Hanakapi'ai Falls, Na Pali Coast, Kauai HI

• 5-star hike
• 6 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 650 feet
• Kauai, HI | Hawaii
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The image shows a scenic view of a coastal landscape with lush green mountains and cliffs on the left side, extending towards the ocean on the right. The sky is clear and blue, and the ocean appears calm with a deep blue color. In the foreground, there are some tropical plants with long, spiky leaves. The image captures the natural beauty of a coastal region, highlighting the contrast between the green vegetation and the blue ocean, and showcasing the rugged terrain of the cliffs.

The famed Na Pali Coastline on a perfect day.

Hiking on Kauai often feels like walking onto a movie set, since the island's coastline has stood in for prehistoric jungles and lost temples in more than one Hollywood production. The Na Pali Coast, with its green cliffs and hidden valleys, is one of the reasons directors keep coming back, and hikers get to walk right through the same scenery.

The route to Hanakapi'ai Falls starts at the Kalalau trailhead and follows the coastal path along the Na Pali cliffs before dropping down to Hanakapi'ai Beach. The beach is worth a look, but the ocean here has strong currents that make swimming dangerous, so it's best treated as a scenic stop rather than a swimming spot.

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⬤ 5★ Hanakapi-ai Falls Trail 6.4 mi out & back, moderate, gain 650 ft
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From the beach, the trail turns inland and climbs through the valley toward the falls. Like much of Kauai, the ground can be rugged and slick, especially where roots and rocks cross the path, so sturdy footwear makes a real difference. We rate this hike as moderate, though the uneven footing and occasional stream crossings can make it feel more demanding without the right shoes.

Hikers planning to continue past the Hanakapi'ai Falls junction onto the rest of the Kalalau Trail should check permit requirements ahead of time. Permits help limit the number of people using the trail and camping in the area, a rule meant to protect the landscape, though it's one that not everyone chooses to follow.

Parking at the Kalalau trailhead can fill up quickly, so arriving early is a good idea. A shuttle service also runs to the trailhead for visitors who'd rather skip the parking hassle. Trailhead facilities are limited, so it helps to come prepared before setting out.

The image is split into two sections. The left side shows a tall waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush green vegetation. A person with a backpack is standing at the base of the waterfall, looking up at it. The right side of the image shows a series of warning signs posted on a pole amidst dense tropical foliage. The signs warn about various hazards such as high surf, waves breaking on ledges, and strong currents. The warning signs read: WARNING: HIGH SURF. WARNING: WAVES BREAK ON LEDGE - You could be swept off, injured, or drowned. If in doubt, keep off. WARNING: STRONG CURRENT - You could be swept away, injured, or drowned. If in doubt, don’t go out.

Hanakapi'ai Falls | Warnings at Hanakapi'ai Beach.

The image shows a scenic beach with a clear blue sky, a sandy shore, and waves crashing onto the beach. There is a small stream or water channel running through the sand, leading towards the ocean. On the right side of the image, there are numerous rocks scattered along the shore. In the background, there is a forested cliff or hill covered with trees.

The image shows a scenic beach with a clear blue sky, a sandy shore, and waves crashing onto the beach. There is a small stream or water channel running through the sand, leading towards the ocean. On the right side of the image, there are numerous rocks scattered along the shore. In the background, there is a forested cliff or hill covered with trees.

The inviting but frequently deadly Hanakapi'ai Beach.