Weather Report says Rain, Should I panic? At the end of the beach is a point where you can swim or kayak around to Honopu another amazing beach that has been in a number of movies. And blueflamingo, I wouldn't hike it either. } The public beach in Cedar Key is free to use and offers a quaint spot to relax by the waves. Eleven miles in and eleven out. These terraces were replanted with coffee plants in the late 1800s, which are still growing throughout the valley today. For some people who come to Kalalau Beach, the long and difficult trail is not adventurous enough. Swimming or wading can be dangerous, however, and is not recommended. Keep in mind that this portion of the trail is in the designated day-use area and can be accessed without a permit. We are interested in making the ~1/4mi swim to Honopu Beach. And then Cory slipped on his grippy aqua-socks and climbed straight up the crack. Mahaulepu Beach There are permanent residents in the valley that live off the land despite the fact that it is illegal. There is a helipad in the valley, but it is usually only used by law enforcement. } From Kalalau Beach, you can swim around the corner to Honop Beach, which is even more spectacular than Kalalau. Use extreme caution when swimming atthis beach. As we said above, one of the best Cedar Key activities is going to the beach! lc=rid; Humpback whales pass by Kauai in the winter time and we were able to see several on our hike. If you google Ben Stiller on David Letterman you can see a clip of him on Dave telling about a company that took him by boat to the end of the trail and then hiking the 11 miles to Ke'e. Check the website here for trail updates and closures. Its rated a 9/10 for technical difficulty, and has many shear drop offs, narrow ledges, and never ending climbs and descents. } The large waves at Kalalau Beach can make a landing by boat extremely treacherous. else if(star_img=='2'){ If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Some of these year-round residents hike out of the valley every couple of months to get supplies. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Fine"; In addition, there is a shallow sand bar that runs parallel to the beach but in spots the ocean floor abruptly drops to levels above your head. [KAUAI] UPDATED 3/2/23: Polihale State Park Is CLOSED until further notice due to an electrical outage that has put the water pump out of service. On the third day of a recent camping trip in Kalalau, Kauai, we woke up early and walked to the end of Kalalau Beach. Copyright 2023, State of Hawaii. Don't Look Down! Lightweight hiking shoes with good traction are popular. At the beach, you may see topless sunbathers or a naked surfer. I would like to spend one night at the Kalalau beach, but honestly, I don't feel like walking the 11 mile trail, so does anyone know if I can arrange a boat there that would pick me up the next day? Tory and Cory appeared to be tired from the swim but Seth and Jen (both swimmers in high school) looked fresh as daisies. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; Heed these warnings! } Save yourself from a digestive nightmare and always sanitize your water sources. function noshow(star_img,rnid) On the plus side, it is Anini Beach is a narrow sliver of a beach that extends along Kauai's North Shore for somewhat over two miles. Plan your trip accordingly. Then make some friends with the adventurers around you while you enjoy one of the last sunsets in the United States. People have drowned here from the dangerous combination of a hidden current and the cliffside surroundings. Its wide and deep. It's even more difficult to get on a boat to leave the valley in a surge of surf. Kiahuna Beach Binoculars are helpful to see them in detail. Checking gear ahead of time could eliminate a real hassle on the trail and is worth the effort.<. } - 8:00p.m. You must either boat, helicopter or hike to this secluded destination, but that doesn't mean you can't catch a sneak peak without all the effort. The first 2 miles of the trail, from Hena State Park to Hanakapiai Beach, make a popular day hike. What off the beaten path activities can I do? Makana Charters } In the early days, a similar foot trail linked traditional Hawaiian settlements along the rugged coastline. Shipwrecks Beach, Kekaha Beach ), (Update 9/14/15: This rock was pushed into the oceanin a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. Use extreme caution, especially during wet weather. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; The one way price from Hanalei Bay is usually $75-100 and requires swimming a short distance to the boat. See more from this series: This story was last modified on September 14, 2015. Yes, there are illegal campers there, some of them do leave trash. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; If you can't hike the trail, the kayak to the beach would be even more strenuous even if you could. Do not loiter beneath the waterfall or near cliff faces as there is a constant danger of falling rocks. The trail takes hikers up, over and down the cathedral cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. jebett, this isn't Hanakapae Beach the OP is talking about. and our Day hikes beyond Hanakoa are not recommended. if (shows){ Favorite Kauai Restaurants (updated November 2017), How to Eat Vegan on the Garden Isle of Kauai. Ocean swimming is not recommended for those unfamiliar with local sea conditions. There has been mention here before about companies, individuals who will pick you up from Kalalau Beach and bring you out - but I don't know if any of them are still doing that personally. But because there is no legal camping in Kalalau valley, people usually say they camped "at" Kalalau beach to make the distinction. Even amongst the gorgeous sights and sounds along the entire coastline, one area stands out above the rest. Allow a full day to complete the 8 mile round trip from Kee Beach to Hanakapiai Falls. Swimming is possible on Kalalau Beach, but not without dangers. It's even more difficult to get on a boat to leave the valley in a surge of surf. [MAUI]UPDATED 1/23/23:Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area CLOSED through March 2023 (Per DOFAW). Here are a few examples of what you can expect: Pools-There are two main pool areas for some refreshing swimming. There is a natural stone arch that you can walk beneath and another waterfall that you can stand under. Originally built in the late 1800s, the trail serves as one of the only ways to access the beautiful Napali Coast via land. Year-round residents like green sea turtles, dolphin, albatross birds, and endangered Hawaiian monk seals also live off the coast. It is the responsibility of the reader to use common sense and good judgment by interpreting and using the information to safely enjoy any outdoor activities. You can camp on the Kalaau Beach. Then you've still got to swim into the beach, and avoid getting smashed by the rollers. Pack a water filtration system such as those sold by Sawyer, Katadyn, or Steripen. Cory and Troy picked them off the rocks in between waves. Listen to weather and surf forecasts on local radio or check the surf report. For over 20 years we have been offering tours of the Na Pali coast on custom-built touring catamarans that were designed to provide the ultimate touring experience. During the winter months, huge waves crash against the cliffs. Camping in Kalalau is allowed only behind this sand beach. The view of the valley is stunning at every point. Those in tip top shape can do it in 8 hours, those more average take 10+. For all these, just ask a friendly local where to go! Daily, Get in touch with us today to book your tour, The Honu (Sea Turtle) and Its Importance to Hawaii, 6 Tips for Photographing the Na Pali Coast, 5 Interesting Facts about the Na Pali Coast, View From the Top or From the Waters: Discover the Best Way to Explore the Na Pali Coast. Kealia Beach For more information, please see our Your feet will be sore, but beachside camping with ample space makes it worth the extra walking. As you travel north, prices go up and options are more limited. We walked back to the end of Kalalau Beach. And it's absolutely wonderful to take a dip in Queen's Bath after enjoying the turtles inside Turtle Cove. Swimming is possible on Kalalau Beach, but not without dangers. Hiking NaPali Coast If the timing is not right for you to have such an in-depth and intensive experience; there are other ways to see the NaPali Coast by land. It sounded amazing and the cool thing is, Cory took a risk and brought his dSLR with him in a dry bag (that orange thing hanging from his waist). var n = document.getElementById('n'+rid); Just remember that Kalalau Beach does not have a protective reef to break the waves. See all 16 reviews. When you finally get to the beach, you'll marvel at the hikers that have carried 50+ pounds of gear across the hike and over the ledge. Reservations may be made up to 30 days in advance, and no later than the day before your visit*. Look closely at the textured valley walls and you'll see mountain goats precariously perched on high. As a bonus, a couple of guys were selling drinks beachside out of freshly opened coconuts. During the summer one can kayak out that way (one of our frequent contributors TravelerXYZ has done it) but again you can't land the kayaks. The white sand beach is a mile long, and, in this seclusion, you'll have no problem picking out your own isolated spot. } Because I have law enforcement friends with the DLNR who fly in with helos, and clean the place up, as the permanent reisidents run off to hide in the jungle. Those of us that didnt have sunglasses wore their swimming goggles to keep the sand out of their eyes. Kalapaki Beach Polihale Beach You need to bring all food and equipment with you. You'll need to purchase a camping pass for a stay in Kalalau, and they sell out months ahead of time. No camping is permitted there, but that is only what we read on the signage. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. The rest of us, Reanne, Cory, Troy, Jenelyn and I walked it back to the cracked boulder. else if(i=='5'){ This is the final post in a 5-part series on Kalalau. Operate by the LNT principle and leave no trace behind you. { Kayaking and swimming (by strong swimmers with fins) from Kalalau Beach are the only ways to reach Honop Beach. Lydgate Beach If youre a good swimmer, theres a hidden beach called Honopu Beach right around that bend. You do not need to be extreme athletes, but this is not a casual stroll. In the early morning wedecided to go for a nice open water swim,fins are an absolute must! The trail traverses five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted cliffs. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. | Web usage privacy. Never turn your back on the ocean, an unexpected wave can knock you down and drag you out. This was my favorite part of the trip. The trail to Hanakapiai falls and beyond Hanakapiai is recommended for experienced hikers only. To prevent overpopulation, the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) allows hunting on weekends in August and September. This system helps protect the land from overuse and degradation. Hanalei Pine Trees } This Epic Climb in the Swiss Alps Is Mostly Terrifying -- but Also WorthIt. Law enforcement often helicopter in to check permits. More vegetation and another beach on the other side of the arch. Maybe dont look over the edge if you are afraid of heights. Thanks so much. We tried to soak it in as much as possible knowing that it would be quite some time before we would ever return. Lic# TVNC1058, Secluded and difficult to access beach on Kauai's Na Pali Coast, You should be in good physical condition to hike to the beach and not afraid of heights (the trail is narrow in some areas and involves several stream crossings), Beware of flash floods when crossing streams (don't cross if the water is too high), Kalalau Beach has rip tides, strong currents and a dangerous shorebreak, especially in the winter months, Bring all needed supplies and food with you, Mosquito repellent is a good idea to bring too. United States. Jenelyn, Reanne and I are not strong swimmers so we stayed back. To get a camping permit, visit http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/camping/permit_napali.cfm . (Update 9/14/15: This sea cave was destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. And as koloagirl says, you still need a camping permit. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Good"; Its worth while to bring a way to store water, as the water source is a good trek from the designated camp areas. Within the valley itself, there are many things to see and do. Walk-ins permitted. We chose to get our permits from the office closest to the airport immediately upon arriving in Kauai. var b = document.getElementById('t0'); milwkid9090's first answer is still the best. I was so happy I brought my sunglasses on this day. Infrequent widespread storms cause flash floods. Though this article focuses on walking the Kalalau Trail, there are other ways to visit if you do not enjoy hiking or are short on time. The Kauai beach with the unusual name, Donkey Beach, is a beach that comes with a lot of pluses and minuses. 4516 Alawai Rd. But remembers there is no reef to protect the shore, which leaves it vulnerable tolong shore currents. This was my favorite part of the trip. Nonetheless, you'll find beach areas with calm waters to swim and even snorkel without any issues. Hello. Gardens-As stated earlier, there are several gardens in the valley that are a source of food for those staying there. I tried hinting to Jenelyn and Reanne that it might not be safe to climb it but to no avail. You may find locals living near the beach, or in the adjacent valley. Kalalau Beach, though, is really worth the 11-mile hike to get there. Wailua Beach, Baby Beach Poipu Its large and backs up to breathtaking views of rugged coastline and classic napali coastline. function showform(raid){ Parking at Hena State Park is limited to 100 stalls, so we recommend taking the Kauai North Shore Shuttle. Camping gear should include a lightweight sleeping bag or blanket, sleeping pad, tent with rainfly, cooking stove and fuel, water purification tablets or filter, first aid kit, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, rain gear, and biodegradable soap. At Kalalau beach, you hike as far as possible on the beach, and then ideally go under a cave arch and arrive on the last beach. Its like being in the desert. (808) 274-3444. It is flanked by sheer canyon walls and it is illegal to boat or kayak there. The trailhead can be found at the very end of the road on the northern side of the island at Ke'e Beach. During winter months, dangerous conditions include high surf and strong currents. Just like the signs around Hawaii will advise you, when in doubt, dont go out. But, that doesnt mean you need to stop here. There is nothing worse than getting to camp and realizing there is a hole in your tent or your water filter is not working. *Camping permits for Npali Coast SWP often sell-out quickly, particularly during the summer months. Tradewind showers are more frequent during the night and early morning. Those that did not have goggles are Asian so they were okay (on account of the squinty eyes). You can drink this water, but you must treat or boil the water beforehand. function show(star_img,rnid) By using our application you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy, including the transfer of your personal data to the United States from your country of residence (if different). So if you're afraid of heights, you may not like this trail, especially around the middle of it. Brenneckes Beach Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License. They were up there within a few seconds. Please check the Kalalau trail safety concerns before you go hiking. Sometimes you find a tour operator willing to let you off in the water with your equipment in a dry bag. But there are also local hunters (and I have seen them leave trash in Waimea Canyon) as well as people who come in on private boats with tons of gear, and I bet some of them leave trash too (and not all of them have permits either). This remarkably beautiful beach has been the scene To learn about the cookies we use and information about your preferences and opt-out choices, please review our Privacy Policy While the Kalalau Beach at the end of the trail is considered safe for swimming, the first beach you encounter on the trail, Hanakapiai Beach, is not. For most backpackers in good condition, hiking the 11 miles will take a full day. } Hawaii strictly regulates food items that enter the state and you must declare all food products on a declaration form on the flight. Hanakoa campsite at mile 6 gives hikers the opportunity to spend the night at the halfway point on the trail. var lc; (Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. Haena Beach Kee Beach We were pretty flippin excited to be the only people there! selectedVal = '2'; You can also get to this beach via boat, which is fairly commonly done via Kayaks (with a permit). The vast majority of Kalalau Beachgoers hike the Kalalau Trail 11 miles one-way to this stunning destination. The area upon which the Like so many beaches on the North Shore of Kauai safety is a big issue for Ke'e Beach. Campers are allowed a maximum length stay of 5 nights. Also, there are strong rip and alongshore currents, which may be difficult to spot, even if the ocean appears calm.

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