Kalalau Trail
A legendary 22-mile trail along Kauai's dramatic Napali Coast, offering stunning views, waterfalls, and remote beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less rain, more stable conditions.
Kalalau Trail
Best Time
Less rain, more stable conditions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary 22-mile trail along Kauai's dramatic Napali Coast, offering stunning views, waterfalls, and remote beaches.
"The most gorgeous place, it’s a Do Not Miss!"
Book Permits Early! :ticket:
Permits are essential for overnight stays and can sell out months in advance. Book via gohaena.com.
Sturdy Hiking Boots :athletic_shoe:
Crucial for navigating slippery, uneven terrain. Trekking poles are also highly recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Napali Coastline Views
Along the entire trail
Dramatic emerald cliffs plunging into the turquoise Pacific. A truly breathtaking spectacle.
Hanakapi'ai Falls
Mile 2 of the trail
A stunning waterfall accessible via a moderate 2-mile detour. A refreshing reward for your efforts.
Kalalau Beach
Mile 11 (end of the trail)
A remote, pristine beach offering a secluded paradise and a perfect camping spot.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permits are Essential
+1Embrace the Challenge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Permits Early! :ticket:
Permits are essential for overnight stays and can sell out months in advance. Book via gohaena.com.
Sturdy Hiking Boots :athletic_shoe:
Crucial for navigating slippery, uneven terrain. Trekking poles are also highly recommended.
Pack for All Weather :cloud:
Rain is common, even in dry season. Be prepared for downpours and changing conditions.
Water Filter is Key :droplet:
While there's a pump at Kalalau Beach, always filter water from streams for safety.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Permits Early! :ticket:
Permits are essential for overnight stays and can sell out months in advance. Book via gohaena.com.
Sturdy Hiking Boots :athletic_shoe:
Crucial for navigating slippery, uneven terrain. Trekking poles are also highly recommended.
Pack for All Weather :cloud:
Rain is common, even in dry season. Be prepared for downpours and changing conditions.
Water Filter is Key :droplet:
While there's a pump at Kalalau Beach, always filter water from streams for safety.
Leave No Trace :leaf:
Pack out everything you pack in. Respect the fragile ecosystem and wildlife.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the Kalalau Trail's breathtaking, unparalleled beauty, calling it a 'Do Not Miss' experience. The dramatic Napali Coastline, secluded beaches, and challenging yet rewarding hike are major highlights. However, the trail's strenuous and potentially dangerous nature, coupled with the difficulty of securing permits, are frequently cited drawbacks.
"The most gorgeous place, it’s a Do Not Miss! Sea lions spinner dolphins sea turtles and beautiful snorkeling. Zodiac tour was the best way to experience this!"
angela serrano
"We took 15 family members on the hike from Ke’e beach on the Kalalua trail, on a four mile in and back trail. This breathtaking trail took us up and down, with 1200 feet of elevation gain. The views were unmatched. The climb was challenging but so rewarding. I wouldn’t recommend small children coming, if they can’t walk it, they can’t come. No kids in carriers are allowed. I brought my walking sticks and it was especially helpful on the steep decent down. We had a few elderly and young toddlers with us who enjoyed staying at the beach while we hiked. ADA accommodations were made for parking close to the beach. 10/10"
Sarah Johnson
"Hiked the 11 miles all the way back to the beach. Hike was a little difficult but so worth it. The beach at the end was so pretty. We camped for 2 nights there and then hiked out. There is a water pump down there with fresh water."
Trent Milne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kalalau Trail begins at the end of the road in Ha'ena State Park on Kauai's north shore. You'll need to drive to the park entrance, and parking reservations are often required and can fill up quickly. Alternatively, consider using the local shuttle service or a taxi.
You can hike the first two miles of the trail to Hanakapi'ai Beach without a permit. However, to continue past this point or to camp overnight, a permit is mandatory.
Parking at Ha'ena State Park is limited and requires advance reservations, which can be made on the official park website. It's highly recommended to book these well in advance, especially during peak season.
Yes, a shuttle service operates to Ha'ena State Park, which is a great alternative to driving and dealing with parking. This can also be booked in advance.
From Lihue Airport, it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive to Ha'ena State Park, depending on traffic and road conditions. The drive itself is scenic, winding along the coast.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Permits for the Kalalau Trail are obtained through the official Ha'ena State Park website (gohaena.com). They are released in batches, often 30 or 90 days in advance, and sell out extremely quickly. Be ready to book the moment they become available.
Permit costs vary for Hawaii residents and non-residents, and also depend on whether you are camping or just day hiking. Check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Yes, there are permits for day use (up to Hanakapi'ai Beach) and overnight camping permits for various designated campgrounds along the trail, including Hanakoa and Kalalau Valley.
The most effective strategy is to monitor the permit release schedule on gohaena.com and be logged in and ready to purchase as soon as they go live, often at midnight Hawaii time.
It is highly unlikely to secure a permit on the day of your hike, as they are typically reserved months in advance. Planning is crucial.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Kalalau Trail is considered strenuous and one of the most dangerous hikes in the US. It involves significant elevation changes, slippery terrain, and exposed cliff edges. Proper preparation and fitness are essential.
The Kalalau Trail is approximately 22 miles round trip, or 11 miles one way to Kalalau Beach. Many hikers opt for a multi-day backpacking trip to fully experience it.
Expect a mix of muddy paths, rocky sections, steep ascents and descents, stream crossings, and exposed cliffside trails. The conditions can change rapidly due to weather.
Yes, the trail is known for its challenging and potentially dangerous sections, including the 'Crawler's Ledge,' a narrow path with a sheer drop. Flash floods are also a serious risk. +1
You might encounter native birds, geckos, and if you're lucky, sea lions, spinner dolphins, and sea turtles along the coast. Remember to observe wildlife from a safe distance.
🍽️ 💧 Water & Food
There is a water pump at Kalalau Beach that provides potable water, but it's always recommended to have a reliable water filter or purification tablets as a backup, as conditions can affect the pump.
Pack lightweight, high-energy foods like dehydrated meals, trail mix, energy bars, and jerky. Plan for at least 3 days of food if camping.
No, there are no facilities to purchase food along the Kalalau Trail. You must carry all your food with you from the start.
Use bear-resistant canisters or hang your food properly from trees to protect it from rodents and other small animals.
Use a lightweight backpacking stove and cook in designated areas if available. Be mindful of fire restrictions and always ensure your cooking area is clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn offers a postcard-worthy view! Key spots include the dramatic Napali Coastline, Hanakapi'ai Falls, and the pristine Kalalau Beach. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly stunning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and a waterproof camera bag to protect your gear from rain and spray.
Always prioritize safety. Be aware of your surroundings, especially on narrow ledges or slippery sections. Never step off the trail for a photo.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant greens and blues are still impressive.
Drone usage is generally prohibited in Hawaii's state and national parks to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment. Always check current regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
The true value of this trip lies in the incredible natural beauty, which is priceless. 💑 Couples & Adventure Seekers
The stunning, remote scenery creates a romantic backdrop, while the physical demands offer a shared sense of accomplishment. For those seeking an extreme challenge, attempting to run the trail in and out in a single day, as some have done, is an option for the truly elite athletes. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Strenuous Nature of the Kalalau Trail
Many visitors recommend using trekking poles to aid stability and reduce strain on joints, especially during the descents. Preparation is key. Ensure you are physically fit for multi-day hiking and pack accordingly. Proper footwear with good traction is non-negotiable.
The unpredictable weather on Kauai's north shore can transform the trail into a slick obstacle course, so being prepared for rain, even during drier months, is crucial. Many hikers find the mental fortitude required to complete the trail as challenging as the physical aspect, but the rewards are immense. Navigating Permits and Access
+1 It's common for permits to sell out within minutes of release, so setting reminders and being ready to book the moment they become available is essential. Many visitors express frustration with the difficulty of obtaining permits, highlighting the need for early and persistent effort. For day hikers, the first two miles to Hanakapi'ai Beach are accessible without a permit, but this section is still challenging and requires good footwear.
Understanding these access requirements and planning well in advance will significantly increase your chances of experiencing this incredible trail. +1The Unparalleled Beauty of the Napali Coast
The trail itself winds through lush valleys, past cascading waterfalls, and along sheer cliff faces, providing constant, awe-inspiring vistas. Many describe the experience as transformative, with the sheer scale and raw beauty of the landscape fostering a sense of wonder and introspection. Beyond the iconic coastline, the trail leads to secluded beaches like Hanakapi'ai and the ultimate destination, Kalalau Beach.
These remote havens offer a chance to connect with nature in its purest form. Visitors often report seeing marine life such as sea lions, spinner dolphins, and sea turtles, adding another layer of magic to the experience. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit