The Island of Kauai has no shortage of beaches. From soft white sand to hard red rock, each beach has unique attributes. So what makes Poipu Beach State Park special? It’s the magnificent sunset that is presented to patiently-waiting beachgoers. (In this case, patience is not represented by time but by tolerating busy picnic areas and obnoxious children playing on the jungle gym. Still worth it though.)
Poipu Beach State Park is a popular spot for several reasons. It is easy to find, there is lots of parking, and lodging is only a short walk away. There are also activities for kids and a bar across the street for the adults.
You Can Always Find A Spot at Poipu Beach State Park
With the Beach and Picnic areas full, we began exploring different parts of the park. If you can’t find a spot or don’t feel like plopping yourself down in the sand take a walk east towards the grassy area. The rocky shore of this part of the park doesn’t lend itself to swimming but you can sit back, relax and let the waves lull you into that vacation mindset. Or your one of “those” people who feel the need to work out when they travel or need to do yoga in front of the ocean for those sweet, sweet Instagram likes, this section of the park makes a great stage.
One of the Best Sunsets on Kauai
During our time in Kauai, we had a hard time finding a sunset that rivaled the one we encountered at Poipu Beach. During the Summer sunset typically begins around 7 pm. In winter time it is closer to 6. The sun will begin to dip in the west end of the long stretch of beach. No matter where you are in Poipu Beach State Park, there isn’t a bad seat in the house.
Our Experience
Our original intent of visiting the beach at Poipu Beach State Park was to simply see it and cross it off our itinerary. As we crossed the street from the large parking lot, we realized that may be our only option anyways. The beach was incredibly crowded with locals and tourists alike. Birthday parties and company sponsored BBQ’s overflowed from the picnic areas. The sweet smell of kalua pork drifted downwind and our hunger gave us another reason to swiftly exit. All I wanted was a quick photo to at least prove we were there because several rugby-related concussions will one day catch up with me and I might forget where I’ve been.
With growling stomachs and annoyed looks on our faces, we promptly discovered the park offered so much more than anticipated. We ended up spending several hours here watching the sunset and savoring the moment as waves crashed up against the shore.
Chad can be summed up by his idea of a perfect day: Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the mountains, warm cup of coffee in hand then grabbing his camera and fly rod, hitting the trail to explore some uncharted territory followed by cold beers and campfire steaks. Chad is often joined on his adventures by his wife, Tori, and their dog, Kona.