The Na Pali Coast is a stunning place on the northwest side of the beautiful Kauai (Hawaii), stretching for about fifteen miles. It starts at Ke`e Beach in Haena State Park and goes all the way to Polihale State Park in Mana. This coast is wild and beautiful, with tall cliffs called pali rising to 4,000 feet above the ocean. You’ll also see sea caves, green valleys, and waterfalls tumbling down from high up.
Some beautiful paths can’t be discovered without getting lost.
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You can explore the Na Pali Coast by hiking the Kalalau Trail, which starts at Ke’e Beach. The first two miles of the trail, up to Hanakapiai Valley, are the most popular. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike another two miles to see Hanakapiai Falls. But be warned, the last nine miles of the 11-mile trail are tough and only for experienced hikers with the right permits and camping gear. More: Learn how to meditate in the right way
What can you expect from Na Pali coast?
- Beaches: Along the Na Pali Coast, you’ll find secluded beaches with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. These beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Some of the notable beaches include Ke`e Beach, Hanakapiai Beach, and Kalalau Beach.
- Sea Caves and Archways: The rugged cliffs of the Na Pali Coast are punctuated by mesmerizing sea caves and natural archways carved by the relentless power of the ocean. Exploring these caves by kayak or boat is an unforgettable experience.
- Waterfalls: Cascading waterfalls dot the verdant valleys of the Na Pali Coast, creating picturesque scenes against the lush green backdrop. Hanakapiai Falls, accessible via a hike along the Kalalau Trail, is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the area. More: Heal your life: The empowering philosophy of Louise Hay
4. Wildlife Viewing: The Na Pali Coast is home to a diverse array of wildlife, both on land and in the sea. Visitors may encounter Hawaiian spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and even humpback whales during the winter months. Birdwatchers can spot native seabirds soaring above the cliffs.
5. Hiking Trails: In addition to the famous Kalalau Trail, which offers stunning coastal views, other hiking trails lead to hidden valleys, ridges, and lookout points along the Na Pali Coast. These trails provide opportunities for adventure and exploration amidst the breathtaking scenery.
6. Cultural Sites: The Na Pali Coast is rich in cultural history, with ancient Hawaiian sites scattered throughout the landscape. Visitors can learn about the traditional practices and customs of the indigenous people who once inhabited these coastal areas.
Exploring Kauai’s different areas
East Kauai, also known as the Coconut Coast, is famous for its many coconut trees along the shoreline. This area gets more rain than the south and west sides of the island, especially if you head inland towards places like Wai’ale’ale or Kawaikini. The average temperature here is cooler than in the south or west, at around 70°F. There are also many attractions to visit, like Wailua Falls and Opaeka’a Falls.
South Kauai is warm and dry, getting about 35-40 inches of rain a year. The average temperature is 78°F, but it can get even hotter. Despite being less popular than the North Shore, the South side has beautiful beaches in places like Poipu. There’s also the National Tropical Botanical Garden and Spouting Horn. More: Forest bathing as a natural therapy to reduce stress
The North Shore of Kauai is famous for its mild temperatures and lots of rain, making it lush and tropical. Princeville is a big resort area here, with stunning views of Hanalei Bay. The West side of Kauai is mostly mountains and valleys, making it hard to build roads. But it’s famous for Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park, which have many trails for hiking. More: Brain-wave frequencies: Technical aspects
The Na Pali Coast is one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii. It’s known for its rugged coastline, tall cliffs, and stunning views. You can see it by hiking, flying, or taking a boat tour. The cliffs start at Ke’e Beach and go all the way around the north and west sides of Kauai, ending at Polihale Beach. They can be over 1000 feet tall and have lots of sea caves, beaches, and waterfalls. Many movies have been filmed here because of its dramatic scenery. More: Vibrational renewal: Restore with sound bath rituals
The most popular way: Explore the Na Pali coast by land
There are three ways to experience the Na Pali Coast: by land, by sea, or by air. The most popular way is to hike the Kalalau Trail, which starts at Kee Beach. This 11-mile journey takes you through valleys, and around cliffs, and offers breathtaking views, but it’s a challenging trek that usually takes at least three days round-trip. You need to be well-prepared for this adventure.
If you’re short on time, there are other options. Many people choose to take a shorter hike to Hanakapiai Beach or Hanakapiai Falls. For those who enjoy a different perspective, there are trails along the ridgetops above the coast, offering panoramic views, but they can be quite challenging.
If hiking isn’t for you at all, don’t worry. You can still enjoy the Na Pali Coast by driving to Polihale Beach or Kee Beach, where you’ll have stunning views of the coastline. Alternatively, you can drive past Waimea Canyon in Kokee State Park and stop at either the Kalalau Lookout or Pu’u o Kila overlook, both of which provide incredible views of Kalalau Valley, one of Hawaii’s most spectacular sights. More: Embark on a Journey to Grand Prismatic Spring in Wyoming
