Kauai's spectacular Na Pali Coast, the rocky coast of the northwest coast of the oldest inhabited island of Hawaii, is probably the most notable and popular feature visitors to the Garden Island. The Ke'e Na Pali Coast extends from the beach and has 16 miles southwest of Polihale State Park. Much of the coast is inaccessible because of its sheer cliffs up to 4,000 feet high, which plunge directly into the Pacific Ocean below.

These pali, or cliffs, provide rugged grandeur of deep, narrow valleys ending abruptly at sea. Waterfalls and swift flowing streams continue to reduce these narrow valleys, while sea carves cliffs at the mouth. Terrazas large stone walls can still be found in the valley, where the original Hawaiians once lived and cultivated taro.

No roads or the Na Pali coast, but is accessible by hiking, boating, kayaking or from a helicopter. Excursions and boat trips are the best ways to experience these majestic cliffs, vibrant blue waters, sea caves, waterfalls and other natural wonders. N Pali Coast State Park, which covers 6175 hectares and located in the heart of the rugged coast, was created to protect the Kalalau Valley.

Kalau Valley

This valley, surrounded by forested hills over 2000 feet height, is famous for its tropical beauty. The wide flat floor of this valley is about 2 miles long and a mile wide, which allows plenty of sunshine and rain to a profusion of plants and animals today.
The native Hawaiians occupied the valley from prehistory to the 20th century, the cultivation of a large complex of terraced taro fields. Today designation as a state park prohibits residents, but few long-term campers establish safe havens remain illegal and in conflict with state authorities.

The Kalalau Trail

The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access to this part of the rugged coast. Originally built in the late 1800s, parts of the track were rebuilt in the 1930s. A similar foot trail linked to the early settlements along the coast of Hawaii. The trail traverses 5 valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach, where it is blocked by sheer, fluted Pali.

The 11-mile trail is classified, but almost never level as it crosses above towering sea cliffs and wooded valleys. The trail drops to sea level on the beaches of Hanakapi'ai and Kalalau.
Hiking the Na Pali Coast

The most popular hike the Na Pali is Hanakapi'ai where hikers will find a lush river valley. Hike (8 miles round trip) to a waterfall or (4 miles roundtrip) to Hanakapi'ai Beach (the beach is only there during the summer months – be careful in the sea conditions can be dangerous and there are no lifeguards).

For most backpackers in good hiking 11 miles takes a full day. It is best to start early to avoid heat exhaustion noon.

Camping in Na Pali Coast State Park

Due to the Na Pali coast is within the State of Hawaii system Park, permits are required for hiking and camping. Day-Use permits hiking are required when continuing beyond Hanakapi'ai Valley, but overnight camping is not planned.

Camping permits will authorized camping areas along the road. These areas are found in shady terraces near streams. The tables do not have potable water. Composting toilets are available in Hanakapi'ai, Hanakoa, and Kalalau.

Na Pali Coast Boat & Air Tours

Boat and air tours offer spectacular views of this spectacular coastline and is 4,000 m sheer cliffs, dolphins, turtles, flying fish and the monk seal is considered the year of the humpback whale watching from December until April. Sea caves and marine life are added attractions.
Nualolo Kai, a reef that extends 600 meters offshore, is home to over 50 species of fish where Na Pali tour boats offer wonderful snorkeling excursions.

While the water on this coast can be tough in the winter months, tour companies Boat also offer romantic sunset cocktail and dinner cruises along the Na Pali coast during the summer months.

http://www.hawaiiactive.com
http://www.hawaii.gov

Find more information about obtaining permits at the Lihue State Park Office (808) 274-3444, the Honolulu State Park Office (808) 587-0300 or visit the DLNR website.

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