Na Pali Coast
Kapaa, Hawaii
Kayak
The Na Pali Coast is a very special place. The pali, or cliffs, provide a rugged grandeur of deep, narrow valleys ending abruptly at the sea. Waterfalls and swift flowing streams continue to cut these narrow valleys while the sea carves cliffs at their mouths. Extensive stone walled terraces can still be found on the valley bottoms where Hawaiians once lived and cultivated taro.
More Information
Napali Coast State Wilderness Park - Kauai | Hawai’i State Parks
Napali Coast unfolds as a 16-mile (26 km) stretch of awe-inspiring beauty on the island of Kauai, extending from the remote Polihale Beach in the west to Kee Beach on the north shore. This pristine coastline is a visual masterpiece, boasting beautiful beaches, towering sea cliffs, and lush valleys with waterfalls cascading into the Pacific. Once home to Hawaiians, it now draws visitors globally, leading local authorities to manage permits, camping access, and visitor restrictions to preserve its natural wonders.
https://www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/napali-coast-state-wilderness-parkDirections
From Kapaa, Hawaii
- Head southeast on Kaapuni Rd (0.7 mi)
- Continue straight onto State Hwy 581/Olohena Rd (0.6 mi)
- At the traffic circle, continue straight onto Olohena Rd (0.1 mi)
- Turn left onto Lehua St (0.3 mi)
- Turn left onto HI-56 N (19.4 mi)
- Continue onto HI-560 W (10.2 mi)
Trailhead for Kalalau Trail at end of Kuhio Highway (Hwy. 56) in Ha'ena State Park.
Nearby Campsites
Wainiha Beach Park
Kapaa, Hawaii
3.1 miles EWainiha Beach's name means 'unfriendly water' in Hawaiian — no reef protects it from large ocean swells, making rip currents, powerful backwash, and strong shorebreak a constant danger. A scenic spot to visit from shore, not from the water.
Camp
Lydgate Beach Park
Lihue, Hawaii
20.3 miles SEThe most popular beach park on Kauai's east shore features a double-sectioned pool protected from ocean swells by a man-made rock barrier — ideal for safe, calm swimming.
Camp, Swim
Poipu Beach Park
Koloa, Hawaii
25.4 miles SA one-mile stretch of Kauai's southern coastline with swimming, boogie boarding, surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving — considered among the safest beaches in Hawaii, with a lifeguard on duty daily.
Camp