Spouting Horn Blow Hole on Kauai
It is a scenic spot that includes a really cool blowhole. This part of the Kauai coast is known for powerful waves.
These powerful waves ram up against the shoreline and through lava tubes.
So much water gets shoved in that it will shoot out of any opening.
One of those openings gets so much water shot through it that it often goes 50 feet up in the air. That hole is now known as Kauai’s Spouting Horn.
Side note – a lava tube is what is left after molten lava cools off and hardens. It forms tunnels that are called lava tubes.
Spouting Horn Location
The Spouting Horn is a famous Kauai landmark.
It sits on the southern shores of Kauai near the Poipu resort area – i.e. close to where a lot of people are already staying.
It is about a 25 minute drive from the airport.
It is part of the Koloa Heritage Trail, which winds for about 10 miles through the area.
Walking Directly Up To the Blowhole
You will see that there are people that shimmy around the chain link fence and make the quick walk down to the tide pools and blowhole. There is no doubt this could ehnace the experience, but it is fenced off for a reason.
At any time a wave could crash over the edge of the cliff and knock people into the lava rock or pull them back out to sea.
Unfortunately Hawaiian tide pools have killed a number of people, so don’t be an idiot.
Spouting Horn Facilities
There is a generously sized parking lot, restrooms, picnic table, as well as viewing decks for the gorgeous coastline.
Blowhole Shooting Height
Depending on the size of the ocean waves as well as the tides, the actual height and intensity of the shot out of the blowhole will vary. It gets as high as 50 ft. When I was there it shot up to about 30 ft.
Hawaiian Giant Lizard Legend
There is a Hawaiian legend about the source of the blow hole.
Supposedly there was a giant lizard wreaking havoc on the locals. A crafty Hawaiian lured the lizard into this lava tube. The Hawaiian was able to crawl out of the hole, and the lizard remained trapped inside.
The blowhole is now the result of the lizard roaring to escape.
One of the most unique things about this blowhole is the raspy noise the water makes as it shoots through the tunnel and hole. Given that it almost sounds like a massive creature clearing their throat, I can see where parts of the legend might have come from.
The Blowhole Used to Be Bigger
Supposedly the blowhole used to be bigger. A nearby farmer blasted rock away so that it wouldn’t spray as high because the salt spray from the blowhole was drifting over and damaging his sugar crop.
Other Attractions in the Area
Aside from the most obvious Poipu Beach, while in the area you should also stop at my favorite south side beach Shipwreck Beach. You can also take the Maha’ulepu Heritage Coastal Trail.
Check out our full guides to these attractions below
WHAT TO PACK FOR KAUAI
- Dresses – Packing a few good dresses is essential for Hawaii. Dresses have become my go to on trips to help quickly put an outfit together. Revolve is one of my go to shops for beach dresses. ASOS also has great summer dresses.
- Shorts – Anyone who is traveling to Hawaii needs a good pair of shorts. Khakis are great for guys. For women, cute athletic shorts or denim shorts are perfect for a breezy summertime look. These Levi denim shorts are my current favorites! These high waisted athletic shorts have gone viral on instagram and for good reason, they are AMAZING.
- Sandals – LOVE these Teva’s! They are my new go to travel sandal. Shop my favorite Teva’s here. They are great to wear in the water snorkeling and also amazing for hiking in Hawaii.
- Sports bra – This SKIMS bra is the most comfortable sports bra you will ever wear! Trust me. I travel with 5 of them. Also, highly recommend checking out the SKIMS fits everybody bra is to die for as well.
- Tank tops – Free people is my go to place to buy cute and affordable tank tops. I have this tighten up tank in almost every color.
- Hat – essential. Shop the newest hats at Nordstrom.
- Beach cover-up – Having at least one good cover-up is essential on any beach trip. I recommend ASOS, Nordstrom and Revolve as well.
- Hiking boots – I have two pairs of hiking boots that I love. My Columbia waterproof boots and my Salomon hiking boots. Highly recommend checking them both out! Warning – they both sell out really quick.
- Tennis Shoes – I guess you could wear sandals hiking this trail but I would recommend tennis shoes. It can get narrow and slippery in parts. These Nike high tops are my current favs. They look so cute with shorts too!
- Packing cubes – I always go to Urban Outfitters for my packing cubes. They have the cutest ones!
- Quick Dry Travel Towel – This quick dry towel is amazing to travel with. It really will come in handy when you need extra room in your suitcase.
- Snorkeling gear – for obvious reasons.
Planning a trip to Kauai? Read everything we know about Kauai here:
My husband and I have been to Kauai many, many times and have written up more guides to help you plan your trip. These are my most popular blog posts and Kauai travel guides to help you plan your trip.
Kauai Beaches
Best Beaches for Snorkeling on Kauai
- TUNNELS BEACH IN KAUAI (amazing snorkeling, swimming, seals) – one of my personal favorite beaches own the entire island!
- KE’E BEACH ON KAUAI – great snorkeling, swimming, but you have to make reservation in advance – it was a nightmare.
- Hideaway’s Beach – Amazing snorkeling on the North Shore.
- Anini Beach – (Snorkeling, fishing, swimming) Great for basically everything.
- Kalapaki Beach in Kauai – Kids beach. Perfect beach for families, beginner snorkeling and swimming!
Best Cliff Jumping in Kauai
- SHIPWRECK BEACH ON KAUAI – Amazing cliff jumping beach
- QUEEN’S BATH KAUAI: COMPLETE GUIDE – Another must visit!
More awesome beaches
- MOLOA’A BEACH ON KAUAI – Insanely underrated. Giligans Island was filmed here. This beach was another one of my favorites. Practically empty.
- Lumaha’i Beach Kauai – What you need to know before going
- Secret Beach Kauai! (aka Kauapea beach) – MUST see beach!
- Haena Beach – We saw a Monk Seal on this beach!
- Gillin’s Beach – Fairly secluded beach where you can ride horses!
- Donkey Beach – Underrated – practically deserted beach
- Hanalei Beach – Gorgeous beach, perfect for sunsets.
- Salt Pond Beach Park – Amazing beach for kids and families (You can camp here as well)
- Black Pot Beach
Kauai Hiking Guides
- WAILUA FALLS HIKE ON KAUAI – AMAZING WATERFALL HIKE! Probably my favorite hike I have ever done.
- KALEPA RIDGE TRAIL – BEST HIKE IN HAWAII…SERIOUSLY. Trust me, don’t leave this one off your list! It’s GORGEOUS!
- MAKALEHA TRAIL – Amazing trail that is extremely muddy. 100% worth it!
- CANYON TRAIL TO WAIPO’O FALLS
- Pihea Trail – Easy hike on Kauai with Na’pali Coast Views!
- Makauwahi Cave Trail – Kauai Hidden gem
Read about all the hikes we have done in Kauai here.
Read all other posts on Kauai here.