Kauai Hiking Trails

Hoopii Falls Trail - East Side

Hoopii Falls Trail near Kapaa offers a local favorite adventure. This relatively flat 1.8-mile round-trip walk leads through beautiful forest to two separate waterfalls. The lower falls features a popular swimming hole with rope swing. Expect muddy conditions and wear appropriate footwear.

Mahaulepu Heritage Trail - South Shore

Mahaulepu Heritage Trail starts at Shipwreck Beach in Poipu. This stunning 4-mile coastal walk follows ancient hardened sand dunes, offering incredible ocean views, sea caves, and glimpses into ancient Hawaiian history. Mostly flat but exposed to sun.

Sleeping Giant (Nounou) Trail - East Side

Sleeping Giant (Nounou) Trail ranks as a Kauai classic. Steady switchbacks climb the "Sleeping Giant" mountain for 1.8 miles one-way. The summit rewards hikers with stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the entire East Side.

Canyon Trail to Waipoo Falls - West Side

Canyon Trail to Waipoo Falls provides a unique perspective. This 3-mile round-trip trail leads to the top of 800-foot Waipoo Falls, not the bottom. The hike features incredible rim-side views of Waimea Canyon and ends at a smaller waterfall and pool above the main cascade.

Hanakapiai Falls Trail - North Shore

Hanakapiai Falls Trail demands serious commitment. It begins with the first two miles of the Kalalau Trail to Hanakapiai Beach, then turns inland for a rugged, often muddy two-mile trek up the valley to the base of towering 500-foot Hanakapiai Falls. The eight-mile round-trip represents a true accomplishment.

Awaawapuhi Trail - West Side

Awaawapuhi Trail in Kokee State Park offers a "reverse" hike experience. The 6.2-mile round-trip is all downhill going out, all uphill returning. The trail ends at one of the planet's most spectacular viewpoints: a narrow ridge with sheer drops on both sides, overlooking the Napali Coast.

The Kalalau Trail

The Kalalau Trail offers the most intimate and demanding Napali experience. This world-famous 11-mile trail (one way) traverses five valleys to reach secluded Kalalau Beach.

Day hikers can tackle the first four miles round-trip to Hanakapiai Beach. Even this requires advance park entry reservations from GoHaena.com. From the beach, a strenuous four-mile side trail leads to spectacular Hanakapiai Falls.

Hiking beyond Hanakapiai requires camping permits from Hawaii State Parks. These competitive permits sell out exactly 90 days in advance, the moment they become available online.

Waimea Canyon: The Grand Canyon of the Pacific

Mark Twain called it "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific." While smaller than Arizona's version, its beauty equals any wonder on Earth. Deep red volcanic soil contrasts with emerald vegetation and sapphire skies, creating a living painting that changes with every passing cloud.

Waimea Canyon Drive (Highway 550) winds up from Waimea town, revealing progressively stunning vistas. Essential stops include Waimea Canyon Lookout, Puu Hinahina Lookout, and Kalalau Lookout at the road's end in Kokee State Park.