Na Pali Coast State Park

Kauai Attraction Guide

Na Pali Coast State Park

Na Pali Coast State Park protects Kauai's remote sea cliffs, green valleys, waterfalls, hidden beaches and legendary Kalalau Trail.

Na Pali Coast 1
Na Pali Coast 1

Na Pali Coast State Park, Kauai

The Na Pali Coast State Park is located on the north shore of Kauai. It is a great place to “rough it” and go on an adventurous hike. The area has a dramatic, with 4,000-foot (1,219 m) cliffs, known as “pali” in Hawaiian, towering above crystal clear waters. Below, a coral reef is home to an amazing array of colorful tropical fish. If you travel between December and April, you’re likely to catch sight of the Pacific humpback whales.

This stretch of coastline is a wilderness area of 6,175 acres (25 sq. km), consisting of cliffs that define an untamed region of deep and narrow valleys that end at the sea. Waterfalls and swift streams cut through the valleys as they have for eons. Remains of the ancient Hawaiians can still be found in places.

The Na Pali Coast is inaccessible to cars, but exploring can be done by hiking, kayaking, boating and even by helicopter. The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access. It’s an eleven-mile (17.7 km) hike through five major valleys before reaching Kalalau Beach.

Na Pali Coast Daytime Access: For Day Use Access via parking or shuttle to Ha'ena State Park (including DAY hiking at the Kalalau Trail), visit gohaena.com/info-faqs

Na Pali Coast Camping: Camping permits are required to hike beyond Hanakapi'ai Valley, no matter if camping is planned or not. Camping is only allowed at Hanakoa and Kalalau with a Kalalau camping permit. Napali Coast camping permits are currently available 90 days in advance. The maximum length of stay along the Kalalau Trail is 5 consecutive nights. The rate for Hawaii residents is $25 per person per night and $35 per person per night for non-residents. Camping permits are only available online through this website: https://camping.ehawaii.gov/camping/all,details,1692.html

Limited overnight parking for campers is only available at the trailhead at Ha'ena State Park and with a valid camping permit AND an overnight parking permit. Overnight parking must be purchased at gohaena.com AFTER securing your camping permits.

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Location, Parking and Directions

Na Pali Coast State Park stretches along Kauai's remote northwest shore. The main land approach begins at Haena State Park near Ke'e Beach, where the Kalalau Trail starts. There is no road through the park, so visitors usually see it by trail, boat, kayak or helicopter.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Na Pali Coast State Park located?

Na Pali Coast State Park is located along Kauai's remote northwest shore, between the Haena area and the island's rugged west side.

Can you drive to Na Pali Coast State Park?

No. Roads do not pass through the Na Pali Coast. Visitors see the park by hiking, boat, kayak or helicopter.

What trail goes into Na Pali Coast State Park?

The Kalalau Trail provides the main land access. It starts near Ke'e Beach at Haena State Park and follows the coast toward Kalalau Beach.

Do you need a permit for Na Pali Coast State Park?

Day access through Haena may require reservations, and hiking beyond Hanakapiai requires a valid Nāpali Coast camping permit. Check current rules before you go.

What is the best way to see the Na Pali Coast?

The best option depends on your plans and conditions. Many visitors choose a boat tour, helicopter tour, seasonal kayak trip or the shorter Kalalau Trail day-hike section.