Get Your Beach On! Your Day of Surf and Sand on Kauaʻi

Gear up for a day at Po‘ipu Beach with brand name swimwear, quality snorkel gear and beach accessories, surf lessons and food—for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

Making Waves , part of the Maui Clothing Company family of stores, features “Hawai‘i’s largest collection of swimwear” offering eye-catching styles and designs for every shape and size. Stop by their store at Poipu Shopping Village to browse through hundreds of suits from brand name designers, as well as their own exclusive Maui WaterWear line featuring rashguards and swimwear for the entire family.

“We cater to women of all body types, from bikinis to one-pieces, from sexy to modest, in a range of cup sizes and support,” says Valerie Campos, swimwear buyer for Maui Clothing Company. “Whatever she’s looking for in a swimsuit, we have that special piece that will make her feel confident and comfortable.”

Making Waves also offers a selection of beach or poolside accessories such as beach bags, sunglasses, hats, cover-ups, sun care products and slippers.

The community-minded Nukumoi Surf Shop is family owned and operated, and has been for nearly 25 years. Opened by Bob and Christine French next to their first business, Brennecke’s, Nukumoi is run day-to-day by sons Hoku and Kainoa, daughter Kelly and son-in-law Joe, assisted by other daughters Rochelle (a former surf pro) and Jessica.

It’s here you’ll find some of the best quality beach and surf accessories, beach apparel and equipment rentals. They offer surf lessons at Po‘ipū Beach too—“a great location for maximum success.” With its consistent surf, easy rides, sandy beach, fun environment, and located within walking distance of the shop, it can’t be beat.

“In Hawai‘i, we’re exposed to the ocean at a very young age,” says Kelly, speaking from experience. “We’re very blessed to enjoy it and so we provide the resources for those who decide to enjoy its magic. We’ve got the total package—great location, great service, great products! We’re proud of the environment we’ve created, and will continue the tradition from generation to generation.”

“Food, friends and fun.” That’s how Sales and Marketing Manager Joe French describes Brennecke’s . “On the first floor we have our beachside deli with grab-and-go items, shave ice, hot/iced coffee, cold beer, fresh-baked pastries, and made-to-order sandwiches. We’re open daily at 7 a.m. for breakfast.”

Next to the deli is the Beach Center where you can conveniently reserve some of the best outings on the island. The friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you select helicopter rides, ziplining, horseback riding, sunset dinner cruises and more.

Above the Beach Center is the full-service restaurant and bar with sweeping views of Po‘ipū Beach. “Celebrate with us our 1,000,000th Mai Tai sold,” says French, “by stopping by upstairs for live music Thursday-Saturday or for one of our daily happy hours from 3-5 p.m. or 8:30 till closing. We offer specials on pupus, cocktails, beers and wine.” Reservations are recommended.

Brennecke’s has been a fixture on the Po‘ipū waterfront since 1983. Owners Bob and Christine French have been honored as the Kauai County Small Business Person(s) of the Year twice by the Small Business Administration.

[A version of this article appears in print in the pages of This Week Kauaʻi]