Nā Pali Coast State Park
Nā Pali Coast State Park
5
7:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 6:45 PM
About
This 15-mile coastal stretch of towering cliffs and narrow valleys in northwest Kauai is a hotspot for campers. But note: It's only accessible by hiking.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
1,982 reviews
Excellent
1,862
Very good
96
Average
13
Poor
7
Terrible
4
JenRed2014
Buffalo, NY1,181 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
This can only be five stars. The Na Pali Coast is one of the most beautiful untouched wonders left on Earth. I was thrilled to see it from a distance and to know that they are limiting its trail use so it can stay pristine. The waterfalls, desolate beaches, mountains with peaks and folds combined with the bright colors are magnificent. If you catch a sunset it’s a special treat. Be sure to prepare for the waves if you get sea sick...the seas are pretty rough.
Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Coldings
Copenhagen, Denmark587 contributions
Sep 2022
When on Kauai visiting this State Park is an absolute must. Whether you are in for a quite demanding 5-7 hour return hike to the Hanakapi'ai Falls or just an easy 3 hour return hike to the Hanakapi-ai Beach this place offers some of the most spectacular views on the Planet. Add to that tropical flora, guave fruits, giant bambus and white sandy beaches with caves and you're in for an experience you'll never forget.
You can also hike further into the park to Kalalau Beach, but then you must get a hiking license and bring tent and sleeping gear + food.
For the one-day trips, buy combined Park entry and shuttle bus tickets online at around 35 $ each and you'll board the shuttle bus ca. ½ hour from the trail head and not have to worry about parking or your car while hiking.
Definately bring lots of water, swimwear, hiking poles and good boots as the trails may be slippery due to the frequent rainfalls that are the foundation of this magical piece of nature.
You can also hike further into the park to Kalalau Beach, but then you must get a hiking license and bring tent and sleeping gear + food.
For the one-day trips, buy combined Park entry and shuttle bus tickets online at around 35 $ each and you'll board the shuttle bus ca. ½ hour from the trail head and not have to worry about parking or your car while hiking.
Definately bring lots of water, swimwear, hiking poles and good boots as the trails may be slippery due to the frequent rainfalls that are the foundation of this magical piece of nature.
Written October 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maude
Montreal, Canada6 contributions
Aug 2022 • Solo
I've hiked Na Pali, I've flown Na Pali, I've boated Na Pali with several operators, and without a doubt my favorite way to see Na Pali is with the Na Pali Experience smaller power
catamarans. We were surrounded by 100s of dolphins, drove in and out of sea caves, and parked under waterfalls to cool off for a Hawaiian shower. We snorkeled at a reef where
evidently only the small boats are able to snorkel and the quality of the snorkel gear was superb. I went by myself and there were only 5 others and so even though it wasn't a private tour,
it had a private tour like atmosphere that really made the trip for me. The Captain (Jon?) was fantastic! He was engaging, professional, hilarious, and it was obvious he loved what he did.
The ride was bumpy at times but I guess that is to be expected on Na Pali Coast. I always felt safe and actually enjoyed the "exciting" portions of the trip. From what I understand, choose
the morning tours if you want to see dolphins, and chose the afternoon tour if you want to see Na Pali with optimal lighting conditions.
Thanks for the memorable ride guys…see you next trip!
catamarans. We were surrounded by 100s of dolphins, drove in and out of sea caves, and parked under waterfalls to cool off for a Hawaiian shower. We snorkeled at a reef where
evidently only the small boats are able to snorkel and the quality of the snorkel gear was superb. I went by myself and there were only 5 others and so even though it wasn't a private tour,
it had a private tour like atmosphere that really made the trip for me. The Captain (Jon?) was fantastic! He was engaging, professional, hilarious, and it was obvious he loved what he did.
The ride was bumpy at times but I guess that is to be expected on Na Pali Coast. I always felt safe and actually enjoyed the "exciting" portions of the trip. From what I understand, choose
the morning tours if you want to see dolphins, and chose the afternoon tour if you want to see Na Pali with optimal lighting conditions.
Thanks for the memorable ride guys…see you next trip!
Written August 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SnowBeans
San Diego, CA108 contributions
Mar 2020
If you are interested in viewing the breathtaking Nā Pali Coast, the best way is by foot. In order to ensure you are able to do this, please do you research in ADVANCE of your trip. Restrictions have been placed in order to balance access to and preservation of this gem of Kauai. Visit the Hawaii State Parks website for information.
We hiked the day portion of the Kalalau Trail under the cover of clouds with occasional rain and there are no regrets. The vistas are truly breathtaking.
We hiked the day portion of the Kalalau Trail under the cover of clouds with occasional rain and there are no regrets. The vistas are truly breathtaking.
Written March 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JDSoui
Tampa, FL6,728 contributions
Nov 2022
The views of/from the park are simply amazing. Be it from air, driving to the state park or boat, the views leave an indelible mark. The colors, features and sheer cliffs are simply breathtaking.
One call out is to check the weather - if driving to the lookout, the fog can arrive quickly. Within 15-20 minutes of arriving the fog impacted the views. Nevertheless the views are spectacular.
One call out is to check the weather - if driving to the lookout, the fog can arrive quickly. Within 15-20 minutes of arriving the fog impacted the views. Nevertheless the views are spectacular.
Written November 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bernard G
Cornwall, Canada26 contributions
Dec 2019 • Couples
If you go, just make sure to tell someone that you are going and bring water to drink, you'll need it. Mountain goats live there so take your cue from them: very steep, windy paths with some real danger. You can also see it from the water if you are interested in a tour. Worth looking into the different tours offered.
Written January 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kristopher C
21 contributions
Dec 2019
3 rd time visiting and it’s beautiful every time. Love the unspoiled beauty. Be patient as traffic is slow going and lots of visitors getting north on the highway. But it’s worth the drive and hike. Recommend good foot wear not for novice.
Written January 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mamashari4
80 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Wow! Quit a hike if you are out of shape but we did the 4 miles and it was great views! Get there early so you can take your time and enjoy it. Did the park and ride to the State Park. Be extra cautious if it rains as the trails are hazardous in good weather conditions. My fitness tracker said I did 20,000 steps and 77 flights of stairs. It felt like it too! I would recommend a walking stick and lots of water.
Written February 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kali
Pennsylvania42 contributions
Jul 2019
I was lucky enough to view Kauai's 17 miles of coastline on the northwest sides by boat. The view is riveting. I could barely take my eyes off for fear I was going to miss it. The vast cliffs are very memorable and full of untouched natural beauty. I'd even say magical.
Written April 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ITRT
Virginia44,656 contributions
Apr 2022
The Na Pali Coast on Kauai’s North Shore was the culminating event on our inter-island cruise. Na Pali means “high cliffs”. Some rise to 4,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean. Its emerald-colored cliffs are a result of the approximately 400 inches of rainfall a year in the area. The coast spans 17 miles and can be viewed by hiking, in a helicopter or on a boat. However, the beaches, valleys, caves, and waterfalls are not accessible by land.
Written April 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, my husband and I are headed to HI in April. Can you please provide the name or number of the catamaran charter you went on? This sounds like the best way to see the coast line...Thanks in advance!
Written January 30, 2020
Captain Andy’s. But the weather was rough so we went south and did not see the Nepali Coast by boat. Good operation though.
Written January 30, 2020
My husband and I will be in Kauai until the end of December. We are looking for people to hike with or/ and share a car with as we don’t drive.
If anyone interested please contact me at +17144069862.
We have open schedule
Mahalo!
Written December 24, 2019
My husband and I will be in Kauai until the end of December. We are looking for people to hike with or/ and share a car with as we don’t drive.
If anyone interested please contact me at +17144069862.
We have open schedule
Mahalo!
Written December 24, 2019
Hi all,
We are going to Kauai in Feb end 2018.. and planning to visit Na Pali Coast state park.
Which one should we prefer? Helicopter ride or boat ride? Is hike tough for this state park?
Any recommendations for boat rides or helicopter rides?
Thank you in advance.
Written January 4, 2019
Hello
I was in Kauai In October (3rd trip) and the road to access the Na Pali coast trailhead near Ke’e beach was still closed from spring flooding damage earlier in the year. There was a roadblock / check point in Hanalei that restricted access only to property owners who were granted permits to access their properties. It will be difficult to access the Kalalau trail without access to the trailhead at the end of the road at Ke’e Beach. When we left the island, it was still unforeseen as to when road access would be restored past Hanalei.
That being said, to my knowledge your only options currently will be to take a helicopter or boat tour to experience the Na Pali coast. The rough ends of Na Pali coast extend from Ke’e beach to Polihale beach. There are view points of the end of Kalalau trail and Na Pali coast from the top of Waimea Canyon, which is also a great area for hiking as a backup since Kalalau might still be hard to access.
All helicopter tours fly a similar if not identical route that follows the same clockwise direction around the island. We flew Blue Hawaiian helicopter tours that left from the airport in Lihue. It was a great flight that flew us around the entire island including into the crater of Waieleele, Waimea Canyon and along the Na Pali Coast. Even after requesting a window seat prior to our flight, I was still given a middle seat and was told it was due to weight balance reasons. Despite this occurring, we still had a great flight and we highly recommend a helicopter tour. As for a boat cruise along Na Pali, there are several companies that give cruises on nice sized catamaran sailboats. Not only are there several companies to choose from, but there are several different cruises available including snorkeling cruises and evening dinner cruises. One even goes as far as the neighboring islands of Ni’ihau and Lehua for snorkeling. Many boat trip tours depart from Port Allen such as Captain Andy’s and Blue Dolphin. Although it’s possible to depart from other parts of the island, the key piece to remember is allowing yourself enough time to drive to your destination without “missing the boat”. Traffic on certain parts of the island can really ruin your plans for the day especially if stuck in traffic in Kapaa or near Lihue. Keep in mind where you’re staying on the island and where your tour departs from. If you’re staying on the North side of the island near Princeville, helicopter tours leaving Princeville and boat tours leaving Hanalei Bay will be more convenient then driving back to Lihue or Port Allen for trip departure. Hope this helps with your trip planning. We stay in Kapaa, which roughly serves as a halfway point on the island road system and allows us to pick a North or South Island direction for the day. Kapaa traffic can be a nightmare, but we know this in advance and make a point to leave our hotel early in the morning on days that we want to drive around the island versus spending the day at the resort. To drive from Hanalei to Waimea and back in one day makes for a very long day especially when exploring and making several stops along the way. Safe travels.
Written January 4, 2019
Where do I find information on the hikes in the Park?
Written October 31, 2018
October 2018 Update: Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park (including the Kalalau Trail) on Kauai are still closed due to flood damage as well as the highway and bridges which access the parks. This includes the first two miles of the trail. The whole trail is inaccessible & closed for hikers and/or kayakers. Repairs to the damaged roads and trail are in process and expected to last at least into January of 2019. With additional storms events (Lane, Olivia), and additional damage discovered as they do repairs has caused a reevaluation of the repair time. The roads and trail could be closed into mid-2019.
Quoting park website. Nepali COAST trails closed
Written November 2, 2018
Hello does anyone know of the park itself is closed or open. If open, where in the park can I go to hike or drive to see the most beautiful scenery
Written October 2, 2018
the park is open, and there are a number of entrances from the Wiamea valley road to the park. but the trails can be steep, and can get very slippery in the rain, so you should do some research before planning a hike there. there is a popular walk to the top of a waterfall at the end of the canyon.
Written October 2, 2018
Hi! I understand that currently, the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park (including the Kalalau Trail) on Kauai are still closed due to flood damage as well as the highway and bridges which access the parks. Is this right?
Written July 23, 2018
Is there a drive that can be done or are a majority of views from boat? TY
Written August 21, 2018
Salve, desidero sapere dove si prenotano le gite in catamarano per Na Pali Coast, grazie
Written July 9, 2018
I would recommend Captain Andy's. You can find them in all the guide books and they have a website. Happy sailing , and Have fun!
Written July 10, 2018
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