Nestled within the sun-dappled Karui Archipelago of Nga Makanui, Whakapanu Island stands as a deceptive paradise in Poe 2 trade. By all appearances, its lush beaches, dense jungles, and serene shorelines paint a picture of tranquility. But beneath this idyllic surface lies hidden dangers, valuable loot, and critical quests that shape your journey to subdue the Beast.

This guide breaks down everything you need to conquer Whakapanu Island, from unlocking access to defeating its deadliest foes and claiming every secret reward. Whether you're a new exile or a seasoned veteran, mastering this tropical locale is key to Act 4 success.

Unlocking Whakapanu Island: How to Arrive

Whakapanu Island becomes accessible once you progress through the main Act 4 quest, The Search. After speaking with Doryani in Kings March and securing a boat charter from Rog, you'll meet Makoru at the docks-your captain for navigating the Karui Archipelago.

Act 4 features a non-linear structure, meaning you can visit Whakapanu Island at any point after unlocking Makoru's ship. Many players prioritize it early, as it offers valuable buffs, unique loot, and a chance to unlock a useful hideout.

To set sail, simply speak with Makoru, select Whakapanu Island from the travel menu, and prepare for a short voyage to the island's shores. The island's waypoint will unlock automatically once you step ashore, letting you fast-travel back later.

Island Layout & Key Points of Interest

Whakapanu Island boasts a large, circular layout, with most points of interest scattered along the edge of this loop. This design encourages exploration, though enemy packs patrol every path, so stay vigilant as you traverse.

The island's terrain shifts between sandy beaches and thick jungle, with unique fauna like elephant tortoises, stoneback rhoas, and chameleon drakes dotting the landscape. While some creatures are passive, most will attack on sight, making crowd control essential.

1. Shark Pit (Great White One's Arena)

Along the northern shoreline lies the Shark Pit, an isolated cove that serves as the arena for the Great White One-Whakapanu's fearsome optional boss. This massive shark-like beast patrols the shallow waters, waiting to ambush exiles.

Defeating the Great White One is required for the optional Tribal Medicine quest, which rewards you with a choice of valuable items. Even if you skip the quest, the boss drops a Shark Fin, a unique item with niche crafting uses.

2. Crabshell Cavern

Hidden along the island's eastern shore, Crabshell Cavern is a small cave tucked away among piles of seashells. Inside, you'll face the Dread Crab-a rare mini-boss with tough defenses and area-of-effect attacks.

The Dread Crab's reward is well worth the fight: a Level 4 Uncut Support Gem. Right-clicking this item lets you engrave a random support gem, making it a great early-game boost for spell or melee builds.

3. Petrified Pirate

Scattered across the island (often near straw huts or checkpoints) is a Petrified Pirate statue. Interacting with it yields a Torn Map Piece-one of four needed for the Forgotten Bounty optional quest.

Collect all four Torn Map Pieces (from Whakapanu Island, Shrike Island, Isle of Kin, and Kedge Bay) and return them to Makoru in Kings March to unlock Plunder's Point, a high-level area with rare loot.

4. Singing Caverns Entrance

The central objective of Whakapanu Island is locating the Singing Caverns, a dungeon connected to the island's interior. Its entrance is marked on your map once you draw near, though its exact position varies due to procedural generation.

Entering the Singing Caverns progresses the buy POE 2 Divine Orbs main Whakapanu Island quest and leads you to the island's final boss. Before heading in, clear the surrounding area to avoid being ambushed as you enter.