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
Boss Frogs
With multiple locations across the island, Boss Frog’s is the go-to rental shop for beach and water gear on Kauai. Snorkel sets, boogie boards, surf boards, beach chairs, umbrellas, and bikes are all available — everything you need to make the most of the South Shore without lugging equipment from home. Friendly staff, competitive rates, and convenient locations make it an easy first stop after you arrive.
Location: 5022 Lawai Rd.
Phone: 808-742-2025
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!
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.
Kukuiula Boat Harbor
Built in 1955 as a commercial fishing port, Kukui’ula Boat Harbor has evolved into one of the South Shore’s most charming recreational spots. The harbor serves as the departure point for sport fishing charters, whale watching tours, snorkeling cruises, and Nā Pali Coast adventures, while the calm, clear waters close to shore draw swimmers, kayakers, and paddleboarders looking for a quieter alternative to the main beaches.
The surrounding area rewards a leisurely explore — a scenic coastal walking trail follows the shoreline with sweeping ocean views, and nearby shops and restaurants offer local art, souvenirs, and Hawaiian cuisine. Restrooms and showers are on site. Situated in sunny Poipu, the harbor enjoys some of the most reliably clear weather on the island, making it a dependable destination any day of the week.
Mahaulepu Heritage Trail and Makauwahi Cave Reserve
One of the best easy trails on the island, the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail runs 3.7 miles out and back from Shipwrecks Beach to Mahaulepu Beach — right in Poipu, suitable for the whole family, and beautiful enough to do again and again. Park at the small lot near Shipwrecks or along the road by the Hyatt.
The trail moves through dramatic coastal scenery: hardened limestone cliffs, sand dunes, a rocky shoreline, and the Waiopili Heiau — a sacred Hawaiian site deserving of quiet respect. It skirts the edge of Poipu Bay Golf Course, passes through a shaded tree tunnel, and opens up to sweeping views of Mahaulepu Beach with CJM Stables and Gillin Cottage in the distance. The Makauwahi Cave Reserve is accessible along the way (open 10am–4pm), with native tortoises in a fenced area just east of the cave.
Wildlife sightings are common — monk seals, Hawaiian tropicbirds, and nesting shearwaters all call this coastline home. Keep your distance and pack out everything you bring in. Sunrise is the best time to go.
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
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