Kauai Hiking: Na Pali Coast, Kalalau Trail, Hanakāpī’ai Trail

Hiking Kaua’i | Na Pali Coast Trails

When planning to hike on Kaua’i’s Na Pali Coast it is very important to stay updated on the current conditions of the Kalalau Trail and the Napali Coast State Wildnerness Park.

Mezmerizing and ominous are the best words to describe the Nā Pali Coast, the northwestern side of Kaua’i where no roads or homes exist.  The only navigable route on the Nā Pali Coast is by foot, on the Kalalau Trail, an 11-mile journey that leads to Kalalau Beach where one can camp overnight.  The Kalalau trail is Kauai’s most epic hike on the Nā Pali Coast, starting at the trailhead located at Ke’e Beach, and running all the way to Kalalau Beach.  The Kalalau Trail hike traverses through 5 valleys and presents one of the world’s most challenging terrains.  This epic Kauai hiking trail boasts 180-degree views of the Windex-blue Pacific Ocean, against the backdrop of towering pinnacles, majestic ridges, verdant valleys, and unspoiled beaches.

Breathtaking Ocean Views

First 2-miles | Hanakapi’ai Trail

The Hanakapi’ai Trail is a 2-mile hike from Ke’e Beach, taking you to Hanakapi’ai Beach.  This is also the first portion of the Kalalau Trail.  Many hikers will continue hiking an additional 2 miles into Hanakapi’ai Valley to see an amazing waterfall.

Hikers on the Kalalau Trail

Hiking Na Pali Coast on Kauai | Kalalau Trail, Video:

A word of warning: Only attempt Kauai hiking Napali Coast if you are well-educated on the terrain of the trail which is extremely difficult for even the most-experienced hiker!