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Hanakapiʻai Beach Loop via Kalalau Trail

based on 94 tracks & routes #2 hike out of 4 in
3.9 mi
Distance
1 hrs 27 min
Time
terrain
540 ft
Elev Gain

Overview

This is a difficult out and back trail to Hanakapi'ai Beach in Haena State Park.

This hike is part of the famous Kalalau trek on the Na Pali Coast on Kauai island. So many have lost their lives at the falls and river crossing that the locals have nicknamed it Hanakapi’ die! Pay close attention to the weather and do not attempt to cross the river if more than waist deep. Flash floods occur here. It could be dry at the river crossing but raining heavy upstream.

This is a spectacular hike (one for the bucket list) but one seriously needs to be fully aware of their own physical limitations. It traverses cliffs which offers stunning views and a mystical waterfall. Trekking poles will help. The red soil gets slippery when wet and it is frequently wet.

Bring plenty of water or carry a filtration system, plenty of snacks, foul weather gear, and a head lamp.

Attempt this hike on a weekday morning to avoid the heavy weekend traffic.


This is an alternate route for Hanakapi'ai Falls via Kalalau Trail and Hanakapiʻai Trail.




    Rate this Hike

    user_profile
    1 year, 6 months ago
    Great hike and well worth it! Beach is glorious and the hike itself is not a challenging trail, very packed down tho some rock to walk over or climb around. Essentially a mile uphill and a mile downhill. Also, there are no bathrooms at the end of the trail, tho the app says there is.
    ★ ★

    user_profile
    3 years, 6 months ago
    Incredible hike, one of the best ones I’ve ever done. Did this in 1990, came back 9/1/2022 with my nine year old daughter!!! She loved it! The suggestions are a must. This is a strenuous, beautiful hike that commands respect! Honor the place and it will reward! Mahalo
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    6 years, 7 months ago
    Totally worth the effort. A little more difficult than I expected, some steep rocks. Amazing!
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    user_profile
    2 years, 1 month ago

    user_profile
    3 years, 2 months ago
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★


Public Tracks

user_profile
FastFir5353 2 years, 11 months ago
Ke’e Beach to Hanikapiai via Kalalau
Difficult hike with epic coastal views. Recommend a hiking staff/trekking poles.
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SteepSki9176 9 months, 1 week ago
Kalalau Trail. NaPali Coast
Ann's microspikes got caught on her boots.
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Hlynn65 6 years ago
Part of trail on henea
Forgot to start gai at start of trail
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LastCanteen6065 9 years, 8 months ago
Kalalau Trail, Kauai 6/26/16
Hike with Darrin and Joey.
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Bob Chen 1 day, 8 hours ago
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nela 1 day, 8 hours ago
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FuzzyDawn5668 1 month, 1 week ago
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