The Na Pali Coast on Kauai is a breathtaking stretch of emerald cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and hidden beaches, offering world-class hiking, exhilarating boat tours, and views you simply won’t forget. It’s a must-see destination for anyone visiting Hawaii, especially those seeking adventure and unparalleled natural beauty.
Getting to the Na Pali Coast – Your Launching Points
First things first: you can’t just drive up to the Na Pali Coast and start exploring. This is where things get interesting! Most adventures begin from one of three main locations: Kee Beach (North Shore), Port Allen (South Shore), or via helicopter tour from Lihue. Each option has its pros and cons.
Kee Beach: This is the northernmost point you can drive to on the Kuhio Highway (Highway 560). It’s the starting point for the Kalalau Trail, the only land access to the Na Pali Coast. Be aware that access to Kee Beach and the adjacent Haena State Park requires reservations in advance, typically booked through the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) website. These reservations can sell out weeks or even months in advance, especially during peak season (summer and holidays), so plan ahead!
Parking at Kee Beach is extremely limited, and reservations are crucial. Without a valid reservation and entry permit you won’t be allowed to enter the area. The reservation fee is typically around $5 per person for non-residents, plus a parking fee of $10 per vehicle if parking is available. You can also consider taking the shuttle, which is a more reliable option, as parking is guaranteed. Shuttle fares are approximately $35 per person round trip.
Port Allen: Located on the south shore, Port Allen is the hub for most Na Pali Coast boat tours. Several companies operate from here, offering a variety of experiences, from large catamaran cruises to smaller, more intimate zodiac tours. The drive to Port Allen is straightforward from most areas of Kauai. Just plug “Port Allen Harbor” into your GPS. Parking is readily available but can get crowded during peak tour times. Expect to pay around $10 – $15 for parking at the harbor itself, or you might find free street parking a few blocks away if you arrive early.
Helicopter Tour: For an unparalleled aerial view of the Na Pali Coast, consider a helicopter tour. Tours depart from Lihue Airport. While the most expensive option, ranging from $300 to $450 per person, it provides a perspective you simply can’t get any other way. It’s also a great option for those who want to see the entire coast without hiking or boating.
Hitting the Trail: Hiking the Kalalau
The Kalalau Trail is the undisputed king of Na Pali Coast hikes. It’s a challenging 11-mile (one way) trek that hugs the coastline, traversing five valleys before reaching Kalalau Beach. However, you don’t have to hike the entire trail to experience its beauty.
The First Two Miles (Hanakaipiai Falls): This is the most popular section of the Kalalau Trail and is generally considered accessible to reasonably fit hikers. It’s a strenuous but rewarding hike with incredible views and culminates at Hanakaipiai Beach. From here, you can continue another two miles inland to Hanakaipiai Falls. However, this section is more challenging, involving river crossings (which can be dangerous during heavy rain) and requires more experience. The total distance to the falls and back is about 8 miles. Allow at least 6-8 hours for this hike.
The trail is rocky and uneven, with steep climbs and descents, exposed areas, and potential for slippery conditions. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential. Water is critical, at least 3 liters per person, and snacks are a must. Also, be very aware of flash flood warnings, especially if hiking near Hanakaipiai Stream or Falls. Numerous rescues have been performed in this area because of hikers being trapped by rising water. The Department of Land and Natural Resources Kalalau Trail Brochure provides crucial safety information.
Beyond Hanakaipiai: Permits and Considerations: Hiking beyond Hanakaipiai Beach requires a permit, which you must obtain well in advance. These permits are also managed through the DLNR reservation system. Backpacking the entire Kalalau Trail to Kalalau Beach is an unforgettable experience, but it’s not for the faint of heart. It requires significant planning, physical endurance, and experience with backcountry camping. You will need to pack all your food, water filtration or treatment, camping gear, and be prepared for challenging conditions.
Water sources exist along the trail but must be treated before drinking. Respect the environment and “Leave No Trace” principles, packing out everything you pack in. Be aware of wildlife, including feral pigs and chickens, and never feed them. The permits allow you to stay for a period of time, typically up to five nights, and you’re required to camp in designated areas.
Sailing, Snorkeling, and Sea Caves: Exploring by Boat
If you prefer to experience the Na Pali Coast from the water, a boat tour is the perfect option. Tours range from large catamarans offering comfortable seating, meals, and snorkeling, to smaller, more agile zodiac boats that can navigate into sea caves and get you closer to the action.
Catamaran Tours: These tours are popular for families and those seeking a more relaxed experience. They typically include breakfast, lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear. Some catamarans even have water slides! The price ranges from $150 to $250 per person, depending on the length of the tour and the amenities offered. Check tours that include the chance to see dolphins, whales (especially during winter months), and green sea turtles! Look for tours that offer limited capacity for a more personal experience. Make sure life vests are available and that the crew provides clear safety briefings.
Zodiac Boat Tours: For a more adventurous and immersive experience, consider a zodiac boat tour. These smaller inflatable boats are faster and more maneuverable, allowing them to enter sea caves (weather permitting) and get you closer to waterfalls and marine life. Be prepared for a bumpy ride! Zodiac tours are generally more expensive than catamaran tours, ranging from $200 to $300 per person. Seasickness is a real possibility on zodiac tours, so take precautions if you are prone to motion sickness. Also, zodiac boats typically have less shade, making sun protection even more important. The swells and waves can pick up quickly so pay close attention to the boat crew!
Kayaking Adventures: For the truly adventurous, consider a guided kayak tour along the Na Pali Coast. This is a strenuous but incredibly rewarding way to experience the coastline up close. Kayak tours typically last a full day and require a good level of physical fitness. They involve paddling up to 15 miles, launching from and returning to Polihale State Park or Haena (depending on the tour operator and conditions), and navigating challenging ocean conditions. The cost ranges from $250 to $400 per person, including all equipment and lunch. These tours are highly dependent on weather conditions and are often canceled due to high surf or strong winds. Only experienced kayakers should attempt this option, and always go with a reputable guide.
Snorkeling Hotspots: Whether you choose a catamaran or zodiac tour, snorkeling is a highlight of most Na Pali Coast boat trips. Several spots along the coast offer excellent snorkeling, including Nu’alolo Kai State Park and near the sea caves (weather permitting). Expect to see a variety of colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and maybe even dolphins. Ensure you are given proper instructions on how to use the snorkeling gear and are aware of any potential hazards. Remember that sunscreen and reef-safe sunscreen are highly recommended as well!
Photography and Videography Tips
The Na Pali Coast is a photographer’s paradise, but capturing its beauty can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you get the best shots:
Golden Hour: Photographing during the “golden hour” (the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset) will provide the most flattering light, bringing out the colors and textures of the cliffs and valleys. The light is soft, warm, and diffused, creating a magical atmosphere that will enhance your images.
Lenses: A wide-angle lens (16-35mm) is essential for capturing the expansive views of the Na Pali Coast. It will allow you to fit the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic coastline into a single frame. A telephoto lens (70-200mm or longer) is also useful for isolating details, such as waterfalls or sea caves, and for capturing wildlife like dolphins or whales. A circular polarizer lens will help reduce glare and reflections, deepen the blue of the sky and ocean, and saturate the colors of the landscape. It’s highly recommended!
Camera Settings: Use a narrow aperture (f/8 to f/16) to maximize depth of field, ensuring that both the foreground and background are in focus. Use a low ISO (100 or 200) to minimize noise in your images. Use the lowest possible shutter speed based on the amount of light for a tack-sharp image.
Composition: Use leading lines to draw the viewer’s eye into the image. The coastline, valleys, and waterfalls can all serve as leading lines. Frame your shots using natural elements like trees, rocks, or sea caves to add depth and interest.
Weather Conditions: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. Rain showers are common along the Na Pali Coast, so protect your camera gear with a rain cover. Fog can also roll in quickly, obscuring the views. If fog is present, try to capture the moodiness and drama of the scene.
Stabilization: For boat tours, use a fast shutter speed to compensate for the movement of the boat. A monopod or image-stabilized lens can also help reduce camera shake.
Aerial Perspectives: If shooting from a helicopter, use gyroscopic stabilization to minimize vibrations. Coordinate with the pilot to request slow passes or hovering in areas you want to photograph.
The Best Time to Visit the Na Pali Coast
The best time to visit the Na Pali Coast depends on your priorities – weather, crowds, and whale watching. Overall, the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer the best combination of good weather and fewer crowds.
Weather: The summer months (May-September) are generally drier and sunnier, making them ideal for hiking and boat tours. However, this is also peak season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. The winter months (November-March) bring more rain and larger swells, which can impact boat tours and hiking conditions. However, this is also whale watching season, as humpback whales migrate to Hawaii to breed and give birth.
Crowds: The Na Pali Coast is a popular destination year-round, but the crowds are largest during the summer months and around holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or during the off-season (October-November and April-May). Book accommodations, tours, and permits well in advance, especially if traveling during peak season.
Whale Watching: If you’re interested in seeing humpback whales, the best time to visit is between November and March. Whale watching tours are offered from Port Allen and other locations around Kauai. You can often spot whales from the shore as well, especially from high vantage points along the Na Pali Coast.
Responsible Travel and Conservation
The Na Pali Coast is a fragile ecosystem, and it’s important to ভ্রমণ responsibly to help protect it for future generations. Here are a few tips:
Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in, including trash, food scraps, and human waste. Use designated restrooms whenever possible, or pack out your waste using waste bags or portable toilets.
Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed them. Feeding wildlife can alter their natural behavior and make them dependent on humans. Watch out for Hawaiian Monk Seals as it is illegal to disturb them. The fine of disturbance for Hawaiian Monk Seal, is a Class C felony, punishable by as much as five years in prison and $50,000 in fines.
Stay on Marked Trails: Stick to marked trails to avoid damaging vegetation and disturbing wildlife habitat. Hiking off-trail can also increase the risk of erosion and landslides.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Conventional sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs. Use reef-safe sunscreen that is mineral-based and free of oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Support Local Businesses: Choose local tour operators, restaurants, and shops to support the local economy and help preserve the unique culture of Kauai.
Making Reservations (Don’t Skip This!)
I mentioned this before, but it’s worth repeating: Reservations are absolutely essential for visiting many parts of the Na Pali Coast, especially Kee Beach and Haena State Park. Permits are also required for hiking beyond Hanakaipiai Beach on the Kalalau Trail. Here’s a breakdown of how to make reservations:
Haena State Park (Kee Beach): You can make reservations up to 30 days in advance through the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) website. Choose between parking reservations or shuttle reservations. Shuttle reservations often book up quickly, especially during peak season. Check for cancellations if your desired dates are unavailable.
Kalalau Trail Permits: Permits for backpacking the Kalalau Trail can also be obtained through the DLNR website. These permits are in high demand and often sell out months in advance, so plan well ahead of your trip. Consider booking as soon as the reservation window opens (usually 90 days in advance).
Boat Tours: Book your Na Pali Coast boat tour in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. Many tour operators offer online booking, and it’s often possible to find discounts by booking in advance. Read reviews carefully and choose a reputable tour operator with a good safety record.
Cost Considerations
Visiting the Na Pali Coast can be expensive! Here’s a general breakdown to help you budget:
Flights: Round-trip flights to Kauai (LIH) can range from $400 to $1000 or more, depending on your origin city and the time of year. Booking in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can help you find cheaper flights.
Accommodation: Accommodation costs vary widely, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500+ per night, depending on the type of accommodation and location. Consider staying in Princeville on the North Shore for easy access to Kee Beach and the Kalalau Trail, or in Poipu on the South Shore for more sunshine and proximity to Port Allen and the beaches.
Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Kauai. Rental car prices range from $50 to $100+ per day, depending on the type of vehicle and the rental company. Parking fees can also add up, especially at popular attractions like Kee Beach. Consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, but availability may be limited in some areas.
Activities: The cost of activities depends on your interests. Hiking is relatively inexpensive, but you’ll need to factor in the cost of permits, parking, or shuttle transportation. Boat tours can range from $150 to $300+ per person. Helicopter tours are the most expensive option, costing $300 to $450+ per person.
Food: Food costs can range from $30 to $100+ per day, depending on your dining choices. Eating at local restaurants and food trucks can be a more affordable option than dining at resorts. Groceries can also be purchased at supermarkets like Safeway or Foodland if you want to prepare your own meals.
What to pack for your adventure
The specific items you’ll want to bring with you to the coast depend on your activity but the general things you’ll want include:
Hiking: Sturdy hiking shoes are essential for the Kalalau Trail. Bring plenty of water (at least 3 liters per person), snacks, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit. A waterproof backpack is also a good idea, especially if hiking near Hanakaipiai Falls.
Boat Tours: Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a swimsuit, a towel, and a waterproof bag for your electronics. If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication before the tour.
General: Comfortable clothing, a light jacket or sweater (as it can get cool in the evenings), a camera, and binoculars are also good to have.
Na Pali Coast: Things to Avoid
Hiking in Flip-Flops: The trails can be slippery and uneven, so flip-flops can increase the risk of falls.
Ignoring the Weather: Pay attention to weather forecasts and warnings, especially for flash floods.
Touching Coral: Coral is fragile and can be easily damaged by touch.
Not Respecting Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions.
FAQ Section
Do I need a permit to hike the Kalalau Trail?
Yes, you need a permit to hike beyond Hanakaipiai Beach (2 miles in). Permits are required for both day hiking and camping and can be obtained through the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) website.
What should I wear on a Na Pali Coast boat tour?
Wear a swimsuit, comfortable clothing, and bring a towel. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are also essential. A light jacket or sweater can be helpful, as it can get cool on the water.
Are there restrooms along the Kalalau Trail?
There are limited restroom facilities along the Kalalau Trail. There are composting toilets at Hanakapi’ai Beach and Hanakoa Valley. It is best to be prepared to pack out your waste.
Can I swim in the ocean along the Na Pali Coast?
Swimming is possible at some beaches along the Na Pali Coast, but be aware of strong currents and high surf. Hanakaipiai Beach is known for its dangerous currents and is not recommended for swimming. Always check with local authorities or tour operators for current conditions and safety recommendations.
Is it safe to drink water from streams along the Kalalau Trail?
No, it is not safe to drink water directly from streams along the Kalalau Trail. The water may be contaminated with bacteria or other pathogens. Always treat or filter water before drinking it. Bring a water filter or purification tablets.
What is the best way to see the Na Pali Coast if I’m not able to hike or do a boat tour?
A helicopter tour is a great option for seeing the Na Pali Coast if you’re not able to hike or take a boat tour. Helicopter tours provide stunning aerial views of the coastline and are a good alternative for people with limited mobility.
Are there any restaurants or shops near Kee Beach and the start of the Kalalau Trail?
There are limited services near Kee Beach. The town of Hanalei, located a few miles before Kee Beach, offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and grocery stores. This is the best place to stock up on supplies before heading to the Na Pali Coast.
Can I bring my drone to fly along the Na Pali Coast?
Drone use is regulated in Hawaii. Check and follow the drone laws and regulations before flying your drone near the Na Pali Coast.
Is there cell phone service along the Na Pali Coast?
Cell phone service is very limited along the Na Pali Coast, especially in the valleys and remote areas. Do not rely on cell phones for communication or navigation.
What if my boat tour is cancelled due to bad weather?
Most reputable tour operators offer refunds or reschedulings if the tour is cancelled due to bad weather. Check the tour operator’s cancellation policy before booking.
References
Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of State Parks.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
So, what are you waiting for? The Na Pali Coast is calling your name! Whether you choose to conquer the Kalalau Trail, cruise along the coast in a catamaran, or soar above it all in a helicopter, you’re guaranteed an experience you’ll never forget. Start planning your adventure today, book those reservations, and get ready to be amazed by the natural wonder. You deserve it! Mahalo and safe travels!
