I also can't imagine a boat company traveling the coast to land there and retrieve campers and do it safely and at a profit. Tradewind showers are more frequent during the night and early morning. Follow the tunnel until you reach the room that's lit up with a blue hue this is the one you'll need to find the rebreather. The shelters are within a complex of old agricultural terraces where Hawaiians once planted taro. 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. Any advice is much appreciated. document.getElementById('rat').value="4"; Do not loiter beneath the waterfall or near cliff faces as there is a constant danger of falling rocks. 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). The trailhead is located in Hena State Park at the northwest end of Khi Highway (Route 56). Like previous poster said, unless you have rough water experience, just don't. Especially, especially right now. You'll need to purchase a camping pass for a stay in Kalalau, and they sell out months ahead of time. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; The sea can appear calm here at times (like summer) making it seem safe to swim. It is not legal to get out of or land a motorized boat on the beach, however, it is done illegally. In fact, Hanakoa is a hanging valley without a beach the stream exhausts itself over cliffs at the oceans edge. You'll also have to pay for the expensive helicopter ride if you need to be rescued. There are falling rock hazards at the Kalalau Beach campsites along the cliff walls. else For experienced swimmers knowledgeable in local sea conditions, nearshore waters offer limited opportunities for swimming and body surfing. Copyright 2023, State of Hawaii. When Kalalau came into view the entire boat went silent. 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. Also, please proceed with caution this is not an easy swim nor is it safe. It can be ankle deep only to plunge down to the depths with no warning. You may not be able to use your cell phone to call for help in an emergency. Use extreme caution when swimming atthis beach. For a shorter hike, the first portion of the trail up to Hanakapiaai Beach is accessible for day use and does not require a permit. Wailua Beach, Baby Beach Poipu We came upon a young woman hiking fully nude who seemed completely at ease in her birthday suit. This is where you'll meet some of the permanent residents as well as other campers in the valley. The first section of the Kalalau Trail stretches from the trailhead located at Kee Beach at Haena State Park to Hanakapiai valley. We couldnt stay for long as youneed to get back before the waves and the current pick up. Many hikers turn back when they reach Crawler's Ledge -- a narrow path carved into a cliff that runs for nearly a quarter-mile. Those that did not have goggles are Asian so they were okay (on account of the squinty eyes). You definitely do not want to swim when this is the case. Dont get caught in here. Anini Beach. The stories on this website are provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. I was so happy I brought my sunglasses on this day. During the winter and spring conditions are especially dangerous. Anyone proceeding beyond Hanakpai MUST possess a valid camping permit. Those without camping permits for Kalalau Valley are therefore prohibited from attempting the entire 22-mile round trip hike in a day. When you come out of the arch you see what looks like an alien planet.(Update 9/14/15: Thisarea was destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015.). Kalalau Beach is very secluded, only with those brave and fit enough to get to the beach via man powered boat or expert hiking trails. Never allow small children to swim or play in water unattended. You can prepare for this by carrying a satellite beacon device which pings a distress signal if you are injured. The Kalalau Trail on N Pali's stunning Hawaiian coast is one of the most challenging treks in the world. If you follow blueflamingo's boating link, you'll find that no tour boats are allowed to land at Kalalau beach, only kayaks. There are permanent residents in the valley that live off the land despite the fact that it is illegal. Cory and Troy picked them off the rocks in between waves. ny = document.getElementById(image); The trail traverses five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted cliffs. } el.style.display = 'none'; The beach is a prime spot for swimming and snorkeling, thanks to its relatively calm waters and a coral reef that is just a few meters offshore. } And then Jenelyn took it up another notch. Sponsored Content >. In the early morning wedecided to go for a nice open water swim, http://goingtogetlost.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/going-to-get-lost_black-logo-e1472512038874.png, http://goingtogetlost.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/commando-climb-7.jpg. (Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. Mahaulepu Beach Humpback whales pass by Kauai in the winter time and we were able to see several on our hike. After selecting your trip dates, you may experience a bit of sticker shock during the payment portion of the permit process. [KAUAI] Kkee State Park - Beginning TUESDAY, MARCH 7, 2023, road repair work will be conducted along Kkee Road between the meadow/lodge area and the first Kalalau Lookout. Though you may be tempted, please do not hike this trail without permission. Makana Charters is a native Hawaiian family owned business that takes pride in providing the best possible experience for visitors to Kauai. This is the final post in a 5-part series on Kalalau. else Except that theres an ocean next to you. For most backpackers in good condition, hiking the 11 miles will take a full day. In-order to access the Npali Coast State Wilderness Park as well as the Kalalau Trail, visitors have to go through Hena SP. Those of us that didnt have sunglasses wore their swimming goggles to keep the sand out of their eyes. and our Camping fees for Npali Coast are $25 per person per night (Hawaii residents), $35 per person per night (non-residents). Pack your backpacking stove, however, stove fuel is not permitted on any airplane and will need to be purchased on the island. But, that doesnt mean you need to stop here. The stream at the beach can be crossed relatively easily by going bouldering down to the coast depending on the tide and water flow on the stream. The best part is that the beach will be empty but for your fellow travelers. [HAWAII] UPDATED 1/20/23: Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area WATER OFFLINE in the park, facilities impacted. It's even more difficult to get on a boat to leave the valley in a surge of surf. countfield.value = maxlimit - field.value.length; Queen's Bath is VERY DANGEROUS! (Update 9/14/15: This sea cave was destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. The Kalalau Trail is a 22-mile out-and-back coastal hike located on the northwest side of the island of Kauai. Its a wonderful place to hang out a night, but during the day its actually too hot and windy. These terraces are now overgrown with a variety of alien trees, including Java Plum, guava, and occasional large mango trees. We will use this opportunity to perform road grading, back filling, downed tree removal, and sand removal from the shower. The Beach Would it still be safe during the time we are going? These illegal residents and some overnight campers can sometimes leave mounds of trash behind in this otherwise beautiful and isolated area. Pack foods that cook easily in boiling water and store well unrefrigerated. If you're staying in Nassau Paradise Island, set aside a full day to visit the swimming pigs. Maybe this site can answer your question. This hike is on the beginning section of the Kalalau trail, at Ke'e Beach. Just like the signs around Hawaii will advise you, when in doubt, dont go out. The strong current would help by pushing them the whole way. and the farthest you can drive on the north shore. Waimea Beach. Phone Number. There are no trash receptacles in the park, and everything you take in, you will need to carry out. During winter months, dangerous conditions include high surf and strong currents. [MAUI] UPDATED 1/26/23:Iao Valley State Monument CLOSED August 2022through April 15, 2023. Its worth while to bring a way to store water, as the water source is a good trek from the designated camp areas. #3. This was my favorite part of the trip. var i; function textCounter(field, countfield, maxlimit) { It can be recognized by the relatively recent landslide and house-sized boulder near the beach. } document.getElementById('rat').value="5"; The trail and activity descriptions are given to give the reader a better understanding of what to expect while hiking and participating in activities in Hawaii. } A) no one will be there to help, b) if anyone was, you'd be taking up critical medical space. Swimming is possible on Kalalau Beach, but not without dangers. Well, if you are Ben Stiller, I'd imagine it would be pretty easy to find someone to pick you up out there! Print your permits ahead of time and carry them with you on the trail. Join our newsletter for exclusive features, tips, giveaways! Video Shows Tourists Almost Lose Kids To Huge Waves at The Eddie While Ignoring Lifeguard Pleas To Get Back, Heres How To Visit Niihau, Hawaiis Forbidden Island, The 17 Most Underrated Honeymoon Destinations in the US, The 13 Best Places To Go Hiking in Hawaii, The Worlds Most Dangerous Footpath Is Now Totally Safe To Hike, Abiqua Falls Is a Secret Waterfall Hidden Deep in the Oregon Forest, Best Hikes With Stunning Views in the Ozark Mountains, 7 Easy Hikes on Oahu, Hawaii, That Are Perfect for Kids. Never turn your back on the ocean, an unexpected wave can knock you down and drag you out. driving distance from Poipu to North Shore, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas. DROWNINGS OCCUR HERE REGULARLY! Top Ten Ways to Protect Hawaiian Monk Seals/Dolphin protection, Geography, Geology, History and Culture of Kaua'i. Within the 5-night maximum, no 2 consecutive nights are allowed at Hanakoa. Waipouli Beach Feral goats have been seen roaming the beach and valley, and contribute to the leptospirosis in the streams and waterfall. Theres no longer sand to walk on here. If you are stopped by a park ranger you will be asked to show the permit along with photo id. Kalalau Beach is more about the journey than the destination, and it's not easy to get to this secluded, beautiful and verdant beach. Binoculars are helpful to see them in detail. The Kauai beach with the unusual name, Donkey Beach, is a beach that comes with a lot of pluses and minuses. document.write("

"); Save yourself from a digestive nightmare and always sanitize your water sources. - 8:00p.m. This is strictly prohibited, however difficult to enforce. 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. selectedVal = '3'; 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. Share your great experiences with me, please? They are all worth exploring if you have the time. Most prefer life in the valley to the busy day-to-day life on the outside where the simple pleasures of living off the land are nearly impossible. Indeed, they are living the sustainable life that many in modern society have realized we need to aim for albeit with no modern amenities such as electricity, plumbing, and mass communication. Did you see Todays Groupon for world resorts international? She didnt do the hike but she was able to see the Na Pali Coast from a cruise ship. 3. And how do I know that ? We didnt walk go in the water so it might go back much farther actually. Other inhabitants of the valley include feral goats. The authorized camping areas along the trail do not have tables or drinking water. Kalapaki Beach A maximum stay of 5 nights is allowed in Npali Coast State Park. The only way to access the valley is either by boat or hiking the 11-mile Kalalau trail there are no roads or airstrips here and only government helicopters are authorized to land. So, I was wondering from someone who has perhaps done it recently, what the experience was like? var n = document.getElementById('n'+rid); Tired hikers may be urged on by the panoramic view of Kalalau Valleys fluted cliffs and the coastline beyond. There is nothing worse than getting to camp and realizing there is a hole in your tent or your water filter is not working. Nonetheless, you'll find beach areas with calm waters to swim and even snorkel without any issues. Many of the months during the year, beach landings there would be dangerous due to rough surf . 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. Jen and Seth decided to swim down the coastline instead. The Kalalau trail hike begins at Ka'a Beach at the end of the parking lot. You won't find any facilities down here, but you will find composting toilets. Hiking past the first major landmark on the Kalalau Trail, Hanakapiaai Beach at mile two, requires a permit. var lc; } selectedVal = '5'; You do not need to be extreme athletes, but this is not a casual stroll. return; Our Terms and Conditions, which contain an arbitration provision, may be viewed here. The first 2 miles of the trail, from Hena State Park to Hanakapiai Beach, make a popular day hike. Plan on spending 10 hours in hiking boots if you do this. The trail narrows to a couple of feet in some sections with a sheer cliff on one side and a steep drop to the Pacific on the other. Thanks Hiker. Shopping is limited on Kauai and it is best to bring as many specialty items as possible with you on your flight such as your tent, sleeping bag, and trekking poles. After crossing the stream about a mile up the valley, the trail becomes more difficult as it meanders over rocks and fallen trees. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; Then make some friends with the adventurers around you while you enjoy one of the last sunsets in the United States. For experienced hikers in excellent shape, allow for a long day (8+ hours) to complete the round trip from Hena State Park to Hanakoa. A valid Npali Coast SWP camping permit grants access to Hena SP. [OAHU] UPDATED 3/2/23: Keawa Heiau State Recreation Area Aiea Loop Trail isCLOSEDdue to high winds and heavy rain, the heiau area is OPEN. If you are lucky enough to witness this, they are not in distress, and should not be approached or bothered. The trail crosses the stream well back in the valley, therefore there is no shoreline access at Hanakoa. Are we nuts? Lightweight hiking shoes with good traction are popular. selectedText = 'Very Good'; lc=rid; You can see some effects from from high usage (I won't say overuse because permits are already limited), but it is still very nice there.