Poipu has something for everyone and is the number one vacation destination on Kauai. Kauai's South Shore offers its visitors a seemingly endless number of activity choices and a myriad of ways to experience all that it has to offer. The adventurous will find kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, surfing, mountain biking, deep-sea fishing, horseback riding and ATV tours. Golfers have 36 holes of championship play and tennis is unlimited. View Kauai's coastline with an ocean cruise, or enjoy a thrilling helicopter ride above its rugged interior. No matter what age, there's something here for everyone in the family.
The beach is great but if you want to do something a little different check out Moir Gardens. This activity is free and well worth the visit. The Moir family, builders of the elegant lava rock home that now houses Kiahuna Plantations' front office and restaurant called it Pa'U a Laka. It honors both Laka, the Hawaiian goddess of hula, and Kuka'ohi'aalaka, the rain god. Today, the area is called Kiahuna Plantation Resort, referring both to a nearby ancient temple, and to the sugar plantation era. Hector McD Moir was the last manager of Koloa Plantation before it changed hands in 1948. He and his wife built their home in the early 1930's on a gift of land from her father. After clearing it, the only vegetation around for miles was sugar cane, three trees, and an abundance of lava rock. Ancient Hawaiians farmed in this rocky, arid area, channeling stream water in 'auwai, or ditches. Remnant 'auwai remain in the garden. In the 1930's water for hobby gardening was scarce, co Mrs. Moir switched from tropical plants that required frequent watering to orchids, bromeliads and succulents. She and the Moir's only child, Eric McD "Iki" Moir, planted and watered the garden that you see today, featuring water lily-filled lava rock ponds, koi, and a variety of orchid and cactus species. Bring along some protection against mosquitos and some drinking water.
Poipu provides visitors with that post card perfect vacation they have always dreamed about.