Hanakapi'ai Falls, Na Pali Coast, Kauai HI

• 5-star hike
• 6 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 650 feet
• Kauai, HI | Hawaii
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The image shows a scenic view of a coastal landscape with lush green mountains and cliffs on the left side, extending towards the ocean on the right. The sky is clear and blue, and the ocean appears calm with a deep blue color. In the foreground, there are some tropical plants with long, spiky leaves. The image captures the natural beauty of a coastal region, highlighting the contrast between the green vegetation and the blue ocean, and showcasing the rugged terrain of the cliffs.

The famed Na Pali Coastline on a perfect day.

When hiking the trails of Kauai you can be forgiven for expecting to meet a T-Rex around the next bend, or to spot Indiana Jones running by with one hand on his hat and the other grasping some ancient artifact. Hollywood is a big fan of the this Hawaiian island's spectacular landscape, which is why it's a popular filming location for movies like Raiders of the Lost Ark and Jurasic Park.

Begin at the Kalalau trailhead and follow this fabled Na Pali coastal trail two miles to Hanakapi'ai Beach. Avoid the temptation to swim among the deadly ocean currents for which this beach is famous, and take a turn into the hills towards the waterfall. Like most trails on Kauai, the route up to the falls is quite rugged and usually quite slippery when wet and though we categorize this hike as moderate some may find it harder without good footwear.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 5★ Hanakapi-ai Falls Trail 6.4 mi out & back, moderate, gain 650 ft
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions GPX?

Check ahead for permit requirements for hiking and camping on the Na Pali, particularly if you're considering hiking the Kalalau Trail beyond the Hanakapi'ai Falls junction. Permits exist to limit foot traffic in the park in the interest of conservation, but it's a restriction that's frequently and frustratingly disregarded by many visitors to this park.

The image is split into two sections. The left side shows a tall waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush green vegetation. A person with a backpack is standing at the base of the waterfall, looking up at it. The right side of the image shows a series of warning signs posted on a pole amidst dense tropical foliage. The signs warn about various hazards such as high surf, waves breaking on ledges, and strong currents. The warning signs read: WARNING: HIGH SURF. WARNING: WAVES BREAK ON LEDGE - You could be swept off, injured, or drowned. If in doubt, keep off. WARNING: STRONG CURRENT - You could be swept away, injured, or drowned. If in doubt, don’t go out.

Hanakapi'ai Falls | Warnings at Hanakapi'ai Beach.

The image shows a scenic beach with a clear blue sky, a sandy shore, and waves crashing onto the beach. There is a small stream or water channel running through the sand, leading towards the ocean. On the right side of the image, there are numerous rocks scattered along the shore. In the background, there is a forested cliff or hill covered with trees.

The image shows a scenic beach with a clear blue sky, a sandy shore, and waves crashing onto the beach. There is a small stream or water channel running through the sand, leading towards the ocean. On the right side of the image, there are numerous rocks scattered along the shore. In the background, there is a forested cliff or hill covered with trees.

The inviting but frequently deadly Hanakapi'ai Beach.

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• AllTrails Public: Hanakapi'ai Falls Trail
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