Ha'ena State Park & Napali Coast Access

Your complete guide to accessing Kauai's most sacred and stunning destination

Written by a Local Expert

The Ultimate Experience: Ha'ena State Park & Napali Coast Access

At the very end of the road on the North Shore lies a place so sacred and stunning it feels like the beginning of the world: Ha'ena State Park. This is the gateway to the legendary Napali Coast. Home to the crystal-clear lagoon of Ke'e Beach and the trailhead of the Kalalau Trail.

In the past, this jewel was being loved to death by overwhelming crowds. Today, through a community-led effort, a reservation system is in place. Not to keep people out, but to welcome them in a way that protects this fragile cultural and natural landscape for generations to come. Planning ahead is no longer optional. It's essential. It's your first act of malama 'aina (caring for the land).

The reservation system is a partnership between the State of Hawaii and local community groups like the Waipa Foundation and Hui Maka'ainana o Makana. By using the shuttle or making a reservation, you are directly contributing to the preservation of ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites. You're also reducing traffic on the narrow country road by over 50,000 cars a year. Think of it not as a fee, but as a contribution to the protection of this sacred place.

Making the Reservation System Work: Step-by-Step

I've set my alarm for this more times than I can count to help visiting friends and family. It can be stressful if you're not prepared. But with the right strategy, it's completely manageable. Here's how to do it without the headache.

When to Book: Reservations become available exactly 30 days in advance, starting at 12:01 AM Hawaii Standard Time. Be sure to check your time zone! Parking passes, in particular, often sell out within minutes.

Where to Book: The one and only official site is www.gohaena.com. Do not use third-party sites, which are often outdated or fake.

What to Book: You have three options. The best choice depends on your plans and how early you book.

🚐 Shuttle + Entry

$40/adult

$25/child (4-15)

RECOMMENDED: Most reliable and stress-free. Far more availability than parking. Includes park entry. Park-and-ride at Waipa, just past Hanalei.

🚗 Parking + Entry

$10/vehicle

+ $5/person entry

Sells out almost instantly. Be online at exactly 12:01 AM HST, 30 days out. Have multiple people try on different devices. Can book multiple time slots to stay all day.

🚶 Entry Only

$5/person

Walk-in or bike-in

For guests of Hawaii residents or those being dropped off. Do NOT book thinking you can park on the highway. Parking is strictly banned and heavily enforced.

Your Perfect Day in Ha'ena

Once you have your reservation, a day of unmatched beauty awaits. The parking lot and shuttle drop-off are a short third-of-a-mile walk from the main attractions.

Ke'e Beach

This is the stunning beach at the end of the road. A protective reef creates a calm, turquoise lagoon that is perfect for snorkeling during the summer months. You can expect to see a vibrant array of reef fish like parrotfish and yellow tangs. You might even be lucky enough to spot a resting green sea turtle.

Safety Note: While the lagoon is generally safe in the summer, be aware of the channel in the reef. Water flowing over the reef funnels back out through this channel. It can create a surprisingly strong current even on calm days. Always check with the on-duty lifeguard about conditions before you get in. In winter, the beach is often closed to swimming due to high surf.

The First Two Miles: Hiking to Hanakapiai Beach (4 miles round trip)

Your park entry reservation includes access to the first two miles of the world-famous Kalalau Trail, leading to Hanakapiai Beach. The trail is rugged, often muddy and slippery, with steep ascents and descents over rocks and roots. The views of the Napali Coast from the trail are breathtaking. After two miles, you'll descend into Hanakapiai Valley and must cross a stream to reach the beach.

CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: DO NOT SWIM AT HANAKAPIAI BEACH. I cannot say this forcefully enough. The beach has no protective reef and is notorious for powerful, unpredictable rip currents that have tragically claimed many lives. Admire the stunning beauty from the sand, but do not enter the water.

The Worthy Detour: Hanakapiai Falls (8 miles round trip)

For experienced and fit hikers, an unmaintained trail leads another two miles inland from the beach to the spectacular 300-foot Hanakapiai Falls. This part of the hike is more strenuous, involving multiple stream crossings and scrambling over boulders. The reward is a swim in the chilly, refreshing pool at the base of the waterfall (watch for falling rocks).

Flash Flood Warning: This valley is highly susceptible to flash floods. If it's raining heavily or the stream water is murky and rising, do not attempt the hike to the falls and do not cross the stream. Water levels can rise dangerously fast. Always pack sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, snacks, and bug spray.

For the Intrepid: A Note on the Full Kalalau Trail

To hike beyond Hanakapiai Valley to Kalalau Beach (11 miles one way), you must have a separate overnight camping permit from Napali Coast State Wilderness Park. These are extremely competitive and become available online 90 days in advance. This is a world-class, strenuous backpacking trip for experienced and well-prepared hikers only.