The gateway to Kauai’s South Shore is through the Tree Tunnel (Maluhia Road). The road is lined with Eucalyptus trees first planted a century ago. Kauai’s South Shore is a paradise of incredible beaches and sun to go with them. If it is raining where you are on the island, go to the South Shore to find sun.
Poipu Beach is the common destination beside the Sheridan Hotel. There you can often find a monk seal. It is surreally beautiful with white sandy beaches contrasting with dramatic lava rock formations. Poipu Beach is separated into two sides by Nukumoi Point. This “tombola” separates the beach into two bays with a narrow sand spit.
Along the water lies the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail, which starts at Shipwreck Beach by the Hyatt and goes for about two miles to Mahaulepu Beach. It provides views of sand-dune cliffs, pretty Kiawe trees, unearthly limestone formations, and rugged rocky inlets. You can spot marine life along the way including sea turtles and Hawaiian Monk Seals. At Mahaulepu Beach, you will find a remote area by the ocean where the waters are rough, and you can whale watch. The area is also perfect for beach combing.
The trail passes the natural geyser called Spouting Horn that shoots water 40 feet high, formed by underwater lava. It is pleasant to relax there waiting for the geyser to “blow..”
North of Poipu is the quaint town of Koloa. Historic and picturesque, the Kōloa spans the area from Old Kōloa Town to Poʻipū. Kōloa opened its first sugar mill in 1835. The sugar era opened the door to a wave of immigrants that make up Hawaiʻi’s multicultural population today. Old Kōloa Town has retained much of its charm with shops now occupying the plantation buildings along Kōloa Road. Stroll by old-fashioned storefronts and discover special local gifts. Stop by the Kōloa History Center any day of the week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. to learn about the town’s heritage.
Just north of Spouting Horn are two of the five gardens that make up the National Tropical Botanical Garden, the Allerton Garden and the. McBryde Garden. A third the Limahuli is on the North Shore. The area these two gardens occupy was once a home of Queen Emma, and one aim in preserving the tropical gardens is to honor her. Their purpose also includes the preservation and study of tropical plants. The Allerton gardens are full of breath-taking landscapes including fountains, lush greenery, interesting flowers, water views, and waterfalls. It is also home to the famous Moreton Bay fig trees. The McBryde Gardens are adjacent to the Allerton Gardens and are home to the world’s largest collection of native Hawaiian flora. The gardens are home to over 2000 species of tropical plants. Strolling through these peaceful gardens gives you a greater appreciation for this beautiful island.
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