the cave is a fenced-in area where you can see native tortoises.
Take some water and a picnic and enjoy the beach for a swim. Keep in mind that there are no lifeguards at the beach so take all safety precautions. The coastline is a very special place. You might see a monk seal lying on the beach, a Hawaiian Tropic bird flying overhead, or a shearwater nesting In the roots of a tree on the path. Make sure you keep your distance and enjoy the experience from a distance. The more I get to know the path, the more magical it becomes. If you can get up early enough, sunrise can be the best time for this hike.
Boss Frogs
Rentals: Snorkel Gear, Body Boards, Surf Boards, Stand Up Paddle Boards, Beach Chairs, Coolers, Umbrellas, & Golf Clubs
Location: 5022 Lawai Rd.
Phone: 808-742-2025
Kauai Surf School
Kauai Surf School is a popular destination for those looking to learn how to surf or improve their skills. Located in Poipu, the school offers lessons for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. The instructors are experienced and knowledgeable, and they provide a safe and fun environment for learning. The lessons are held at Poipu Beach, which is known for its consistent waves and beautiful scenery. The school provides all the necessary equipment, including surfboards, rash guards, and leashes. In addition to surfing lessons, Kauai Surf School also offers stand-up paddleboarding lessons and tours. The school is open year-round, and reservations are recommended. Whether you`re a first-time surfer or an experienced rider, Kauai Surf School is a great place to learn and have fun.
Location: Beach Shack, Kiahuna Plantation
Phone: 808-651-6032