One of the most breath-taking areas in all of Hawaii is the Na Pali Coastline. This 6,175 acre state Park is inaccessible by vehicle and is a 15 mile stretch of exquisite beauty and tropical splendor. The 3,000 foot cliffs or Pali found along the shoreline of this part of the north shore contain pristine, golden-sand beaches, dense tropical valleys and interesting sea caves hidden in the cliff walls.
Found at the end of the north shore Hwy 560 at Ke’e Beach, there is a rugged 11 mile Kalalau trail that leads off into the Na Pali area that can be hiked. At Ke’e Beach you can also find good snorkeling and a pleasant sand beach. While the waters here are often calm in summer, the waters can be treacherous in the winter months. If you swim in this area, be sure to stay inside the reef as the area is known for strong rip tide currents and high surf.
One of the most photographed areas of Hawaii, portions of the Na Pali coast have been used in many movies. To name just a few: the 1976 King Kong version, the 60’s classic, South Pacific, the Thorn Birds and the 1998 movie, 6 Days and & Nights. Gorgeous and bountiful waterfalls are plentiful in the area. An ancient fishing village, Nu’alolo, is located in this area as is Honopu Valley, a 90 foot natural arch. The trail is rigorous and often steep so it is definitely geared for veteran hikers.
Views of Ni’ihau Island, known as the “forbidden island” are visible from much of the Na Pali coast. This tiny island, located 17 miles off the Kauai coast is home to a small community of 150 native Hawaiians and one of the largest colonies of monk seals in the Hawaiian Islands. Famous for its isolation and fine shell jewelry made by the native Hawaiians, the tiny community can only be accessed by Helicopter tour from Kauai.
Helicopter as well as many boat tours are available that take visitors along the beautiful coastal areas of Na Pali. Boats tours offer snorkeling or just sightseeing leave from both the westside harbor or the north shore harbor. Prices vary depending on the amenities, tour length and activities offered so be sure to check around to find just the tour that suits your needs. A tour along the picture postcard Na Pali coastline is a “not-to-be-missed” activity and should definitely be on the list of every visitor to Kauai.
