Nothing is quite like hiking Kauai's beautiful Na Pali Coast. Located on the north shore of Kauai, this state park is so awe-inspiring it could bring you to tears. It's lush tropical wilderness is rare and magnificent. The views of the rugged coastline below can only be described as brilliant. This breathtaking panoramic hike is is worth every step you take into the ancient Kalalau Trail, but be prepared, it is also known to be the most challenging and strenuous hike in all of Hawaii.
Hanakapi'ai Beach: The First Stretch
- Venturing into the Na Pali Coast State Park begins at the Kalalau trailhead located at the very end of Highway 560, right next to Kee Beach. The first mile is a strenuous, uphill climb that may leave some hikers wondering if they should turn back. To complete the first part of the stretch, you will have to hike about 2 miles through rugged cliffside terrain. This will take approximately two hours to complete, and ends at Hanakapi'ai Beach.
- Along the way up, you will experience breathtaking ocean views from the cliffs, and emerald trees alive with tropical birds. This is truly paradise found. If it is raining, which happens often on the north shore, the trail can become muddy and quite slippery.
- The next two miles to Hanakapi'ai Falls requires a special permit which can be obtained through the Hawaii State Department of Land and Natural Resources or the Kauai State Parks Office in Lihue. These special permits are free of charge. Permits are not required for hiking the first two miles to Hanakapi'ai Beach.
- What you will discover at the end of the second stretch of this hike is a cascading 120 foot waterfall. You will have to hike for approximately three more hours to get there.
- Unless you plan on hiking 22 miles round trip in one day, plan to bring camping equipment along with you. Camping permits must be obtained and may be applied for up to one year in advance. Camping permits cost $10 per night and the maximum stay is five consecutive nights. Be aware that there is no water available at the campsite.
- The Sierra Club rates this hike a 9 out of 10 in degrees of difficulty and describes the hike as strenuous. Take caution in some areas where the dropoffs are up to 1,000 feet down the cliffside and the trail can be as narrow as a foot wide or even less in some places.
- Warning signs are posted at the head of the trail by the State of Hawaii's Department of Land & Natural Resources. One sign reads Caution: uneven footing because of protruding roots and rocks, loose dirt and rocks, mud and slippery surfaces. Trail is narrow &/or steep in places. Use appropriate footwear. Proceed at your own risk. Another sign reads Warning: Falling rocks and steep dropoffs along cliffside trail from here to Kalalau.
- The beach at Hanakapiai can be dangerous. Do not sit on the rocks near the ocean to eat your lunch as large waves have rolled in unexpectedly and swept people out to sea. The ocean current here is dangerous and there are no lifeguards.
- Bring water as there will be none available throughout the entire hike.
- Carry a waterproof backpack and bring light rain gear in case of rain.
- Wear appropriate clothing and hiking boots.
- Check the weather forecast before embarking on your journey.
- Be prepared for the physical endurance this hike will require.
- Hike with a partner or a group, don't hike alone.
- Don't forget the sunscreen.
Even if you only hike the first stretch to Hanakapi'ai Beach, it is worth the effort, and it just gets more and more beautiful the further in you go. This hiking experience is a spectacular journey to a place that can only be reached on foot. If you are able to physically endure the difficulty of this adventure then go for it, this is one not to be missed.
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