Kalalau Trail – North Shore of Kauai, Hawaii
Take the time to hike the 11 mile trail crossing five different valleys and you will arrive at the secluded Kalalau Beach. You will be challenged on the hike and areas of it are actually dangerous due to the narrow sections and heavy rainfall that can (and does) make the topsoil muddy and slippery.
This hike, on the north shore has spectacular views where the cliffs are velvet green due to the abundant rainfall and the waterfalls plummet into deep narrow valleys. Each portion of the hike will have your senses alert and your views breathtaking.
The hike can actually be broken into a two day hike with you setting camp up at the beach of Hanakapiai and then going onto Kalalau the following morning. You will need to get a camping permit from the State Parks office in Lihue and a trail guide is recommended. Hiking during the winter months (months of heavy rain) is discouraged.
If you are a non-hiker but still want to see the amazing scenery you can take a Zodiac boat tour or a kayaking trip and you will have access to the views of the Napali Coast. You can take a helicopter tour of the areas that are not accessible by land or water.
Make sure you bring your hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain poncho, camera, food and plenty of water.
Directions: Take Kuhio Highway (Route 56) and head to Haena State Park at the northwest end. The drive is 1-1/2 hours from Lihue Airport.
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For all the hikes on Kauai, the Kauai Trailblazer guidebook was our best resource with all the right directions. User friendly.