Ocean Meets Lava at One of Kauai’s Best Free Attractions 🌋🌊
Are you planning a trip to Kauai? Lucky you!
The island of Kauai is my favorite Hawaiian island and my husband and I visit often from our home on neighboring Oahu.
Hawaii’s Garden Isle is home to gorgeous beaches, charming small towns, and emerald peaks. From the stunning Napali Coast to the surf town of Hanalei, there’s plenty to see and do on Kauai.
Read More: The Top 5 Fun Things to do on Kauai (#1 is a must!)
Even better? Many of those things are totally free. Like the fascinating geological marvel that is the subject of today’s post – the blowhole known as Spouting Horn.
I consider this easy-to-visit natural wonder a must-see on Kauai. Let’s dive into what makes Spouting Horn one of Kauai’s most iconic sights.
But first…
What the heck is a blowhole?
Let’s start at the beginning!
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice. All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
A blowhole is a natural geological formation that occurs when waves force water and air through an opening in a natural lava tube.
The result is a powerful salt spray that shoots into the air, often accompanied by a roaring or hissing sound.
Blowholes are common in volcanic regions like Hawaii because of the islands’ lava rock coastlines. The rugged terrain and powerful waves create the perfect conditions for these unique formations.
So when you visit Hawaii, viewing a blowhole is simply a must! And luckily, they’re all free to visit and relatively easy to get to.
In addition to Spouting Horn on Kauai, Hawaii has several other blowholes worth checking out:
Halona Blowhole (Oahu)
Located near Sandy Beach, this blowhole is a popular stop for visitors driving the southeastern coastline. It’s easily accessible, though the parking lot is often packed full so you may have to wait for a space.
Read More: Why the Halona Blowhole is a Must-See on Oahu’s Loveliest Coast
Nakalele Blowhole (Maui)
Found on the island’s northwest side (which can be a slightly more challenging drive), this blowhole is known for its dramatic sprays and rugged beauty. It also takes a little bit of a hike to reach.
Each blowhole offers its own experience, but Spouting Horn is unique because it’s not just a blowhole, it’s a legend.
What makes Spouting Horn special?
Spouting Horn is located on Kauai’s south shore coastline, just off Lawai Road in Poipu. It’s just a short detour down the road from popular Poipu Beach.
From the convenient viewpoint in Spouting Horn Park, you’ll see what’s commonly called a lava shelf. It’s a mostly flat area of cooled lava that formed long ago when lava met sea.
When waves crash against the shore, water is forced through a narrow lava tube, shooting up into the air in a dramatic display. The spout can reach heights of up to 50 feet, depending on the tide and wave conditions.
But the blowhole’s distinctive hissing sound is what makes this a really unique place to visit. Let’s just say it’s a “noisier” blowhole than Halona or Nakalele which adds a bit of drama.
According to Hawaiian legend, the noise comes from a trapped mo‘o (mythical giant lizard) named Kaikapu, who was outsmarted and sealed in the lava tube.
Bonus: The surrounding coastline is stunning, with the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean providing a gorgeous backdrop for photos.
Why visit Spouting Horn?
Spouting Horn is one of Kauai’s most accessible natural attractions.
The viewing area is just a short walk from the parking lot, so it’s a great stop for travelers of all ages. It’s also free to visit and there’s ample parking.
And honestly, even if you just have 10-15 minutes to spare, you can easily work this into your itinerary.
Wildlife lovers will appreciate the chance to spot sea turtles in the water below the blowhole. If you’re visiting during whale season (November to April), keep an eye out for humpback whales breaching in the distance.
If you don’t spot any whales from shore, don’t miss the opportunity to hit the water during whale season for a boat tour. It’s another must-do.
Read More: Ultimate Guide to the Best Kauai Whale Watching Tours
Quick Tips for Your Visit
- Timing Matters: For the most dramatic sprays, the best times to visit are during high tide or when the surf is strong. It’s also more active in the winter when the waves are big than in the calmer summer months.
- Stay Safe: Stick to the designated viewing area. While blowholes are fascinating to watch, they are notoriously dangerous if you get too close. The rocks around the blowhole can be slippery and dangerous. And curious tourists have actually been sucked into them before. Please don’t be that local news story. Stay safely behind the railings and enjoy the show.
So go see that blowhole!
Spouting Horn is a perfect example of Kauai’s raw natural beauty.
Whether you’re exploring the island’s southern coast or looking for a quick, family-friendly adventure, this iconic blowhole is well worth the visit. Don’t forget to check out the nearby shops and enjoy the stunning ocean views while you’re there.
And, of course, don’t forget to pop over to Poipu Beach to observe the basking sea turtles (honu). Just remember to keep the mandatory 10′ distance so they can rest.
While Hawaii has other incredible blowholes, Spouting Horn remains one of the most memorable thanks to its accessibility, legends, and jaw-dropping displays of nature’s power. Be sure to add it to your Kauai itinerary – you won’t regret it!
And if you’re looking for more helpful info for planning your trip to Kauai (including budget-friendly places to stay, start here:
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Kauai Hawaii (2025)
5 Awesome & Affordable Kauai Hotels that Won’t Break the Bank
