Māhāʻulepū Heritage Trail (Poʻipū)

An easy coastal walk on Kauaʻi's South Shore from Shipwreck Beach in Poʻipū east toward Māhāʻulepū, across sea cliffs, dunes and limestone formations. It's about 3.5 to 4 miles out and back, takes 2 to 3 hours, and has no shade or facilities. Makauwahi Cave Reserve, near the far end, has been closed since 2024.

• Start: Shipwreck Beach (Keoneloa Bay) next to the Grand Hyatt in Poʻipū.
• Length: about 3.5 to 4 miles out and back; 2 to 3 hours.
• No shade, water or restrooms along the way. Bring water, a hat and sunscreen.
• Stay back from cliff edges; the limestone is brittle. Don't swim along this stretch when surf is up, especially in winter.
• Look for honu and, in winter, whales offshore. Protected Hawaiian sites along the trail are unmarked; leave everything as you find it.
• Makauwahi Cave Reserve has been closed since 2024 with no reopening date.
• Hurricane Lowell: no trail closure has been reported, but check current conditions.

Sources: Kauai Sea Tours: Māhāʻulepū Heritage Trail guide · Bites Sights Flights: Kauaʻi closures, what is open (updated Oct. 29, 2026)

Last checked Oct. 29, 2026. Hours, fees and rules can change, so confirm with the official source before you go.