Longboat Key Beach
- 4001, Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, Sarasota County, Florida, 34228, United States
About This Beach
Poipu Beach, located on the south shore of Kauaʻi, is one of Hawaii’s most beloved and versatile beaches — a true gem for families, couples, and adventurers alike. Known for its golden crescent-shaped shorelines, calm swimming lagoons, and world-class snorkeling, Poipu offers a perfect balance of relaxation and recreation.
This beach is part of Poipu Beach Park, a protected area with lifeguards, picnic spots, and gentle waves suitable for children. It’s also one of the few places where you might see Hawaiian monk seals, green sea turtles, and even humpback whales offshore in winter. With year-round sunshine and stunning sunsets, Poipu is often called “The Sunny Side of Kauaʻi.”
📜 History & Unique Features
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Naturally Divided Bay: A small sandbar separates the beach into two halves — one ideal for swimming and one for snorkeling and surfing.
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Monk Seal Sanctuary: Hawaiian monk seals often nap on the sand, protected by park volunteers.
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Sunny South Shore: Poipu enjoys the driest, sunniest weather on Kauaʻi, making it a reliable beach year-round.
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Award-Winning: Frequently ranked among “America’s Best Beaches” for safety, cleanliness, and scenic beauty.
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit
Year-Round: Consistently sunny and warm due to its southern location.
Morning: Best snorkeling visibility and fewer crowds.
Winter (Nov – Mar): Great for whale watching and spotting monk seals.
Summer (Jun – Aug): Calm seas perfect for families and swimming.
Morning: Best snorkeling visibility and fewer crowds.
Winter (Nov – Mar): Great for whale watching and spotting monk seals.
Summer (Jun – Aug): Calm seas perfect for families and swimming.
Things To Do
Popular Activities
- Swimming: Calm waters near the sandbar are perfect for families and children.
- Snorkeling: Explore colorful reefs filled with tropical fish and sea turtles.
- Surfing & Bodyboarding: Outer areas have small, consistent waves for beginners.
- Wildlife Viewing: Watch monk seals resting on the sand or dolphins offshore.
- Picnics & Relaxation: Grassy park areas with shade and picnic tables.
- Scuba Diving: Guided dives available nearby for exploring deeper coral gardens.
- Walking & Photography: Perfect for sunrise walks or sunset photography sessions.
Plan Your Visit
Plan Your Beach Trip
Turn your beach search into a complete trip — book stays, discover experiences, and prepare like a pro.
Amenities
Nearby Amenities
- Lifeguards on duty during daylight hours
- Restrooms and outdoor showers
- Picnic tables and grassy shaded areas
- Parking lot and street parking available
- Restaurants, cafés, and shops within walking distance
- Snorkel, surfboard, and umbrella rentals nearby
Beach Hours
Beach Hours
Open Now
Open 24/7
Events & Festivals
Events & Festivals
Events & Festivals
Kauaʻi Marathon (September): Runs through Poipu’s coastal roads.
Monk Seal Awareness Events: Educational programs and volunteer meetups.
Cultural Festivals: Occasional Hawaiian music and hula performances in Poipu area resorts.
Kauaʻi Marathon (September): Runs through Poipu’s coastal roads.
Monk Seal Awareness Events: Educational programs and volunteer meetups.
Cultural Festivals: Occasional Hawaiian music and hula performances in Poipu area resorts.
Hours/Lifeguards
Hours/Lifeguards
Beach Access: Sunrise to sunset daily
Lifeguards: Typically on duty 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Lifeguards: Typically on duty 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Pricing
Pricing
Beach Access: Free
Parking: Free public lots and street parking
Rentals: Snorkel gear ~$15–$25/day; Umbrella & chair ~$30/day
Nearby Tours: Surf lessons and snorkel excursions ~$75–$150
Parking: Free public lots and street parking
Rentals: Snorkel gear ~$15–$25/day; Umbrella & chair ~$30/day
Nearby Tours: Surf lessons and snorkel excursions ~$75–$150
Food & Drinks
Food & Drinks
Brennecke’s Beach Broiler: Ocean-view restaurant offering seafood and island cuisine.
Puka Dog: A local favorite hot dog stand unique to Kauaʻi.
Keoki’s Paradise: Tropical-themed restaurant with live music and fresh island dishes.
Beachside Picnics: Tables and shaded lawns make Poipu ideal for bringing your own meal.
Puka Dog: A local favorite hot dog stand unique to Kauaʻi.
Keoki’s Paradise: Tropical-themed restaurant with live music and fresh island dishes.
Beachside Picnics: Tables and shaded lawns make Poipu ideal for bringing your own meal.
Contact Information
Primary Phone
Website URL
Location
Beach Address
2179 Hoone Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
Access Points
Poipu Beach Park
2179 Hoone Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
About 25 minutes south of Lihue Airport (LIH)
Located along Hoone Road in the town of Poipu
Free public parking and easy beach access from the park
2179 Hoone Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
About 25 minutes south of Lihue Airport (LIH)
Located along Hoone Road in the town of Poipu
Free public parking and easy beach access from the park
2179 Hoone Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
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