Spouting Horn

The basics

The Spouting Horn is one of Kauai’s most popular attractions—don’t expect to be here alone. Beyond being gorgeous, it’s free and highly accessible: Park in the lot and mosey over to the overlook. The blowhole’s 50-foot (15-meter) show commences with almost every wave; between the moments it’s not spouting and moaning, you can take in Kauai’s rocky, lava-rich South Shore. It’s especially pretty come sunset and a perfect road-tripping stop along this side of the island.

Things to know before you go

• There’s a sizable parking lot adjacent to the overlook, which can accommodate buses and RVs.

• Restrooms are available on-site.

• You can buy souvenirs from vendors who have set up here.

How to get there

You’ll find the Spouting Horn about 10 minutes west of Poipu on Lawai Road, which follows the coast. (If you’re driving, keep an eye out for whales from December–April.) There’s a sizable parking lot, plus restrooms, making it hard to miss. The lookout is just steps from the lot, past the restrooms.

When to get there

The Spouting Horn is open year-round. Come early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the biggest crowds, which can include tour buses. Sunset is the most spectacular time; to get more elbow room at golden hour, come midweek or in Kauai’s low season, September–December and April–June.

The myth of a lizard

Local legend holds that the noise the Spouting Horn makes is from a giant lizard named Kaikapu. When a small boy named Liko escaped its wrath through a small hole in the rocks, Kaikapu tried to follow him—but got stuck. Eons later, the story goes, the lizard still roars. Science tells a slightly different story of the sound being pressurized air forced through the cracks in the rock, but either way it does moan.

Ways to explore

The Spouting Horn is one of Kauai’s most popular attractions—don’t expect to be here alone. Beyond being gorgeous, it’s free and highly accessible: Park in the lot and mosey over to the overlook. If you don’t want to worry about driving, book a guided tour; the spouting horn features on many sightseeing itineraries.

The blowhole’s 50-foot (15-meter) show commences with almost every wave; between the moments it’s not spouting and moaning, you can take a look at Kauai’s rocky, lava-rich South Shore. It’s especially pretty come sunset, a perfect road-tripping stop along this side of the island.

Accessibility

Easily accessible with paved pathways and a designated viewing area

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, sunscreen, water bottle, light jacket for ocean breeze

What to wear

Hat and sunglasses for sun protection

Not allowed

Going beyond the guard rails (the surrounding craggy lava is dangerous)

Amenities

Free parking, restrooms, picnic tables, local vendors

Address

Kauai’s Spouting Horn is located on the sunny South Shore near Poipu—the scenic viewpoint, right off the road, makes for effortless viewing. It’s easy to get there via driving or a guided tour.

Driving

Find the viewpoint off Lawai Road—which skirts the coast—just west of Poipu. Parking is free.

Public transportation

The Koloa Shuttle goes to the Poipu area, but you’ll have to walk from there. For that reason, it’s better to drive, take a taxi, or hop on a tour.

Best times to visit

Sunset is great for photography, but the high tide puts on a different kind of dramatic display.

Best days to visit

Any day works, though weekdays may be less crowded than weekends when tour buses are more frequent.

Best months to visit

There’s no bad time to visit. Winter means whale-watching in the distance, and summer means the possibility of more dramatic waves.

Special events

No events are held at the blowhole itself, though you’ll find plenty of activity in nearby Poipu.