About this spot
Shipwreck Beach borders Keoniloa Bay near Po'ipu on Kauai's south shore, with Makawehi Point, a sandstone bluff at the beach's eastern end, forming the island's best-known ocean cliff jump at roughly 40 feet into open water. It's reached via a short walk east along the coastal Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail from the beach parking area. The undercut cliff face, hidden submerged rocks that shift with every storm, strong currents, and outgoing-tide pull have caused numerous serious injuries: a four-year hospital trauma review found 17 severe cases including broken backs and collapsed lungs, plus at least one confirmed death. This is an experienced-jumpers-only spot: check tide, swell, and rock position before jumping, and never jump alone or near low tide.