Hanakapi'ai Falls, Na Pali Coast, Kauai HI

• 5-star hike
• 6.4 mile out-and-back
• Hard difficulty | Gain 650 feet
• Kauai, HI | Hawaii
• Driving directions: Trailhead


The famed Na Pali Coastline on a perfect day.

When hiking the trails of Kauai you can be forgiven for expecting to meet a T-Rex around the next bend, or to spot Indiana Jones running by with one hand on his hat and the other grasping some ancient artifact. Hollywood is a big fan of the this Hawaiian island's spectacular landscape, which is why it's a popular filming location for movies like Raiders of the Lost Ark and Jurrasic Park.

Begin at the Kalalau trailhead and follow this fabled Na Pali coastal trail two miles to Hanakapi'ai Beach. Avoid the temptation to swim among the deadly ocean currents for which this beach is famous, and take a turn into the hills towards the waterfall. Like most trails on Kauai, the route up to the falls is quite rugged and usually quite slippery, which is why we categorize this hike as hard. Also, this route should not be attempted during or immediately after a heavy rainfall.

Hanakapi'ai Falls Trail


Hanakapi'ai Falls Trail 5★
6.4 mi, Out & Back, Hard, Gain 650ft
Trailspotting Map at AllTrails

Check ahead for permit requirements for hiking and camping on the Na Pali, particularly if you're considering hiking the Kalalau Trail beyond the Hanakapi'ai Falls junction. Permits exist to limit foot traffic in the park in the interest of conservation, but it's a restriction that's frequently and frustratingly disregarded by many visitors to this park.


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


The inviting but frequently deadly Hanakapi'ai Beach.

Tangents:
• Trail Links: Public Map at AllTrails
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