Po'ipu Beach Park
Po‘ipū Beach Park is one of Kauai’s most beloved beaches, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, protected swimming areas, and year-round sunny weather. Voted the Best Beach in America, it offers excellent conditions for snorkeling, swimming, surfing, and watching monk seals. With full facilities and lifeguards on duty, it's a safe and versatile destination for beachgoers of all ages.
Po'ipu Beach Park, Kauai
In 2001, the renowned beachologist Dr. Stephen “Dr. Beach” Leatherman, picked Po'ipu Beach Park as the best beach in the United States. Travel Channel also named Po'ipu Beach Park as one of America's and the World's Best Beaches. As Kauai's most popular beach, it attracts many beachgoers, yet it is never crowded in the way popular Waikiki Beach on the neighboring island of Oahu is.
Po'ipu Beach Park is a family beach and accommodates nearly every type of beach activity. Two beaches actually make up Po'ipu Beach. The eastern side is called Baby Beach because it's where keikis (kids) can swim free from dangers of big waves and strong currents. The water here is just a few inches deep and is sheltered by a jetty. On the western side of the beach, the waves break on the reef. This is the spot frequented by surfers and is also good for fishing, snorkeling, pole fishing and windsurfing.
Nukumoi Point, a tombolo, separates the two bays. A tombolo is a narrow piece of land, such as a spit or a bar, extending from a shore to an island. Po'ipu Beach Park's tombolo is a favorite spot of Hawaiian monk seals; they are often found napping here in the afternoon. The area just before the tombolo, on the western side of the beach, is frequented by beginning bodyboarders. Waves here break gently on a shallow sandbar.
Key Features of Po‘ipū Beach Park
- Two beaches in one: Baby Beach offers a shallow, protected area for kids, while the western side is ideal for surfing and snorkeling.
- Tombolo landmark: Nukumoi Point separates the two beaches and is a favorite resting spot for Hawaiian monk seals.
- Voted #1 beach: Named Best Beach in America by Dr. Beach and featured on Travel Channel's Top Beaches lists.
- Water activity hub: Ideal for swimming, bodyboarding, snorkeling, fishing, and windsurfing.
- Full amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic pavilions, lifeguards, and a children’s playground make it perfect for families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Po‘ipū Beach so famous?
It has been named the Best Beach in America by Dr. Beach and is widely praised for its family-friendly layout, year-round sunny weather, and calm ocean conditions.
Is it safe for kids?
Yes, the eastern side of the beach (Baby Beach) is shallow and protected, making it ideal for young children.
Can I see monk seals here?
Yes, Hawaiian monk seals often rest on the tombolo (Nukumoi Point). Please keep a respectful distance if you see one.
What activities are popular here?
Swimming, snorkeling, bodyboarding, surfing, fishing, and windsurfing are all common. There’s also a large park for picnics and play.