else } Heres the thing youre in the middle of nowhere out here. 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). In the summer, the caves offer shelter from the sun and wind. It is now underwater.). document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=selectedText; More vegetation and another beach on the other side of the arch. You could take a boat tour down the coastline, a guided kayak excursion, or a helicopter tour. for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { Salt Pond Beach image = 'qw'+rnid + i; Kealia Beach Both of these excursions depart Nassau at 8:00 a.m. sharp and return from The Exumas between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. Tucked a few hundred yards down the coast is one of the more inaccessible beaches in Hawaii, known as Honopu beach. 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.). selectedText = 'Poor'; Theres no longer sand to walk on here. document.getElementById('rat').value="4"; They often sell out and some people make reservations up to a year in advance. The poorly marked 1/2-mile trail up the east fork of the stream to Hanakoa falls has hazardous, eroded sections but affords a spectacular view of the falls. else if(star_img=='5'){ We were advised by a local that staying in the shallows where your feet can touch is a good precaution. So, I was wondering from someone who has perhaps done it recently, what the experience was like? It is a difficult and sometimes dangerous hike. The last thing you'll want when going on a . Cell phone service is limited to none on the trail. Hena State Park is roughly 41 miles (1 1/2-hour drive) from Lihue Airport. After selecting your trip dates, you may experience a bit of sticker shock during the payment portion of the permit process. There has been mention here before about companies, individuals who will pick you up from Kalalau Beach and bring you out - but I don't know if any of them are still doing that personally. The writer and/or publisher of this website is not responsible for any accidents, injuries, rescues, inconvenience, or loss of life by anyone attempting any of the hikes or activities on this website. Eleven miles in and eleven out. On our trip, we found that the first few miles, due to heavy foot traffic, were in the worst shape, and trail conditions majorly improved further down the trail. Keep driving until the road absolutely ends at a circular parking lot. The trail begins right after Ke'e Beach and has extreme inclines and declines and narrow footpaths, especially between the dreaded 6.5 to 8 miles (10.5 to 12.9 km) into it. For more information, please see our I didn't think you camp on the beach. Park. Theres no longer sand to walk on here. In the early days, a similar foot trail linked traditional Hawaiian settlements along the rugged coastline. Waimea Beach. Summer weather (May to October) normally brings steady tradewinds and occasional showers while winter weather (October to May) is less predictable. Because I have law enforcement friends with the DLNR who fly in with helos, and clean the place up, as the permanent reisidents run off to hide in the jungle. The lookout allows you to walk right to the valley's edge. 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. Kee Beach is a safe snorkel spot when the water is calm because it is protected from large waves by a fringing reef. You can see some effects from from high usage (I won't say overuse because permits are already limited), but it is still very nice there. } After this walk, I believe I now know what acupuncture feels like. Its illegal to dock a boat or even a kayak on the beach but you can swim to it. We were able to obtain a permit three months before our trip in January, however, summer permits reportedly fill up more quickly. Waiting in a short line was well worth the $6/night price tag. At the beach, you may see topless sunbathers or a naked surfer. The sandbar is quite shallow here and in some spots the ocean bottom drops off quickly to overhead depths. I don't know if there are companies regularly drop people off, but start at the state parks website: Here's the specific link for camping along the trail: http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/kauai/napali.cfm. Npali Coast State Wilderness Park. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Good"; if (field.value.length > maxlimit) [OAHU] UPDATED 2/28/23: Kaena Point State Park Mokuleia Section The vehicle access road will continue to beCLOSED due to heavy rains and saturated road conditions. The rock was like a magnet for the girls. } Not supporting camping there illegally at all - but those folks are not the big problem with opala from what I've been told. Check the website here for trail updates and closures. We watched goats kick rocks down onto campsites near these signs. You must ascend and descend a rocky trail twice. Thanks Hiker. else if(star_img=='2'){ Heres the other thing it makes for an awesome photo. Commercially guided camping trips are not authorized. if(i<= selectedVal) } And then, after a few seconds passed, all you could hear was a barrage of *click-click-clicks* from cameras. (Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. You definitely do not want to swim when this is the case. Dont pack any food items. The shelters are within a complex of old agricultural terraces where Hawaiians once planted taro. Plan your trip accordingly. . Sometimes you find a tour operator willing to let you off in the water with your equipment in a dry bag. } Kee Beach is also the beginning of the Napali Coast and the Kalalau trail that leads to Hanakapiai and Kalalau Beach. It is well worth the jungle hike to get there. Signs warn hikers of dangerous rockfall near the falls, so this area is off limits for swimming. If you are a member, the Costco in Lihue sells both food and gas. Video Shows Tourists Almost Lose Kids To Huge Waves at The Eddie While Ignoring Lifeguard Pleas To Get Back, Heres How To Visit Niihau, Hawaiis Forbidden Island, The 17 Most Underrated Honeymoon Destinations in the US, The 13 Best Places To Go Hiking in Hawaii, The Worlds Most Dangerous Footpath Is Now Totally Safe To Hike, Abiqua Falls Is a Secret Waterfall Hidden Deep in the Oregon Forest, Best Hikes With Stunning Views in the Ozark Mountains, 7 Easy Hikes on Oahu, Hawaii, That Are Perfect for Kids. We couldnt stay for long as youneed to get back before the waves and the current pick up. Then you've still got to swim into the beach, and avoid getting smashed by the rollers. Those without camping permits for Kalalau Valley are therefore prohibited from attempting the entire 22-mile round trip hike in a day. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_2',130,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_3',130,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4-0_1'); .medrectangle-4-multi-130{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:5px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:5px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. function showform(raid){ 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. Gardens-As stated earlier, there are several gardens in the valley that are a source of food for those staying there. Year-round residents like green sea turtles, dolphin, albatross birds, and endangered Hawaiian monk seals also live off the coast. } Hello. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; Allow 3 to 4 hours to complete the round-trip hike to Hanakapiai Beach. The sea can appear calm here at times (like summer) making it seem safe to swim. This is the final post in a 5-part series on Kalalau. After selecting the date and time of your visit, youll be able to select the number of entry or parking vouchers required. Print your permits ahead of time and carry them with you on the trail. Plan your trip accordingly. Along the beach, you'll find cliff walls and even some shallow caves to explore. A short swim around the bend will take you to the secluded Honopu Beach. I would pass on the pakalolo tent living homesteaders in the Kalalau Valley who deposit huge tall piles of trash throughout the area. Check overhanging trees for hazards from falling limbs. As you can expect, Tunnels Beach is . United States. Indeed, they are living the sustainable life that many in modern society have realized we need to aim for albeit with no modern amenities such as electricity, plumbing, and mass communication. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Excellent"; Since there are no lifeguards here and drownings have happened in the past, it is recommended to avoid swimming at Kalalau. Near the Hanakoa Stream crossing, a rest area offers a stop for weary backpackers and hikers. } This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. There is always work to be done in the garden, so if you are going to enjoy some food, lending a hand for an hour or so would be much appreciated and would go a long way for the gardens long-term vitality. The ledge is rocky, you're up against a cliff and the ledge drops off into deep, violent ocean water. We left our snorkel equipment in the trunk of our rental car and took a swim at the end of our hike. It is up to each individual to know their limits, abilities and level of expertise before attempting any outdoor activity. Empty, untouched beach On your mark, get set, go Tucked a few hundred yards down the coast is one of the more inaccessible beaches in Hawaii, known as Honopu beach. A 1.8-mile trail into the valley leads to a spectacular 300-foot waterfall. Free Travel Planners for Hawaii & each island, Websites & links for travel sites, attractions, restaurants, maps, lodging & more. You'll need to purchase a camping pass for a stay in Kalalau, and they sell out months ahead of time. But there are also local hunters (and I have seen them leave trash in Waimea Canyon) as well as people who come in on private boats with tons of gear, and I bet some of them leave trash too (and not all of them have permits either). This hike is on the beginning section of the Kalalau trail, at Ke'e Beach. You just need to be a strong swimmer to get to it. Haena Beach Well worth a look (and an unforgettable fruitful smell). [OAHU] UPDATED 4/12/22: Sand Island State Recreation Area WATER OFF,camping and comfort stationsCLOSED. Now you can sit back and enjoy yet another epic sunset. Maybe take this into consideration before doing a double backflip off a waterfall. View of the ocean from the Kalalau Trail. Tunnels Beach, Anahola Beach Hiking past the first major landmark on the Kalalau Trail, Hanakapiaai Beach at mile two, requires a permit. The Kalalau Trail is an in-and-out trail, meaning you have to return the way you came. See more from this series: This story was last modified on September 14, 2015. Copyright 2023, State of Hawaii. Even if there was an unautthorized boat, or raft, the OP did not happen to mention the time of year that they were planning on camping at the Kalalau Valley. Portions of the trail in this section are very narrow and the dropoff on the ocean side is severe. Make sure to use the correct filter if you plan to drink the water. The park will REOPEN by 3:00 PM on Friday 3/3/23. If possible, I would recommend making the trek all the way to the beach to camp. jebett, the designated campsites are right behind Kalalau beach. Shutterstock Hawaii, Island of kauai, Na Pali Cliffs How To Hike N Pali And The Kalalau Trail Where To Camp In N Pali Coast State Wilderness Park If youre a good swimmer, theres a hidden beach called Honopu Beach right around that bend. Some beaches in the city need to be swimmable due to risky conditions of intense waves and sudden descent on the depth of seabeds. Parking is limited to two parking lots and you will not want to park streetside if you are leaving your car overnight, as you may receive a ticket. And as koloagirl says, you still need a camping permit. . How can I take a shelter dog on a field trip? selectedText = 'Fine'; Shaded campsites are available beneath the trees behind the beach. These campsites are run by the County of Kauai and operate on a different reservation system. You'll be fined if you do not have one. mobile app. These valleys are sacred ground to the Hawaiian people and it is our responsibility as hikers to make a conscious effort to preserve and protect the land. Personally, I like the idea of the bikini clad sweet hearts, free drinks, and calm seas. You may find locals living near the beach, or in the adjacent valley. This is where you'll meet some of the permanent residents as well as other campers in the valley. The trail traverses five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted cliffs. UPDATED 2/22/23: Kalalau Trail has REOPENED. There are no trash receptacles in the park, and everything you take in, you will need to carry out. There are lots of details to consider when planning this hike and having a strategy ahead of time will make sure you have time for everything you want to see. This small beach is no longer accessible.). Unfortunately, there's no swimming at the beach, due to strong currents. We pulled in around 7 AM the morning of our hike and were rewarded with a good parking spot close to the trailhead. for (i=1; i<=star_img; i++) { Hena SP now requires advanced reservations for entry except for those with valid camping permits for the Npali Coast SWP. Camping in Kalalau is allowed only behind this sand beach. And, once you're in the valley, you're going to want to familiarize yourself with your surroundings. Is there something we should watch for? The rugged, inaccessible coast is made up of a series of green cathedral cliffs that reach out into the ocean like the talons of an island-sized dragon. Seeaosite for updates. Kalalau Beach is very secluded, only with those brave and fit enough to get to the beach via man powered boat or expert hiking trails. Hours: 8:00a.m. There are three river crossings on the trail that become a flash flood hazard during heavy rainfall and may be impassable. Hikers have perished on this stretch of the hike, so you should only cross if you're physically fit and there's plenty of sunlight. You'll need to purchase a camping pass for a stay in Kalalau, and they sell out months ahead of time. This information is not intended to give specific advice on any trail. It's a surreal scene. And eventually, our companions returned from their adventure.(Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. There are falling rock hazards at the Kalalau Beach campsites along the cliff walls. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; Checking gear ahead of time could eliminate a real hassle on the trail and is worth the effort.<. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Very Good"; The Na Pali Coast is a jewel of not only Kauai, but the entire Pacific. el.style.display = 'none'; These stacked rocks are all over the place in the cave. Password should be at least 8 characters. List of properly permitted vacation rentals, not condos - 8/15/2017, Weather Questions start here Pls/Best Time of Year to Visit Kauai, How to make reservations at Haena State Park / Ke'e Beach. The beach sits at the foot of Kalalau Valley which is the jewel of the Na Pali Coast. From here, trails lead through the rest of the valley. Though this article focuses on walking the Kalalau Trail, there are other ways to visit if you do not enjoy hiking or are short on time. selectedVal = '2'; Here are a few examples of what you can expect: Pools-There are two main pool areas for some refreshing swimming. Pack a water filtration system such as those sold by Sawyer, Katadyn, or Steripen. { Must climb rock . ny = document.getElementById(image); They live here because the valley is difficult to access and offers solitude and isolation. The trail winds through several green valleys and ends at the cliff-lined Kalalau Beach. We hope you will make the effort to explore Kalalau valley. Equipped with fins, they enter the water at Kalalau and swim over to the even more isolated Honopu Beach, which can only be accessed this way. Just know that some of the campers down in Kalalau live free and believe that clothing is optional. Since the trail is quite long, most people who visit Kalalau Beach plan to stay overnight. Camping is allowed on the beach, but permits are required. Money is irrelevant, instead people rely on the barter system and gifting one another for their exchanges. Because the beach lacks a protective offshore reef to block incoming waves, high surf is common, especially during the winter months. document.getElementById('rat').value=selectedVal; The falls are 300 high and hikers can swim in the large, cold pool at its base. It is sometimes safer to trek through the mud than trying to find a less messy path around it. var shows = 0; You can drink this water, but you must treat or boil the water beforehand. 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. Kalalau Beach is more about the journey than the destination, and it's not easy to get to this secluded, beautiful and verdant beach. A hat is nice to have too. Get answers to your questions about Kauai. Hiking and any outdoor activity can be dangerous and has many potential hazards. [OAHU] UPDATED 3/2/23: Puu o Mahuka Heiau State Monument IsCLOSED due to high winds and heavy rain. The massive arch, the empty beach, a waterfall and a sun bathing monk seal. Travel light. Having a rock roll through your tent or crack you on the noggin may negatively impact your trip. The stories on this website are provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; The rest of us, Reanne, Cory, Troy, Jenelyn and I walked it back to the cracked boulder. 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. A password will be mailed to you! Feral goats have been seen roaming the beach and valley, and contribute to the leptospirosis in the streams and waterfall. Kalalau Beach (see more photos) lies at the end of the 11-mile (17.7 km) Kalalau Trail on Kauai's north shore. She told me that when the ship got to Kalalau it slowed down and did a U-turn. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License. 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. The stream at the beach can be crossed relatively easily by going bouldering down to the coast depending on the tide and water flow on the stream. The ocean engulfs the beach and carves caves into the young rock. waves can be dangerous - avoid swimming due to riptides and currents. Be sure to purify your water as it most likely contains leptospirosis, a bacteria from urine. But because there is no legal camping in Kalalau valley, people usually say they camped "at" Kalalau beach to make the distinction. You'll also be forced to camp in the valley as the hike is too long and dangerous for an out-and-back trip in a single day. The white sand beach is a mile long, and, in this seclusion, you'll have no problem picking out your own isolated spot. Many rare native plants grow along the trail. Lydgate Beach The short break makes for big waves, especially during the winter season, and the sandbar can be unpredictable. If you look closely at the photo above, you can see them in the water. There are permanent residents in the valley that live off the land despite the fact that it is illegal. To prevent overpopulation, the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) allows hunting on weekends in August and September.