SeeSand Island site for updates. Beaches - Kalalau beach is the obvious highlight. Then make some friends with the adventurers around you while you enjoy one of the last sunsets in the United States. else Go through an awesome archway to find a fresh waterfall and pool to bath in. Country. Would it still be safe during the time we are going? You must either boat, helicopter or hike to this secluded destination, but that doesn't mean you can't catch a sneak peak without all the effort. There are no lifeguards on these beaches and help is a helicopter ride away. else if(i=='3'){ She didnt do the hike but she was able to see the Na Pali Coast from a cruise ship. As you walk down the beach youll encounter several caves. Swimming or wading can be dangerous, however, and is not recommended. } Kalalau Beach Na Pali Coast. The short break makes for big waves, especially during the winter season, and the sandbar can be unpredictable. selectedVal = '1'; { At the end of the beach is a point where you can swim or kayak around to Honopu - another amazing beach that has been in a number of movies. Though not technically allowed, the relaxed atmosphere on the trail seems to coincide with clothing optional attire. Ten lashes for me! Commercially guided camping trips are not authorized. Waiting in a short line was well worth the $6/night price tag. People hear about the difficult hike to a beautiful beach, and ask how to get to that place without all the effort. Many rare native plants grow along the trail. All rights reserved. This is the final post in a 5-part series on Kalalau. The Kalalau Valley sits roughly halfway down the coast. There are no trash receptacles in the park, and everything you take in, you will need to carry out. DISCLAIMER: UnrealHawaii.com is an independent resource for Hawaii focused content. } else { There are no facilities on the beach, except for composting toilets. Lydgate Beach When we got to the end of the beach, Seth, Jen, Jen, Cory and Troy put on some fins and swam out. 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). And they probably only do this in the summer, when the surf and currents are safe to swim ashore. So, I was wondering from someone who has perhaps done it recently, what the experience was like? The Kalalau Trail is an in-and-out trail, meaning you have to return the way you came. Pack your backpacking stove, however, stove fuel is not permitted on any airplane and will need to be purchased on the island. . In the early morning wedecided to go for a nice open water swim,fins are an absolute must! This trail passes through extensive agricultural terraces where Hawaiians grew taro, the staple crop, from ancient times until about 1920. United States. You may find locals living near the beach, or in the adjacent valley. The Kalalau Trail is one of the adventurous hiking trails in the world. Hawaiian monk seals also live off the coast. Camping fees for Npali Coast are $25 per person per night (Hawaii residents), $35 per person per night (non-residents). Those of us that didnt have sunglasses wore their swimming goggles to keep the sand out of their eyes. It's even more difficult to get on a boat to leave the valley in a surge of surf. 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. You may recognize the coast from the film Jurassic Park where it is featured during the opening helicopter scene. 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). Its the part right after you come out of the valley. Those that did not have goggles are Asian so they were okay (on account of the squinty eyes). selectedVal = '2'; In fact, Hanakoa is a hanging valley without a beach the stream exhausts itself over cliffs at the oceans edge. Youll want a shirt or wrap to cover yourself from the stinging sand. Book a full-day excursion with Harbour Safaris or Exuma Escapes. As a bonus, a couple of guys were selling drinks beachside out of freshly opened coconuts. The other is the Big Pool, which isnt exactly that big, but still provides enough room for swimming around and diving in. [MAUI] UPDATED 1/26/23:Iao Valley State Monument CLOSED August 2022through April 15, 2023. This is where you'll meet some of the permanent residents as well as other campers in the valley. Its like being in the desert. Naturalists will find a number of points of interest. You can camp on the Kalaau Beach. The hike to the beach is two miles and takes 2 hours. Tory and Cory appeared to be tired from the swim but Seth and Jen (both swimmers in high school) looked fresh as daisies. In-order to access the Npali Coast State Wilderness Park as well as the Kalalau Trail, visitors have to go through Hena SP. Those in tip top shape can do it in 8 hours, those more average take 10+. I suppose they woud pick you up as well, but you'd have to talk to them. The facilities at the beach include restrooms and showers. I would like to spend one night at the Kalalau beach, but honestly, I don't feel like walking the 11 mile trail, so does anyone know if I can arrange a boat there that would pick me up the next day? Also, there are strong rip and alongshore currents, which may be difficult to spot, even if the ocean appears calm. For a nonresident of Hawaii, permits at the time of writing cost $20 per person/per night. NOTE: It is illegal for anyone to provide commercial boat transportation for drop off/pick-up at Kalalau or Milolii camping areas. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. I would pass on the pakalolo tent living homesteaders in the Kalalau Valley who deposit huge tall piles of trash throughout the area. The Kalalau Trail is a 22-mile out-and-back coastal hike located on the northwest side of the island of Kauai. The Best Secret Beaches in Kauai, Hawaii - Matador Network 5 Days In Kauai Sample Itinerary | Hawaii Travel Guide Hanakoa campsite at mile 6 gives hikers the opportunity to spend the night at the halfway point on the trail. } Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. DROWNINGS OCCUR HERE REGULARLY! I was so happy I brought my sunglasses on this day. Kalalau Beach, Kauai Waimea, HI 96796 The view of the valley is stunning at every point. A) no one will be there to help, b) if anyone was, you'd be taking up critical medical space. for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { 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. You can walk into them to explore and take cover from the wind. Cory and Troy picked them off the rocks in between waves. If you look closely at the photo above, you can see them in the water. Even with this type of device, help is most likely hours away. Purchase a camping permit here or in person at any State Parks district office. It is a minimum 3-day round-trip journey for most people to hike all the way to Kalalau and back, which means that you have to be well outfitted and prepared for the journey. The trail crosses the stream well back in the valley, therefore there is no shoreline access at Hanakoa. The sea can appear calm here at times (like summer) making it seem safe to swim. else if(i=='5'){ Its worth while to bring a way to store water, as the water source is a good trek from the designated camp areas. Its wide and deep. While the crew . ny = document.getElementById(image); Two days after we finished our hike, the trail was closed for almost a week due to flash flooding and the warning was posted in a red banner at the top of the web page. It's even more difficult to get on a boat to leave the valley in a surge of surf. 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. The sand at Cedar Key Beach is soft and the water is shallow, so it's safe for the whole family. Sponsored Content >. There are even several community gardens throughout the valley, giving the people sustenance without a reliance on the outside world. else if(star_img=='3'){ shows = 1; Its rated a 9/10 for technical difficulty, and has many shear drop offs, narrow ledges, and never ending climbs and descents. If youre a good swimmer, theres a hidden beach called Honopu Beach right around that bend. Tired hikers may be urged on by the panoramic view of Kalalau Valleys fluted cliffs and the coastline beyond. | Web usage privacy. Camp fires seem to be allowed (nearly every site has a pit) and there are pit toilets to use in two locations. Personally, I like the idea of the bikini clad sweet hearts, free drinks, and calm seas. As we said above, one of the best Cedar Key activities is going to the beach! It is difficult, strenuous , and IMO, dangerous unless in good physical shape. Kalalau Campground, Npali Coast, HI: 7 Hipcamper Reviews And 13 Photos Within the valley itself, there are many things to see and do. Kalalau beach is about 1 mile long with plenty of trails heading back to the valley. Hena SP now requires advanced reservations for entry except for those with valid camping permits for the Npali Coast SWP. Just remember that Kalalau Beach does not have a protective reef to break the waves. Camping fees for Npali Coast are $25 per person per night (Hawaii residents), $35 per person per night (non-residents). } The trail winds through several green valleys and ends at the cliff-lined Kalalau Beach. Sometimes they even rise completely out of the water in a jump known as a breach. After this walk, I believe I now know what acupuncture feels like. Gardens-As stated earlier, there are several gardens in the valley that are a source of food for those staying there. For some people who come to Kalalau Beach, the long and difficult trail is not adventurous enough. The trail traverses five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted cliffs. From Kalalau Beach, you can swim around the corner to Honop Beach, which is even more spectacular than Kalalau. During winter months, dangerous conditions include high surf and strong currents. Some pre-planning is necessary to hike the entire trail. You'll also find a natural shower in the form of Ho'ole'a Falls at the western end of the beach. Some dock a small boat in the town of Waimea and ride it over to Kalalau Valley to drop off passengers. Theres no longer sand to walk on here. But, that doesnt mean you need to stop here. And it actually appears that theres a third part to this boulder behind it. As you walk down the beach in Kalalau you feel like you're in a different world. This beach is the end of the walkable coastline. Many of the months during the year, beach landings there would be dangerous due to rough surf . In between each of the talons lies a valley, and none of them are more beautiful or abundant than Kalalau. Kiahuna Beach More strenuous hiking begins as the steep switchback trail climbs 800 feet out of Hanakapiai valley. Kalalau Beach in Kauai - Hawaiian Planner This was my favorite part of the trip. Kee Beach (pronounced Keh-AY) is located at the end of the road. It is sometimes safer to trek through the mud than trying to find a less messy path around it. var image; Camping on Kauai anywhere other than designated camping areas is considered illegal. Then they told everyone to go out on the observation deck. When I got back from Kalalau I went to get a haircut. Beaches Kalalau beach is the obvious highlight. We watched goats kick rocks down onto campsites near these signs. Hello. Swimming is possible on Kalalau Beach, but not without dangers. Tradewind showers are more frequent during the night and early morning. In addition to the swimming pigs, you'll also get to observe Bahamian . Camping permits for the Npali Coast SWP (Kalalau Trail) are currently available 90-days in-advance. You do not need to be extreme athletes, but this is not a casual stroll. Due to increasing popularity, the state limits how many permits are released every day. [KAUAI] Kkee State Park - Beginning TUESDAY, MARCH 7, 2023, road repair work will be conducted along Kkee Road between the meadow/lodge area and the first Kalalau Lookout. The Kalalau Valley - 5 Things To Do In The Jewel of Napali document.getElementById('rat').value="5"; Shipwrecks Beach, Kekaha Beach Thanks so much. We use cookies for analytics tracking and advertising from our partners. function textCounter(field, countfield, maxlimit) { You may not be able to use your cell phone to call for help in an emergency. selectedVal = '5'; Phone Number. 20 Things You Should Know Before Hiking Hawaii's Kalalau Trail But remembers there is no reef to protect the shore, which leaves it vulnerable tolong shore currents. A few people have made Kalalau Valley their permanent home, even though it is not legal. 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. Here are 21 things you should know before hiking the Kalalau Trail. 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. This hike is on the beginning section of the Kalalau trail, at Ke'e Beach. Top Ten Ways to Protect Hawaiian Monk Seals/Dolphin protection, Geography, Geology, History and Culture of Kaua'i. 4516 Alawai Rd. There are no roads that take you to the valley. (Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. The DLNR personnel have to haul the garbage out of there. For more information, please see our Thanks Hiker. Wailua Beach, Baby Beach Poipu 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. The trail takes hikers up, over and down the cathedral cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. he camping permits go fast, so its wise to get one a year or more in advance. Don't Look Down! Just like the signs around Hawaii will advise you, when in doubt, dont go out. Secure your car and limit the valuables left inside. } Theres no longer sand to walk on here. The trail crosses Kalalau Stream near the valley mouth before ending at Kalalau Beach and a small waterfall. var i; Permit holders can choose where to spend their allotted nights on the trail. This is the real Kalalau Valley Lookout. Now you can sit back and enjoy yet another epic sunset. Yes Good For Swimming, Snorkeling, Kids, Relaxing, Watching sunset 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. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Fine"; Thus, the only way to reach it is to swim. In the summer, the caves offer shelter from the sun and wind. 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.). We pulled in around 7 AM the morning of our hike and were rewarded with a good parking spot close to the trailhead. In the early days, a similar foot trail linked traditional Hawaiian settlements along the rugged coastline. They often sell out and some people make reservations up to a year in advance. 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. It is a difficult and sometimes dangerous hike. Hiking Kauai: The Kalalau Trail - The Trek These terraces were replanted with coffee plants in the late 1800s, which are still growing throughout the valley today. Therefore, the only way to legally hike the trail in its entirety is to do so with a permit, and they can be difficult to obtain. Despite a Portuguese man o war sting, quite a longer swim than expected, and considerably bigger waves then anticipated we made it (just barely)! Sometimes you find a tour operator willing to let you off in the water with your equipment in a dry bag. Jenelyn, Reanne and I are not strong swimmers so we stayed back. 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. else if(star_img=='5'){ image = 'qw'+rnid + i; If you are lucky enough to witness this, they are not in distress, and should not be approached or bothered. Hena State Park is roughly 41 miles (1 1/2-hour drive) from Lihue Airport. Make reservations at www.gohaena.com. For treating minor injuries, carry a first-aid kit with you and learn some of the basics. 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. Hanakapiai Trail | Kauai.com selectedText = 'Excellent'; On the plus side, it is Anini Beach is a narrow sliver of a beach that extends along Kauai's North Shore for somewhat over two miles. For experienced swimmers knowledgeable in local sea conditions, nearshore waters offer limited opportunities for swimming and body surfing. Drinking the Water Groceries, gasoline, and stove fuel are less expensive in the larger towns. } DAY-USE RESERVATIONS OR A VALID CAMPING PERMIT, AND PARKING RESERVATIONS ARE NOW REQUIRED TO ACCESS THE KALALAU TRAIL. Our Terms and Conditions, which contain an arbitration provision, may be viewed here. Ke`e Beach | Kauai.com Hike N Pali: A Guide To This 12-Hour Hike - TheTravel See Hapuna site for updates. Year-round residents like green sea turtles, dolphin, albatross birds, and endangered Hawaiian monk seals also live off the coast. We walked the beach both days we were in Kalalau. The surf and rip currents are variable and often extremely treacherous, but worst in winter when high surf conditions prevail. Operate by the LNT principle and leave no trace behind you. Jen and Seth decided to swim down the coastline instead. Must climb rock . A password will be mailed to you! You can also get to this beach via boat, which is fairly commonly done via Kayaks (with a permit). document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; Hawaii. The stories on this website are provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. From the beach, the valley extends 2 miles inland, with the high plateau of Kokee State park looking down upon it. There is nothing worse than getting to camp and realizing there is a hole in your tent or your water filter is not working. But this can be dangerous as the beach here features a short break, and there is unpredictable and shallow sandbar, not to mention illegal. Walk-ins permitted. Likewise, commercial guided-camping trips (boat and hiking) are also illegal. Never turn your back on the ocean. Kalalau Beach, though, is really worth the 11-mile hike to get there. How to Get the Rebreather - Sons of the Forest Wiki Guide - IGN Lawai Beach var shows = 0; } This gap forms a channel that gets filled with water as the waves rush in. Call ahead to make sure they have them in stock. Reservations may be made up to 30 days in advance, and no later than the day before your visit*. Hideaway Beach image = 'qw'+rnid + i; It is well worth the jungle hike to get there. Yes as daisies. Npali Coast SWP camping permits are available here >, Overnight parking is available at Hena SP via Overnight Parking Reservation. The lookout allows you to walk right to the valley's edge. Within the 5-night maximum, no 2 consecutive nights are allowed at Hanakoa. var ny; We left our snorkel equipment in the trunk of our rental car and took a swim at the end of our hike. You are always a wealth of hiking info. The ocean engulfs the beach and carves caves into the young rock. 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. 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. It can be ankle deep only to plunge down to the depths with no warning. document.getElementById('rat').value="4"; Kalalau Trail (Kauai) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Tripadvisor else if(i=='2'){ Native and introduced tropical plant species abound. I tried hinting to Jenelyn and Reanne that it might not be safe to climb it but to no avail. The 11-mile trail is graded but almost never level as it crosses above towering sea cliffs and through lush tropical valleys. The shelters are within a complex of old agricultural terraces where Hawaiians once planted taro. Walking the first half mile will reward you with excellent views of the coast. The most spectacular being over 1,000 feet tall! If you follow blueflamingo's boating link, you'll find that no tour boats are allowed to land at Kalalau beach, only kayaks. Law enforcement often helicopter in to check permits. Hiking past the first major landmark on the Kalalau Trail, Hanakapiaai Beach at mile two, requires a permit. 3. There may be a boat with the Swedish Bikini Team, and they usually have the best refreshments on board. A well-marked 2 mile trail into Kalalau Valley ends at a pool in the stream. Doing this is dangerous so, maybe dont attempt this if you ever find yourself in front of this rock. Be sure to purify your water as it most likely contains leptospirosis, a bacteria from urine. The upper half of this trail should be hiked only in good weather to avoid dangerous flash floods and falling rocks. Campers are allowed a maximum length stay of 5 nights. function form_visible(){ A 1.8-mile trail into the valley leads to a spectacular 300-foot waterfall. The reserve harbors a variety of native lowland forest plants. http://www.kauaiexplorer.com/hiking_kauai/kalalau_hike.php.