Na Pali Coast
pure magic
The Na Pali Coast has to be one of the most enchanting and magical places in the US. Twenty-two miles of unforgettable views and magic with every step. The Na Pali Coast has no road ways for those 22 miles and the only way to access this beautiful coast is by foot on the Kalalau Trail or boat.
Everyone should do the Na Pali Coast hike even if it's just a few miles like us! We only hiked in to the 1.5 mile marker and were completely blown away by how amazing it was. We originally planned to do more but we added a few more stops to our list and ran out of time, but we knew we still had to do some!
There are tons of viewpoints along the entire stretch of this hike but the two most common are Hanakapi'ai Falls and Hanakapi'ai Beach. The beach is the first stop at 2 miles in (4 miles round trip). This beach is known for some surfing and can have a dangerous shore break, especially in winter so please use cation and good judgement if you want to get in. The waterfall I heard is breathtaking at 4 miles in (8 miles round trip) and is safe to swim in! It's on my list for next time :)
If you plan on going any further than Hanakapi'ai Falls you MUST have a permit. These permits sell out very very quickly and I have been told can sell out 6 moths to a year ahead of time depending on time of year. So if you plan on conquering the full 22 miles here you can find on the information on purchasing permits.
- Click Continue
- Click the island of Kauai on the top
- Click the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park and Continue
- Then click Browse Availability
They run $15-$20. If you plan on camping along the Na Pali, it is prohibited on the actually trail but is permitted at campsites Kalalua and Hanakoa. You can stay 5 nights at Kalalua and two nights at Hanakoa. There is NO campfires allowed. You can find permit information by clicking here and then "Make a Reservation" in the bottom right corner.
The trail is narrow and steep in some areas and I am told it does get more strenuous as you get further in. But if you are a semi-experienced hiker you should be just fine. I would highly recommend wearing good supportive tennis shoes for the hike.
The views and water is so stunning. I felt like I was walking into a green screen for movies becuase it was that perfect! Bring lots of water because your heart rate will get up! There are some shady spots thanks to the bountiful trees but still, the majority of the trail is in the sun.
While on Kauai it was our plan to see the Na Pali by land and sea! But like I said we did run out of time so we are saving it for next time. We were going to book with GoBlue Adventures becuase their prices and packages seemed the most appealing! However there are TONS of companies that do boat tours! You can simply walk to Hanalei Town and you will see tons of shops offering. Or check out some of these companies I looked into!
Seeing the coast in its full beauty from the water looks like the most special experience I can't wait to see it for my self! You are guaranteed to see dolphins, turtles, fish, and more than likely some rainbows!
It is truly a trail unlike any in the world, and it draws people to it from every country! It is so magical and a must do on your trip!
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how to get here
Getting to Kalalau Trail is very easy becuase it is the end of the road! Take the main highway all the way through North Shore and you just follow it until it turns into a parking lot! There is a beach to the right and the trail head at the left. There is lots of signs so it is very easy to find.
warning
Like mentioned above, if you plan on hiking any more than Hanakapi'ai Falls you MUST have a permit. There are serious fines for hiking without one. Also be respectful to this land as it is very sacred. Always pick up your trash and refrain from obscene noises. Bring lots of water as it will be challenging in some ares. And as always, stay on the trail and be very cautious and aware of your surroundings.