Hawaii’s “sunny side of paradise” balances adventure with relaxation, offering world-class waves and outdoor activities amid a serene tropical setting.

Thanks to its perpetually agreeable weather, Poipu has been nicknamed the “sunny side of paradise.” It is located on the south side of Kauaʻi and is surrounded by the lush rain forests that make the island such a popular destination. 

Enjoy the sunshine and warm waters at Poipu Beach Park. Its white-sand shores are perfect for sunbathing and lifeguards enable parents to rest easy while children paddle in the Pacific. Swim in the tranquil water or head a little further out to surf the area’s world-class waves.  

Poipu’s calm waters make it an ideal snorkeling and diving destination. Pull on your mask and fins and prepare to meet sea turtles, tropical fish and maybe even a humpback whale. Poipu is also renowned for having one of the last populations of the critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals, which can be glimpsed lounging on the rocky shoreline. 

The Poipu area is also renowned for its tropical landscapes. Join an off-road adventure or zip-line tour to cruise through rain forests and past towering waterfalls. Spend an afternoon at Allerton and McBryde Gardens to discover the native plants of Hawaii. 

Poipu features a wide range of resorts, hotels and cottages, most of which have oceanfront access. The Shopping Village is a great place to buy souvenirs and to admire works by local artisans. Poipu Road hosts farmer’s markets throughout the week. Come with an empty stomach and fill up on local produce and other treats. 

Poipu Bay Golf Course offers an oceanfront location so stunning it might distract you from your game. If you’d prefer total relaxation, visit one of the town’s spas to enjoy a traditional Hawaian massage.  

No visit to Poipu is complete without attending a traditional luau. Taste local cuisine and watch dancers and musicians perform routines that will simultaneously entertain and inform you about the island’s history. 

Poipu is a 30-minute drive southwest of Lihue Airport. Public transportation is limited, so it’s best to rent a car or motorcycle to get there and to explore the region’s attractions.