Manini Heiau was another heiau of Kōloa. It stood near the beach.

The heiau was for the gods of the sea, Kuhaimoana and others. On the nights of Kāne (the night when the moon rose at dawn of day) these fish‐gods came up to the beach.

The explanation of the heiau use states spirits took possession of their keepers; then these men went into the heiau to drink awa. The people were accustomed to doing this in the olden days.

On each night of Kāne in every month, the drum was as beaten to proclaim a kapu on the beach. Men were not allowed to go to the beach at night lest they step on the fish (gods). Manini Heiau was situated at Hoʻoleina‐ka‐puaʻa (lace‐to‐throw‐in‐ the‐pig) (now known as Poʻipū Beach).

The most popular beach on the South Shore is Poʻipū Beach, which is fronted by Poʻipū Beach Park, and a few resorts. Poʻipū Beach was named America’s Best Beach by The Travel Channel, ranking top among the 10 “best” beaches selected nationwide.

This beach is a series of golden sand crescents, strung together where beach‐goers will find snorkeling, swimming, a natural ocean wading pool, boogie‐boarding and surfing.

The areas make up the overall beach experience in this area: Kahoʻoleinakapuaʻa (Poʻipū Beach,) Haleoia (Waiohai Beach) and Poʻopoko (Brennecke’s Beach).

Located at the eastern end of Poʻipū Beach Park, Brennecke’s Beach is known for its easy to catch body boarding and body surfing waves. It is a favorite with Kauai residents and visitors alike. There is a great protected area for swimming and snorkeling ‐ with surf breaks offshore (for experienced surfers). To the west of Poʻipū Beach is Baby Beach, a sweet little protected cove perfect for very young children.

While exploring the best beaches in Kauai, book your stay in one of our Kauai Beachfront Homes to enjoy the waves and surf to its fullest.