So, I was wondering from someone who has perhaps done it recently, what the experience was like? [HAWAII] UPDATED 1/20/23: Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area WATER OFFLINE in the park, facilities impacted. (Update 9/14/15: This sea cave was destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. You'll look up the giant walls of the valley, gaze upon waterfalls and you'll be greeted by abundant wild fruit trees. The short break makes for big waves, especially during the winter season, and the sandbar can be unpredictable. There are no trash receptacles in the park, and everything you take in, you will need to carry out. There are permanent residents in the valley that live off the land despite the fact that it is illegal. All camping areas are located on shaded terraces near streams. But I will gladly be corrected if proven wrong. Waimea, HI 96796 Which, in consideration, is less than you would be paying for a beach-side hotel room. You can prepare for this by carrying a satellite beacon device which pings a distress signal if you are injured. These terraces were replanted with coffee plants in the late 1800s, which are still growing throughout the valley today. After leaving Hanakoa valley, the trail enters drier, more open land which offers little shade from the midday sun. Please check the Kalalau trail safety concerns before you go hiking. Sometimes you find a tour operator willing to let you off in the water with your equipment in a dry bag. There is a helipad in the valley, but it is usually only used by law enforcement. The DLNR personnel have to haul the garbage out of there. Ten lashes for me! Upon entry to Haena SP, simply show staff your valid camping permit. But because there is no legal camping in Kalalau valley, people usually say they camped "at" Kalalau beach to make the distinction. (Originally published in August 2011. We recommend making this a 3-day hike at least. else I was so happy I brought my sunglasses on this day. Having a rock roll through your tent or crack you on the noggin may negatively impact your trip. For experienced swimmers knowledgeable in local sea conditions, nearshore waters offer limited opportunities for swimming and body surfing. function show(star_img,rnid) Your trip begins with a winding 2 mile trail to Hanakapi`ai Beach. During the winter months, huge waves crash against the cliffs. Millions of years of constant erosion from the sea and sky have formed a landscape that is hard to comprehend even photos (as beautiful as they are) do a poor job of fully encompassing the splendour of this area. This is because the valley and beach are literally surrounded by steep rock walls, so unless you feel inspired to do some lead climbing, or swim back (not recommended- see the hazards section), you pretty much have to enter and leave the way you came. Click on the Boating Na Pali link to see a list of boating companies that have permits to land - perhaps they would do a private charter: http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/kauai/napali_boating.cfm. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; Lydgate Beach Should I split my stay between 2 locations on Kauai? Kalalau Trail leading to the beach The trail ends at Kalalau Beach, as the ocean comes up the cliffs at the western end. DISCLAIMER: UnrealHawaii.com is an independent resource for Hawaii focused content. These stacked rocks are all over the place in the cave. If you look closely at the photo above, you can see them in the water. Hanalei Pier Camping on Kauai anywhere other than designated camping areas is considered illegal. But if you abuse or harass the animal or your actions result in its . Apply for your permit about 6-12 months in advance. Law enforcement also drops in to clean the valley up a bit. And, once you're in the valley, you're going to want to familiarize yourself with your surroundings. countfield.value = maxlimit - field.value.length; if(el.style.display == 'inline'){ The shelters are within a complex of old agricultural terraces where Hawaiians once planted taro. When you finally get to the beach, you'll marvel at the hikers that have carried 50+ pounds of gear across the hike and over the ledge. Here are 21 things you should know before hiking the Kalalau Trail. milwkid9090's first answer is still the best. Never swim in murky water and never swim in river mouths. The trail narrows to a couple of feet in some sections with a sheer cliff on one side and a steep drop to the Pacific on the other. Weather Report says Rain, Should I panic? To prevent overpopulation, the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) allows hunting on weekends in August and September. Its like being in the desert. selectedText = 'Fine'; This small beach is no longer accessible.). var el = document.getElementById('sf'); 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;}. Today the land is under the protection of the state of Hawaii and all forms of tourism in the area are carefully monitored. Make sure to use the correct filter if you plan to drink the water. Throughout the year, temperatures seldom drop below 60F. Pack your backpacking stove, however, stove fuel is not permitted on any airplane and will need to be purchased on the island. } These illegal residents and some overnight campers can sometimes leave mounds of trash behind in this otherwise beautiful and isolated area. This is the cleanest fresh water on the island, so it's great for a shower. Operate by the LNT principle and leave no trace behind you. var lc; This is the final post in a 5-part series on Kalalau. The swimming at this stunning beach can be rather dangerous, too. Facilities include a composting toilet and two roofed shelters. else if(star_img=='5'){ My husband and I recently got passes to camp on Kalalau Beach the second weekend in October. Those of us that didnt have sunglasses wore their swimming goggles to keep the sand out of their eyes. Anini Beach is a gorgeous blue lagoon with golden sand and shallow water along the north shore of Kauai. So if you're afraid of heights, you may not like this trail, especially around the middle of it. Waipouli Beach By using our application you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy, including the transfer of your personal data to the United States from your country of residence (if different). The authorized camping areas along the trail do not have tables or drinking water. As we said above, one of the best Cedar Key activities is going to the beach! Please plan accordingly. The last thing you'll want when going on a . On the north end of the valley is New beach (or Summer beach) the sand collects in the summer to make a nice stretch of beach, but in the winter the swell washes it all away. if(i=='1'){ It's illegal to dock a boat or even a kayak on the beach but you can swim to it. We tried to soak it in as much as possible knowing that it would be quite some time before we would ever return. The trail winds through several green valleys and ends at the cliff-lined Kalalau Beach. Learn more >, ADVERTISE: Some beaches in the city need to be swimmable due to risky conditions of intense waves and sudden descent on the depth of seabeds. 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. Book your permits as early as possible for the best chance of getting your preferred dates. Kee Beach is a safe snorkel spot when the water is calm because it is protected from large waves by a fringing reef. If you're staying in Nassau Paradise Island, set aside a full day to visit the swimming pigs. On the third day of a recent camping trip in Kalalau, Kauai, we woke up early and walked to the end of Kalalau Beach. 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. You'll need to purchase a camping pass for a stay in Kalalau, and they sell out months ahead of time. } People hear about the difficult hike to a beautiful beach, and ask how to get to that place without all the effort. } For beach and trail access you will need to reserve a park and pass or shuttle on the website www.gohaena.com, Anini Beach At the beach, you may see topless sunbathers or a naked surfer. function textCounter(field, countfield, maxlimit) { Camping in Kalalau is allowed only behind this sand beach. As you can expect, Tunnels Beach is . Lic# TVNC1058, Secluded and difficult to access beach on Kauai's Na Pali Coast, You should be in good physical condition to hike to the beach and not afraid of heights (the trail is narrow in some areas and involves several stream crossings), Beware of flash floods when crossing streams (don't cross if the water is too high), Kalalau Beach has rip tides, strong currents and a dangerous shorebreak, especially in the winter months, Bring all needed supplies and food with you, Mosquito repellent is a good idea to bring too. Doing this is dangerous so, maybe dont attempt this if you ever find yourself in front of this rock. 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. #30. Its wide and deep. Here are a few examples of what you can expect: Pools-There are two main pool areas for some refreshing swimming. 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. A valid Npali Coast SWP camping permit grants access to Hena SP. During summer, sea caves just beyond the waterfall provide popular camping shelters, but winter surf removes much of the beach and enters the caves. The trail to Hanakapiai falls and beyond Hanakapiai is recommended for experienced hikers only. else if(star_img=='3'){ Nonetheless, you'll find beach areas with calm waters to swim and even snorkel without any issues. And they probably only do this in the summer, when the surf and currents are safe to swim ashore. I don't if that service is available for everyone, but I remember thinking what an "easy" way to hike the whole trail without going round trip. Drinking the Water This boulder is now underwatwer.). The trailhead is located in Hena State Park at the northwest end of Khi Highway (Route 56). In fact, Hanakoa is a hanging valley without a beach the stream exhausts itself over cliffs at the oceans edge. Hideaway Beach In the early morning wedecided to go for a nice open water swim, http://goingtogetlost.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/going-to-get-lost_black-logo-e1472512038874.png, http://goingtogetlost.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/commando-climb-7.jpg. 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). Theres one section of the beach that gets super windy. This hike is on the beginning section of the Kalalau trail, at Ke'e Beach. As you walk down the beach in Kalalau you feel like youre in a different world. All rights reserved. A hat is nice to have too. In the summer, the caves offer shelter from the sun and wind. Nobody seems to mind, though trading modern creature comforts for a deeper connection to the land around by learning how to coexist with nature instead of profiting off it. 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. She told me that when the ship got to Kalalau it slowed down and did a U-turn. Walk-ins permitted. The trail traverses five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted cliffs. Watch for the spumes of air they exhale when they surface to breathe. When you walk back to camp the sun will be starting to set and the cliff faces of the Na Pali coast turn golden. Portions of the trail in this section are very narrow and the dropoff on the ocean side is severe. Hours: 8:00a.m. It is 11 miles to get to Kalalau Beach - so if you are talking about going there and having someone pick you up and bring you back.. You'll still have to hike 11 miles to get there - difficult trail - especially past Hanakoa, and you will need a permit from the State to camp there, even for one night. Swimming is possible on Kalalau Beach, but not without dangers. el.style.display = 'inline'; 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). 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. Never turn your back on the ocean, an unexpected wave can knock you down and drag you out. The mud is slippery and may slow down your hiking time. 3. At Kalalau beach, you hike as far as possible on the beach, and then ideally go under a cave arch and arrive on the last beach. This special spot is beautiful at sunset. Hiking and any outdoor activity can be dangerous and has many potential hazards. See more from this series: This story was last modified on September 14, 2015. else We left our snorkel equipment in the trunk of our rental car and took a swim at the end of our hike. 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. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Good"; This beach is fairly private due to the difficult trek to it. Allow a full day to complete the 8 mile round trip from Kee Beach to Hanakapiai Falls. Then make some friends with the adventurers around you while you enjoy one of the last sunsets in the United States. Use extreme caution when swimming atthis beach. After all, Kalalau Valley opens west to give you stunning views of the orange tropical sun dipping into the vast Pacific Ocean. The Kalalau Valley sits roughly halfway down the coast. The first section of the Kalalau Trail stretches from the trailhead located at Kee Beach at Haena State Park to Hanakapiai valley. Get answers to your questions about Kauai. The white sand beach is a mile long, and, in this seclusion, you'll have no problem picking out your own isolated spot. Anini Beach. Plan your trip accordingly. Hena State Park is roughly 41 miles (1 1/2-hour drive) from Lihue Airport. The sand at Cedar Key Beach is soft and the water is shallow, so it's safe for the whole family. Along the beach, you'll find cliff walls and even some shallow caves to explore. Cell phone service is limited to none on the trail. You can swim in Cabo San Lucas, but only on some of its beaches. People have drowned here from the dangerous combination of a hidden current and the cliffside surroundings. Brenneckes Beach The summer sand beach at Hanakapiai is a popular destination for day hikers. The vast majority of Kalalau Beachgoers hike the Kalalau Trail 11 miles one-way to this stunning destination. High surf pounds the shore creating extremely turbulent waters. Also, please proceed with caution this is not an easy swim nor is it safe. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. else if(i=='3'){ The sandbar is quite shallow here and in some spots the ocean bottom drops off quickly to overhead depths. The trail crosses the stream well back in the valley, therefore there is no shoreline access at Hanakoa. You just need to be a strong swimmer to get to it. Lumahai Beach Within the 5-night maximum, no 2 consecutive nights are allowed at Hanakoa. Share your great experiences with me, please? 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. You may not be able to use your cell phone to call for help in an emergency. 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. } If possible, I would recommend making the trek all the way to the beach to camp. They are all worth exploring if you have the time. 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Permit holders can choose where to spend their allotted nights on the trail. Despite the fact that many would fail to understand why these people would live this way by choice, they are truly happy in their natural surroundings. 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. Free Travel Planners for Hawaii & each island, Websites & links for travel sites, attractions, restaurants, maps, lodging & more. From Kalalau Beach, you can swim around the corner to Honop Beach, which is even more spectacular than Kalalau. Law enforcement often helicopter in to check permits. I knew you could camp close to the beach but I didn't think on the beach. Isobutane fuel with a screw top for Jetboil, MSR, and other backpacking stoves is available at Kayak Kauai. jebett, this isn't Hanakapae Beach the OP is talking about. When Kalalau came into view the entire boat went silent. Its worth while to bring a way to store water, as the water source is a good trek from the designated camp areas. The faces are sheer and you can see that boulders continuously break off.(Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. Beaches - Kalalau beach is the obvious highlight. Jenelyn, Reanne and I are not strong swimmers so we stayed back. We hope you will make the effort to explore Kalalau valley. These terraces are now overgrown with a variety of alien trees, including Java Plum, guava, and occasional large mango trees. It's a surreal scene. The facilities at the beach include restrooms and showers. Thanks Hiker. For some people who come to Kalalau Beach, the long and difficult trail is not adventurous enough. You are always a wealth of hiking info. function showform(raid){ After this walk, I believe I now know what acupuncture feels like. Seeaosite for updates. document.getElementById('rat').value="3"; Kalalau Beach, though, is really worth the 11-mile hike to get there. There are no facilities on the beach, except for composting toilets. Then they told everyone to go out on the observation deck. At the end is a pool. ), At the end of the beach theres a massive rock that looks like it fell from high above.(Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. The trailhead can be found at the very end of the road on the northern side of the island at Ke'e Beach. This beach is the end of the walkable coastline. They live here because the valley is difficult to access and offers solitude and isolation. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; jebett, the designated campsites are right behind Kalalau beach. Maybe take this into consideration before doing a double backflip off a waterfall. Both green sea turtles and monk seals haul out on the beaches during the day to rest and warm themselves in the sun. The beach sits at the foot of Kalalau Valley which is the jewel of the Na Pali Coast. Check overhanging trees for hazards from falling limbs. var ny; Checking gear ahead of time could eliminate a real hassle on the trail and is worth the effort.<. Its a wonderful place to hang out a night, but during the day its actually too hot and windy. Maybe this site can answer your question. We planned our trip in advance and it was very beneficial. It is not legal to get out of or land a motorized boat on the beach, however, it is done illegally. A password will be mailed to you! Start the hike as early as possible so you're ahead of the day hikers and have ample time to finish the hike before dark. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; Click the link below to buy a transportation ticket which also includes your entry into the park. Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakapiai FallsFour miles roundtrip and located at mile 2 on the main trail, this side trail hikes up a valley that ends at a waterfall. Don't Look Down! Hello. The ledge is rocky, you're up against a cliff and the ledge drops off into deep, violent ocean water. Those in tip top shape can do it in 8 hours, those more average take 10+. Queen's Bath is VERY DANGEROUS! } Tradewind showers are more frequent during the night and early morning. } If you visit these side trips, make sure to factor the additional miles into your hiking plan. Signs warn hikers of dangerous rockfall near the falls, so this area is off limits for swimming. Binoculars are helpful to see them in detail. If you can't hike the trail, the kayak to the beach would be even more strenuous even if you could. There are no lifeguards on these beaches and help is a helicopter ride away. Commercially guided camping trips are not authorized. Those who make the journey are rewarded by blissful solitude. Also, there are strong rip and alongshore currents, which may be difficult to spot, even if the ocean appears calm. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; The 5-6 feet of warm water make Anini the best swimming location on the island. selectedVal = '4'; From what I've read the swim grows longer after summer as the current shifts and beach shrinks. Unfortunately, there's no swimming at the beach, due to strong currents. Hanakoa campsite at mile 6 gives hikers the opportunity to spend the night at the halfway point on the trail. Go through an awesome archway to find a fresh waterfall and pool to bath in. Strong winds during the day form lines in the sand. Native and introduced tropical plant species abound. Kalalau Beach is more about the journey than the destination, and it's not easy to get to this secluded, beautiful and verdant beach. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Look closely at the textured valley walls and you'll see mountain goats precariously perched on high. There may be a boat with the Swedish Bikini Team, and they usually have the best refreshments on board. The trail is part of the N Pali Coast State Park which gets its name from the Hawaiian term for high cliff, na pali.You may recognize the coast from the film Jurassic Park where it is featured . It is now underwater.). var i; There are even several community gardens throughout the valley, giving the people sustenance without a reliance on the outside world. No camping is permitted there, but that is only what we read on the signage.