Wildlife· Kauai· Hawaii
Poipu Beach Park and Hawaiian Monk Seals
21° 52.5′ N · 159° 27.6′ W
Kauai's best-known family beach, where endangered Hawaiian monk seals regularly haul out on the sand - with a lifeguard, showers and a shallow protected snorkel bay.
Practical
Seasport Divers: 3-12 ft snorkel in a shallow protected bay; lifeguard, showers and restrooms. NOAA: about 1,600 Hawaiian monk seals exist (about 400 in the main islands); endangered (ESA) and protected by state law; stay at least 50 ft from resting seals, never push them toward the water, move away if a seal approaches; mothers nurse pups on beaches for up to 7 weeks and are especially sensitive. Report sightings or injured seals to the NOAA Marine Wildlife Hotline (888) 256-9840. HAR 13-256-53 Nukumoi swim zone is closed to vessels. Coordinate: USGS GNIS 'Poipu Beach'.
Best for
Seeing monk seals responsibly ashore