Kauai Hiking Trails

Explore Kauai on foot, from coastal paths to forest trails and canyon overlooks. Compare hikes by location, distance, and difficulty to find a route that fits your experience and the day’s conditions. Before heading out, review the individual trail guide and check official updates for closures, weather, and access requirements.

Awawawapuhi Hike Kauai

Awa’awapuhi Nualolo Trail

West Side, Kokee State Park
Waipoo Falls Waimea
Hiking Hanakapiai

Hanakapiai Trail

Na Pali State Park, North Shore

Kalalau Trail

Na Pali Coast Park, North Shore

Kuilau Ridge Trail

Keahua Arboretum, East Side
Waimea Canyon

Kukui Trail

Waimea Canyon, West Side
Mahaulepu Heritage Trail

Mahaulepu Beach Trail

Poipu, South Shore
Moalepe Trail Olohena

Moalepe Trail

Keahua Arboretum, East Side
Hanalei Bay From Okolehao Tra

Okolehao Trail

Hanalei Valley, North Shore
Waialeale Wettest Spot on Earth

Pihea Trail

Kokee State Park, West Side

Sleeping Giant – Nounou Trail East

Wailua Houselots, East Side
kauai.com

Sleeping Giant Trail

Wailua Homesteads, East Side

Waimea – Koaie Canyon Trail

Kokee Park, West Side

Kauai Hiking Map

Trail Map & DIrections

Hike the rain forest of Kokee, the bogs of the Alakai swamp, and the hanging valleys of the Napali Coast. Kauai hiking trails offer hundreds of trail choices for every level of experience. Hike Kauai Trails and connect with nature. It won’t take long to realize that Kauai is a hiker’s paradise waiting to be explored. Hiking on Kauai allows you to explore areas that are inaccessible by car and allows you to experience a tranquil and peaceful part of our natural environment.

There are hundreds of hiking trails on Kauai with every level of difficulty. Explore flora and fauna unique to this Pacific Island and the many varieties of native plants and animals that make Kauai forest and valleys their home.

Kauai’s hiking trails are an essential part of Hawaiian culture and history. As you hike along some of Kauai’s historical trails, you will find yourself amongst historical and archeological sites. Preserving and respecting these areas and staying safe while exploring are essential.

Hiking Tips

Choose a hike that matches your ability, check weather and trail conditions, and download a trail map before leaving.

Pack these essentials:

  •  Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction
  •  Lightweight, breathable clothing; long pants offer extra protection from branches
  •  A light rain jacket and insect repellent
  •  Plenty of drinking water and enough food for your outing
  •  Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
  •  A charged cell phone and an offline map
  •  A small first-aid kit and a flashlight or headlamp

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For longer or more demanding hikes

  • Extra water and food
  •  A warm layer for cooler elevations
  •  A portable phone charger
  •  A compass you know how to use
  • Stay Safe and Respect the Trail
  • Hike with a companion whenever possible, and let someone know your route and expected return time. Cell service can be unreliable, so don’t depend on your phone alone.
  • Stay on marked trails, follow posted warnings, and respect closures.
  • Never cross a flooded stream or drink untreated stream or pond water. Avoid freshwater contact if you have open cuts or scrapes.
  • Give yourself enough daylight for the return trip—and turn back if weather, trail conditions, or your energy level change.

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KAUAI THINGS TO DO