The epitome of a paradisiacal footpath, Kauai’s Kalalau Trail offers one of Hawaii’s most picturesque hikes. Stretching 11 miles along the Nāpali Coast, it is flanked by stunning blue waters and mountains covered in lush vegetation. This breathtaking section of coast, adorned with charming waterfalls and swimming holes, is a favorite among visitors, though it has faced storm damages and management changes. Although the trail has reopened, exploring it requires careful planning.

About the Kalalau Trail

The Kalalau Trail is located in Hā’ena State Park on Kauai’s northern shore. It begins at Ke’e Beach and concludes at Kalalau Beach, tracing the coast for 11 miles. This scenic trek takes hikers through valleys, across cliffs, alongside mountains, and past waterfalls and beaches. While fit hikers may complete the trail in a day, many prefer to pause and take in the views. There are two campgrounds along the route: Hanakoa six miles in and Kalalau at the trail’s finish.

The Kalalau Trail is considered strenuous due to several challenging segments. Hikers should prepare for drop-offs and steep grades, as well as the possibility of falling rocks and unpredictable water currents.

Reservation and Permit Information

As the trail is situated within a state park, all hikers are obligated to pay Hā’ena’s entrance fee. Hawaii residents can enter for free. Visitors lacking a state ID must reserve a five- to six-hour time slot on gohaena.com. Reservations are available up to 30 days in advance, and it is crucial to reserve early due to the park’s daily 900-visitor capacity.

Park passes can be obtained for entry via the shuttle ($35 per person), for entry and parking ($10 plus $5 per person), or entry only (walk or bike in for $5 per person). The fee and reservation grant access to the park and the initial two miles of the Kalalau Trail, which includes a visit to Hanakāpīʻai Beach and the two-mile-long side-hike to Hanakāpīʻai Falls (eight miles round-trip).

To proceed beyond Hanakāpīʻai Beach, hikers “must possess a valid camping permit whether or not you plan to camp,” as stated on the trail website. Camping permits for Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park are priced at $25 per person per day for residents and $35 for non-residents. Only 60 hikers are permitted on the trail at any given time, and permits can be obtained through the Hawaii DLNR reservation system up to 90 days in advance.

Note that the camping permit is an additional requirement alongside the park entrance fee.

Tips for Hiking the Kalalau Trail

While there may be some challenges in securing reservations, the stunning vistas awaiting you on the Kalalau Trail are well worth the effort. Here are some essential tips for a seamless experience:

• If you encounter difficulties obtaining a park reservation or camping permit—this is common due to high demand—monitor the reservation websites for updated availability due to cancellations.
• Check weather reports and park conditions on the day of your hike. The trail is inherently risky, even in favorable weather.
• For a multiday hike on the Kalalau Trail, consider purchasing an overnight parking pass for Hā’ena State Park, or arrange for drop-off and pick-up at the park entrance. Although the shuttle service is convenient, overnight parking at the Waipā Park and Ride lot, a shuttle stop, is not allowed.