Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park — Attraction in Kauai

The Na Pali Coast, located on the northwestern shore of Kauai in Hawaii, is a breathtaking stretch of rugged coastline renowned for its dramatic landscapes and unparalleled natural beauty.

Towering emerald-green cliffs, rising over 4,000 feet above the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, dominate the scenery, interspersed with lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and hidden sea caves. This remote and pristine coastline is inaccessible by car, which adds to its allure and sense of untouched wilderness. Visitors can explore it by boat, helicopter, or hiking trails, each offering a unique perspective of this iconic destination.

A boat tour along the coast provides an intimate experience, allowing visitors to get close to the towering cliffs, hidden beaches, and sea caves. The crystal-clear waters enhance the beauty of the landscape, while marine life such as dolphins, sea turtles, and, during winter months, humpback whales often accompany the boats. Some tours offer opportunities to snorkel in vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish or to explore the sea caves sculpted by centuries of wave action. The interplay of light and shadow on the cliffs, combined with the rhythmic sound of the waves, creates a serene and almost meditative atmosphere.

For those seeking adventure, the Kalalau Trail presents an exhilarating challenge. This 11 mile trek winds through lush forests, crosses streams, and traverses narrow ridges, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views at every turn. The trail culminates at Kalalau Beach, a secluded paradise framed by towering cliffs and turquoise waters. Camping overnight under a canopy of stars enhances the sense of isolation and wonder. However, the trail requires physical stamina and careful preparation, with unpredictable terrain and stream crossings that can be difficult to navigate. Many hikers choose to visit Hanakapiai Beach, a shorter but equally scenic trek that offers a taste of the trail’s beauty without the full commitment. Those undertaking the hike are advised to bring appropriate footwear, trekking poles, sufficient water, and a packed meal to enjoy while taking in the stunning surroundings.

A helicopter tour offers a different but equally mesmerizing experience, revealing the full scale and grandeur of the Na Pali Coast from above. From the air, the intricate folds of the cliffs, the verdant valleys, and the shimmering waterfalls create a striking mosaic of colors and textures. The bird’s-eye view allows visitors to appreciate the immense scale of the coastline and the remoteness of this natural wonder. Flying over the landscape provides access to areas otherwise unreachable, offering a rare perspective of the untouched beauty that defines this region.

Beyond its visual splendor, the Na Pali Coast holds deep cultural and historical significance. For centuries, native Hawaiian communities thrived in its fertile valleys, relying on the land and sea for sustenance. Remnants of ancient fishing villages and taro terraces still exist, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once inhabited this rugged terrain. The connection to history and nature adds another layer of richness to the experience, making a visit to the Na Pali Coast not only an encounter with natural beauty but also with the enduring spirit of Hawaii’s past.

Those who have explored the Na Pali Coast often describe it as one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. Whether by boat, helicopter, or foot, each journey reveals a different facet of its splendor. The towering cliffs, hidden beaches, and cascading waterfalls make every vantage point unforgettable. The sheer scale and grandeur of the coastline serve as a reminder of nature’s raw power and beauty, leaving visitors with an indelible impression. It remains an essential destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone wishing to witness one of Hawaii’s most...

Hanakapiai Part One

If you are going, you need the following: solid tread on your shoes, an early start, water, solid tread on your shoes and more water. While there are 22 miles in total, hike in hike out, without a camping permit you can only go as far as hanakapiai falls, the four mile in four mile out, 8 mile total hike. The first two miles takes you to Hanakapiai Beach, a secluded beach that has been carved out by years of waves pummeling against the coast line. This is also brackish where the stream from hanakapiai falls meets the ocean. From here, if you your permits you can begin the remainder of the trek out to Kalalau or day hikers can move up stream to hanakapiai falls.

You'll need get to the end of the road early if you want any chance at good parking. You are battling both hikers and snorkelers looking to post up at Ke'e Beach. Unless you have 4wd and good clearance, do nor atttempt the parking lot to your right (approximatwly .25 miles before the turn around at the end of the road). The best timing for this hike, to avoid the masses is roughly 7am. Thus way you can hike without a headlamp. Also, the early morning chill is still in the air; and you get prime parking.

To the beach it is two miles in, and you are faced with major elevation changes, some shear drop offs, muddy and dry conditions, heat, moisture, potential torrents of rain, followed by heavy bouts of sun shine. When you arrive at the beach, be prepared to cross your first river section. Depending on the bottle neck, and what type of shoes you have on, some will trek through the water to the other side...even with shoes and socks. Some will remove shoes, others with hybrid sandal hikers will trudge through. There are stones you can tip toe across without hitting the water, but all eyes are in you when it's your turn. Spending some time at the beach can refresh you for the hike up to the falls. (This authors suggestion, never do this hike without getting to the falls)

If the beach is heaven, the falls is elysium! Your next two miles will not be easy, nor will it resemble anything from the first two miles. You are now in the jungle! Mostly muddy, dense forest surrounds you, false trails tempt and trick you, but if you keep focused on the occasional pink ribbon, you will be fine. You will be faced with multiple river crossings, with warnings about flash floods and raging waters. If you are even remotely unsure about if you should cross, then you probably shouldn't be on this hike, as weather plays a major factor in this north western corner of the island.

to be...

This is a difficult hike. I would not attempt this hike if you have improper footwear or haven't exercised at some point in the last month. It seems like it would be more manageable with poles, which we did not have. I've attached several photos for you to see for yourself the beauty of the Kalalau Trail. These are all at different points too, not all at once. There is consistent payoff throughout, but it's hard to appreciate all the beauty at times because of the rough terrain and the need to be careful. This trail is also highly trafficked (and you will likely arrive here on a shuttle with several of your fellow hiking companions). This is definitely one of the most unique hikes I've ever undertaken. I'm from Oregon and have hiked all over the Gorge, and semi-regularly hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Na Pali Coast is quite unique in just about every way imaginable. We also snorkeled when we came back to Ke'e Beach. It was pretty murky in there, but definitely saw some cool fish! The reef is incredibly close and you can see it from shore. Plan to stay a while after you snorkel to dry off, but also maybe bring some warmer clothes or a change, so you're not soaking wet on the shuttle back. Definitely pack yourself a picnic so you can stay a while and aren't totally starving. Pack lots of water. We went on 5/21. The weather was absolutely perfect and sunny the whole way. We still got our shoes very wet and muddy due to the multiple stream crossings. The streams are bigger than you think they are; bring the right...