During the winter months, huge waves crash against the cliffs. Isobutane fuel with a screw top for Jetboil, MSR, and other backpacking stoves is available at Kayak Kauai. For a shorter hike, the first portion of the trail up to Hanakapiaai Beach is accessible for day use and does not require a permit. Kalalau Beach Na Pali Coast. It is not legal to get out of or land a motorized boat on the beach, however, it is done illegally. They are all worth exploring if you have the time. There are no lifeguards on these beaches and help is a helicopter ride away. Na Pali Coast State Park Information & More - Hawaii Guide Nearby there is a waterfall, that can be used to rinse off or bathe in. The swimming at this stunning beach can be rather dangerous, too. Camping fees for Npali Coast are $25 per person per night (Hawaii residents), $35 per person per night (non-residents). Haena Beach for (i=1; i<=star_img; i++) { These terraces were replanted with coffee plants in the late 1800s, which are still growing throughout the valley today. Due to increasing popularity, the state limits how many permits are released every day. Both green sea turtles and monk seals haul out on the beaches during the day to rest and warm themselves in the sun. As you travel north, prices go up and options are more limited. And it's absolutely wonderful to take a dip in Queen's Bath after enjoying the turtles inside Turtle Cove. And don't be fooled by the first Kalalau Lookout sign. Those of us that didnt have sunglasses wore their swimming goggles to keep the sand out of their eyes. And then Jenelyn took it up another notch. Top Ten Ways to Protect Hawaiian Monk Seals/Dolphin protection, Geography, Geology, History and Culture of Kaua'i. The trail is one of the most difficult in the Hawaiian Islands, which limits visitors to the beach. This is the real Kalalau Valley Lookout. Eleven miles in and eleven out. Composting toilets are available at Hanakapiai, Hanakoa, and Kalalau. The rugged, inaccessible coast is made up of a series of green cathedral cliffs that reach out into the ocean like the talons of an island-sized dragon. else if(star_img=='3'){ This is the cleanest fresh water on the island, so it's great for a shower. Seeaosite for updates. There is no reef to break the waves, so this beach nearly always has high surf year round. Any advice is much appreciated. And then, after a few seconds passed, all you could hear was a barrage of *click-click-clicks* from cameras. With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. Empty, untouched beach On your mark, get set, go Tucked a few hundred yards down the coast is one of the more inaccessible beaches in Hawaii, known as Honopu beach. One is the outlaw pools, which is a successive series of small pools that spill into one another. 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. The trail traverses the Hono o Na Pali Natural Area Reserve in the small hanging valleys of Hoolulu and Waiahuakua before entering Hanakoa Valley. The beach is a beautiful place to hang out and relax, there's a stream where you can take a dip, and bathrooms if you need to stop. There are plenty of other tucked-away beaches in Kauai that are not quite as hard to get to as this one, which we didn't list here because the effort-reward quotient isn't quite right. } This Epic Climb in the Swiss Alps Is Mostly Terrifying -- but Also WorthIt. You are always a wealth of hiking info. } Campers are allowed a maximum length stay of 5 nights. Never turn your back on the ocean, an unexpected wave can knock you down and drag you out. Check overhanging trees for hazards from falling limbs. Kee Beach is a safe snorkel spot when the water is calm because it is protected from large waves by a fringing reef. The rest of us, Reanne, Cory, Troy, Jenelyn and I walked it back to the cracked boulder. Naturalists will find a number of points of interest. A 1.8-mile trail into the valley leads to a spectacular 300-foot waterfall. This system helps protect the land from overuse and degradation. Walk-ins permitted. 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There are no lifeguards at Kalalau Beach, and you're an 11-mile hike from help. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Very Good"; 5 Days In Kauai Sample Itinerary | Hawaii Travel Guide This beach is the end of the walkable coastline. Take your time and place your feet carefully and you will get through just fine. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; Phone Number. This was my favorite part of the trip. For more information read our privacy policy. Even amongst the gorgeous sights and sounds along the entire coastline, one area stands out above the rest. The trail traverses five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted cliffs. And as koloagirl says, you still need a camping permit. The cliffs of the Na Pali Coast look prehistoric in this area. and the farthest you can drive on the north shore. Some beaches in the city need to be swimmable due to risky conditions of intense waves and sudden descent on the depth of seabeds. Print your permits ahead of time and carry them with you on the trail. Parking at Hena State Park is limited to 100 stalls, so we recommend taking the Kauai North Shore Shuttle. function mark(star_img,rid) Lumahai Beach We saw campers and their tents and also talked to hikers, and campers, who accomplished this feat to this beach, and I say that reverently. A password will be mailed to you! People have drowned here from the dangerous combination of a hidden current and the cliffside surroundings. The trail crosses the stream well back in the valley, therefore there is no shoreline access at Hanakoa. ), At the end of the beach theres a massive rock that looks like it fell from high above.(Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. Its rated a 9/10 for technical difficulty, and has many shear drop offs, narrow ledges, and never ending climbs and descents. Kee Beach document.getElementById('rat').value=selectedVal; document.getElementById('rat').value="1"; } The Kalalau Trail is an in-and-out trail, meaning you have to return the way you came. A maximum stay of 5 nights is allowed in Npali Coast State Park. This small beach is no longer accessible.). I don't if that service is available for everyone, but I remember thinking what an "easy" way to hike the whole trail without going round trip. This is the final post in a 5-part series on Kalalau. Signs warn hikers of dangerous rockfall near the falls, so this area is off limits for swimming. Anini Beach is an oddity on Polihale Beach is spectacular by all measures of comparison and almost every description of this beach requires the use of a superlative. We will use this opportunity to perform road grading, back filling, downed tree removal, and sand removal from the shower. Having a rock roll through your tent or crack you on the noggin may negatively impact your trip. [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. Along the beach, you'll find cliff walls and even some shallow caves to explore. Questions? When it rains, which on Kauai is all of the time, portions of the trail get muddy and sloppy. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/star.gif"; Kalalau Beach, Kauai From here, trails lead through the rest of the valley. Allow a full day to complete the 8 mile round trip from Kee Beach to Hanakapiai Falls. Hours: 8:00a.m. Down below you'll see a light and lots of limbs strewn along the . shows = 1; Even if there was an unautthorized boat, or raft, the OP did not happen to mention the time of year that they were planning on camping at the Kalalau Valley. selectedVal = '1'; Subscribe for exclusive city guides, travel videos, trip giveaways and more! The reserve harbors a variety of native lowland forest plants. } The vast majority of Kalalau Beachgoers hike the Kalalau Trail 11 miles one-way to this stunning destination. } You just need to be a strong swimmer to get to it. else if(i=='2'){ Each of these offshoots has unique waterfalls and swimming spots. On the final day of the Kalalau Trail, you . }, 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! Country. During the summer one can kayak out that way (one of our frequent contributors TravelerXYZ has done it) but again you can't land the kayaks. From the beach, the valley extends 2 miles inland, with the high plateau of Kokee State park looking down upon it. 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. What off the beaten path activities can I do? } } There may be a boat with the Swedish Bikini Team, and they usually have the best refreshments on board. Money is irrelevant, instead people rely on the barter system and gifting one another for their exchanges. Hena SP now requires advanced reservations for entry except for those with valid camping permits for the Npali Coast SWP. Waterfalls-There are a number of waterfalls in the valley. #3. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; I would like to spend one night at the Kalalau beach, but honestly, I don't feel like walking the 11 mile trail, so does anyone know if I can arrange a boat there that would pick me up the next day? This was my favorite part of the trip. Its really an expert swimmer only beach. else if(star_img=='5'){ | Web usage privacy. How can I take a shelter dog on a field trip? Thanks Hiker. Even with this type of device, help is most likely hours away. You must either boat, helicopter or hike to this secluded destination, but that doesn't mean you can't catch a sneak peak without all the effort. Kalalau Beach Pics & Info, Kauai, HI (43 Photos) | UnrealHawaii.com By using our application you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy, including the transfer of your personal data to the United States from your country of residence (if different). Thus, the only way to reach it is to swim. The lookout allows you to walk right to the valley's edge. But because there is no legal camping in Kalalau valley, people usually say they camped "at" Kalalau beach to make the distinction. countfield.value = maxlimit - field.value.length; If you google Ben Stiller on David Letterman you can see a clip of him on Dave telling about a company that took him by boat to the end of the trail and then hiking the 11 miles to Ke'e. This section is a popular day hike for able-bodied hikers. Contact the Department of State Parks, (808) 587-0300, weekdays 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Beginning at Ke`e Beach and ending at Kalalau Valley, this challenging but rewarding hike, earned the Sierra Club's rating of "9" out of "10" in degree of difficulty. Day hikes beyond Hanakoa are not recommended. It's a surreal scene. Weather Report says Rain, Should I panic? Gardens-As stated earlier, there are several gardens in the valley that are a source of food for those staying there. Kalalau Trail Kauai - Hiking to the Hanakapiai Beach and Back We came upon a young woman hiking fully nude who seemed completely at ease in her birthday suit. 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. And how do I know that ? There are no trash receptacles in the park, and everything you take in, you will need to carry out. The public beach in Cedar Key is free to use and offers a quaint spot to relax by the waves. } I didn't think you camp on the beach. There is a natural stone arch that you can walk beneath and another waterfall that you can stand under. document.getElementById('rat').value="5"; document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Fine"; ny.src="../../../reviews/images/star.gif"; Kayak the Na Pali Coast, The Mount Everest of Sea Kayaking - Hawaii.com Is there something we should watch for? You'll peer down thousands of feet into a colorful tropical landscape that is punctuated by a beautiful beach. She told me that when the ship got to Kalalau it slowed down and did a U-turn. #30. But if you abuse or harass the animal or your actions result in its . The trail to Hanakapiai falls and beyond Hanakapiai is recommended for experienced hikers only. Beaches - Kalalau beach is the obvious highlight. It is flanked by sheer canyon walls and it is illegal to boat or kayak there. It's better to enjoy the beach, the scenery and its caves while taking a refreshing shower in the natural waterfall. You could take a boat tour down the coastline, a guided kayak excursion, or a helicopter tour. var el = document.getElementById('sf'); I would pass on the pakalolo tent living homesteaders in the Kalalau Valley who deposit huge tall piles of trash throughout the area. These Stunning Cabins Are the Ultimate Zion National Park Basecamps, 8 of the Coolest Airbnbs Near Disney World, Orlando, 8 La Condesa Airbnbs To Settle Into Mexico Citys Coolest Neighborhood, The 16 Most Stunning Hotel Pools Around theWorld, 12 Dreamy Airbnbs in Hawaii That Are Right on theBeach, Escape To a Luxury Waikiki Resort This Winter for 50% Off With This Exclusive Deal, The Waves in Hawaii Are so Big Right Now They're Taking Out Weddings and Restaurants, 5 States With the Most Scenic and Laid-Back Nude Beaches, These Airbnbs Have Epic Waterslides To Keep Your Crew Refreshed, King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel Offers Adventures and History on Hawaii's BigIsland, These Are the Most Over-the-Top Spa Destinations in theWorld, The 17 Most Underrated Honeymoon Destinations in theUS. 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 a 22-mile out-and-back coastal hike located on the northwest side of the island of Kauai. We didnt walk go in the water so it might go back much farther actually. Plan your trip accordingly. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License. Should I split my stay between 2 locations on Kauai? From Kalalau Beach, you can swim around the corner to Honop Beach, which is even more spectacular than Kalalau. } The trail crosses Kalalau Stream near the valley mouth before ending at Kalalau Beach and a small waterfall. else Kalalau Trail (Kauai) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Tripadvisor It is now underwater.). The beach sits at the foot of Kalalau Valley which is the jewel of the Na Pali Coast. for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { You may recognize the coast from the film Jurassic Park where it is featured during the opening helicopter scene. If your time on Kauai is limited you should definitely see it on one of our tours, whether you visit the valley or not. The ledge is rocky, you're up against a cliff and the ledge drops off into deep, violent ocean water. 3. show(star_img,rid); [OAHU] UPDATED 3/2/23: Keawa Heiau State Recreation Area Aiea Loop Trail isCLOSEDdue to high winds and heavy rain, the heiau area is OPEN. UPDATED 2/22/23: Kalalau Trail has REOPENED. This boulder is now underwatwer.). Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakapiai FallsFour miles roundtrip and located at mile 2 on the main trail, this side trail hikes up a valley that ends at a waterfall. Therefore, the only way to legally hike the trail in its entirety is to do so with a permit, and they can be difficult to obtain. Use good judgment regarding current ocean conditions and your own abilities. I have no idea what they charge. Camping gear should include a lightweight sleeping bag or blanket, sleeping pad, tent with rainfly, cooking stove and fuel, water purification tablets or filter, first aid kit, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, rain gear, and biodegradable soap. You can walk to the end of the cave but youll want a flashlight if you do. A hat is nice to have too. Unreal Hawaii is not affiliated with the state of Hawaii. We were unaware of sharks and pretty much all the dangerous obstacles. We couldnt stay for long as youneed to get back before the waves and the current pick up. Ten lashes for me! Secure your car and limit the valuables left inside. As you walk down the beach youll encounter several caves. I knew you could camp close to the beach but I didn't think on the beach. Never turn your back on the ocean. You'll need to purchase a camping pass for a stay in Kalalau, and they sell out months ahead of time. var n = document.getElementById('n'+rid); for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { Permit holders can choose where to spend their allotted nights on the trail. Aside from environmental concerns, you will face a court date and heavy fines if you get caught. Makana Charters A) no one will be there to help, b) if anyone was, you'd be taking up critical medical space. In addition, there is a shallow sand bar that runs parallel to the beach but in spots the ocean floor abruptly drops to levels above your head. There are three river crossings on the trail that become a flash flood hazard during heavy rainfall and may be impassable. and our ), 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. We were advised by a local that staying in the shallows where your feet can touch is a good precaution. Anini Beach is a gorgeous blue lagoon with golden sand and shallow water along the north shore of Kauai. Though you may be tempted, please do not hike this trail without permission. This is strictly prohibited, however difficult to enforce. When you finally get to the beach, you'll marvel at the hikers that have carried 50+ pounds of gear across the hike and over the ledge. Other waterfalls will be along the journey, offering a much appreciated cold shower. Because the beach lacks a protective offshore reef to block incoming waves, high surf is common, especially during the winter months. 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. Observe from a distance and use the zoom on your camera. If you are stopped by a park ranger you will be asked to show the permit along with photo id. Hideaway Beach function noshow(star_img,rnid) Honopu Beach now requires swimming a good 300 or more yards to access the beach.). [Kauai] Swimming to Honopu Beach from Kalalau : r/HawaiiVisitors - reddit Poke may be delicious, but raw fish does not keep well in a backpack. Sometimes you find a tour operator willing to let you off in the water with your equipment in a dry bag. Like previous poster said, unless you have rough water experience, just don't. Especially, especially right now. el.style.display = 'inline'; The trail winds through several green valleys and ends at the cliff-lined Kalalau Beach. What are some free things to do on Kauai? Some dock a small boat in the town of Waimea and ride it over to Kalalau Valley to drop off passengers. 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. 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. else How has Kauai been affected by the floods? Waimea, HI 96796 20 Things You Should Know Before Hiking Hawaii's Kalalau Trail We were pretty flippin excited to be the only people there! 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. [email protected] Commercially guided camping trips are not authorized. It is protected from the deeper ocean by one one of the longest reefs in Kauai. 10 Best Things to Do in Cedar Key FL You Shouldn't Miss As you can expect, Tunnels Beach is . After all, Kalalau Valley opens west to give you stunning views of the orange tropical sun dipping into the vast Pacific Ocean. Permits are obtained via an online portal on the DLNR website here. more. mobile app. Park. Never allow small children to swim or play in water unattended. More vegetation and another beach on the other side of the arch. Tradewind showers are more frequent during the night and early morning. Hikers have perished on this stretch of the hike, so you should only cross if you're physically fit and there's plenty of sunlight. You will find this beach after a 11 mile hike along the Kalalau Trail on the Napali Coast. } The Kalalau Valley sits roughly halfway down the coast. On the second day of the hike, you can explore some of the many attractions around Kalalau beach, such as the Hanakapi'ai waterfalls, the Hanakoa Falls, and the Kalalau Valley Trail. Within the 5-night maximum, no 2 consecutive nights are allowed at Hanakoa. for (var i=1; i<=5; i++) { Theres no longer sand to walk on here. View of the ocean from the Kalalau Trail. 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. We recommend making this a 3-day hike at least. For experienced hikers in excellent shape, allow for a long day (8+ hours) to complete the round trip from Hena State Park to Hanakoa. But, dont do what Corys doing here youll give your friends a heart attack. You can drink this water, but you must treat or boil the water beforehand. Most prefer life in the valley to the busy day-to-day life on the outside where the simple pleasures of living off the land are nearly impossible. During winter months, dangerous conditions include high surf and strong currents. The trail and activity descriptions are given to give the reader a better understanding of what to expect while hiking and participating in activities in Hawaii. The authorized camping areas along the trail do not have tables or drinking water. Binoculars are helpful to see them in detail. A well-marked 2 mile trail into Kalalau Valley ends at a pool in the stream. Unfortunately, there's no swimming at the beach, due to strong currents. #2. BEWARE of Beachfront Travel, also know as TBD (Travel By Design). he camping permits go fast, so its wise to get one a year or more in advance. Make reservations at www.gohaena.com. All About The Bahamas' Swimming Pigs - Nassau Paradise Island Just know that some of the campers down in Kalalau live free and believe that clothing is optional. Kalalau Beach | Kauai Beach Scoop Listen to weather and surf forecasts on local radio or check the surf report. The strong current would help by pushing them the whole way. There are some companies that offer landing services, meaning they will shuttle you to and from this beach. function textCounter(field, countfield, maxlimit) { Parking is limited to two parking lots and you will not want to park streetside if you are leaving your car overnight, as you may receive a ticket. Side note, if you are not a member you can still eat at their outdoor walk-up food counter and it is probably the cheapest meal on the island. lc=rid; 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. If youre a good swimmer, theres a hidden beach called Honopu Beach right around that bend. Tired hikers may be urged on by the panoramic view of Kalalau Valleys fluted cliffs and the coastline beyond. Makana Charters is a native Hawaiian family owned business that takes pride in providing the best possible experience for visitors to Kauai. Travel light. It is 11 miles to get to Kalalau Beach - so if you are talking about going there and having someone pick you up and bring you back.. You'll still have to hike 11 miles to get there - difficult trail - especially past Hanakoa, and you will need a permit from the State to camp there, even for one night. What are good threads to read to help me plan my trip? You won't find any facilities down here, but you will find composting toilets. Video Shows Tourists Almost Lose Kids To Huge Waves at The Eddie While Ignoring Lifeguard Pleas To Get Back, Heres How To Visit Niihau, Hawaiis Forbidden Island, The 17 Most Underrated Honeymoon Destinations in the US, The 13 Best Places To Go Hiking in Hawaii, The Worlds Most Dangerous Footpath Is Now Totally Safe To Hike, Abiqua Falls Is a Secret Waterfall Hidden Deep in the Oregon Forest, Best Hikes With Stunning Views in the Ozark Mountains, 7 Easy Hikes on Oahu, Hawaii, That Are Perfect for Kids. 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. Hawaii Beach Guide | Hawaii.com Lic# TVNC1058, Secluded and difficult to access beach on Kauai's Na Pali Coast, You should be in good physical condition to hike to the beach and not afraid of heights (the trail is narrow in some areas and involves several stream crossings), Beware of flash floods when crossing streams (don't cross if the water is too high), Kalalau Beach has rip tides, strong currents and a dangerous shorebreak, especially in the winter months, Bring all needed supplies and food with you, Mosquito repellent is a good idea to bring too. You'll look up the giant walls of the valley, gaze upon waterfalls and you'll be greeted by abundant wild fruit trees. And blueflamingo, I wouldn't hike it either. Throughout the year, temperatures seldom drop below 60F. Please check the Kalalau trail safety concerns before you go hiking. Those without camping permits for Kalalau Valley are therefore prohibited from attempting the entire 22-mile round trip hike in a day. In fact, Hanakoa is a hanging valley without a beach the stream exhausts itself over cliffs at the oceans edge. The trail is part of the N Pali Coast State Park which gets its name from the Hawaiian term for high cliff, na pali. For treating minor injuries, carry a first-aid kit with you and learn some of the basics. Denny, with all due respect, "law enforcement friends with the DLNR" are not exactly objective observers. } Cedar Key Public Beach at Lil Shark Park. Its large and backs up to breathtaking views of rugged coastline and classic napali coastline. The only way to access the valley is either by boat or hiking the 11-mile Kalalau trail there are no roads or airstrips here and only government helicopters are authorized to land. 4516 Alawai Rd. Never swim in murky water and never swim in river mouths. It is the responsibility of the reader to use common sense and good judgment by interpreting and using the information to safely enjoy any outdoor activities. When you come out of the arch you see what looks like an alien planet.(Update 9/14/15: Thisarea was destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015.). DAY-USE RESERVATIONS OR A VALID CAMPING PERMIT, AND PARKING RESERVATIONS ARE NOW REQUIRED TO ACCESS THE KALALAU TRAIL.