Learn more >, ADVERTISE: Cory and Troy picked them off the rocks in between waves. This special spot is beautiful at sunset. If you follow blueflamingo's boating link, you'll find that no tour boats are allowed to land at Kalalau beach, only kayaks. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; During the winter months, huge waves crash against the cliffs. It can be ankle deep only to plunge down to the depths with no warning. The summer sand beach at Hanakapiai is a popular destination for day hikers. for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { But, walk down the beach a bit and youll be treated to some of the coolest looking scenery youll ever see. Denny, with all due respect, "law enforcement friends with the DLNR" are not exactly objective observers. Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakapiai FallsFour miles roundtrip and located at mile 2 on the main trail, this side trail hikes up a valley that ends at a waterfall. The trail to Hanakapiai falls and beyond Hanakapiai is recommended for experienced hikers only. It is still possible to kayak into and out of the beach. The sand at Cedar Key Beach is soft and the water is shallow, so it's safe for the whole family. List of properly permitted vacation rentals, not condos - 8/15/2017, Weather Questions start here Pls/Best Time of Year to Visit Kauai, How to make reservations at Haena State Park / Ke'e Beach. Pack foods that cook easily in boiling water and store well unrefrigerated. Here are 21 things you should know before hiking the Kalalau Trail. You'll also have to pay for the expensive helicopter ride if you need to be rescued. Hawaii. In-order to access the Npali Coast State Wilderness Park as well as the Kalalau Trail, visitors have to go through Hena SP. 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. When I got back from Kalalau I went to get a haircut. Within the valley is a group of people who have discarded the creature comforts of modern society in favor of a lifestyle based on the land. This small beach is no longer accessible.). }else{ We are interested in making the ~1/4mi swim to Honopu Beach. High surf pounds the shore creating extremely turbulent waters. Kee Beach is a safe snorkel spot when the water is calm because it is protected from large waves by a fringing reef. These valleys are sacred ground to the Hawaiian people and it is our responsibility as hikers to make a conscious effort to preserve and protect the land. The writer and/or publisher of this website is not responsible for any accidents, injuries, rescues, inconvenience, or loss of life by anyone attempting any of the hikes or activities on this website. (Update 9/14/15: This sea cave was destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. DAY-USE RESERVATIONS OR A VALID CAMPING PERMIT, AND PARKING RESERVATIONS ARE NOW REQUIRED TO ACCESS THE KALALAU TRAIL. As you walk down the beach in Kalalau you feel like you're in a different world. She said that even the babies were quiet. The Beach People have drowned here from the dangerous combination of a hidden current and the cliffside surroundings. The falls are 300 high and hikers can swim in the large, cold pool at its base. selectedVal = '4'; Start early as it gets warm and the trail is challenging enough without afternoon sun the entire time. The reserve harbors a variety of native lowland forest plants. Kalalau Beach Na Pali Coast. The rugged, inaccessible coast is made up of a series of green cathedral cliffs that reach out into the ocean like the talons of an island-sized dragon. Walking the first half mile will reward you with excellent views of the coast. The trail traverses the Hono o Na Pali Natural Area Reserve in the small hanging valleys of Hoolulu and Waiahuakua before entering Hanakoa Valley. Shopping is limited on Kauai and it is best to bring as many specialty items as possible with you on your flight such as your tent, sleeping bag, and trekking poles. We would attempt to see what was beyond the beach on the following day. 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. http://www.kauaiexplorer.com/hiking_kauai/kalalau_hike.php. else if(star_img=='3'){ Day hikes beyond Hanakoa are not recommended. Camp fires seem to be allowed (nearly every site has a pit) and there are pit toilets to use in two locations. Ben Stiller did make fun of himself for taking the easy route. The trailhead can be found at the very end of the road on the northern side of the island at Ke'e Beach. Your feet will be sore, but beachside camping with ample space makes it worth the extra walking. On the second day of the hike, you can explore some of the many attractions around Kalalau beach, such as the Hanakapi'ai waterfalls, the Hanakoa Falls, and the Kalalau Valley Trail. There are also wild goats, pigs, deer, fish, lobster, and shellfish for people to eat as local as it gets. Its a wonderful place to hang out a night, but during the day its actually too hot and windy. For all these, just ask a friendly local where to go! 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;}. if(i<= selectedVal) A valid Npali Coast SWP camping permit grants access to Hena SP. It's even more difficult to get on a boat to leave the valley in a surge of surf. There are some companies that offer landing services, meaning they will shuttle you to and from this beach. var n = document.getElementById('n'+rid); This beach is fairly private due to the difficult trek to it. As you walk down the beach in Kalalau you feel like youre in a different world. This Epic Climb in the Swiss Alps Is Mostly Terrifying -- but Also WorthIt. There are plenty of other tucked-away beaches in Kauai that are not quite as hard to get to as this one, which we didn't list here because the effort-reward quotient isn't quite right. Follow the tunnel until you reach the room that's lit up with a blue hue this is the one you'll need to find the rebreather. From Kalalau Beach, you can swim around the corner to Honop Beach, which is even more spectacular than Kalalau. The strong current would help by pushing them the whole way. And how do I know that ? The authorized camping areas along the trail do not have tables or drinking water. For experienced swimmers knowledgeable in local sea conditions, nearshore waters offer limited opportunities for swimming and body surfing. And they probably only do this in the summer, when the surf and currents are safe to swim ashore. Polihale Beach Throughout the year, temperatures seldom drop below 60F. There are no trash receptacles in the park, and everything you take in, you will need to carry out. For over 20 years we have been offering tours of the Na Pali coast on custom-built touring catamarans that were designed to provide the ultimate touring experience. This is where you'll meet some of the permanent residents as well as other campers in the valley. The DLNR personnel have to haul the garbage out of there. It is protected from the deeper ocean by one one of the longest reefs in Kauai. One of the many bountiful community gardens. } selectedText = 'Fine'; Yes, there are illegal campers there, some of them do leave trash. Mahaulepu Beach There are no lifeguards at Kalalau Beach, and you're an 11-mile hike from help. }, Private and Quiet Luxury Beach House 3 minute walk to beach TVNC#5151, Hale Kahakai: Beachfront home on the Magical North Shore of Kauai, Hawaii Life Rentals presents Modern beach style vacation house, with A/C, Affordable Beach House Just Steps to the Beach Children Welcome! While the crew . selectedText = 'Good'; Before entering the water check for any warning signs indicating hazardous conditions. Queen's Bath is VERY DANGEROUS! Save yourself from a digestive nightmare and always sanitize your water sources. document.getElementById('rat').value="3"; Don't Look Down! While the crew was away we explored the rock garden and wet cave over here. These terraces were replanted with coffee plants in the late 1800s, which are still growing throughout the valley today. { Hiking to Hanakpai Valley (2 miles in from trailhead) requires Entry and Parking Reservations at Haena. And don't be fooled by the first Kalalau Lookout sign. Hanalei Pavilion The trail winds through several green valleys and ends at the cliff-lined Kalalau Beach. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Excellent"; Not supporting camping there illegally at all - but those folks are not the big problem with opala from what I've been told. [OAHU] UPDATED 3/2/23: Keawa Heiau State Recreation Area Aiea Loop Trail isCLOSEDdue to high winds and heavy rain, the heiau area is OPEN. There are permanent residents in the valley that live off the land despite the fact that it is illegal. Lightweight hiking shoes with good traction are popular. It is not legal to get out of or land a motorized boat on the beach, however, it is done illegally. } Tour boats do stop at Nualolo Kai on the Na Pali coast. After selecting the date and time of your visit, youll be able to select the number of entry or parking vouchers required. You'll need to purchase a camping pass for a stay in Kalalau, and they sell out months ahead of time. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/star.gif"; Travel light. Despite the fact that many would fail to understand why these people would live this way by choice, they are truly happy in their natural surroundings. Even with this type of device, help is most likely hours away. Click the link below to buy a transportation ticket which also includes your entry into the park. These terraces are now overgrown with a variety of alien trees, including Java Plum, guava, and occasional large mango trees. The trail traverses five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted cliffs. You'll also find a natural shower in the form of Ho'ole'a Falls at the western end of the beach. And it actually appears that theres a third part to this boulder behind it. Its illegal to dock a boat or even a kayak on the beach but you can swim to it. Carrying trekking poles was also immensely helpful in balancing on the more slippery portions. Ocean swimming is not recommended for those unfamiliar with local sea conditions. milwkid9090's first answer is still the best. selectedText = 'Poor'; The Kalalau Trail on N Pali's stunning Hawaiian coast is one of the most challenging treks in the world. This boulder is now underwatwer.). 3. ny = document.getElementById(image); if (shows){ It's even more difficult to get on a boat to leave the valley in a surge of surf. document.getElementById('rat').value="5"; I don't know if there are companies regularly drop people off, but start at the state parks website: Here's the specific link for camping along the trail: http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/kauai/napali.cfm. The park will REOPEN by 3:00 PM on Friday 3/3/23. Must climb rock . (Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. Make sure to use the correct filter if you plan to drink the water. The one way price from Hanalei Bay is usually $75-100 and requires swimming a short distance to the boat. Other waterfalls will be along the journey, offering a much appreciated cold shower. lc=rid; Would it still be safe during the time we are going? Shipwrecks Beach, Kekaha Beach As we said above, one of the best Cedar Key activities is going to the beach! If you look on Nate Yuens blog post on the cave, you can see that sometimes people make more elaborate designs with the rocks. selectedVal = '5'; Each of these offshoots has unique waterfalls and swimming spots. Waimea, HI 96796 Share your great experiences with me, please? You can swim in Cabo San Lucas, but only on some of its beaches. } It is a difficult and sometimes dangerous hike. Youll want a shirt or wrap to cover yourself from the stinging sand. But this can be dangerous as the beach here features a short break, and there is unpredictable and shallow sandbar, not to mention illegal. The poorly marked 1/2-mile trail up the east fork of the stream to Hanakoa falls has hazardous, eroded sections but affords a spectacular view of the falls. After this walk, I believe I now know what acupuncture feels like. Park. And it's absolutely wonderful to take a dip in Queen's Bath after enjoying the turtles inside Turtle Cove. Since the trail is quite long, most people who visit Kalalau Beach plan to stay overnight. For more information read our privacy policy. Waimea Beach. The massive arch, the empty beach, a waterfall and a sun bathing monk seal. Yes as daisies. Fuji Beach Heed these warnings! Lydgate Beach Walk-ins permitted. Video Shows Tourists Almost Lose Kids To Huge Waves at The Eddie While Ignoring Lifeguard Pleas To Get Back, Heres How To Visit Niihau, Hawaiis Forbidden Island, The 17 Most Underrated Honeymoon Destinations in the US, The 13 Best Places To Go Hiking in Hawaii, The Worlds Most Dangerous Footpath Is Now Totally Safe To Hike, Abiqua Falls Is a Secret Waterfall Hidden Deep in the Oregon Forest, Best Hikes With Stunning Views in the Ozark Mountains, 7 Easy Hikes on Oahu, Hawaii, That Are Perfect for Kids. There are people who dump their opala (rubbish) back there and don't take it out - but the vast majority of them are not the illegal campers who "live" out there - but as "KauaiHiker" mentions - hunters and other folks who don't take care of the land they supposedly love. 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. After leaving Hanakoa valley, the trail enters drier, more open land which offers little shade from the midday sun. Theres no longer sand to walk on here. This cave is no longer accessible.). } The trail narrows to a couple of feet in some sections with a sheer cliff on one side and a steep drop to the Pacific on the other. Those that did not have goggles are Asian so they were okay (on account of the squinty eyes). if(star_img=='1'){ She didnt do the hike but she was able to see the Na Pali Coast from a cruise ship. People hear about the difficult hike to a beautiful beach, and ask how to get to that place without all the effort. Kalalau Beach (see more photos) lies at the end of the 11-mile (17.7 km) Kalalau Trail on Kauai's north shore. for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { Camping at Kalalau: Permits from the Department of State Parks are required to camp anywhere on the Na Pali Coast, including Kalalau, and space is limited, so apply far in advance. Theres one section of the beach that gets super windy. Those with Npali Coast SWP Camping Permits do not need to make a Hena SP park entry reservation. Now you can sit back and enjoy yet another epic sunset. The beach sits at the foot of Kalalau Valley which is the jewel of the Na Pali Coast. 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.). Naturalists will find a number of points of interest. The large waves at Kalalau Beach can make a landing by boat extremely treacherous. var selectedText = ''; Jenelyn, Reanne and I are not strong swimmers so we stayed back. Portions of the trail in this section are very narrow and the dropoff on the ocean side is severe. Most people only do the first segment of this trail, which starts on the north shore of Kauai at Kee Beach and goes to the Hanakapiai Beach. Like previous poster said, unless you have rough water experience, just don't. Especially, especially right now. You won't find any facilities down here, but you will find composting toilets. It appears Hawaii Tourism doesn't want people to visit Kauai, Trip Report 2- Outings, Entertainment, Attractions, Kauai St regis or Big Island Four seasons. Check overhanging trees for hazards from falling limbs. The trail is one of the most difficult in the Hawaiian Islands, which limits visitors to the beach. Daily, Get in touch with us today to book your tour, The Honu (Sea Turtle) and Its Importance to Hawaii, 6 Tips for Photographing the Na Pali Coast, 5 Interesting Facts about the Na Pali Coast, View From the Top or From the Waters: Discover the Best Way to Explore the Na Pali Coast. Most of the year the high surf prevents boats from accessing the shore, which means the only way in is to make the trek by foot. There is no reef to break the waves, so this beach nearly always has high surf year round. more. What off the beaten path activities can I do? document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Very Good"; We saw campers and their tents and also talked to hikers, and campers, who accomplished this feat to this beach, and I say that reverently. If you can't hike the trail, the kayak to the beach would be even more strenuous even if you could. jebett, this isn't Hanakapae Beach the OP is talking about. Within the 5-night maximum, no 2 consecutive nights are allowed at Hanakoa. } document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Good"; The Kalalau trail hike begins at Ka'a Beach at the end of the parking lot. Apply for your permit about 6-12 months in advance. It is now underwater.). Allow 3 to 4 hours to complete the round-trip hike to Hanakapiai Beach. Beaches - Kalalau beach is the obvious highlight. It sounded amazing and the cool thing is, Cory took a risk and brought his dSLR with him in a dry bag (that orange thing hanging from his waist). Thanks Hiker. The other is the Big Pool, which isnt exactly that big, but still provides enough room for swimming around and diving in. The ledge is rocky, you're up against a cliff and the ledge drops off into deep, violent ocean water. The trailhead is located in Hena State Park at the northwest end of Khi Highway (Route 56). document.getElementById('rat').value=selectedVal; Anini Beach is a gorgeous blue lagoon with golden sand and shallow water along the north shore of Kauai. Kayaking and swimming (by strong swimmers with fins) from Kalalau Beach are the only ways to reach Honop Beach. Near the Hanakoa Stream crossing, a rest area offers a stop for weary backpackers and hikers. Cross Kalalau Stream to the beach and the camping area. And I apologize to LosAngelosAnd, I was wrong for misinterpreting their inquiry. Plan your trip accordingly. Hena SP now requires advanced reservations for entry except for those with valid camping permits for the Npali Coast SWP. ny = document.getElementById(image); Jen and Seth decided to swim down the coastline instead. Not only is the trail narrow in some places, but it can also be slippery because of loose rocks or if it has recently rained. More vegetation and another beach on the other side of the arch. We walked the beach both days we were in Kalalau. You could take a boat tour down the coastline, a guided kayak excursion, or a helicopter tour. Click on the Boating Na Pali link to see a list of boating companies that have permits to land - perhaps they would do a private charter: http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/kauai/napali_boating.cfm. Then they told everyone to go out on the observation deck. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; Most prefer life in the valley to the busy day-to-day life on the outside where the simple pleasures of living off the land are nearly impossible. Book your permits as early as possible for the best chance of getting your preferred dates. It is flanked by sheer canyon walls and it is illegal to boat or kayak there. Milwkid, I don't know why you would think the OP is joking - this question does get asked occasionally (hell, I wouldn't want to hike the whole 11 miles, either). Aside from environmental concerns, you will face a court date and heavy fines if you get caught. function noshow(star_img,rnid) In the early morning wedecided to go for a nice open water swim, http://goingtogetlost.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/going-to-get-lost_black-logo-e1472512038874.png, http://goingtogetlost.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/commando-climb-7.jpg. #2. mobile app. Camping gear should include a lightweight sleeping bag or blanket, sleeping pad, tent with rainfly, cooking stove and fuel, water purification tablets or filter, first aid kit, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, rain gear, and biodegradable soap. I didn't think you camp on the beach. Though not technically allowed, the relaxed atmosphere on the trail seems to coincide with clothing optional attire. Its rated a 9/10 for technical difficulty, and has many shear drop offs, narrow ledges, and never ending climbs and descents. Swimming is possible on Kalalau Beach, but not without dangers. For a nonresident of Hawaii, permits at the time of writing cost $20 per person/per night. We hope you will make the effort to explore Kalalau valley. The trail begins right after Ke'e Beach and has extreme inclines and declines and narrow footpaths, especially between the dreaded 6.5 to 8 miles (10.5 to 12.9 km) into it. Just like the signs around Hawaii will advise you, when in doubt, dont go out. There are designated camping areas, however it seems you can camp anywhere, as its not typically enforced. ), ^ Top of page | Home | Search | Archives, Unreal Hawaii is a digital magazine for people that love the Hawaii outdoors. The last thing you'll want when going on a . The best part is that the beach will be empty but for your fellow travelers. The Kalalau Trail is a 22-mile out-and-back coastal hike located on the northwest side of the island of Kauai. } The one way price from Hanalei Bay is usually $75-100 and requires swimming a short distance to the boat. Heres the thing youre in the middle of nowhere out here. And blueflamingo, I wouldn't hike it either. We will use this opportunity to perform road grading, back filling, downed tree removal, and sand removal from the shower. 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. Even amongst the gorgeous sights and sounds along the entire coastline, one area stands out above the rest. It doesnt go back too far. else if(star_img=='2'){ It is flanked by sheer canyon walls and it is illegal to boat or kayak there. Country. We didn't GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. Camping permits for the Npali Coast SWP (Kalalau Trail) are currently available 90-days in-advance. Permits cost $10 per person per night. A few people have made Kalalau Valley their permanent home, even though it is not legal. That means rogue waves can crash onto the beach at any moment. But there are also local hunters (and I have seen them leave trash in Waimea Canyon) as well as people who come in on private boats with tons of gear, and I bet some of them leave trash too (and not all of them have permits either). And then Cory slipped on his grippy aqua-socks and climbed straight up the crack. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Very Good"; Kalalau Beach into Kalalau ValleyLocated near the end of the main trail, this valley trail passes through stone terraces that were used in the agriculture of taro and ends at a series of small waterfalls with swimming holes complete with a rope swing. But, dont do what Corys doing here youll give your friends a heart attack. } else { Its like being in the desert. In the early days, a similar foot trail linked traditional Hawaiian settlements along the rugged coastline. The ocean engulfs the beach and carves caves into the young rock. Personally, I like the idea of the bikini clad sweet hearts, free drinks, and calm seas. driving distance from Poipu to North Shore, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas. selectedVal = '3'; This section is a popular day hike for able-bodied hikers. We were advised by a local that staying in the shallows where your feet can touch is a good precaution. The trail takes hikers up, over and down the cathedral cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. Cedar Key Public Beach at Lil Shark Park. The only way to access the valley is either by boat or hiking the 11-mile Kalalau trail there are no roads or airstrips here and only government helicopters are authorized to land. The trail is part of the N Pali Coast State Park which gets its name from the Hawaiian term for high cliff, na pali.You may recognize the coast from the film Jurassic Park where it is featured . Adjacent is a famous valley, with vast streams, pools and trails. While the Kalalau Beach at the end of the trail is considered safe for swimming, the first beach you encounter on the trail, Hanakapiai Beach, is not. If you are stopped by a park ranger you will be asked to show the permit along with photo id. There is a helipad in the valley, but it is usually only used by law enforcement. document.getElementById('rat').value="4"; 4516 Alawai Rd. And sunglasses. Facilities include a composting toilet and two roofed shelters. } Permit holders can choose where to spend their allotted nights on the trail.
August 4
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