Must-Do Kauai Hikes
From easy strolls to epic backcountry adventures
Written by a Local Expert
Kalani Miller| Trail Name | Region | Distance (RT) | Difficulty | Highlights/Payoff |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail | South | 4 miles | Easy | Stunning coastal views, lithified dunes, undeveloped coastline |
| Kuilau Ridge Trail | East | 3.6 miles | Easy | Lush jungle setting, views of the Makaleha Mountains |
| Canyon Trail to Waipo'o Falls | West | 3.4 miles | Moderate | Amazing Waimea Canyon views, ends at the top of an 800-ft waterfall |
| Sleeping Giant (Nounou) Trail | East | 3.4 miles | Moderate | A steady climb to a 360-degree panoramic view of the East Side |
| Hanakāpīʻai Falls Trail | North | 8 miles | Difficult | A challenging trek into the Nāpali Coast to a amazing 300-ft waterfall |
| Awaʻawapuhi Trail | West | 6.2 miles | Difficult | A steep descent to a narrow ridge with jaw-dropping Nāpali Coast views |
Easy Trails
Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail
This beautiful coastal trail gives you a glimpse of what the South Shore looked like before development. The 4-mile round trip takes you along sandstone cliffs, past secluded coves, and through sacred cultural sites. You'll pass the Makawehi and Pa'a Dunes, and end at the remote and beautiful Maha'ulepu Beach.
Trailhead: Shipwreck Beach (next to Grand Hyatt Kauai)
Kuilau Ridge Trail
A peaceful 3.6-mile round trip through lush jungle with rewarding views of the Makaleha Mountains. The trail is well-maintained and offers a quintessential Kauai rainforest experience without being overly strenuous.
Trailhead: Kuamoʻo Road (near Keahua Arboretum)
Moderate Trails
Canyon Trail to Waipo'o Falls
One of the most popular hikes in Waimea Canyon, this 3.4-mile round trip takes you along the canyon rim with spectacular views. The trail ends at the top of the 800-foot Waipo'o Falls, where you can see the water plunge into the canyon below.
Trailhead: Between mile markers 14 and 15 on Waimea Canyon Drive
Sleeping Giant (Nounou) Trail
A steady 3.4-mile climb up the mountain that resembles a sleeping giant when viewed from the highway. The summit offers 360-degree panoramic views of the East Side, from the coast to the mountains. There are three access points; the Eastside trail is the most popular.
Trailhead: Off Haleilio Road in Wailua
Difficult Trails
Hanakāpīʻai Falls Trail
This challenging 8-mile round trip takes you into the heart of the Nāpali Coast. The first 2 miles to Hanakāpīʻai Beach are steep and exposed. From there, it's another 2 miles inland along a stream to reach the stunning 300-foot waterfall. The trail can be muddy and slippery, requiring good fitness and preparation.
Trailhead: Keʻe Beach (requires Hāʻena State Park reservation)
⚠️ Important: Never swim at Hanakāpīʻai Beach. The currents are extremely dangerous and have resulted in many drownings. The beach is for viewing only.
Awaʻawapuhi Trail
For seasoned hikers only, this tough 6.2-mile round trip descends 1,600 feet to a narrow ridge with some of the most vertigo-inducing views of the Nāpali Coast you will ever see. The trail is steep and the climb back up is strenuous. But the views are absolutely worth it.
Trailhead: Between mile markers 17 and 18 on Highway 550 in Kōkeʻe State Park
⚠️ Hiking Safety
- Bring plenty of water (1L per 2 miles)
- Wear proper hiking shoes
- Check weather before you go
- Tell someone your plans
- Start early to avoid heat
🎒 Hiking Essentials
- Water (lots of it!)
- Snacks/energy bars
- Sunscreen & hat
- First aid kit
- Rain jacket