Na Pali Coast

The basics

For the most comprehensive view of the Na Pali Coast, take a helicopter or flightseeing tour from Lihue or Princeville that takes you over top sights like Waimea Canyon and the Manawaiopuna Falls.

For a closer look, opt for a guided kayaking trip along the dramatic Na Pali cliffs or choose a boat tour that includes a snorkeling or sailing adventure or a sunset dinner cruise. You can also hike the Kalalau Trail, which traverses 11 miles (17 kilometers) and provides access to remote beaches and hidden sea caves.

Things to know before you go

• The Na Pali Coast is a must-visit for first time visitors to Kauai.

• Bring a rain jacket for boat and kayak tours and for hikes as it rains often on the Na Pali Coast.

• Permits are required to hike the Kalalau Trail.

• Some helicopter and boat tours are wheelchair accessible; inquire in advance.

How to get there

The Na Pali Coast stretches for 16 miles (26 kilometers) along Kauai’s northwest shore. No roads lead into the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, and much of the coast is inaccessible due its extremely rugged terrain and sheer cliffs. To reach the trailhead for the Kalalau Trail, follow highway 560 to the end of the road, just past Hāʻena State Park.

When to get there

Kauai’s weather is stable all year round, which makes it an excellent destination anytime of the year. The best time to hike the Kalalau Trail is during the dry season, which lasts from May through October. Winter is whale watching season, making it a great time for boat tours.

Hiking the Kalalau (Na Pali Coast) Trail

The Na Pali coastline is only accessible by foot via the Kalalau Trail. Backpackers typically take 3 days or more to make this incredibly scenic 22-mile (34-kilometer) round-trip journey. The trail traverses steep cliffs, requires several river crossings, and is very strenuous in spots. Day hikers can venture to Hanakapi’ai Falls, but permits are required to hike past the falls, even if you don’t plan to camp.

Can you drive to Na Pali Coast?

No, you cannot drive to the Na Pali Coast. There are no roads to the Na Pali Coast, but you can get good views of the coastline by driving to Polihale Beach or Kee Beach or by driving past Waimea Canyon in Kokee State Park and stopping at the Kalalau Lookout or the Pu'u o Kila overlook.

Do you need a permit to hike Na Pali Coast?

Yes, permits are required to hike along the Kalalau Trail beyond Hanakapiai Valley. To hike from Haena State Park to Hanakapiai Beach or Hanakapiai Falls, visitors need parking and entry tickets for Haena State Park. Visit the Hawaii DLNR reservation system online for Napali Coast State Wilderness Park. For Haena State Park, visit the park's website.

How was Na Pali Coast formed?

The Na Pali Coast is a spectacular work of sculpture, forged by the natural elements. The valleys were carved out of the side of Kauai five million years ago by massive amounts of water. Streams cut down, while ocean waves reached up, and sea caves, cliffs, and waterfalls were formed by waves cutting through the rock.

How long does it take to hike the Napali Coast?

The challenging Kalalau Trail, which stretches 11 miles (18 kilometers) along the Na Pali Coast from Kee Beach to the Kalalau Valley, typically takes two days. Most visitors, however, are day hikers who just follow the popular 2-mile (3.2-kilometer) trail from Kee Beach to Hanakapiai Beach.

Is visiting the Na Pali Coast worth it?

Yes, visiting the Na Pali Coast is absolutely worth it. This is one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii, home to steep emerald cliffs that plunge into the ocean, lush valleys, and teeming waterfalls. However you choose to visit the Na Pali Coast—by air, sea, or foot—you'll enjoy spectacular views of Kauai's most incredible natural landscapes.

What tours can you do to see the Na Pali Coast?

Tour options for seeing the Na Pali Coast include boat tours and sightseeing helicopter or airplane tours. Each option offers its own unique perspective. Many boat tours by catamaran or yacht include snorkeling experiences, while tours by smaller boats, such as Zodiacs, allow visitors to access sea caves and hidden beaches.

How long is a Na Pali Coast boat tour?

The length of your Na Pali Coast boat tour will depend on which tour you choose and whether the tour includes additional activities such as snorkeling or beach landing. A typical catamaran tour of the Na Pali Coast takes around five hours, and many include a meal.

Where do the Na Pali Coast tours start from?

Typically, Na Pali Coast ticketed excursions depart from Hanalei Bay, which is on Kauai's north shore and is the closest departure point to the Na Pali coastline. Some boat tours depart from Port Allen on the island's southwest side.

What is the best month to visit the Na Pali Coast?

The summer months (from June through August) are the best months to visit the Na Pali Coast. This is when the ocean is typically calm, and the skies are clearest, offering excellent views from sightseeing flights. While it is possible to visit in the winter, air and boat tours are more likely to be canceled due to adverse conditions.

Can you see the Na Pali Coast in a helicopter?

Yes, you can see the Na Pali Coast in a helicopter. Taking a helicopter tour is rated by many as the best way to see the coast, as it allows you to see the rugged interior (which you don't see on a boat tour) without the effort of embarking on a challenging hike.

Ways to explore

For the most comprehensive view of the Na Pali Coast, book a helicopter or flightseeing tour that takes you over top sights such as Waimea Canyon and the Manawaiopuna Falls. Get a closer look by opting for a guided kayaking trip along the dramatic Na Pali cliffs, a sunset dinner cruise, or a boat tour that includes a snorkeling or sailing adventure. You can also hike the Kalalau Trail, which traverses 11 miles (17 kilometers) one way and provides access to remote beaches and hidden sea caves.

Accessibility

The hiking trails to access the Na Pali Coast are not wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair users can find accessible boat and helicopter tours to see the area from the air and the water.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water, bug spray, first aid kit, trekking poles

What to wear

Hiking boots, sun protection, rain jacket

Not allowed

Drones, smoking, alcohol, pets, fires

Amenities

Restrooms, trash cans, showers, drinking water, pay phone (at the trailhead)

Address

The Na Pali Coast is only accessible on foot via the Kalalau Trail, located in the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park by way of Hāʻena State Park. Flightseeing tours typically depart from Lihue or Princeville, while boat tours depart from Hanalei Bay, Port Allen, and Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor.

Driving

To reach Hāʻena State Park, follow Route 560; the Kalalau Trail Trailhead is just off the highway. You’ll need a timed entry or camping permit (Hawaii residents excluded) to enter the park, plus a parking permit to stay.

Public transportation

A shuttle runs to Hāʻena State Park. You must purchase an entry pass with your shuttle pass unless you are a resident of Hawaii. The shuttle has two routes, one leaving from Hanalei and one from Princeville.

Best times to visit

Hāʻena State Park is open daily from early morning to early evening. Parking lots open at 6:30am. Shuttle service starts at 6:20am, with final pickup at 5:40pm.

Best days to visit

Visiting Hāʻena State Park is a popular activity no matter what day you visit, and parking passes typically sell out within minutes of being released.

Best months to visit

The best time to hike the Kalalau Trail is during the dry season (May through October). Winter is whale-watching season, making it a great time for boat tours.