Koloa

Koloa is a historic south Kauai town known for Old Koloa Town, Hawaii's early sugar plantation history, local shops, dining and nearby Poipu access.

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Koloa

Koloa, Kauai

Koloa, also known as Old Koloa Town, is a fast growing tourist destination located 12 miles (19.3 km) from Lihue and 3 (4.8 km) miles from Poipu. In 1835, King Kamehameha III leased the land to Ladd and Company, which made Koloa the first sugar plantation town in Hawaii.

A visit to the Koloa History Center and a tour of the nearby Koloa Heritage Trail will give you an insight into the sugar industry. Here you can also see the remains of an old sugar mill.

Key Features

South Kauai setting: Historic town a few miles inland from Poipu
Old Koloa Town: Shops, restaurants, galleries and plantation-era storefronts
Sugar history: Site of Hawaii's first successful commercial sugar plantation in 1835
Heritage trail: Nearby Koloa Heritage Trail connects historic, cultural and coastal stops
Nearby beaches: Short drive to Poipu Beach Park and south shore resort areas
Nearby attractions: Close to Spouting Horn and Allerton Garden
Activity fit: Good area for sightseeing tours, snorkeling and helicopter tours
Population: 2,231 at the 2020 Census
Zip code: 96756

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Koloa on Kauai?

Koloa is on Kauai's south shore, inland from Poipu and west of Lihue. It sits along the route between Lihue, Lawai, Poipu and other south shore areas.

What is Koloa known for?

Koloa is known for Old Koloa Town, Hawaii's early sugar plantation history, local shops, restaurants, shave ice, the Koloa Heritage Trail and its close access to Poipu.

Was Koloa the site of Hawaii's first sugar plantation?

Yes. Koloa became the site of Hawaii's first successful commercial sugar plantation in 1835, making it an important place in island history.

Is Koloa close to Poipu Beach?

Yes. Koloa is only a few miles inland from Poipu Beach Park and the south shore resort area, making it an easy stop before or after beach time.

What can visitors do in Old Koloa Town?

Visitors can browse small shops, eat at local restaurants, stop for shave ice, learn about sugar history and use Koloa as a base for nearby Poipu and south shore attractions.