The Na Pali Coast: Hanakapi’ai to Hanakoa

The Na Pali Coast is one of the most spectacular places on the island of Kauai.  Its cliffs provide a rugged grandeur of deep, narrow valleys ending abruptly at the northernmost tip of the Hawaiian island chain.  In this series, I will detail the different parts of the coastline, otherwise known as the Kalalau Trail.

So you navigated the 2-mile route from Ke’e Beach to Hanakapi’ai.  Now what?  More strenuous hiking begins as the steep switchback trail climbs almost 1,000 feet out of Hanakapi’ai Valley.  The trail traverses the Hono o Na Pali Natural Area Reserve in the small hanging valleys of Ho’olulu and Waiahuakua before entering Hanakoa Valley.  The reserve harbors a variety of native lowland forest plants.

Near the Hanakoa Stream crossing, a rest area offers a stop for weary backpackers.  Facilities include a composting toilet and two roofed shelters.  The shelters are within a complex of old agricultural terraces where Hawaiians once planted taro.  These terraces were replanted with coffee plants in the late 1800′s and still grow throughout the valley today.

A poorly marked half-mile trail up the east fork of the stream to Hanakoa falls has hazardous, eroded sections but offers a fabulous view of the falls.

The trail crosses the stream well back in the valley; therefore, there is no shoreline access at Hanakoa.  Hanakoa’s hanging valley and stream exhausts itself over the cliffs and into the ocean.

If you are camping at Hanakoa, be aware that no 2 consecutive days may be spent here!  Camping permits are required and can be applied for one year in advance.  During peak demand periods (Memorial Day through Labor Day), these permits are particularly difficult to obtain.  Apply for a permit through the Kauai district office via walk-in service.  Camping fees are $10 per person per night.

Photo courtesy of Jeff Muceus (Flickr)