Na Pali Coast stretches fifteen miles along the northwest coast of Kauai between Ke`e Beach in Haena State Park and Polihale State Park in Mana. This rugged coast will leave you breathless as you gaze upon the pali (high cliffs) that rise as much as 4,000 feet (1,200 m) above the Pacific Ocean, sea caves, lush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls that journey to the shores from thousands of feet above.
The Nā Pali Coast State Park is accessible to hikers through the Kalalau Trail. The trail begins on Kauai’s north shore at the end of Hwy 56 at Ke’e Beach in Haena State Park. The most popular section of the course is the first two-mile stretch from Ke’e Beach to Hanakapiai Valley. If you need more adventure, you can trek two more miles inland to the Hanakapiai Falls. The last nine miles of the 11-mile Kalalau Trail are for experienced hikers with the proper permits and camping gear.
Explore the Majestic Na Pali Coast: A Breathtaking Adventure
The Na Pali Coast is one of Hawaii’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, a rugged stretch of coastline on Kauai that seems almost untouched by time. With its towering emerald cliffs, hidden beaches, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls, it’s a paradise that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle. Accessible only by foot, boat, or helicopter, the Na Pali Coast offers some of the most unforgettable experiences in the Hawaiian Islands.
Explore Na Pali Coast”
- Helicopter Tours: For the ultimate bird’s-eye view of the Na Pali Coast, a helicopter tour is the way to go. Fly over the dramatic cliffs, emerald valleys, and pristine beaches as a skilled pilot guides you through this untouched paradise. You’ll see places that are otherwise unreachable and gain a unique perspective of Kauai’s stunning landscape. Many tours also include scenic views of Waimea Canyon, waterfalls, and the island’s volcanic landscape.
- Boat Tours: If you’re looking to get up close to the cliffs, a boat tour is a must. Glide along the coast, exploring hidden sea caves, pristine beaches, and the dramatic cliffs that rise steeply from the ocean. Many boat tours offer snorkeling stops where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters and discover the vibrant marine life of the Pacific.
- Hiking and Camping: For the more adventurous, hiking the Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This challenging 11-mile trek leads you through lush valleys and along cliff edges with jaw-dropping ocean views. You’ll pass waterfalls, rainforests, and secluded beaches along the way. If you prefer a shorter hike, the Hanakapiai Trail offers a preview of the stunning coast in a 2-mile trek.
Whether by air, sea, or land, a tour of the Na Pali Coast is sure to leave you in awe of Kauai’s rugged beauty. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after you leave the island.
Visiting Haena State Park
All park visitors without a Hawaii driver’s license or state ID must reserve online in advance. For parking passes and permits, visit www.gohaena.com
*Camping permits for the Kalalau trail include entry through the Hawaii State Park Website.
Residents with Hawaii driver’s licenses or state IDs may enter the park and park their vehicles for free, first-come, first-serve, subject to capacity limits. There is no time limit for resident parking until dusk daily (or overnight with a camping permit). No other IDs or documentation are accepted for resident-free entry. Adult residents without accepted ID must purchase an advance online reservation (see next section). Minors (under 18) are not required to have ID.
The park is open daily, including holidays. The parking lot opens at 6:30 a.m.
To see Na Pali from above, you can drive to Kokee State Park for overlooks into Kalalau Valley. The best way to experience the Na Pali is to take a helicopter tour or a boat tour that offers impressive vantage of the cliffs and sea caves, sightseeing, and snorkeling tours on either sailing catamarans, power catamarans, or rigid hull inflatables.
Most tours originate from Port Allen on the west side year-round. During the summer months, April through September, a few tour companies operate out of Hanalei Bay on Kauai’s north shore. To get a proper perspective on this fantastic island and the Na Pali Coast, book a doors-off helicopter tour, a fixed-wing airplane tour, or a Helicopter Tour for a truly unique experience of one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines.
