Spouting Horn

Located within the South Region on Kauai

Spouting Horn Beach Park is located on Lawa'i Road in Po'ipu in south Kauai. The ocean attraction can be viewed from the top of a small hill with a guard-rail. This is a popular spot for tour buses, so expect to share some space at the rail. Like other blowholes, Spouting Horn is caused by a hole in a lava shelf. The ocean rushes under the shelf and up through the hole with a mighty force that sends water shooting into the air. What makes this blowhole slightly different is the addition of a second hole that only emits wind and creates a great moaning sound.

Spouting Horn puts on quite a show at high tide but is equally entertaining most of the time. It is possible, although not encouraged, to go beyond the guard-rail and explore the lava bench. This activity is done at your own risk as some unfortunate souls have been injured or killed when a large wave sucked them into the blowhole. There are rest rooms in the park. It seems that this area is also popular with local merchants who will set up booths of souvenirs. If you have some time, be sure to take a second to peruse your way through their booths. You might just find a treasure worth taking home. Take Highway 50 from Hanapepe toward Lawa'i. Just past Mile Marker #11 turn right on Koloa Road (Highway 530). Continue to Po'ipu Road and turn right again. The road forks near the ocean, go right on Lawa'i Road. Spouting Horn is approximately one mile down the road on the left. Park and walk down to the overlook.

Visiting Spouting Horn

What to Expect

Spouting Horn is a natural lava tube blowhole on Kauai's south shore in Poipu. Ocean waves push through an underwater lava tube and blast water up to 50 feet into the air. The bigger the surf, the bigger the show. You'll also hear a distinctive hissing/moaning sound — Hawaiian legend says it's a giant mo'o (lizard) trapped in the tube.

The blowhole sits behind a guardrail at a small county park. Most visits take 15-20 minutes. Go when the surf is up for the most dramatic spouts. Late afternoon light is best for photos, and you might catch a rainbow in the mist.

Vendors & Shopping

Local artisans set up booths in the parking area selling jewelry, crafts, and souvenirs. Prices are reasonable and you're buying direct from makers. Worth a browse — the shell jewelry is particularly nice.

Getting There

From Poipu, head west on Lawai Road. Spouting Horn is about a mile past the National Tropical Botanical Garden entrance, on the left. Free parking. Restrooms on site. No entry fee.

Nearby Attractions

Allerton and McBryde Gardens (National Tropical Botanical Garden) are a short drive away. Poipu Beach is about 10 minutes east. Pair Spouting Horn with a garden tour for a solid half-day on the south shore.