A different kind of trail for Kauai, the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail showcases lithified sand dunes and sandstone pinnacles among the crashing waves of Kauai’s sunny south shore. The geological features provide unique and interesting scenery along the rocky coastline.
The trail starts at famed Shipwreck Point, near the Grand Hyatt Kauai, and follows the coastline for two miles. After a short climb near the point, the trail levels off. The first part of the trail (on the Makawehi Bluff) is wide and there are actually several trails along the coastline to choose from. Be careful on the trails nearest the coastline to avoid falls into the rocky, turbulent waves below.
After the bluff, there is a rocky cove. Proceeding beyond the cove requires traversing a path between the coastline and the Poipu Bay Golf Course (stay off the course). Once past the golf course there are horse stables and a more rocky coastline before reaching the far point of the trail at Gillin’s Beach.
With Kauai’s south side generally warmer and sunnier than the north and east sides, and with little to no shade on the trail, sun protection and water are key to a successful outing on the Mahaulepu Trail. Hikers will feel the sun on this trail perhaps more than any other trail on Kauai.
Why you should do it: See a unique geological coastline on Kauai’s south shore.
Area: South Shore / Poipu
Trail length: 2 miles (one way)
Difficulty: Easy
What To Bring
- Water
- Sun protection (sunblock, sunhat, umbrella)
- Appropriate footwear
The Mahaulepu Trail starts at Shipwreck Beach near the Grand Hyatt Kauai. This is the cliff at Shipwreck Beach, a lithified sand dune that is approximately 40 feet high. Visitors frequently jump from this cliff into the waters below, but we do not recommend jumping. The local hospital sees frequent injuries from the jumps.
The view from the top of the cliff where people jump.
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