can you swim at kalalau beach

The Na Pali Coast is a jewel of not only Kauai, but the entire Pacific. Permits are very popular and sell out well in advance, especially during summer. Make sure to use the correct filter if you plan to drink the water. You'll also find a natural shower in the form of Ho'ole'a Falls at the western end of the beach. Jenelyn, Reanne and I are not strong swimmers so we stayed back. Call at 888-409-2702 during business hours which are 7 AM to 7 PM HST. Waimea, HI 96796 Pack foods that cook easily in boiling water and store well unrefrigerated. Walking the first half mile will reward you with excellent views of the coast. 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. Just remember that Kalalau Beach does not have a protective reef to break the waves. Florida manatees: What's legal, what isn't, what to do if you see one If you are swept past the beach, there are miles of steep cliffside before you would be able to reach shore. It is well worth the jungle hike to get there. selectedVal = '5'; ny = document.getElementById(image); Thanks so much. document.write("Please Select"); 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. Wild goats are often seen along the trail route. The trail is one of the most difficult in the Hawaiian Islands, which limits visitors to the beach. Many of the unforgettable sights on the Na Pali coast are only viewable from the sea, so it is well worth a look. Travel light. Allow 3 to 4 hours to complete the round-trip hike to Hanakapiai Beach. document.getElementById('rat').value="4"; selectedVal = '4'; This system helps protect the land from overuse and degradation. Use extreme caution, especially during wet weather. Copyright 2023, State of Hawaii. *Clicking this link will redirect you to another website, Parking vouchers and entrance to the park can be purchased by clicking the link below. Kalalau Beach - Wikipedia It is now underwater.). This trail passes through extensive agricultural terraces where Hawaiians grew taro, the staple crop, from ancient times until about 1920. Shutterstock Hawaii, Island of kauai, Na Pali Cliffs How To Hike N Pali And The Kalalau Trail Where To Camp In N Pali Coast State Wilderness Park The strong current would help by pushing them the whole way. selectedVal = '2'; } We watched goats kick rocks down onto campsites near these signs. Jen and Seth decided to swim down the coastline instead. After crossing the stream about a mile up the valley, the trail becomes more difficult as it meanders over rocks and fallen trees. The white sand beach is a mile long, and, in this seclusion, you'll have no problem picking out your own isolated spot. We use cookies for analytics tracking and advertising from our partners. Can You Swim in Cabo San Lucas? - All You Need to Know image = 'qw'+rnid + i; These terraces are now overgrown with a variety of alien trees, including Java Plum, guava, and occasional large mango trees. Yes Good For Swimming, Snorkeling, Kids, Relaxing, Watching sunset Advance reservations are now required for all vehicles, walk-in entry, and shuttle riders visiting Hena State Park, as well as for day hikers accessing the Kalalau Trail. } and the farthest you can drive on the north shore. The cliffs of the Na Pali Coast look prehistoric in this area. 12 Best Beaches in Kauai - Which One is Your Perfect Spot? There is a natural stone arch that you can walk beneath and another waterfall that you can stand under. You are always a wealth of hiking info. 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. Both of these excursions depart Nassau at 8:00 a.m. sharp and return from The Exumas between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. We came upon a young woman hiking fully nude who seemed completely at ease in her birthday suit. When we got to the end of the beach, Seth, Jen, Jen, Cory and Troy put on some fins and swam out. On the second day of the hike, you can explore some of the many attractions around Kalalau beach, such as the Hanakapi'ai waterfalls, the Hanakoa Falls, and the Kalalau Valley Trail. As a bonus, a couple of guys were selling drinks beachside out of freshly opened coconuts. I think they do it on their regular tour, so the boat is full alreayd. United States. Yet, it's also among the most rewarding. Click on the Boating Na Pali link to see a list of boating companies that have permits to land - perhaps they would do a private charter: http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/kauai/napali_boating.cfm. Cory and Troy picked them off the rocks in between waves. Denny, with all due respect, "law enforcement friends with the DLNR" are not exactly objective observers. In the early days, a similar foot trail linked traditional Hawaiian settlements along the rugged coastline. Camping is allowed on the beach, but permits are required. Purchase a camping permit here or in person at any State Parks district office. Park. Hiking Kauai: The Kalalau Trail - The Trek Heres the other thing it makes for an awesome photo. I knew you could camp close to the beach but I didn't think on the beach. else if(i=='5'){ The trail crosses the stream well back in the valley, therefore there is no shoreline access at Hanakoa. There may be a boat with the Swedish Bikini Team, and they usually have the best refreshments on board. What are some free things to do on Kauai? Kee Beach To get a camping permit, visit http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/camping/permit_napali.cfm . While the crew . And don't be fooled by the first Kalalau Lookout sign. Reservations may be made up to 30 days in advance, and no later than the day before your visit*. Within the valley itself, there are many things to see and do. The view of the valley is stunning at every point. driving distance from Poipu to North Shore, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas. Ben Stiller did make fun of himself for taking the easy route. Yes as daisies. Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License. A maximum stay of 5 nights is allowed in Npali Coast State Park. Be sure to purify your water as it most likely contains leptospirosis, a bacteria from urine. Use good judgment regarding current ocean conditions and your own abilities. for (i=1; i<=star_img; i++) { Facilities include a composting toilet and two roofed shelters. Some pre-planning is necessary to hike the entire trail. Anini Beach. Contact the Department of State Parks, (808) 587-0300, weekdays 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 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. Password should be at least 8 characters. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Fine"; Learn more >, ADVERTISE: There is no reef to break the waves, so this beach nearly always has high surf year round. The beach sits at the foot of Kalalau Valley which is the jewel of the Na Pali Coast. 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? At the end is a pool. UPDATED 2/22/23: Kalalau Trail has REOPENED. and our Its wide and deep. NOTE: It is illegal for anyone to provide commercial boat transportation for drop off/pick-up at Kalalau or Milolii camping areas. ny = document.getElementById(image); There is the main Kalalau trail, as well as several offshoots to waterfalls and swimming holes. [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. Portions of the trail in this section are very narrow and the dropoff on the ocean side is severe. Call ahead to make sure they have them in stock. You do not need to hike the entire trail to get a sense of what its about. If you get a late start or are a slower hiker, this may be a good option for you. (Update 9/14/15: This areawas destroyed in a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. After selecting your trip dates, you may experience a bit of sticker shock during the payment portion of the permit process. Hiking and any outdoor activity can be dangerous and has many potential hazards. Because the beach lacks a protective offshore reef to block incoming waves, high surf is common, especially during the winter months. The other is the Big Pool, which isnt exactly that big, but still provides enough room for swimming around and diving in. The shelters are within a complex of old agricultural terraces where Hawaiians once planted taro. else Nearby there is a waterfall, that can be used to rinse off or bathe in. 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. if (field.value.length > maxlimit) We're not around right now. It is protected from the deeper ocean by one one of the longest reefs in Kauai. Today the land is under the protection of the state of Hawaii and all forms of tourism in the area are carefully monitored. 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. 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. What off the beaten path activities can I do? There are two inexpensive campsites near the trailhead, Haena Beach Park (closed Monday nights) and Hanalei Beach Park (open Friday and Saturday only). 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. A few people have made Kalalau Valley their permanent home, even though it is not legal. Except that theres an ocean next to you. Join our newsletter for exclusive features, tips, giveaways! { But because there is no legal camping in Kalalau valley, people usually say they camped "at" Kalalau beach to make the distinction. I tried hinting to Jenelyn and Reanne that it might not be safe to climb it but to no avail. Hawaii strictly regulates food items that enter the state and you must declare all food products on a declaration form on the flight. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/star.gif"; Aside from environmental concerns, you will face a court date and heavy fines if you get caught. We hope you will make the effort to explore Kalalau valley. High surf pounds the shore creating extremely turbulent waters. Camping fees for Npali Coast are $25 per person per night (Hawaii residents), $35 per person per night (non-residents). Many of the months during the year, beach landings there would be dangerous due to rough surf . The trailhead is located in Hena State Park at the northwest end of Khi Highway (Route 56). ), (Update 9/14/15: This rock was pushed into the oceanin a massive landslide during the winter of 2014-2015. 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. All About The Bahamas' Swimming Pigs - Nassau Paradise Island This was my favorite part of the trip. Tradewind showers are more frequent during the night and early morning. 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.). Kayaking from a boat tour to Kalalau Beach - Kauai Forum DROWNINGS OCCUR HERE REGULARLY! selectedVal = '3'; Lumahai Beach The area upon which the Like so many beaches on the North Shore of Kauai safety is a big issue for Ke'e Beach. var el = document.getElementById('sf'); Kalalau Beach Pics & Info, Kauai, HI (43 Photos) | UnrealHawaii.com Camp fires seem to be allowed (nearly every site has a pit) and there are pit toilets to use in two locations. Kalalau beach is about 1 mile long with plenty of trails heading back to the valley. We were pretty flippin excited to be the only people there! *Camping permits for Npali Coast SWP often sell-out quickly, particularly during the summer months. If you're staying in Nassau Paradise Island, set aside a full day to visit the swimming pigs. There are even several community gardens throughout the valley, giving the people sustenance without a reliance on the outside world. 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). Then you've still got to swim into the beach, and avoid getting smashed by the rollers. Start early as it gets warm and the trail is challenging enough without afternoon sun the entire time. Those who make the journey are rewarded by blissful solitude. You will find this beach after a 11 mile hike along the Kalalau Trail on the Napali Coast. Doing this is dangerous so, maybe dont attempt this if you ever find yourself in front of this rock. Gardens-As stated earlier, there are several gardens in the valley that are a source of food for those staying there. Its really an expert swimmer only beach. info@MakanaCharters.com These illegal residents and some overnight campers can sometimes leave mounds of trash behind in this otherwise beautiful and isolated area. Apply for your permit about 6-12 months in advance. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=selectedText; Should I split my stay between 2 locations on Kauai? Your feet will be sore, but beachside camping with ample space makes it worth the extra walking. Book a full-day excursion with Harbour Safaris or Exuma Escapes. The Best Family Friendly Things To Do in LasVegas, Where To Spend Nine Perfect Days in Croatia, New Zealands South Island Is Pure Magic: 6 Natural Wonders You Need ToSee, How To Experience The Rich Black History of Montgomery, Alabama, 11 Things To See, Do, and Eat in Bratislava, Slovakia, How To Experience Undeveloped Beaches and Fresh Seafood In Panama CityBeach, How To Explore Savannah Through the City's New Electric, Open-Roof Cruisers, From Sparkles To Champagne Elevator Rides: What You Need To Know Before Visiting the Eiffel Tower, 10 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting Angkor Wat, Winter Is Actually a Great Time To Visit Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Download the for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { Plan your trip accordingly. It is a minimum 3-day round-trip journey for most people to hike all the way to Kalalau and back, which means that you have to be well outfitted and prepared for the journey. There are no facilities on the beach, except for composting toilets. Swim to Honopu Beach from Kalalau Beach - Get Lost Plan your trip accordingly. 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. Both green sea turtles and monk seals haul out on the beaches during the day to rest and warm themselves in the sun. She told me that when the ship got to Kalalau it slowed down and did a U-turn. That means rogue waves can crash onto the beach at any moment. This boulder is now underwatwer.). Its rated a 9/10 for technical difficulty, and has many shear drop offs, narrow ledges, and never ending climbs and descents. How Long To Hike Kalalau Trail In Kauai, Hawaii The Grom Life Hanakoa Campground to Hanakoa FallsThis campground is a quick extra mile located at the halfway point of the main trail up a valley that ends at a waterfall. This stretch of sand extends well over a mile down the coast, with a number of caves along the way to explore. The trail traverses five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted cliffs. if(el.style.display == 'inline'){ Shaded campsites are available beneath the trees behind the beach. Those with Npali Coast SWP Camping Permits do not need to make a Hena SP park entry reservation. The poorly marked 1/2-mile trail up the east fork of the stream to Hanakoa falls has hazardous, eroded sections but affords a spectacular view of the falls. The trail begins right after Ke'e Beach and has extreme inclines and declines and narrow footpaths, especially between the dreaded 6.5 to 8 miles (10.5 to 12.9 km) into it. Which, in consideration, is less than you would be paying for a beach-side hotel room. jebett, this isn't Hanakapae Beach the OP is talking about. The facilities at the beach include restrooms and showers. Shipwrecks Beach, Kekaha Beach From Kalalau Beach, you can swim around the corner to Honop Beach, which is even more spectacular than Kalalau. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; See Polipoli site for updates. This is the final post in a 5-part series on Kalalau. 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 If you are lucky enough to witness this, they are not in distress, and should not be approached or bothered. They told us about how amazing Honopu Beach was. You can also get to this beach via boat, which is fairly commonly done via Kayaks (with a permit). Never swim in murky water and never swim in river mouths. Side note, if you are not a member you can still eat at their outdoor walk-up food counter and it is probably the cheapest meal on the island. If possible, I would recommend making the trek all the way to the beach to camp. We planned our trip in advance and it was very beneficial. Walk up the short hill. The last thing you'll want when going on a . The trail takes hikers up, over and down the cathedral cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. } Hanalei Pavilion document.getElementById('rat').value="1"; There are also wild goats, pigs, deer, fish, lobster, and shellfish for people to eat as local as it gets. Since there are no lifeguards here and drownings have happened in the past, it is recommended to avoid swimming at Kalalau. Expect delays in reaching the upper areas of the park, including Awaawapuhi Trail, Kalalau Lookout, and Pihea Lookout and Trailhead. For experienced hikers in excellent shape, allow for a long day (8+ hours) to complete the round trip from Hena State Park to Hanakoa. } else { After selecting the date and time of your visit, youll be able to select the number of entry or parking vouchers required. Camping fees for Npali Coast are $25 per person per night (Hawaii residents), $35 per person per night (non-residents). Kiahuna Beach Kalalau Campground, Npali Coast, HI: 7 Hipcamper Reviews And 13 Photos Feral goats have been seen roaming the beach and valley, and contribute to the leptospirosis in the streams and waterfall. Because the beach lacks a protective offshore reef to block incoming waves, high surf is common, especially during the winter months. DISCLAIMER: UnrealHawaii.com is an independent resource for Hawaii focused content. else if(i=='2'){ These campsites are run by the County of Kauai and operate on a different reservation system. The park will REOPEN by 3:00 PM on Friday 3/3/23. Theres no longer sand to walk on here. NOTE: A valid camping permit is required for anyone hiking beyond Hanakapiai Valley. We were unaware of sharks and pretty much all the dangerous obstacles. View of the ocean from the Kalalau Trail. Hawaii Beach Guide | Hawaii.com Pack your backpacking stove, however, stove fuel is not permitted on any airplane and will need to be purchased on the island. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; Checking gear ahead of time could eliminate a real hassle on the trail and is worth the effort.<. el.style.display = 'inline'; The hike to the beach is two miles and takes 2 hours. The trail that leads to this beach is considered the most difficult trails on the islands. We were advised by a local that staying in the shallows where your feet can touch is a good precaution. Empty, untouched beach On your mark, get set, go Tucked a few hundred yards down the coast is one of the more inaccessible beaches in Hawaii, known as Honopu beach. Nonetheless, you'll find beach areas with calm waters to swim and even snorkel without any issues. To prevent overpopulation, the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) allows hunting on weekends in August and September. http://www.kauaiexplorer.com/hiking_kauai/kalalau_hike.php. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. So, I was wondering from someone who has perhaps done it recently, what the experience was like? It is difficult, strenuous , and IMO, dangerous unless in good physical shape. else selectedVal = '1';