By doing a little planning and being prepared you will make your hiking trip one of your best Kauai experiences. Soon thereafter, we embarked on the return journey arriving safely arrived back at the car park at 3.30pm. NOTE: Advance reservations are now required for all visitors (except state of Hawaiʻi residents). Quite hairy in spots with the mud and wet, steep rocky slopes. Do not attempt to cross the river during heavy rains. Along the rugged and magical north side of the island it dead ends at a beach, which marks the beginning of the … We made sure that they took extreme caution when crossing. Advance reservations are now required for all vehicles, walk-in entry, and shuttle riders visiting Hāʻena State Park, as well as for day hikers accessing the Kalalau Trail. However, this wet jungle setting gave way to a drier dirt trail along the cliff, overlooking the mesmerizing blue-green water below. It really makes you work for it's awesomeness with the combo of slippery mud/rocks, up & down elev changes, near continuous cliff/ravine edges & rock scrambling as you get nearer to the waterfall. Incredible trail, gorgeous the whole way. The walk to the beach was breathtaking. This an amazing yet difficult trail. The challenging and strenuous hiking begins a … Dangers of high surf at Hanakapiai Beach on Kauai. Bring lots of water, snacks, proper shoes and a watchful eye for the endless beautiful scenery. Reservations may be made up to 30 days in advance, and no later than the day before your visit*. Dont let this discourage you, as soon as you reach the first mile vista, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the Napali coastline and an aerial view of Kee beach and the coral reef that creates the protective lagoon at Kee beach, perfect for snorkeling during the summer months. Likewise no parking at road's end by trailhead. We had lots of snacks and blister tape just in case! Composting toilets are available. Originally built in the late 1800s, portions of the trail were rebuilt in the 1930s. Flash flooding can occur without notice. Length 7.0 miElevation gain 2,404 ftRoute type Out & back Phone: (808) 635-4024 or email info@kauai.com. The drive to the park and entrance is very enjoyable. Before reaching the beach … The hike to Hanakapiai beach is by far one of the most beautiful trails in all Hawaii. The last half of the hike was a descend down to Hanakāpīʻai Valley. Because of the recent rainstorm, this part of the trail was muddy and extremely slippery. sheets of continuous water fell gracefully, what appeared from the sky into a large rock pool where they were greeted by eager trekkers and other folk who had taken the aqua plunge to wash the sweat from the brow or simply wash mud away from their scoured lower limbs. Flash flooding can occur without notice. But if you aren't too tired and have some time, consider taking a two-mile (four miles round trip) hike inland to see Hanakapi'ai … For more info. The trail can get a little muddy during the rainy season so wear some sturdy shoes and bring a change of clothes. As you make your final descent into Hanakapiai Valley you will discover jungles of twisted vines, wild ginger, banana’s, guava, varied Ti plants and at the end the cool waters of Hanakapiai … Although the waves were too big and strong for my liking, the kiddos loved playing in it. The return walk seemed somewhat easier but still as challenging. Most people make this their turn around point, but for those with the time and endurance can trek up the river trail another two miles through bamboo forest; the hike is 4 miles round-trip to beach, 8 miles round-trip to Falls. Path leads to Hanakapi`ai beach with option to follow along Hanakapi`ai … Hanakapi’ai to Hanakoa (4 miles) The stretch of trail beyond Hanakapiai is the gateway to Kalalau, one of the most difficult and challenging hikes on Kauai. Parking vouchers and entrance to the park can be purchased by clicking the link below. Permits can be obtained from the State Parks office in Lihue or on-line @ Hawaii State Parks. During the summer months, Hanakapiai Beach is close to the perfect beach… The Hanakapiai Falls Trail isn’t a stroll in the park. My wife and I took 1hrs 30mins to walk back, resting a couple of times to watch the whales in the distance. Gorgeous hike. As you make your final descent into Hanakapiai Valley you will discover jungles of twisted vines, wild ginger, banana’s, guava, varied Ti plants and at the end the cool waters of Hanakapiai Stream. The 11-mile trail is graded but almost never level as it crosses above towering sea cliffs and through lush valleys. The trail drops to sea level at the beaches o… If you are skipping the falls, I’d recommend bringing beach gear to chill on the beach. Beautiful and muddy. The Hanakapiai Trail comprises the first two miles of Kauai’s Kalalau Trail and links Ke’e Beach with Hanakapiai Beach. Go early in the morning as the rain often moves in in the afternoon. The beach at the end of the trail isn’t good for swimming, very dangerous waves. I enjoyed it from the hammock. Plan your trip accordingly. Please see state park website for reservations and information https://www.gohaena.com/ Click the link below to buy a transportation ticket which also includes your entry into the park. As you make your way along this portion of the Kalalau Trail you will switchback from coast to valleys, over fresh water streams and waterfalls. The views from the beach back up the valley are magical. What a treat! Camping and Permits
There is a cave on the beach to explore or for shelter. Fellow walkers were polite and seemingly always available to lend a helping hand when negotiating the unidirectional pathway was required. The trail begins at Kē‘ē Beach at the northern … This first portion of the trail is heavily used. Hanakapiai Beach Hike On Kauai there is really just one road that takes you around the island. Hanakapi'ai Beach is a 4.2 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. After negotiating another 90 minutes of undulating terrain, much of it wet, muddy and slippery, we were rewarded with the marvel of nature at its purest and best. Hanakapi'ai Falls Trail is a 7 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii that features a waterfall and is rated as difficult. We left the trailhead at 7 am, and saw the sunset as we returned. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking and is accessible year-round. Our favorite part of the hike was the Hanakāpīʻai stream crossing and beach at the end. It might be the most beautiful trail in the world...but I wouldn't know because after a 2-hr drive from Poipu, road construction and plethora of 1-lane bridge crossings I was forced to turn around and go home empty-handed due to a total lack of parking. Kauai has updated its pre-travel testing program and procedures for both incoming trans-pacific and inter-county travelers. One of my favorite hikes of all time. Trail can be slick when it rains, but not excessively challenging. Cool off in the river the ocean here is NOT for swimming. The first 2 miles of the cliff-hugging Kalalau Trail takes you there and, while offering incredible coastal perspectives, requires a hearty dose of athletic stamina. We loved the trail and beach, great opportunity to enjoy a short hike with views all throughout. Dangers of high surf at Hanakapiai Beach on Kauai. We joined some of our fellow trekkers in the pool for a refreshing swim before settling on the fall's embankment to enjoy a hearty lunch. We went all the way to the falls. Upon our arrival we were greeted by two local felines as well as a beautiful view of the inviting beach and its turquoise ocean. We warned that since it was winter, there might be no beach at all - but instead we were met with a huge sandy beach that was perfect and awe-striking. Wonderous Kalalau FallsToday my wife and I, novice trekkers, embarked on the Kalalau Trail with the intention of seeing the Kalalau Falls before sunset! As you make your way along this portion of the Kalalau Trail you will switchback from coast to valleys, over fresh water streams and waterfalls. The falls did not disappoint either. A strenuous twelve hours, but the magic and beauty of the landscape kept us going. We spent some time on the beach as this was halfway for us. Hanakapiai Beach is nestled in the Napali Coast and accessible mainly via the Kalalau Trail. If you park in the lot, go slow. After our lunch on the beach, we decided to head back. The waterfall is like a cloud falling from the sky. This hike is a must. One small lot, poorly laid out requiring people to 3-point their way out against onslaught of incoming cars, half the lot roped off...claustrophobically tight. Parking for the trail head is usually difficult at the end of the road and a grass parking lot on your right as you enter Haena State Park is the suggested area for day parking. This section is a popular day hike for … Family was pumped up to hike, ended up bitterly disappointed. You get a glimpse of the beach from high above before the trail … Amazing views of Na Pali Coast and the Pacific Ocean. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Be prepared to park along the roadway. Reviews. It is not recommended for children under age 6. The beach is on the other side and during the summer months this beautiful beach is great for sunbathing, exploring the rocks and caves. This is the first 2 miles to Hanakapi'ai Beach along the Kalalau Trail in the Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii. GPS – lat 22.2203 long -159.5827, Beach, Cave, River, Views, Waterfalls, Wildlife. The crystal clear river that flows from the falls two miles up river is a refreshing reprieve for tired, hot and muddy feet. Cool off in the river the ocean here is NOT for swimming. While the majority of Kauai hiking trails and beaches are open to you, the … Hanakāpīʻai Beach is a beach in the Hawaiian islands located on Kauai 's Nā Pali Coast. After hiking two miles of rugged terrain to Hanakapiai Beach along the Kalalau Trail you may be tempted to turn back and head back towards Ke'e Beach. A maximum stay of 5 nights is allowed in Napali Coast State Park. The first two miles of the Napali Coast trail is breathtaking. Most people make this their turn around point, but for those with the time and endurance can trek up the river trail another two miles through bamboo forest; During heavy rains and high surf this trail can be extremely dangerous near the river and the shorelines. Truly magical. I plan to come back someday and do the full trail! The views were majestic and we had a great time at the beach. It is definitely a hike for the fit. As you make your way along this portion of the Kalalau Trail you will switchback from coast to valleys, over fresh water streams and waterfalls. Hanakapiai Beach The recommended hike is well worth the effort. You can’t even enjoy the scenery because you can’t take your eyes off the ground! It’s is approximately 2 miles from the start of the Kalalau Trail, however beware it’s not for novice … In order to get to Hanakāpīʻai beach, we had to cross a running stream, which the kiddos found thrilling. Hanakapiai beach is located on the north shore of Kauai at the two-mile point on the Kalalau Trail. People come from around the globe to hike this world famous, very rugged 11-mile trail that hugs the steep cliffs of Kauai’s Napali Coast hundreds of feet above the ocean. Not a great beach either. This last portion before the falls is a bit more than moderate so use care. Hiking in Kauai, Hawaii on the Kalalau trail to Hanakapi’ai Beach then on to Hanakapi’ai Falls on the Napali Coast was an epic, unforgettable experience. At the two-mile mark of the Kalalau Trail, along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, you will reach Hanakapiai Beach and Hanakapiai Valley.For those not wanting to walk the whole Kalalau Trail… Totally, recommend this hike in the Northshore. But beutiful make sure to deep in the waterfall river once get there to baptise you! Hanakāpīʻai Valley and beach via the Kalalau Trail is one of our favorite hikes in Kauai. The beach is about 2 miles (3.2 km) into the hike and looks beautiful, offering great photo opportunities. River was high but worth the crossing. The hike to Hanakapiai beach from Kee Beach is the easiest stretch of the 11 mile Kalalau trail and is the … We've done a lot of trails … Be aware of rats and frog when you hike there. Very pretty and the surf was definitely too rough to consider swimming. Narrow path passes in and out of several valleys with steep inclines and declines. This hike looks deceptively easy at first, but after the first switchback, the trail becomes quite steep, with lots of large rocks, a paving job from the 1930’s, erosion, and tree … Heading into Kauai’s interior and remote terrain offers dome of the most beautiful backdrops on the world. We continued our hike two more miles inland to the falls, had lunch, watched many individuals slither into the water as the rocks were slippery and enjoy a swim. 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