I took 2 days to hike in because I got a late start on Day 1 and couldn’t make it to Kalalau Valley before dark. Beyond the beach is an incredible section of the Na Pali Coast that feels like a prehistoric land. You could always drive to the trailhead, leave your pack, drive back to Haena Beach to park the car, then walk back to the trailhead pack-free. Learn about the best time to visit Kauai →, Our Kauai travel tips & recommendations →, Explore Kauai Hotels & Resorts Search Now. As you begin the trail, you'll traverse through a lush jungle-like scene of pothos and another philodendron. Not feeling up to exploring on foot? We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. This is the first view from the trail that really looks like the stuff you see in magazines. That’s why we recommend touring with a seasoned guide; it ensures your safety and gives you the absolute best hike possible. Be sure to check the weather forecast once you arrive on Kauai and make sure you have a plan in the event that it rains (whether that means buying rain gear, postponing your trek, or backing out altogether). Details of our times to various mile markers is included in the table and provides a good overview for timing. If you’ve hiked it before, I’d love to hear from you! Be aware that it is not safe to swim to Honopu Beach during winter when the surf is too strong. So sign up below! Best Time to Hike the Kalalau Trail Due to its location in beautiful Hawaii, the Kalalau Trail is graced with warm weather and can be hiked year-round. It can take up to two hours just to reach the falls and requires numerous stream crossings. © Copyright 2020 — Guide of US, LLC. Because people camp literally right next to the lit parking lot, break-ins aren’t usually an issue here. If there’s a holy grail of all hikes in Hawaii, it’s got to be the Kalalau Trail on Kauai. Just remember that it will all be over eventually, Kalalau will be well worth the effort and the pack will be lighter on the return hike. UPDATE: After the reopening of the Kalalau Trail in June 2019, there are now rangers stationed along the trail to check permits, offer assistance, and ensure safety. The short portion of the trail to this point can be a lot of work, but this is one of the most gorgeous views of the hike. This parking lot is about a half hour walk from the trailhead (or a mile). There are actually two Kalalau Trail parking lots by the trailhead and Ke’e Beach: the one right next to it, and another one just a minute down the road at Ha’ena State Park. There is often strong undertow, rip currents, a dangerous shore break, and the reflection of the surf off the rock walls of the shoreline creates irregular and unpredictable waves. The hike out of Hanakapiai is a rather arduous climb and the views are mostly behind you (be sure to look behind you at the beach as you climb). The rest in Hanakoa felt great. You can make them, Take plenty of water with you! The popular day hike from Kee Beach to Hanakapiai Beach - approximately 2 miles along the trail (four miles round trip)- receives the bulk of hikers. The ocean view is gone at this point and your plodding through the forest. Again, use the blue water to give you energy. At approximately the 4.5-mile mark is the entrance of Waiahuakua Valley. Personally, I had 4 days and 3 nights for the hike. That’s not to say that everyone else feels as safe as I did, but the general consensus seems to be that safety is not an issue. This is one of the coolest sections of the Kalalau Trail. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. There are facilities at Ke’e Beach where you can use the restroom and fill up on water before you start. The trail can be steep and rocky in places, but trust us - it's the climb you'll notice most. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Some backpackers even attempt to hike the full 22+ miles in one day, although this is discouraged. As long as the water isn’t above your knees, you should be fine to cross. Even if it doesn’t rain during your trek, you’ll experience mud in every possible consistency, which can really slow … Both campsites have compostable toilets, shelters, and easy access to drinking water (which you must treat before drinking). It gets more crowded closer to the waterfall at the other end of the beach. Please be aware of the new rules for the whole Haena State Park area. Better to wear a hat instead, if anything. The entirety of Kalalau Beach is lined with loads of camping spots set back in the woods, many of which have fire pits.