Have you ever heard of Shipwreck Beach on Kauai? While not much of a wreckage remains, there’s still a lot to love about this Hawaii beach.
Shipwreck Beach Kauai
Decades ago, an old, wooden ship crashed in waters offshore of Poipu on the South side of Kauai. It may not have been as exciting as The Pirates of the Caribbean, but the nautical wreckage became a common sight for beach-goers, who eventually named the beach, Shipwrecks.
Hurricane Iwa dismantled the remains of the boat in 1982, leaving behind only a few pieces, including its rusted motor.
The Hawaiian name for Shipwreck Beach on Kauai is Keoneloa, which means “the long sands.”

Surfing & Bodyboarding
It’s difficult to believe that Shipwreck Beach Kauai was once a hidden beach. Today, it’s usually full of locals and tourists staying at one of the two nearby resorts. You’ll most likely see bodyboarders, surfers, and bodysurfers shredding the beach-break line-up, which is definitely more suitable for the experienced, as it’s a powerful wave over a sharp reef.
Sunbathing & Hiking at Shipwreck Beach Kauai
The strong currents and sizable surf don’t really also don’t make a good combo for leisure swimming or snorkeling, so I’d suggest enjoying Shipwrecks in other ways.
Soak in some Hawaiian rays, look for shells, or go on an easy hike. Whenever I’m on Kauai, we always make an effort to hike the sea cliff trails at Kauai’s Shipwreck Beach. Most of the walk is sheltered by rows of ironwood trees; beyond them, a gusty wind can send your do in a topsy-turvy mess.
My boyfriend and his friends like to jump off of the 50-foot Hawaii cliff. I wouldn’t recommend this large leap for those inexperienced and unfamiliar with the jump; I’ve heard there are a few rocks you have to avoid. Instead, you may want to fill your thrills like I do – by watching other daredevils take the plunge.
Nature & Cultural Sites
The trail by Shipwreck Beach Kauai takes hikers on a coastal walk between the outer edge of a golf course and Keoneloa Bay. Look for native flora and fauna, but also be on the lookout for several Hawaiian cultural sites.
You’ll come across ancient petroglyphs carved into the beach rock shelves and a giant heiau (Hawaiian place of worship), which looks like a garden of round black rocks meticulously stacked and gathered together.
Please be careful not to walk on or disturb any cultural sites; it’s not only disrespectful, but it’s said to be bad luck.