Nā Pali Coast State Park
Nā Pali Coast State Park
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This 15-mile coastal stretch of towering cliffs and narrow valleys in northwest Kauai is a hotspot for campers. But note: It's only accessible by hiking.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
1,982 reviews
Excellent
1,862
Very good
96
Average
13
Poor
7
Terrible
4
Brandon K
Flagstaff, AZ1,890 contributions
Aug 2023
We saw the Na Pali park on a Blue Ocean zodiac boat tour that went up and down the coast in a morning. The cliffs are enormous and you lose all sense of perspective looking up at them from the water. There are gorgeous hidden beaches and sea caves to explore as well. It can get rough out there on windy days if you take the water approach to seeing the park, but you need to get out there and see it for yourself. No words do it justice.
Written 27 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nicky Chomali
3 contributions
Feb 2023
Na Pali Coast State Park in Kauai is like a slice of paradise on Earth! Towering cliffs, green valleys, and the bluest ocean you've ever seen. You can hike there and feel like an explorer on a quest. But the real jaw-dropper? Taking a boat ride along the coast – dolphins might even say hi! 🌴🏞️🚢
Written 22 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Edward
Santa Rosa, CA1,953 contributions
Jun 2023
One of our top destinations when in Kauai was visiting the Na Pali Coast. We visited this area by hiking part of the Kalalau trail from Ha'ena State Park at the northwestern part of the island and getting close to the Na Pali coast was the one reason why we went there. The trail is long, about 10 miles to the end, and further parts of it supposedly pretty treacherous but we did not hike the whole thing as we . We hiked the more standard part, the Kalalau trail from the trailhead at Ha'ena State Park to Hanakapi'ai Beach, and then up the Hanakapi'ai stream to Hanakapi'ai Falls. To hike further along the coast, one must get a special camping permit, even if not camping, and it seem that a proper hike along that part would require camping due to the time it would take to hike.
The trail is great but can be challenging due to the frequent wet, slippery, muddy conditions. There are significant ups and downs, but really it is the puddles of mud which present the most challenge. In going up to Hanakapi'ai falls, there are several places where one must cross the stream. We were able to avoid getting in the stream by going over stones (best to do to in order to avoid fresh-water parasites, specifically leptospirosis, very prevalent in Hawaii, as one may read about in information from the state's health department), but we saw plenty of people who just decided to walk right through the water.
The falls are nice but for us the real draw was seeing the Na Pali coast to the extent that we could. Much of the trail is through rain forest with little or no view, but there are some spots with very nice views of the coast. For us, the trail between the trail head at Ha'ena and Hanakapi'ai beach ultimately took about 1 hr and 1 5 minutes. We went more slowly at the start because we were taking in the scenery and not hurrying, and we were not sure what to expect and did not want to run out of energy, etc., but then we went at a more brisk pace and easily made the time above, partly because we wanted to make sure we did not miss the last shuttle out. The hike from the beach to the falls was slightly longer each way. Depending on preference, sandals or shoes or boots will work, each with its drawbacks and good points. We just wore hiking sandals, which is what I normally hike in. Keep in mind that it is almost inevitable at some point to get feet muddy or wet.
One must reach the Na Pali Coast via the Kalalau Trail from the Ha'ena State Park at the NW end of the Kuhio Highway (the main highway on the island, which almost circumnavigates the island, except along the Na Pali Coast, for no roads run through this area). Unless a Hawaii resident, one must buy a ticket ahead of time, which will almost certainly require a ticket plus shuttle ride, especially since a hard-to-get parking permit is for only a few hours, and walk-in tickets seem to be few. We just opted for the shuttle, which we were able to schedule to pick us up from where we were staying (but you must also schedule that in advance or you must be picked up at the Waipa park-and-ride terminus of the shuttle).
One can also view portions of the Na Pali coast from the up in the mountains to the south, by driving up Waimea Canyon to lookouts and trails in Koke'e State park, which provides a view over the coast from above and inland. One must reach that via a dead-end road from the south at Waimea. Those views are also great.
The trail is great but can be challenging due to the frequent wet, slippery, muddy conditions. There are significant ups and downs, but really it is the puddles of mud which present the most challenge. In going up to Hanakapi'ai falls, there are several places where one must cross the stream. We were able to avoid getting in the stream by going over stones (best to do to in order to avoid fresh-water parasites, specifically leptospirosis, very prevalent in Hawaii, as one may read about in information from the state's health department), but we saw plenty of people who just decided to walk right through the water.
The falls are nice but for us the real draw was seeing the Na Pali coast to the extent that we could. Much of the trail is through rain forest with little or no view, but there are some spots with very nice views of the coast. For us, the trail between the trail head at Ha'ena and Hanakapi'ai beach ultimately took about 1 hr and 1 5 minutes. We went more slowly at the start because we were taking in the scenery and not hurrying, and we were not sure what to expect and did not want to run out of energy, etc., but then we went at a more brisk pace and easily made the time above, partly because we wanted to make sure we did not miss the last shuttle out. The hike from the beach to the falls was slightly longer each way. Depending on preference, sandals or shoes or boots will work, each with its drawbacks and good points. We just wore hiking sandals, which is what I normally hike in. Keep in mind that it is almost inevitable at some point to get feet muddy or wet.
One must reach the Na Pali Coast via the Kalalau Trail from the Ha'ena State Park at the NW end of the Kuhio Highway (the main highway on the island, which almost circumnavigates the island, except along the Na Pali Coast, for no roads run through this area). Unless a Hawaii resident, one must buy a ticket ahead of time, which will almost certainly require a ticket plus shuttle ride, especially since a hard-to-get parking permit is for only a few hours, and walk-in tickets seem to be few. We just opted for the shuttle, which we were able to schedule to pick us up from where we were staying (but you must also schedule that in advance or you must be picked up at the Waipa park-and-ride terminus of the shuttle).
One can also view portions of the Na Pali coast from the up in the mountains to the south, by driving up Waimea Canyon to lookouts and trails in Koke'e State park, which provides a view over the coast from above and inland. One must reach that via a dead-end road from the south at Waimea. Those views are also great.
Written 31 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dg2014jg
Magnolia, TX917 contributions
Mar 2023
We had absolutely gorgeous weather. We were on the Norwegian Pride of America, and the captain took the slowest possible drive by this wonderful site. Amazing.
Written 26 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TR250
15 contributions
Mar 2023
We didn't have the best weather and the boat ride was a bit wet, got rained on, twice! Still, very impressive cliffs and the history is interesting.
Written 18 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dapper Dan
Detroit, MI35 contributions
Dec 2022
Between the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon, this has got to be some of the most beautiful scenery in the country! Be sure to take the road all the way to the end so you don’t miss any of the views!… and pay your $10 per car and $5 per person… I saw people being ticketed for not having the receipt on their dash.
Written 23 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Daniel H
Bath, United Kingdom100 contributions
Dec 2022
We did a boat tour to witness the coastline - a definite must for anyone visiting the area :) Incredible scenery and rock formations. The coastline is also popular with Spinner Dolphins and at the right time of year - whales!
Written 14 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mae F
8 contributions
Dec 2022
Just beautiful and amazing. Saw everything from the sea and will definitely be making this more of a spot to hike in the future.
Written 4 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GRZ
Chicago, IL10,071 contributions
Oct 2022
I think everyone has seen Na Pali Coast in some type of video/commercial/movie... but to see it person was just another thing!
There are 3 ways to see it:
1. air - didn't do it, helicopters aren't my thing due to "open air and heights" :) let alone the budget constrains...
2. water - we did a trip with Holo Holo (reviewed here on TA separately) - was great but the boat ride is long and does wear you down - nevertheless the trip is one to remember and I think at the very least everyone should to this one while being on Kauai - it's "affordable", you are in the comfort zone of the big boat and around people... though you can get sea sick easily - something for something
3. land - we didn't do the Kalalau Trail as that's a super intensive and super long about 20miles round trip!... but there is also another way to access at least a bit of this pictoresque area of the island - go to Waimea Canyon and continue along the road to the Koke'e State Park (reviewed both here separately); once you are there there are excellent vista points "from the top" of this magical place; Kalalau Lookout and Pu’u O Kila Lookout - "all" you need is a car to get here which is a no brainer to have while on Kauai and the drive is super easy and nice; it costs $10 USD to park + $5 per adult in the car...
TIP: no matter how you do it it's a must, it's one for the soul - I can see how sometimes like me is afraid of flying helicopters or dislikes the long boat rides... but great things in life come at great effort and here this is effort is "some" but definitely not "great" yet the reward still superb! :)
There are 3 ways to see it:
1. air - didn't do it, helicopters aren't my thing due to "open air and heights" :) let alone the budget constrains...
2. water - we did a trip with Holo Holo (reviewed here on TA separately) - was great but the boat ride is long and does wear you down - nevertheless the trip is one to remember and I think at the very least everyone should to this one while being on Kauai - it's "affordable", you are in the comfort zone of the big boat and around people... though you can get sea sick easily - something for something
3. land - we didn't do the Kalalau Trail as that's a super intensive and super long about 20miles round trip!... but there is also another way to access at least a bit of this pictoresque area of the island - go to Waimea Canyon and continue along the road to the Koke'e State Park (reviewed both here separately); once you are there there are excellent vista points "from the top" of this magical place; Kalalau Lookout and Pu’u O Kila Lookout - "all" you need is a car to get here which is a no brainer to have while on Kauai and the drive is super easy and nice; it costs $10 USD to park + $5 per adult in the car...
TIP: no matter how you do it it's a must, it's one for the soul - I can see how sometimes like me is afraid of flying helicopters or dislikes the long boat rides... but great things in life come at great effort and here this is effort is "some" but definitely not "great" yet the reward still superb! :)
Written 1 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JDSoui
Tampa, FL6,488 contributions
Nov 2022
The views of/from the park are simply amazing. Be it from air, driving to the state park or boat, the views leave an indelible mark. The colors, features and sheer cliffs are simply breathtaking.
One call out is to check the weather - if driving to the lookout, the fog can arrive quickly. Within 15-20 minutes of arriving the fog impacted the views. Nevertheless the views are spectacular.
One call out is to check the weather - if driving to the lookout, the fog can arrive quickly. Within 15-20 minutes of arriving the fog impacted the views. Nevertheless the views are spectacular.
Written 26 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
romres
michigan14 contributions
Hi, my husband and I are headed to HI in April. Can you please provide the name or number of the catamaran charter you went on? This sounds like the best way to see the coast line...Thanks in advance!
Travel4life1000
San Diego, CA38 contributions
Captain Andy’s. But the weather was rough so we went south and did not see the Nepali Coast by boat. Good operation though.
cristina_11
Kauai, HI7 contributions
My husband and I will be in Kauai until the end of December. We are looking for people to hike with or/ and share a car with as we don’t drive.
If anyone interested please contact me at +17144069862.
We have open schedule
Mahalo!
cristina_11
Kauai, HI7 contributions
My husband and I will be in Kauai until the end of December. We are looking for people to hike with or/ and share a car with as we don’t drive.
If anyone interested please contact me at +17144069862.
We have open schedule
Mahalo!
Thebhatts20
55 contributions
Hi all,
We are going to Kauai in Feb end 2018.. and planning to visit Na Pali Coast state park.
Which one should we prefer? Helicopter ride or boat ride? Is hike tough for this state park?
Any recommendations for boat rides or helicopter rides?
Thank you in advance.
ANSKY “The Bat in the Hat”
Anchorage, AK640 contributions
Hello
I was in Kauai In October (3rd trip) and the road to access the Na Pali coast trailhead near Ke’e beach was still closed from spring flooding damage earlier in the year. There was a roadblock / check point in Hanalei that restricted access only to property owners who were granted permits to access their properties. It will be difficult to access the Kalalau trail without access to the trailhead at the end of the road at Ke’e Beach. When we left the island, it was still unforeseen as to when road access would be restored past Hanalei.
That being said, to my knowledge your only options currently will be to take a helicopter or boat tour to experience the Na Pali coast. The rough ends of Na Pali coast extend from Ke’e beach to Polihale beach. There are view points of the end of Kalalau trail and Na Pali coast from the top of Waimea Canyon, which is also a great area for hiking as a backup since Kalalau might still be hard to access.
All helicopter tours fly a similar if not identical route that follows the same clockwise direction around the island. We flew Blue Hawaiian helicopter tours that left from the airport in Lihue. It was a great flight that flew us around the entire island including into the crater of Waieleele, Waimea Canyon and along the Na Pali Coast. Even after requesting a window seat prior to our flight, I was still given a middle seat and was told it was due to weight balance reasons. Despite this occurring, we still had a great flight and we highly recommend a helicopter tour. As for a boat cruise along Na Pali, there are several companies that give cruises on nice sized catamaran sailboats. Not only are there several companies to choose from, but there are several different cruises available including snorkeling cruises and evening dinner cruises. One even goes as far as the neighboring islands of Ni’ihau and Lehua for snorkeling. Many boat trip tours depart from Port Allen such as Captain Andy’s and Blue Dolphin. Although it’s possible to depart from other parts of the island, the key piece to remember is allowing yourself enough time to drive to your destination without “missing the boat”. Traffic on certain parts of the island can really ruin your plans for the day especially if stuck in traffic in Kapaa or near Lihue. Keep in mind where you’re staying on the island and where your tour departs from. If you’re staying on the North side of the island near Princeville, helicopter tours leaving Princeville and boat tours leaving Hanalei Bay will be more convenient then driving back to Lihue or Port Allen for trip departure. Hope this helps with your trip planning. We stay in Kapaa, which roughly serves as a halfway point on the island road system and allows us to pick a North or South Island direction for the day. Kapaa traffic can be a nightmare, but we know this in advance and make a point to leave our hotel early in the morning on days that we want to drive around the island versus spending the day at the resort. To drive from Hanalei to Waimea and back in one day makes for a very long day especially when exploring and making several stops along the way. Safe travels.
smalltowngirl952
Lamar, CO2 contributions
Where do I find information on the hikes in the Park?
John P
Ottawa, Canada8 contributions
October 2018 Update: Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park (including the Kalalau Trail) on Kauai are still closed due to flood damage as well as the highway and bridges which access the parks. This includes the first two miles of the trail. The whole trail is inaccessible & closed for hikers and/or kayakers. Repairs to the damaged roads and trail are in process and expected to last at least into January of 2019. With additional storms events (Lane, Olivia), and additional damage discovered as they do repairs has caused a reevaluation of the repair time. The roads and trail could be closed into mid-2019.
Quoting park website. Nepali COAST trails closed
Sofia M
2 contributions
Hello does anyone know of the park itself is closed or open. If open, where in the park can I go to hike or drive to see the most beautiful scenery
tenisax
Glen Rock, NJ86 contributions
the park is open, and there are a number of entrances from the Wiamea valley road to the park. but the trails can be steep, and can get very slippery in the rain, so you should do some research before planning a hike there. there is a popular walk to the top of a waterfall at the end of the canyon.
nomadic_101
Sydney, Australia76 contributions
Hi! I understand that currently, the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park (including the Kalalau Trail) on Kauai are still closed due to flood damage as well as the highway and bridges which access the parks. Is this right?
sandra n
177 contributions
Is there a drive that can be done or are a majority of views from boat? TY
Which helicopter tour did you take ? Thanks
asophie0936
Gatineau, Canada162 contributions
We took a Catamaran day..
Leoncina1977
Rome, Italy84 contributions
Salve, desidero sapere dove si prenotano le gite in catamarano per Na Pali Coast, grazie
Susan R
Murrieta, CA330 contributions
I would recommend Captain Andy's. You can find them in all the guide books and they have a website. Happy sailing , and Have fun!
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Claim your listingNĀ PALI COAST STATE PARK: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Nā Pali Coast State Park
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Nā Pali Coast State Park:
- RAFT ADVENTURE - Na Pali 1/2 Day Snorkel (From S$261.08)
- Waimea Canyon Downhill Bike Ride (From S$191.39)
- LUCKY LADY - Deluxe Na Pali Sunset Tour (From S$275.58)
- "PRIVATE" Kauai Airplane Tour (From S$278.85)
- Doors Off Air Kauai Helicopter Tour (From S$424.27)
- Hotels near Nā Pali Coast State Park:
- (9.61 km) Hanalei Surfboard House
- (5.54 km) Hanalei Colony Resort
- (10.33 km) 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
- (11.46 km) Makai Club Resort
- (10.70 km) Hanalei Bay Resort
- Restaurants near Nā Pali Coast State Park:
- (10.46 km) Pink's Creamery
- (10.70 km) Wishing Well Shave Ice
- (10.37 km) Jo Jo's
- (10.35 km) Bar Acuda
- (12.59 km) Lapperts Ice Cream
- Attractions near Nā Pali Coast State Park:
- (0.54 km) Kalalau Trail
- (2.54 km) Hanakapiai Falls
- (2.56 km) Limahuli Garden and Preserve
- (2.30 km) Ke'e Beach
- (10.27 km) Na Pali Catamaran