Poipu was our home for eight glorious days while visiting the island of Kauai. I’ll first say if you are traveling to Kauai, Poipu is the optimal location on the island for a stay. Known as the “garden isle” for its lush tropical green landscapes caused by almost daily rains — Mt. Waialeale on Kauai gets the prize for being the 2nd wettest spot on earth receiving more than 460 inches of rain per year. In contrast, Poipu which is just a few miles away, experiences the most sunshine on the island. Secondly, if you are looking for a great condo in the best Kauai location, then check out this rental in Kuhio Shores (vrbo listing http://www.vrbo.com/170049). It’s everything advertised and more with sea turtles lapping at the waves right outside the lanai, the best restaurant on the entire island (The Beach House) right next store, and some of the greatest snorkeling we found right in front of The Beach House at Lawai Beach. We also enjoyed Poipu Beach Park – the water is much calmer than at Lawai and there are facilities which make it a great choice for families with small children. Directly across from the beach is Brennecke’s Beachfront Restaurant which was a favorite not only for their great food at very reasonable prices but the drinks and view are unsurpassed. Poipu also offers some of the islands best and unique shopping with The Shops at Kukui’ula, Old Koloa Town and Poipu Shopping Center all within easy reach.

 

We also drove up the coastal road to see the Spouting Horn, an impressive blowhole caused by the surfs large swells of water being released through a natural lava tube. You’ll be impressed by the hiss and roar of the spouting water that is the basis of area legend. Hawaiians believed this coastline was once guarded by a giant moo (lizard) named Kaikapu. Everyone was afraid of the moo because it would eat anyone who tried to fish or swim in the area. One day, a young boy named Liko entered the ocean to outwit the lizard. Kaikapu attacked him, but Liko thrust a sharp stick into her mouth, swam under the lava shelf, and escaped through a small hole to the surface. The moo followed Liko and got stuck in the lava tube and, to this day, you can hear the lizard’s roar and see her breath spraying from the blowhole.  And, there is no way I can complete this post without mentioning our favorite fast food stop and a bit of Mexican food heaven Da Crack which is a lot like the drug crack because once you have it you will neeeeeeeed to go back for more.