But if you abuse or harass the animal or your actions result in its . Denny, with all due respect, "law enforcement friends with the DLNR" are not exactly objective observers. var b = document.getElementById('t0'); The authorized camping areas along the trail do not have tables or drinking water. 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. Anini Beach. You can prepare for this by carrying a satellite beacon device which pings a distress signal if you are injured. This special spot is beautiful at sunset. You'll need to purchase a camping pass for a stay in Kalalau, and they sell out months ahead of time. var ny; Book your permits as early as possible for the best chance of getting your preferred dates. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; Save yourself from a digestive nightmare and always sanitize your water sources. During summer, sea caves just beyond the waterfall provide popular camping shelters, but winter surf removes much of the beach and enters the caves. You may not be able to use your cell phone to call for help in an emergency. Anyone proceeding beyond Hanakpai MUST possess a valid camping permit. Polihale Beach During the winter months, huge waves crash against the cliffs. Both of these excursions depart Nassau at 8:00 a.m. sharp and return from The Exumas between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. She told me that when the ship got to Kalalau it slowed down and did a U-turn. The trail to Hanakapiai falls and beyond Hanakapiai is recommended for experienced hikers only. Must climb rock . The trail can be experienced in pieces and the most popular section of this trail is from Ke`e to Hanakapi`ai , where you will find a lush river valley. mobile app. There may be a boat with the Swedish Bikini Team, and they usually have the best refreshments on board. Unreal Hawaii is not affiliated with the state of Hawaii. We were advised by a local that staying in the shallows where your feet can touch is a good precaution. If you are stopped by a park ranger you will be asked to show the permit along with photo id. Hiking NaPali Coast If the timing is not right for you to have such an in-depth and intensive experience; there are other ways to see the NaPali Coast by land. More strenuous hiking begins as the steep switchback trail climbs 800 feet out of Hanakapiai valley. I have a good friend who camps at Kalalau every Christmastime for many, many years. These terraces were replanted with coffee plants in the late 1800s, which are still growing throughout the valley today. Throughout the year, temperatures seldom drop below 60F. Use extreme caution, especially during wet weather. It is well worth the jungle hike to get there. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_2',130,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_3',130,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4-0_1'); .medrectangle-4-multi-130{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:5px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:5px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. Youll be on the sandy shoreline of the world famous Na Pali Coast. This information is not intended to give specific advice on any trail. After exploring the cave and eating some snacks we spent an hour being extremely lazy. Advance reservations are now required for all vehicles, walk-in entry, and shuttle riders visiting Hena State Park, as well as for day hikers accessing the Kalalau Trail. There are also wild goats, pigs, deer, fish, lobster, and shellfish for people to eat as local as it gets. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Very Good"; Feral goats have been seen roaming the beach and valley, and contribute to the leptospirosis in the streams and waterfall. var n = document.getElementById('n'+rid); The large waves at Kalalau Beach can make a landing by boat extremely treacherous. It is still possible to kayak into and out of the beach. 2023 Kauai Beaches. 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.). This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License. Camping fees for Npali Coast are $25 per person per night (Hawaii residents), $35 per person per night (non-residents). Click the link below to buy a transportation ticket which also includes your entry into the park. Since the trail is quite long, most people who visit Kalalau Beach plan to stay overnight. Favorite Kauai Restaurants (updated November 2017), How to Eat Vegan on the Garden Isle of Kauai. We found that there were people taking naps in almost all of the caves so we didnt linger too long inside. Also, there are strong rip and alongshore currents, which may be difficult to spot, even if the ocean appears calm. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; Personally, I like the idea of the bikini clad sweet hearts, free drinks, and calm seas. Haena Beach ), ^ Top of page | Home | Search | Archives, Unreal Hawaii is a digital magazine for people that love the Hawaii outdoors. We didn't GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/star.gif"; The vast majority of Kalalau Beachgoers hike the Kalalau Trail 11 miles one-way to this stunning destination. But Kalalau valley and beach are not trashed, though far from totally remote and pristine. lc=rid; But remembers there is no reef to protect the shore, which leaves it vulnerable tolong shore currents. Shutterstock Hawaii, Island of kauai, Na Pali Cliffs How To Hike N Pali And The Kalalau Trail Where To Camp In N Pali Coast State Wilderness Park Swimming is possible on Kalalau Beach, but not without dangers. Drinking the Water Those who make the journey are rewarded by blissful solitude. Those without camping permits for Kalalau Valley are therefore prohibited from attempting the entire 22-mile round trip hike in a day. Published on 10/07/2018 by Kauai Beach Scoop. Top Ten Ways to Protect Hawaiian Monk Seals/Dolphin protection, Geography, Geology, History and Culture of Kaua'i. Would it still be safe during the time we are going? The trail is part of the N Pali Coast State Park which gets its name from the Hawaiian term for high cliff, na pali. Heres the thing youre in the middle of nowhere out here. Phone Number. Wild goats are often seen along the trail route. In addition to the swimming pigs, you'll also get to observe Bahamian . Well worth a look (and an unforgettable fruitful smell). var lc; If you are swept past the beach, there are miles of steep cliffside before you would be able to reach shore. The best part is that the beach will be empty but for your fellow travelers. Travel light. It's better to enjoy the beach, the scenery and its caves while taking a refreshing shower in the natural waterfall. We're not around right now. Theres no longer sand to walk on here. Kee is protected by a reef that makes it a safe place for snorkeling and swimming. So if you're afraid of heights, you may not like this trail, especially around the middle of it. I tried hinting to Jenelyn and Reanne that it might not be safe to climb it but to no avail. The people come together to share meals and talk story of their days adventures. Camping in Kalalau is allowed only behind this sand beach. } Day hikes beyond Hanakoa are not recommended. The 5-6 feet of warm water make Anini the best swimming location on the island. You'll peer down thousands of feet into a colorful tropical landscape that is punctuated by a beautiful beach. From what I've read the swim grows longer after summer as the current shifts and beach shrinks. A few people have made Kalalau Valley their permanent home, even though it is not legal. Make reservations at www.gohaena.com. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Good"; And they probably only do this in the summer, when the surf and currents are safe to swim ashore. This hike is on the beginning section of the Kalalau trail, at Ke'e Beach. The sunset was going to set soon so we headed back to the camp. There are few coveted spots between the trail and the beach, but most are under the trees inland of the trail, but only about 50 feet from the sand. Jen and Seth decided to swim down the coastline instead. function noshow(star_img,rnid) (Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. } You will find this beach after a 11 mile hike along the Kalalau Trail on the Napali Coast. A hat is nice to have too. Maybe take this into consideration before doing a double backflip off a waterfall. more. Because the beach lacks a protective offshore reef to block incoming waves, high surf is common, especially during the winter months. This was my favorite part of the trip. Yes as daisies. Anyone proceeding beyond Hanakapiai valley must possess a valid overnight camping permit. } document.getElementById('rat').value="3"; Its rated a 9/10 for technical difficulty, and has many shear drop offs, narrow ledges, and never ending climbs and descents. These campsites are run by the County of Kauai and operate on a different reservation system. I knew you could camp close to the beach but I didn't think on the beach. document.write(""); Npali Coast SWP camping permits are available here >, Overnight parking is available at Hena SP via Overnight Parking Reservation. This boulder is now underwatwer.). Some of these year-round residents hike out of the valley every couple of months to get supplies. if (field.value.length > maxlimit) Advance reservations are now required for all vehicles, walk-in entry, and shuttle riders visiting Hena State Park, as well as for day hikers accessing the Kalalau Trail. Check the website here for trail updates and closures. You can see some effects from from high usage (I won't say overuse because permits are already limited), but it is still very nice there. Doing this is dangerous so, maybe dont attempt this if you ever find yourself in front of this rock. Though exact dates vary between sources, in the past, Native Hawaiians lived and worked in the valleys, cultivating taro and harvesting fish from the sea. There has been mention here before about companies, individuals who will pick you up from Kalalau Beach and bring you out - but I don't know if any of them are still doing that personally. Jenelyn, Reanne and I are not strong swimmers so we stayed back. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; Hiking past the first major landmark on the Kalalau Trail, Hanakapiaai Beach at mile two, requires a permit. What are good threads to read to help me plan my trip? It is sometimes safer to trek through the mud than trying to find a less messy path around it. Get in touch with us today to book your tour! Should I split my stay between 2 locations on Kauai? Its large and backs up to breathtaking views of rugged coastline and classic napali coastline. #3. If you've already made it this far and won't be hiking all the way to Kalalau Beach, you might as well take the 2-mile detour (each way) to Hanakapiai Falls. Walk up the short hill. The Kalalau trail hike begins at Ka'a Beach at the end of the parking lot. document.getElementById('rat').value="2"; Many rare native plants grow along the trail. Wailua Beach, Baby Beach Poipu Except that theres an ocean next to you. A) no one will be there to help, b) if anyone was, you'd be taking up critical medical space. Well, if you are Ben Stiller, I'd imagine it would be pretty easy to find someone to pick you up out there! Dont pack any food items. ny = document.getElementById(image); And how do I know that ? Permits can only be picked up in person at several locations listed on their site. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Infrequent widespread storms cause flash floods. You may recognize the coast from the film Jurassic Park where it is featured during the opening helicopter scene. Checking gear ahead of time could eliminate a real hassle on the trail and is worth the effort.<. Theres no longer sand to walk on here. Its worth while to bring a way to store water, as the water source is a good trek from the designated camp areas. The last thing you'll want when going on a . As you walk down the beach in Kalalau you feel like youre in a different world. There are three river crossings on the trail that become a flash flood hazard during heavy rainfall and may be impassable. Hiking and any outdoor activity can be dangerous and has many potential hazards. You do not need to hike the entire trail to get a sense of what its about. Walk-ins permitted. They are all worth exploring if you have the time. Lightweight hiking shoes with good traction are popular. A waterfall at the western end of the beach (Ho'ole'a Falls) provides freshwater, but before drinking it, the water must be purified (bring a water filter or water treatment tablets) due to the threat of leptospirosis, a bacterial disease. Tradewind showers are more frequent during the night and early morning. I would pass on the pakalolo tent living homesteaders in the Kalalau Valley who deposit huge tall piles of trash throughout the area. Tory and Cory appeared to be tired from the swim but Seth and Jen (both swimmers in high school) looked fresh as daisies. The white sand beach is a mile long, and, in this seclusion, you'll have no problem picking out your own isolated spot. In Na Pali Coast, Places by Makana ChartersJuly 25, 2016. 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. Maybe this site can answer your question. More vegetation and another beach on the other side of the arch. Also, there are strong rip and alongshore currents, which may be difficult to spot, even if the ocean appears calm. 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). function mark(star_img,rid) Call ahead to make sure they have them in stock. Most we spoke with ourselves included, recommend hiking all 11 miles in one day. Print your permits ahead of time and carry them with you on the trail. Weather Report says Rain, Should I panic? This remarkably beautiful beach has been the scene To learn about the cookies we use and information about your preferences and opt-out choices, please review our Privacy Policy Though not technically allowed, the relaxed atmosphere on the trail seems to coincide with clothing optional attire. While the crew was away we explored the rock garden and wet cave over here. It's illegal to dock a boat or even a kayak on the beach but you can swim to it. Swimming, Snorkeling, Kids, Relaxing, Watching sunset. After crossing the stream about a mile up the valley, the trail becomes more difficult as it meanders over rocks and fallen trees. Hanalei Pier 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. The sea can appear calm here at times (like summer) making it seem safe to swim. You'll need to purchase a camping pass for a stay in Kalalau, and they sell out months ahead of time. You'll be fined if you do not have one. We didnt walk go in the water so it might go back much farther actually. document.getElementById('rat').value="5"; There is nothing worse than getting to camp and realizing there is a hole in your tent or your water filter is not working. The mud is slippery and may slow down your hiking time. In the summer, the caves offer shelter from the sun and wind. selectedText = 'Excellent'; For those with camping permits, get an early start to avoid overexertion in the midday heat. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/star.gif"; and when you get to the main Kalalau Beach, the wind will have died down some. Kee Beach (pronounced Keh-AY) is located at the end of the road. Expect delays in reaching the upper areas of the park, including Awaawapuhi Trail, Kalalau Lookout, and Pihea Lookout and Trailhead. There was not a peep out of the couple thousand passengers on the deck. else if(i=='4'){ But this can be dangerous as the beach here features a short break, and there is unpredictable and shallow sandbar, not to mention illegal. Check overhanging trees for hazards from falling limbs. It can be ankle deep only to plunge down to the depths with no warning. You'll also have to pay for the expensive helicopter ride if you need to be rescued. Makana Charters is a native Hawaiian family owned business that takes pride in providing the best possible experience for visitors to Kauai. } We planned our trip in advance and it was very beneficial. } Before entering the water check for any warning signs indicating hazardous conditions. http://www.kauaiexplorer.com/hiking_kauai/kalalau_hike.php. The Best Family Friendly Things To Do in LasVegas, Where To Spend Nine Perfect Days in Croatia, New Zealands South Island Is Pure Magic: 6 Natural Wonders You Need ToSee, How To Experience The Rich Black History of Montgomery, Alabama, 11 Things To See, Do, and Eat in Bratislava, Slovakia, How To Experience Undeveloped Beaches and Fresh Seafood In Panama CityBeach, How To Explore Savannah Through the City's New Electric, Open-Roof Cruisers, From Sparkles To Champagne Elevator Rides: What You Need To Know Before Visiting the Eiffel Tower, 10 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting Angkor Wat, Winter Is Actually a Great Time To Visit Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Download the There are designated camping areas, however it seems you can camp anywhere, as its not typically enforced. It is a difficult and sometimes dangerous hike. Your feet will be sore, but beachside camping with ample space makes it worth the extra walking. And it's absolutely wonderful to take a dip in Queen's Bath after enjoying the turtles inside Turtle Cove. selectedText = 'Good'; She didnt do the hike but she was able to see the Na Pali Coast from a cruise ship. Just like the signs around Hawaii will advise you, when in doubt, dont go out. She said that even the babies were quiet. DAY-USE RESERVATIONS OR A VALID CAMPING PERMIT, AND PARKING RESERVATIONS ARE NOW REQUIRED TO ACCESS THE KALALAU TRAIL. ), 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. Permit holders can choose where to spend their allotted nights on the trail. Do not loiter beneath the waterfall or near cliff faces as there is a constant danger of falling rocks. document.write("

"); The sand at Cedar Key Beach is soft and the water is shallow, so it's safe for the whole family. Campers are allowed a maximum length stay of 5 nights. jebett, the designated campsites are right behind Kalalau beach. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; The Kalalau Trail on N Pali's stunning Hawaiian coast is one of the most challenging treks in the world. After all, Kalalau Valley opens west to give you stunning views of the orange tropical sun dipping into the vast Pacific Ocean. This trail passes through extensive agricultural terraces where Hawaiians grew taro, the staple crop, from ancient times until about 1920. var shows = 0; How can I take a shelter dog on a field trip? Beaches Kalalau beach is the obvious highlight. Join our newsletter for exclusive features, tips, giveaways! 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. And I apologize to LosAngelosAnd, I was wrong for misinterpreting their inquiry. Listen to weather and surf forecasts on local radio or check the surf report. Shipwrecks Beach, Kekaha Beach It is protected from the deeper ocean by one one of the longest reefs in Kauai. It is difficult, strenuous , and IMO, dangerous unless in good physical shape. See more from this series: This story was last modified on September 14, 2015. The reserve harbors a variety of native lowland forest plants. Please read. There is the main Kalalau trail, as well as several offshoots to waterfalls and swimming holes. And as koloagirl says, you still need a camping permit. The facilities at the beach include restrooms and showers. They often sell out and some people make reservations up to a year in advance. } We left our snorkel equipment in the trunk of our rental car and took a swim at the end of our hike. Waterfalls-There are a number of waterfalls in the valley. You do not need to be extreme athletes, but this is not a casual stroll. - 8:00p.m. function textCounter(field, countfield, maxlimit) { Our Terms and Conditions, which contain an arbitration provision, may be viewed here. This gap forms a channel that gets filled with water as the waves rush in. document.getElementById('rat').value="1"; It's even more difficult to get on a boat to leave the valley in a surge of surf. And blueflamingo, I wouldn't hike it either. Make sure to use the correct filter if you plan to drink the water. else Then they told everyone to go out on the observation deck. Reservations may be made up to 30 days in advance, and no later than the day before your visit*. The one way price from Hanalei Bay is usually $75-100 and requires swimming a short distance to the boat. Share your great experiences with me, please? There are no trash receptacles in the park, and everything you take in, you will need to carry out. Hello. It is flanked by sheer canyon walls and it is illegal to boat or kayak there. Sometimes you find a tour operator willing to let you off in the water with your equipment in a dry bag. Eleven miles in and eleven out. There are lots of details to consider when planning this hike and having a strategy ahead of time will make sure you have time for everything you want to see. But I will gladly be corrected if proven wrong. As you travel north, prices go up and options are more limited. Now you can sit back and enjoy yet another epic sunset. 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. Heed these warnings! Since there are no lifeguards here and drownings have happened in the past, it is recommended to avoid swimming at Kalalau. This camp is located on a section of the trail that is densely forested, so space is limited and crowded. 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. It is not legal to get out of or land a motorized boat on the beach, however, it is done illegally. Fuji Beach The area upon which the Like so many beaches on the North Shore of Kauai safety is a big issue for Ke'e Beach. At the beach, you may see topless sunbathers or a naked surfer. Tour boats do stop at Nualolo Kai on the Na Pali coast. Secure your car and limit the valuables left inside. selectedVal = '3'; Equipped with fins, they enter the water at Kalalau and swim over to the even more isolated Honopu Beach, which can only be accessed this way.