[KAUAI] Kkee State Park - Beginning TUESDAY, MARCH 7, 2023, road repair work will be conducted along Kkee Road between the meadow/lodge area and the first Kalalau Lookout. You do not need to hike the entire trail to get a sense of what its about. Password should be at least 8 characters. The large waves at Kalalau Beach can make a landing by boat extremely treacherous. If you're staying in Nassau Paradise Island, set aside a full day to visit the swimming pigs. Kalalau Beach is very secluded, only with those brave and fit enough to get to the beach via man powered boat or expert hiking trails. All rights reserved. Be sure to purify your water as it most likely contains leptospirosis, a bacteria from urine. I didn't think you camp on the beach. The lookout allows you to walk right to the valley's edge. If you are a member, the Costco in Lihue sells both food and gas. Check overhanging trees for hazards from falling limbs. [HAWAII] UPDATED 1/20/23: Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area WATER OFFLINE in the park, facilities impacted. All rights reserved. The trail narrows to a couple of feet in some sections with a sheer cliff on one side and a steep drop to the Pacific on the other. Beware of this fact when exploring the caves. ny = document.getElementById(image); else This is the cleanest fresh water on the island, so it's great for a shower. Naturalists will find a number of points of interest. Listen to weather and surf forecasts on local radio or check the surf report. Kayaking and swimming (by strong swimmers with fins) from Kalalau Beach are the only ways to reach Honop Beach. Keep in mind that this portion of the trail is in the designated day-use area and can be accessed without a permit. Click the link below to buy a transportation ticket which also includes your entry into the park. Down below you'll see a light and lots of limbs strewn along the . The vast majority of Kalalau Beachgoers hike the Kalalau Trail 11 miles one-way to this stunning destination. The one way price from Hanalei Bay is usually $75-100 and requires swimming a short distance to the boat. Keep driving until the road absolutely ends at a circular parking lot. The beach is a prime spot for swimming and snorkeling, thanks to its relatively calm waters and a coral reef that is just a few meters offshore. Its really an expert swimmer only beach. Another cave down the coast has been eroded into an arch. } else { Brenneckes Beach A short swim around the bend will take you to the secluded Honopu Beach. Waimea Beach. If you've already made it this far and won't be hiking all the way to Kalalau Beach, you might as well take the 2-mile detour (each way) to Hanakapiai Falls. This was my favorite part of the trip. There are even several community gardens throughout the valley, giving the people sustenance without a reliance on the outside world. Most people only do the first segment of this trail, which starts on the north shore of Kauai at Kee Beach and goes to the Hanakapiai Beach. The trail to Hanakapiai falls and beyond Hanakapiai is recommended for experienced hikers only. } To get a camping permit, visit http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/camping/permit_napali.cfm . We were pretty flippin excited to be the only people there! I was so happy I brought my sunglasses on this day. selectedVal = '1'; One of the many bountiful community gardens. Hanakoa campsite at mile 6 gives hikers the opportunity to spend the night at the halfway point on the trail. From here, trails lead through the rest of the valley. Those without camping permits for Kalalau Valley are therefore prohibited from attempting the entire 22-mile round trip hike in a day. I tried hinting to Jenelyn and Reanne that it might not be safe to climb it but to no avail. You can camp on the Kalaau Beach. Should I split my stay between 2 locations on Kauai? The surf and rip currents are variable and often extremely treacherous, but worst in winter when high surf conditions prevail. The last thing you'll want when going on a . Nobody seems to mind, though trading modern creature comforts for a deeper connection to the land around by learning how to coexist with nature instead of profiting off it. Walking the first half mile will reward you with excellent views of the coast. The trail is one of the most difficult in the Hawaiian Islands, which limits visitors to the beach. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; Except that theres an ocean next to you. Maybe take this into consideration before doing a double backflip off a waterfall. These valleys are sacred ground to the Hawaiian people and it is our responsibility as hikers to make a conscious effort to preserve and protect the land. The next day was another bright and beautiful one. Shipwrecks Beach, Kekaha Beach Sometimes you find a tour operator willing to let you off in the water with your equipment in a dry bag. There is a helipad in the valley, but it is usually only used by law enforcement. Permits are very popular and sell out well in advance, especially during summer. In fact, Hanakoa is a hanging valley without a beach the stream exhausts itself over cliffs at the oceans edge. Originally built in the late 1800s, the trail serves as one of the only ways to access the beautiful Napali Coast via land. Its the part right after you come out of the valley. http://www.kauaiexplorer.com/hiking_kauai/kalalau_hike.php. These terraces are now overgrown with a variety of alien trees, including Java Plum, guava, and occasional large mango trees. ny = document.getElementById(image); There are falling rock hazards at the Kalalau Beach campsites along the cliff walls. The short break makes for big waves, especially during the winter season, and the sandbar can be unpredictable. So, I was wondering from someone who has perhaps done it recently, what the experience was like? | Web usage privacy. } Near the Hanakoa Stream crossing, a rest area offers a stop for weary backpackers and hikers. They are all worth exploring if you have the time. document.getElementById('rat').value=selectedVal; var image; if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_2',130,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_3',130,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4-0_1'); .medrectangle-4-multi-130{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:5px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:5px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. Before entering the water check for any warning signs indicating hazardous conditions. Are we nuts? var b = document.getElementById('t0'); Never turn your back on the ocean. Kalalau Trail leading to the beach The trail ends at Kalalau Beach, as the ocean comes up the cliffs at the western end. } Isobutane fuel with a screw top for Jetboil, MSR, and other backpacking stoves is available at Kayak Kauai. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Waimea, HI 96796 You may find locals living near the beach, or in the adjacent valley. Also, there are strong rip and alongshore currents, which may be difficult to spot, even if the ocean appears calm. 2023 Kauai Beaches. As you walk down the beach in Kalalau you feel like youre in a different world. The Kalalau trail hike begins at Ka'a Beach at the end of the parking lot. Because the beach lacks a protective offshore reef to block incoming waves, high surf is common, especially during the winter months. (808) 274-3444. driving distance from Poipu to North Shore, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas. One is the outlaw pools, which is a successive series of small pools that spill into one another. Free Travel Planners for Hawaii & each island, Websites & links for travel sites, attractions, restaurants, maps, lodging & more. A 1.8-mile trail into the valley leads to a spectacular 300-foot waterfall. Heres the thing youre in the middle of nowhere out here. A valid Npali Coast SWP camping permit grants access to Hena SP. Travel light. The authorized camping areas along the trail do not have tables or drinking water. And eventually, our companions returned from their adventure.(Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. here. This beach is the end of the walkable coastline. Though this article focuses on walking the Kalalau Trail, there are other ways to visit if you do not enjoy hiking or are short on time. The faces are sheer and you can see that boulders continuously break off.(Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. function showform(raid){ If you get a late start or are a slower hiker, this may be a good option for you. All camping areas are located on shaded terraces near streams. After this walk, I believe I now know what acupuncture feels like. The trail that leads to this beach is considered the most difficult trails on the islands. show(star_img,rid); How can I take a shelter dog on a field trip? Along the beach, you'll find cliff walls and even some shallow caves to explore. They live here because the valley is difficult to access and offers solitude and isolation. var ny; if (field.value.length > maxlimit) for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { You can also get to this beach via boat, which is fairly commonly done via Kayaks (with a permit). At Kalalau beach, you hike as far as possible on the beach, and then ideally go under a cave arch and arrive on the last beach. Copyright 2023, State of Hawaii. { There are lots of details to consider when planning this hike and having a strategy ahead of time will make sure you have time for everything you want to see. Print your permits ahead of time and carry them with you on the trail. A maximum stay of 5 nights is allowed in Npali Coast State Park. Feral goats have been seen roaming the beach and valley, and contribute to the leptospirosis in the streams and waterfall. You may recognize the coast from the film Jurassic Park where it is featured during the opening helicopter scene. It is not legal to get out of or land a motorized boat on the beach, however, it is done illegally. } There is always work to be done in the garden, so if you are going to enjoy some food, lending a hand for an hour or so would be much appreciated and would go a long way for the gardens long-term vitality. During the summer months, the water can be as calm and clear as a swimming pool. Throughout the year, temperatures seldom drop below 60F. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; Country. Operate by the LNT principle and leave no trace behind you. Beaches - Kalalau beach is the obvious highlight. For some people who come to Kalalau Beach, the long and difficult trail is not adventurous enough. Thus, the only way to reach it is to swim. After leaving Hanakoa valley, the trail enters drier, more open land which offers little shade from the midday sun. lc=rid; If you follow blueflamingo's boating link, you'll find that no tour boats are allowed to land at Kalalau beach, only kayaks. else Kalalau Beach Na Pali Coast. See Polipoli site for updates. But I will gladly be corrected if proven wrong. But because there is no legal camping in Kalalau valley, people usually say they camped "at" Kalalau beach to make the distinction. } The DLNR personnel have to haul the garbage out of there. Start the hike as early as possible so you're ahead of the day hikers and have ample time to finish the hike before dark. Camping on Kauai anywhere other than designated camping areas is considered illegal. It's illegal to dock a boat or even a kayak on the beach but you can swim to it. After crossing the stream about a mile up the valley, the trail becomes more difficult as it meanders over rocks and fallen trees. Swimming is possible on Kalalau Beach, but not without dangers. It is now underwater.). Youll want a shirt or wrap to cover yourself from the stinging sand. And sunglasses. else if(i=='2'){ 6. [MAUI]UPDATED 1/23/23:Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area CLOSED through March 2023 (Per DOFAW). Hiking NaPali Coast If the timing is not right for you to have such an in-depth and intensive experience; there are other ways to see the NaPali Coast by land. [OAHU] UPDATED 2/28/23: Kaena Point State Park Mokuleia Section The vehicle access road will continue to beCLOSED due to heavy rains and saturated road conditions. selectedText = 'Fine'; { We tried to soak it in as much as possible knowing that it would be quite some time before we would ever return. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Fine"; Though not technically allowed, the relaxed atmosphere on the trail seems to coincide with clothing optional attire. The trail winds through several green valleys and ends at the cliff-lined Kalalau Beach. There are designated camping areas, however it seems you can camp anywhere, as its not typically enforced. And, once you're in the valley, you're going to want to familiarize yourself with your surroundings. A) no one will be there to help, b) if anyone was, you'd be taking up critical medical space. Eleven miles in and eleven out. Watch for the spumes of air they exhale when they surface to breathe. *Clicking this link will redirect you to another website. Guava Forest-An entire grove of trees that provides an abundance of wild guava. Use extreme caution, especially during wet weather. Lightweight hiking shoes with good traction are popular. Do not loiter beneath the waterfall or near cliff faces as there is a constant danger of falling rocks. You can walk to the end of the cave but youll want a flashlight if you do. Shopping is limited on Kauai and it is best to bring as many specialty items as possible with you on your flight such as your tent, sleeping bag, and trekking poles. In-order to access the Npali Coast State Wilderness Park as well as the Kalalau Trail, visitors have to go through Hena SP. The Kalalau Trail is one of the adventurous hiking trails in the world. } The 11-mile trail is graded but almost never level as it crosses above towering sea cliffs and through lush tropical valleys. You just need to be a strong swimmer to get to it. The answer is, it takes more effort to find a boat to take you there than it does to hike. ), ^ Top of page | Home | Search | Archives, Unreal Hawaii is a digital magazine for people that love the Hawaii outdoors. But Kalalau valley and beach are not trashed, though far from totally remote and pristine. Seeaosite for updates. She said that even the babies were quiet. The view of the valley is stunning at every point. The people come together to share meals and talk story of their days adventures. Maybe this site can answer your question. There are also wild goats, pigs, deer, fish, lobster, and shellfish for people to eat as local as it gets. The Na Pali Coast is a jewel of not only Kauai, but the entire Pacific. I have a good friend who camps at Kalalau every Christmastime for many, many years. Apply for your permit about 6-12 months in advance. Kee Beach (pronounced Keh-AY) is located at the end of the road. mobile app. Allow a full day to complete the 8 mile round trip from Kee Beach to Hanakapiai Falls. Some of these year-round residents hike out of the valley every couple of months to get supplies. You can drink this water, but you must treat or boil the water beforehand. Those that did not have goggles are Asian so they were okay (on account of the squinty eyes). Gardens-As stated earlier, there are several gardens in the valley that are a source of food for those staying there. We were unaware of sharks and pretty much all the dangerous obstacles. This stretch of sand extends well over a mile down the coast, with a number of caves along the way to explore. } The poorly marked 1/2-mile trail up the east fork of the stream to Hanakoa falls has hazardous, eroded sections but affords a spectacular view of the falls. Fuji Beach Hiking to Hanakpai Valley (2 miles in from trailhead) requires Entry and Parking Reservations at Haena. Never allow small children to swim or play in water unattended. So if you're afraid of heights, you may not like this trail, especially around the middle of it. Anyone proceeding beyond Hanakapiai valley must possess a valid overnight camping permit. Ocean swimming is not recommended for those unfamiliar with local sea conditions. We recommend making this a 3-day hike at least. You will find this beach after a 11 mile hike along the Kalalau Trail on the Napali Coast. Ben Stiller did make fun of himself for taking the easy route. At the end is a pool. You can swim in Cabo San Lucas, but only on some of its beaches. Infrequent widespread storms cause flash floods. Observe from a distance and use the zoom on your camera. This beach is fairly private due to the difficult trek to it. This boulder is now underwatwer.). The cliffs of the Na Pali Coast look prehistoric in this area. The strong current would help by pushing them the whole way. Any advice is much appreciated. Polihale Beach Start early as it gets warm and the trail is challenging enough without afternoon sun the entire time. The summer sand beach at Hanakapiai is a popular destination for day hikers. function textCounter(field, countfield, maxlimit) { You'll need to purchase a camping pass for a stay in Kalalau, and they sell out months ahead of time. var shows = 0; document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; See more from this series: This story was last modified on September 14, 2015. Go through an awesome archway to find a fresh waterfall and pool to bath in. If you look closely at the photo above, you can see them in the water. On the final day of the Kalalau Trail, you . Millions of years of constant erosion from the sea and sky have formed a landscape that is hard to comprehend even photos (as beautiful as they are) do a poor job of fully encompassing the splendour of this area. The shelters are within a complex of old agricultural terraces where Hawaiians once planted taro. Privacy Policy. The first 2 miles of the trail, from Hena State Park to Hanakapiai Beach, make a popular day hike. ), Walk along the Na Pali Coast to the end of the beach for an amazing view.(Update 9/14/15: This area wasdestroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. Cory and Troy picked them off the rocks in between waves. UPDATED 2/22/23: Kalalau Trail has REOPENED. During summer, sea caves just beyond the waterfall provide popular camping shelters, but winter surf removes much of the beach and enters the caves. Not supporting camping there illegally at all - but those folks are not the big problem with opala from what I've been told. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Good"; Both of these excursions depart Nassau at 8:00 a.m. sharp and return from The Exumas between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. But remembers there is no reef to protect the shore, which leaves it vulnerable tolong shore currents. Pack your backpacking stove, however, stove fuel is not permitted on any airplane and will need to be purchased on the island. They told us about how amazing Honopu Beach was. Allow 3 to 4 hours to complete the round-trip hike to Hanakapiai Beach. Heres the other thing it makes for an awesome photo. There may be a boat with the Swedish Bikini Team, and they usually have the best refreshments on board. Summer weather (May to October) normally brings steady tradewinds and occasional showers while winter weather (October to May) is less predictable. for (var i=1; i<=5; i++) { And I apologize to LosAngelosAnd, I was wrong for misinterpreting their inquiry. document.write(""); You can prepare for this by carrying a satellite beacon device which pings a distress signal if you are injured. Hanalei Pavilion With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. To prevent overpopulation, the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) allows hunting on weekends in August and September. Npali Coast State Wilderness Park. *Camping permits for Npali Coast SWP often sell-out quickly, particularly during the summer months. Day hikes beyond Hanakoa are not recommended. } The upper half of this trail should be hiked only in good weather to avoid dangerous flash floods and falling rocks. Plan your trip accordingly. Kiahuna Beach ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; Indeed, they are living the sustainable life that many in modern society have realized we need to aim for albeit with no modern amenities such as electricity, plumbing, and mass communication. ny = document.getElementById(image); Within the 5-night maximum, no 2 consecutive nights are allowed at Hanakoa. This Epic Climb in the Swiss Alps Is Mostly Terrifying -- but Also WorthIt. Well worth a look (and an unforgettable fruitful smell). } Get answers to your questions about Kauai. document.write("

"); I told Hayleen, the lady that cuts my hair, about my trip and she said that Kalalau was one of her favorite places. That means rogue waves can crash onto the beach at any moment. We would attempt to see what was beyond the beach on the following day. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Favorite Kauai Restaurants (updated November 2017), How to Eat Vegan on the Garden Isle of Kauai. While the crew was away we explored the rock garden and wet cave over here. The writer and/or publisher of this website is not responsible for any accidents, injuries, rescues, inconvenience, or loss of life by anyone attempting any of the hikes or activities on this website. Portions of the trail in this section are very narrow and the dropoff on the ocean side is severe. The Kalalau Trail is a 22-mile out-and-back coastal hike located on the northwest side of the island of Kauai. waves can be dangerous - avoid swimming due to riptides and currents. As you travel north, prices go up and options are more limited. for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { #2. Its worth while to bring a way to store water, as the water source is a good trek from the designated camp areas. 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During winter months, dangerous conditions include high surf and strong currents. A waterfall at the western end of the beach (Ho'ole'a Falls) provides freshwater, but before drinking it, the water must be purified (bring a water filter or water treatment tablets) due to the threat of leptospirosis, a bacterial disease. Kalalau beach is about 1 mile long with plenty of trails heading back to the valley. Kee Beach info@MakanaCharters.com It is up to each individual to know their limits, abilities and level of expertise before attempting any outdoor activity. The facilities at the beach include restrooms and showers. Strong winds during the day form lines in the sand. selectedVal = '5'; When it rains, which on Kauai is all of the time, portions of the trail get muddy and sloppy. Learn more >, ADVERTISE: There is no cell reception, but there is a payphone. For over 20 years we have been offering tours of the Na Pali coast on custom-built touring catamarans that were designed to provide the ultimate touring experience. [OAHU] UPDATED 4/12/22: Sand Island State Recreation Area WATER OFF,camping and comfort stationsCLOSED. Though you may be tempted, please do not hike this trail without permission. DAY-USE RESERVATIONS OR A VALID CAMPING PERMIT, AND PARKING RESERVATIONS ARE NOW REQUIRED TO ACCESS THE KALALAU TRAIL. As you walk down the beach in Kalalau you feel like you're in a different world. The trail begins right after Ke'e Beach and has extreme inclines and declines and narrow footpaths, especially between the dreaded 6.5 to 8 miles (10.5 to 12.9 km) into it. NOTE: It is illegal for anyone to provide commercial boat transportation for drop off/pick-up at Kalalau or Milolii camping areas. It is a difficult and sometimes dangerous hike. The trailhead can be found at the very end of the road on the northern side of the island at Ke'e Beach. SeeSand Island site for updates. Plan your trip accordingly. selectedVal = '4'; If your time on Kauai is limited you should definitely see it on one of our tours, whether you visit the valley or not. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Register in order to post your own listings! } There are people who dump their opala (rubbish) back there and don't take it out - but the vast majority of them are not the illegal campers who "live" out there - but as "KauaiHiker" mentions - hunters and other folks who don't take care of the land they supposedly love. Swimming or wading can be dangerous, however, and is not recommended. Many of the months during the year, beach landings there would be dangerous due to rough surf . She didnt do the hike but she was able to see the Na Pali Coast from a cruise ship. The trailhead is located in Hena State Park at the northwest end of Khi Highway (Route 56). During the winter and spring conditions are especially dangerous. } It doesnt go back too far. High surf pounds the shore creating extremely turbulent waters. They were up there within a few seconds. Both green sea turtles and monk seals haul out on the beaches during the day to rest and warm themselves in the sun. }, Private and Quiet Luxury Beach House 3 minute walk to beach TVNC#5151, Hale Kahakai: Beachfront home on the Magical North Shore of Kauai, Hawaii Life Rentals presents Modern beach style vacation house, with A/C, Affordable Beach House Just Steps to the Beach Children Welcome! You need to filter your water on the trail. else if(star_img=='3'){ The trail takes hikers up, over and down the cathedral cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. Did you see Todays Groupon for world resorts international? Waiting in a short line was well worth the $6/night price tag. What are some free things to do on Kauai? Those with Npali Coast SWP Camping Permits do not need to make a Hena SP park entry reservation. Yes as daisies. You can walk into them to explore and take cover from the wind. Its like being in the desert. document.getElementById('rat').value="1"; Tired hikers may be urged on by the panoramic view of Kalalau Valleys fluted cliffs and the coastline beyond. The sea can appear calm here at times (like summer) making it seem safe to swim. Swimming is not recommended at Hanakapiai Beach due to dangerous rip currents and wave patterns. Questions? It appears Hawaii Tourism doesn't want people to visit Kauai, Trip Report 2- Outings, Entertainment, Attractions, Kauai St regis or Big Island Four seasons. Kealia Beach Hawaiian monk seals also live off the coast. Just like the signs around Hawaii will advise you, when in doubt, dont go out.