Hiking the Napali Coast

Get your exercise while enjoying the famous Napali Coast hike. From the end of the road on the North Shore of Kauai, you'll end up at Ke'e beach which is a wonderful beach for snorkeling and sunbathing. On the left side of the road (inland side), is a path with a map on one side and outhouses on the other side, it's your last chance to go for 1 1/2 ~ 2 hours. It took us 1 1/2 going and 60 minutes to return moving at a quick pace.

Take the trail which feels like it is going straight up and a very rocky rugged path to a magnificent climb with incredible views of the turquoise water below. You'll climb hundreds of feet above the coastline with a drop off straight down to the water. Keep an eye on the path but periodically stop to enjoy the spectacular views only available if you make the effort of the hike. It can be a workout for some, several people passing us were running the trail while others casually climbed at a relaxing pace. At some locations it is difficult crossing through the water on the path but for the most part it is considered a moderate hike. At the end of the 1st part of the hike, you're rewarded with a beautiful white sandy beach. Just cross the river and you're on the beach. Be very careful in these waters as we were warned of excellent swimmers being swept away by the strong ocean currents. Above the beach is an outhouse (toilet).

Consider continuing inland to see one of the most beautiful 300' waterfalls on the island, Hanakapiai Falls only another 1 1/2 hours (1 way), on a rugged trail which I would consider difficult and not for the weak, uncoordinated, young or elderly! We're glad to have visited but don't need to go back anytime soon. Admittedly my muscles were sore the next day! If you take the challenge, stay to the right trail and take the path most traveled. Some drop offs are slippery and dangerous so travel smart. There are warning signs at the end of the trail... keep going to see the waterfall just beyond the signs and the large pool under the falls, incredibly the water is about 65 degrees... really cold but refreshing if you dare. There are warnings about getting too close to the falls because of falling rocks. Taking one on the head is almost a certain death. Be Smart

Recommended items:

FOOD, you should enjoy your lunch on the beach
Water, 32 oz per person, it can be hot if the trade winds aren't blowing onshore.
Backpack, you need free hands on the hike
Hiking shoes or hiking sandals, I wore tennis shoes and it was slippery
Shorts, never wear pants on the island!
Sunscreen & hat, it's the beach!
Bug spray, typically I notice the need on my ankles if you don't wear long socks (that's kind of touristy)
Camera, don't leave home without it.

Parking:
Arrive after 10am and you may not get a space. Park on the left side of the road or further away on the right side is a larger (often muddy) parking lot. There are campers in this area which have been blamed for breaking into cars so don't leave anything valuable in plain site or pack it in with you.

Vacation HOME on Kauai

THINGS TO DO ON KAUAI

Kauai Hiking Trails