Na Pali, meaning “the cliffs,” is a 15-mile stretch of coastline along the north shore of Kauai. Carved with green valleys and dotted with hidden beaches and waterfalls, this rugged coast is one of Kauai’s most famous and breathtaking landscapes. However, it is not accessible by car, so to visit this fantastic place, visitors have two main options – to take a boat tour or hike the Kalalau trail.
Some choose to cut across this scenic coastline on foot, by hiking a part or all of the Kalalau trail. This challenging trail is 11 miles long and crosses 5 valleys. The trail begins at Ke’e beach, and two miles into it, hikers can pause at the lovely Hanakapi’ai Beach. Many people turn around here; others take another two-mile side trail to see Hanakapi’ai Falls before heading back. Those who brave the entire 11-mile trail (including a very narrow, steep stretch between miles 6.5 – 8) will be rewarded with magnificent views of the Hanakoa and Kalalau valleys, including even more waterfalls and secluded beaches. The trail ends at Kalalau beach, where many people like to camp. Anyone attempting this hike should be sure to bring sunscreen, lots of water, and good hiking shoes!
Other visitors prefer to head out to sea and take in a panoramic view of the coastline from the deck of a Na Pali boat tour. There are numerous ones to choose from, including snorkel tours, catamaran rides, dinner cruises, sunrise/sunset cruises, and in winter, whale watching tours. (Some adventurers even travel the Na Pali coast by kayak!) On any of these boat tours you will be able to sit back and enjoy a relaxing voyage surrounded by stunning views of land and sea.
However you decide to see the gorgeous coastline of Na Pali, by hike or by boat, you will never regret that you did!
