For more info. But at no time is swimming recommended. Be prepared to park along the roadway. The Kalalau Trail (Kalalau Trail Description) provides the only land access to this part of the rugged coast. Very slippery and rocky trail! The hike is hard. Happy hiking! Haena – North Shore The trail can get a little muddy during the rainy season so wear some sturdy shoes and bring a change of clothes. It’s is approximately 2 miles from the start of the Kalalau Trail, however beware it’s not for novice … The secluded beach is only accessible via the Kalalau Trail, and is approximately a two-mile hike from the trail head, which begins at Ke’e Beach. Incredible trail, gorgeous the whole way. Length 7.0 miElevation gain 2,404 ftRoute type Out & back trail is good just make sure you wear a good shoes for muddy like columbia hiking shoes, but i think tennis shoes is ok when its dry. Dangers of high surf at Hanakapiai Beach on Kauai. KE’E BEACH TO HANAKAPI’AI (2 miles) The first section of the Kalalau Trail stretches from the trailhead located at Ke’e Beach at Haena State Park to Hanakapi’ai valley. sheets of continuous water fell gracefully, what appeared from the sky into a large rock pool where they were greeted by eager trekkers and other folk who had taken the aqua plunge to wash the sweat from the brow or simply wash mud away from their scoured lower limbs. Support and care was required for some of the muddier stretches. One of my favorite hikes of all time. This first portion of the trail is heavily used. A similar foot trail linked earlier Hawaiian settlements along the coastline. My wife and I took 1hrs 30mins to walk back, resting a couple of times to watch the whales in the distance. We continued our hike two more miles inland to the falls, had lunch, watched many individuals slither into the water as the rocks were slippery and enjoy a swim. After making the trek, to reach Hanakapiai you must cross the Hanakapiai … This section is a popular day hike for … As you make your way along this portion of the Kalalau Trail you will switchback from coast to valleys, over fresh water streams and waterfalls. Although the waves were too big and strong for my liking, the kiddos loved playing in it. As you make your final descent into Hanakapiai Valley you will discover jungles of twisted vines, wild ginger, bananas, guava, varied Ti plants and at the end the cool waters of Hanakapiai Stream. My hubby wore a Garmin Tracker - 16 km round trip (and apparently 3000 calories! After negotiating another 90 minutes of undulating terrain, much of it wet, muddy and slippery, we were rewarded with the marvel of nature at its purest and best. Reviews. Kauai has updated its pre-travel testing program and procedures for both incoming trans-pacific and inter-county travelers. Overall, we consider the falls as an amazing experience with a wonderous reward provided for our adroit trekking effort. The Hanakapiai Falls Trail isn’t a stroll in the park. Cool off in the river the ocean here is NOT for swimming. The beach is about 2 miles (3.2 km) into the hike and looks beautiful, offering great photo opportunities. Hanakapiai Beach The recommended hike is well worth the effort. The final descent to the beach starts about 1.5 miles. As you make your way along this portion of the Kalalau Trail you will switchback from coast to valleys, over fresh water streams and waterfalls. But at no time is swimming recommended. The car ride from Princeville was beautiful on its own. Our aches and pains today will soon be forgotten!! The return walk seemed somewhat easier but still as challenging. The hike to Hanakapiai beach is by far one of the most beautiful trails in all Hawaii. Dangers of high surf at Hanakapiai Beach on Kauai. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The hike to Hanakapiai beach from Kee Beach is the easiest stretch of the 11 mile Kalalau trail and is the … The views from the beach back up the valley are magical. There is a cave on the beach to explore or for shelter. The trail drops to sea level at the beaches o… One small lot, poorly laid out requiring people to 3-point their way out against onslaught of incoming cars, half the lot roped off...claustrophobically tight. Hanakapiai Beach is the first main destination on the Kalalau Trail on Kauai's Na Pali Coast. We've done a lot of trails … Half-assed set up all around, could do better! During heavy rains and high surf this trail can be extremely dangerous near the river and the shorelines. We joined some of our fellow trekkers in the pool for a refreshing swim before settling on the fall's embankment to enjoy a hearty lunch. Parking for the trail head is usually difficult at the end of the road and a grass parking lot on your right as you enter Haena State Park is the suggested area for day parking. Trail conditions may range from muddy puddles to dry, crumbly rock. People come from around the globe to hike this world famous, very rugged 11-mile trail that hugs the steep cliffs of Kauai’s Napali Coast hundreds of feet above the ocean. In order to get to Hanakāpīʻai beach, we had to cross a running stream, which the kiddos found thrilling. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking and is accessible year-round. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round. This is the first 2 miles to Hanakapi'ai Beach along the Kalalau Trail in the Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii. Not a great beach either. After our lunch on the beach, we decided to head back. The beach is approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) from the start of the Kalalau Trail, a very popular hiking trail which is … Caution: This trail is 4 miles in; first two miles take you to Hanakapi’ai Beach … During the summer months, Hanakapiai Beach is close to the perfect beach… Hiking in Kauai, Hawaii on the Kalalau trail to Hanakapi’ai Beach then on to Hanakapi’ai Falls on the Napali Coast was an epic, unforgettable experience. The views from the beach back up the valley are magical. Likewise no parking at road's end by trailhead. This hike is a must. After enjoying a little morning tea with the local felines we left and upward for the falls. A beautiful, long, amazing hike! Beautiful and muddy. Flash flooding can occur without notice. The Huffington Post named the hike "the most incredible" and "epic" trail … Advance reservations are now required for all vehicles, walk-in entry, and shuttle riders visiting Hāʻena State Park, as well as for day hikers accessing the Kalalau Trail. If you are skipping the falls, I’d recommend bringing beach gear to chill on the beach. This an amazing yet difficult trail. Narrow path passes in and out of several valleys with steep inclines and declines. The drive to the park and entrance is very enjoyable. The beach is on the other side and during the summer months this beautiful beach is great for sunbathing, exploring the rocks and caves. A maximum stay of 5 nights is allowed in Napali Coast State Park. At the two-mile mark of the Kalalau Trail, along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, you will reach Hanakapiai Beach and Hanakapiai Valley.For those not wanting to walk the whole Kalalau Trail… *State of Hawai’i residents are exempt from the fee/reservation requirement. Path leads to Hanakapi`ai beach with option to follow along Hanakapi`ai … Once the trail arrives at the beach, it crosses Hanakapiai river, which can be a dangerous crossing if you get caught on the wrong side after a heavy downpour. *Clicking this link will redirect you to another website. “Get ready to run,” I said to my wife as we watched a muscular swell gain momentum shortly after noon Monday at Hanakapi‘ai Beach. We were more than just fine hiking to the beach … Gorgeous hike. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Like the 40 or so people at the beach, we’d hiked the first two miles of the Kalalau Trail … Heading into Kauai’s interior and remote terrain offers dome of the most beautiful backdrops on the world. GPS – lat 22.2203 long -159.5827, Beach, Cave, River, Views, Waterfalls, Wildlife. Hanakapi'ai Beach is a 6.8 kilometer heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. Started at 9am and finished at 3:30. Originally built in the late 1800s, portions of the trail were rebuilt in the 1930s. At the end of the road (Hwy 560) Kee Beach on the North Shore of Kauai is the starting point of the Napali Coast and Kalalau Trail. This last portion before the falls is a bit more than moderate so use care. When you reach Hanakapiai stream you will need to cross the stream by boulder hopping. Roots, boulders and mud are obstacles you will encounter on the trail Josh hanging out during the early stages of the Hanakapiai Falls Trail My favorite part of the stretch from Ke’e Beach to Hankapiai Beach … You can’t even enjoy the scenery because you can’t take your eyes off the ground! As you make your final descent into Hanakapiai Valley you will discover jungles of twisted vines, wild ginger, banana’s, guava, varied Ti plants and at the end the cool waters of Hanakapiai Stream. Amazing views of Na Pali Coast and the Pacific Ocean. Do not attempt to cross the river during heavy rains. The foliage, flowers, sound of the ocean, and fresh air all beautiful. Hanakapiai Beach is nestled in the Napali Coast and accessible mainly via the Kalalau Trail. We left the trailhead at 7 am, and saw the sunset as we returned. The scenic … Before reaching the beach … Truly magical. I enjoyed it from the hammock. We are not the strongest hikers. The trail begins at Kē‘ē Beach at the northern … Click the link below to buy a transportation ticket which also includes your entry into the park. Great hike, even with the rain making it a little slippery. It is not recommended for children under age 6. But if you aren't too tired and have some time, consider taking a two-mile (four miles round trip) hike inland to see Hanakapi'ai … My wife, a 48 year old with suspect knees and a life usually free of exercise of any kind was able to complete the hike to the beach and back - though it was challenging. The waterfall is like a cloud falling from the sky. Fellow walkers were polite and seemingly always available to lend a helping hand when negotiating the unidirectional pathway was required. The crystal clear river that flows from the falls two miles up river is a refreshing reprieve for tired, hot and muddy feet. Kauai Flood Update 2018: Kalalau Trail and Hanakapiai Beach are both closed due to landslides from the historic rains in April. https://youtu.be/ryvpVT3oURIHike the Na Pali Coast on the Kalalua Trail from Ke'e Beach ... then follow the Hanakap'ai Stream to Hanakap'ai Falls ... then eat lunch at the edge of the waterfall pool ... then swim under the 410 foot waterfall ... 8 miles round trip of mud and lava rock and stream crossings through a tropical forest with 1,820 ft of elevation change (0' to 530' to 0' to 760' to 0' to 530' to 0')http://www.hawaii-guide.com/kauai/sights/hanakapiai_falls. Parking vouchers and entrance to the park can be purchased by clicking the link below. Plan your trip accordingly. This hike looks deceptively easy at first, but after the first switchback, the trail becomes quite steep, with lots of large rocks, a paving job from the 1930’s, erosion, and tree … The most strenuous part of the hike occurs after Hanakapiai Beach where the trail climbs from sea level to 800 feet over 1 1/4 miles. Within the 5-night maximum, no 2 consecutive nights are allowed at Hanakapiai or Hanakoa. A strenuous twelve hours, but the magic and beauty of the landscape kept us going. River was high but worth the crossing. By doing a little planning and being prepared you will make your hiking trip one of your best Kauai experiences. mark at Hanakoa Valley and into Kalalau, even if overnight camping is not planned. We made sure that they took extreme caution when crossing. Composting toilets are available. The first part of the trek was a steep and rocky climb (with a 500 ft elevation gain in about half a mile) in a lush jungle setting. The trail traverses five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted cliffs. We started our hike at the beautiful Keʻe Beach in Hāʻena State Park. Hanakapiai Beach Hike On Kauai there is really just one road that takes you around the island. Keep going it is worth the effort. Do not attempt to cross the river during heavy rains. Very pretty and the surf was definitely too rough to consider swimming. so refreshing, and a lot safer than balancing on the slippery rocks. Because of the recent rainstorm, this part of the trail was muddy and extremely slippery. One of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen - prepare to hike back in the dark with a flashlight. Facilities The authorized camping areas along the trail do not have tables or drinking water. However, this wet jungle setting gave way to a drier dirt trail along the cliff, overlooking the mesmerizing blue-green water below. We wanted to see the real Hawaii of the Lost series, and this was it. The falls did not disappoint either. We loved the trail and beach, great opportunity to enjoy a short hike with views all throughout. The beach at the end of the trail isn’t good for swimming, very dangerous waves. Go early in the morning as the rain often moves in in the afternoon. Hanakapi'ai Falls Trail is a 7 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii that features a waterfall and is rated as difficult. Hanakapi'ai Beach is a 4.2 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. It’s also one of the deadliest. Family was pumped up to hike, ended up bitterly disappointed. Most people make this their turn around point, but for those with the time and endurance can trek up the river trail another two miles through bamboo forest; the hike is 4 miles round-trip to beach, 8 miles round-trip to Falls. Our favorite part of the hike was the Hanakāpīʻai stream crossing and beach at the end. The Hanakapiai Trail comprises the first two miles of Kauai’s Kalalau Trail and links Ke’e Beach with Hanakapiai Beach. When you reach Hanakapiai stream you will need to cross the stream by boulder hopping. It’s past the town of Wainiha, and is the furthest north you can travel from the east side of the island. As you make your way along this portion of the Kalalau Trail you will switchback from coast to valleys, over fresh water streams and waterfalls. Hanakapiaai Beach to Hanakapiai Falls: 2-mile side hike (4 roundtrip) As a side trip (extended day hike), you can follow the unmaintained Hanakapiai Falls Trail upstream for two more … Dont let this discourage you, as soon as you reach the first mile vista, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the Napali coastline and an aerial view of Kee beach and the coral reef that creates the protective lagoon at Kee beach, perfect for snorkeling during the summer months. Camping and Permits The views were majestic and we had a great time at the beach. Be just as cautious on the flat surfaces as there are slippery smooth rocks underfoot that can send you headlong. Totally, recommend this hike in the Northshore. After hiking two miles of rugged terrain to Hanakapiai Beach along the Kalalau Trail you may be tempted to turn back and head back towards Ke'e Beach. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking and is accessible year-round. Upon our arrival we were greeted by two local felines as well as a beautiful view of the inviting beach and its turquoise ocean. It is definitely a hike for the fit. It might be the most beautiful trail in the world...but I wouldn't know because after a 2-hr drive from Poipu, road construction and plethora of 1-lane bridge crossings I was forced to turn around and go home empty-handed due to a total lack of parking. My first traverse through a stream down at the beach taught me that I didn't need to try to hop from slippery rock to slippery rock - just wade through the water and feel good about cleaning the mud off your shoes!.. The Hanakapiai Trail will climb steadily for the first mile to an elevation of 400 feet. Camping permits are required when continuing beyond the 2 mi. Trail begins at Ke`e Beach traveling along high ocean-side cliffs. 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