This golf course is located about 10 minutes from Poipu. It is a Robert Trent Jones Jr. design and is lush parkland throughout the course. It is not on the ocean and doesn't have ocean views. Not particularly fancy but very fun.
18 holes - $140, Rental clubs - $60
Favorite experience and company on the island for boat tours. They offer an array of options, from sunset tours to snorkeling and daytime sightseeing. Choose either the catamaran or rafting option (rafting is not for those who tend to get sea sick, or might not like to get wet). They have special permits that allow them premiere access to the Na Pali Coast, a unique wonder. I did the rafting option last time I was here and will never forget it. So special.
Tour the Na Pali coast in a 30 foot Zodiac rigid-hull, inflatable raft. This company prides themselves by claiming to allow you to tour the entire coast up close and personal. See waterfalls, secret coves and wildlife including humpback whales and spinner dolphins!
A great 1/2 day boat excursion experiencing miles of sea arches, hidden caves, and spectacular shoreline, witnessing the Na Pali coast, a must see in Kauai. On this tour, you’ll explore the waters’ length via power catamaran, searching for dolphins and humpback whales.
ATV and off-roading tours. This company offers guided 4×4 off-road UTV tours along the historic Kipu Ranch, a 3,000-acre privately-owned cattle ranch that is very scenic and lush. The UTV excursions are great for an exciting and memorable visit to the island. Established in 1872, Kipu Ranch is loaded with rich history and ecology.
Helicopter tours are an amazing way to see Kauai and this company has the cushiest flight. Much of the island can only be see by air and helicopter tours are a great way to see the most spectacular scenery of the island.
This helicopter tour experience isn't as cushy as Blue Hawaiian, but you may get a better view. This charter company has "doors off" experiences and might be for people who love the thrills and chills.
Zipline - Soar through lush forests and over the Waita Reservoir on the island’s longest ziplines. While cruising across the 8-track course near Koloa, hang on to the handlebars or try some more daring acrobatic stunts with the hands-free ‘Flyin' Kauai'an’ harness.
$$$$ Table at Poipu is a restaurant concept with Chef John-Paul Gordon sharing his favorite culinary dishes. Garnering multiple awards from Kaua‘i's "Taste of Hawaii," Chef Gordon has been perfecting his award-winning craft for over 23 years using locally-sourced ingredients and in partnership with Kaua‘i farmers and fishermen.
$$$$ Located at the Shops at Kukui'ula, The Eating House 1849 pays homage to Hawaii’s vibrant culinary heritage, a nod to restaurateurs like Peter Fernandez who, the story goes, opened one of the first restaurants in Hawaii, called the Eating House.
$$$$ This restaurant is located at the Grand Hyatt Resort & Spa and features local contemporary Hawaiian and American cuisine. Here you can feel the romance of Kauai in thatched-roof bungalows floating above a koi-filled lagoon at the base of a waterfall.
$$$ This restaurant is located at The Shops Kukui'ula and specializes in ramen and other island favorites. They offer a large variety of bourbon, Japanese whisky, saké and craft cocktails featuring Kauai's very own Koloa Rum.
Really, you cannot go wrong with any beach on the island of Kauai, let alone in the Poipu area! That being said, Poipu Beach itself is a gem. Please bring sunscreen :)
This is a favorite spot for locals and tourists who enjoy hiking around the neighboring area and exploring the rugged rocks next to this beach. One of the great beaches on the South Shore and close to Poipu.
While in Kauai, think about visiting Old Town Koloa. It is about a 7 minute drive from Poipu via car. It has many cute boutique and souvenir storefronts, as well as great local restaurants. There is also a great park with food trucks and local vendors. You might find yourself a fresh coconut or mango.
This is a vibrant marketplace nestled on the south side of Kaua'i, HI. Formerly a pineapple canning factory, the warehouse is now home to over a dozen locally-owned small businesses, offering a diverse range of artisan goods, delicious food, and tropical ambiance. Support the local community while experiencing the essence of Kaua'i's creativity and culture. Points of interest are the incredible jewelry vendor inside and the outdoor bar located at the front of the building. This is a must do.
This waterfall is located about 45 minutes from Poipu via car. It is a drive to a viewpoint, not a hike (if you want to hike it, come see the bride, we can chat, its not for the faint of heart), but so worth it. You'll see other points of interest along the way and get to experience the local island flavor. There may be some vendors selling fresh fruit from their cars in the parking lot.