Hanakapi'ai Falls

Hanakapi'ai Falls, Kauai

Hanakapi'ai Falls is a waterfall on Kauai's Na Pali Coast. To see it requires some effort because it's an 8-mile (13 km) hike roundtrip. To get to it, you'll first have to hike to Hanakapi'ai Beach on the popular Kalalau Trail. It is 2 miles (3.2 km) to get to the beach. From here, follow the trail inland for another 2 miles (3.2 km) and you'll reach the waterfall.

The trail is quite strenuous. It goes up and down, can be slippery (especially if it has recently rained) and involves several stream crossings. That's why it is dangerous to hike this trail during rain because of flash floods. It takes about 1 to 2 hours to get to the waterfall from the beach.

The 300-foot (91 m) cascade is a beautiful sight with an inviting pool at its bottom where it plunges into. Many people enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool. If you do this, step into it slowly (no head-diving into it) and be aware of rockfall (which is always possible near waterfalls and around cliffs).

So if you plan to hike from Ke'e Beach all the way to Hanakaip'ai Falls, it can easily take an entire day, especially if you plan to rest on the way.

Key Features

Remote waterfall: Reached from the Kalalau Trail

Na Pali setting: Rugged north shore valley scenery

Long hike: About 8 miles roundtrip from Kee Beach

Reservations needed: Hāʻena access rules apply

Stream crossings: Water levels can rise quickly

Flash-flood risk: Avoid hiking during rain or warnings

Muddy trail: Slippery roots, rocks and uneven ground

Rockfall caution: Stay alert near cliffs and waterfall pools

Visitor prep: Bring water, food, shoes and rain gear

Plan Your Visit

Plan Hanakapi'ai Falls as a strenuous full-day hike, not a casual stop. Secure current Hāʻena State Park access, parking or shuttle reservations before going. Bring water, food, sturdy shoes and rain gear, avoid the trail during rain or high stream flow, and leave enough daylight for the return.

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Visitor Reviews

Reviews and Ratings

5.0

Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 1 rated visitor review.

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Michael

Thu Jul 26, 2012

It was amazing to hike to the falls. The falls are very light not coming down hard so you can swim under the falls.

Location, Parking and Directions

Hanakapi'ai Falls is reached from the Kalalau Trail, which begins near Kee Beach at the end of Highway 560 on Kauai's north shore. Hāʻena State Park access, parking or shuttle reservations are required for most visitors. The hike continues past Hanakapi'ai Beach and inland through the valley to the waterfall.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Hanakapi'ai Falls located?

Hanakapi'ai Falls is located inland from Hanakapi'ai Beach along the Kalalau Trail on Kauai's Na Pali Coast.

How long is the hike?

The hike is about 8 miles roundtrip from the Kalalau Trail trailhead near Kee Beach.

Do visitors need a reservation?

Yes. Most visitors need Hāʻena State Park entry, parking or shuttle reservations to access the trailhead and hike to the beach and waterfall valley.

Is the trail dangerous during rain?

Yes. Rain can make the trail slippery and can raise stream levels quickly. Avoid the hike during heavy rain, flash-flood warnings or unsafe stream conditions.

Can visitors swim at the waterfall pool?

Some hikers enter the pool when conditions are calm, but visitors should never dive, stand under falling water or ignore rockfall and stream-safety risks.