The Hawaiian Islands are home to 750 miles of stunning coastline — putting the island state behind Alaska, Florida, and California when it comes to coastline length. And while among that coastline you will find countless rock formations and sea cliffs, the beaches are what truly matters. On Oahu alone, there are more than 125 different beaches! With so many stunning stretches of sand throughout Hawaii, how can you possibly choose the best ones?

Well, luckily for you, here at Only In Hawaii, we’re doing the work for you by highlighting some of the islands’ best beaches — from a famous snorkeling spot on Oahu to Hawaii Island’s southernmost point and everywhere in between. This particular Kauai beach is well-known for a reason, and if you haven’t added Poipu Beach to your Hawaii beach bucket list yet, you should.

Kauai, like the rest of the Hawaiian Islands, is known for its breathtaking beaches, and Poipu is no exception.

Poipu was once named America’s Best Beach by Travel Channel, and is easily the most popular beach on Kauai’s southern shore. In fact, many tourists and locals alike claim Poipu as their favorite Hawaiian beach. So, what exactly makes this beach so amazing, you ask?

Well, Poipu Beach is one of Kauai’s largest stretches of fine white sand at approximately 1,000 feet long and 50 feet wide.

Offering beachgoers spectacular scenery and a series of golden crescents of sand, Poipu is actually comprised of two beaches.

Split by a tombola (or narrow sand split) extending from shore out towards an island, it doesn’t get much prettier than these two beaches. Plus, the tombola is a unique feature you might not have seen before.

With perfect weather year-round, your beach day dreams will almost always come true at Poipu. This side of the island receives significantly less rainfall than other areas of Kauai, making Poipu the perfect beach day destination.

Kids love Poipu Beach. The small boulder breakwater creates a protected pool-like area perfect for children to play.

Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy Poipu, too! Outside this swimming area you will find wave conditions ideal for surfers and body boarders. Don’t have your own equipment? Snorkel and surfboard rentals can all be found nearby.

And if you don’t have the energy to play around in the ocean, Poipu Beach is also an excellent spot to simply soak up the sun, watch the palm tree sway in the breeze, and listen to the waves crash against the shore.

You might even get to hang out with a Hawaiian monk seal or two! These gorgeous creatures often come up for a nap on the beach — especially on the tombola!

Did we mention that the sunsets as witnessed from Poipu will truly drop your jaw?

Near the eastern side of the beach, you will find Poipu Beach Park, home to a lifeguard, picnic tables, restrooms, and showers.

It's easy to see why Kauai's Poipu Beach is so popular. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next beach day, or add Poipu Beach to your itinerary for a Kauai vacation.

Have you had the pleasure of enjoying this pristine Hawaii beach? What is your favorite Hawaii beach? Share your favorites with us in the comments below!