Shipwreck Beach
Shipwreck Beach, also known as Keoneloa Beach, is a golden-sand beach located on Kauai’s south shore near the Grand Hyatt Kauai. Famous for its rugged beauty and Makawehi Point’s sandstone cliff, this beach offers excellent bodyboarding and surfing when conditions are right. Though swimming can be dangerous due to strong currents, it’s a favorite for adventurous visitors and those enjoying scenic hikes or cliffside views.
Shipwreck Beach (Keoneloa Beach), Kauai
Shipwreck Beach on Kauai's south shore got its name from the small wooden boat that used to lie at the water's edge for many years. It deteriorated badly over the years, was hit by storms and people stripped it for firewood. When hurricane ‘Iwa hit Kauai in November 1982, it completely destroyed what little remained of the already dismantled boat.
The Hawaiian name of this beach is Keoneloa, meaning "the long sands." There are some ancient petroglyphs that have been carved into the beachrock shelves here. However, they are covered under sand and are only exposed during very strong southwesterly winter storms, which strip away enough sand to uncover these carvings.
The most prominent feature of Shipwreck Beach is Makawehi Point, a sandstone cliff at the eastern end of the beach. Shipwreck Beach is about 0.5 miles (800 m) long and and known for its good bodyboarding and windsurfing conditions. Surfers and windsurfers enter the water at the eastern end of the beach near the cliff. During times of high surf, strong rip currents and a powerful shorebreak make swimming dangerous.
Key Features of Shipwreck Beach
- Popular for adventure sports: Known for good bodyboarding, surfing, and windsurfing conditions when the surf is manageable.
- Historical namesake: Named after a small wooden shipwreck that once rested on the shoreline before being destroyed by storms.
- Makawehi Point: Sandstone cliff at the eastern end offers panoramic views and is a favorite spot for cliff jumping and photography.
- Ancient petroglyphs: Hidden under sand, these rock carvings occasionally become visible after winter storms.
- Backed by luxury: Located in front of the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort, with nearby access to coastal trails and scenic viewpoints.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Shipwreck Beach located?
Shipwreck Beach is located at the eastern end of Poipu, Kauai, near the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort. Public beach access is at the end of Ainakoa Street.
Is it safe to swim at Shipwreck Beach?
Swimming is not recommended due to strong shorebreak and rip currents. The beach is best suited for experienced surfers and bodyboarders.
Are there really petroglyphs here?
Yes, ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs are carved into beachrock shelves, but they are usually covered by sand and only become visible after powerful winter storms.
What accommodations are nearby?
Shipwreck Beach fronts the Grand Hyatt Kauai and is near the Poipu Kai Resort. Several Poipu vacation rentals are also available within walking distance.
Can you cliff jump from Makawehi Point?
While some do, cliff jumping from Makawehi Point is dangerous and not recommended. The waters below are shallow and rocky, and conditions can change rapidly.