The Best Hikes on Kauai
Exploring Some of the Best Hikes on Kauai
Every island in Hawaii seems to do certain things really well. Maui arguably has the best beaches. Oahu has great resorts, dining, and nightlife. Then comes Kauai, which has hiking and outdoor adventures that draw people from around the globe!
The hiking scene in Kauai is one of the main attractions of the island, but often, a trip to Kauai is part of a larger Hawaii itinerary involving other islands. Because of this, some may only have a few days to explore the trails, so we pulled together a list of the best hikes to consider. If you are still having a hard time deciding from this list, don’t worry! I will share with you our one “must-see” hike!
Tips for Hiking in Kauai
- Check the weather before heading out. This is especially true if you are hiking in the rainy season between November and April. Rain on Kauai can come suddenly and roads can get flooded keeping you from reaching trailheads.
- Wear proper footwear. Crossing streams is quite common so we recommend either wearing waterproof boots or trail shoes that can drain quickly.
- Factor in the drive time to the trailheads. Kauai’s road system is not the most developed and it can take 2 hours to reach a destination that is on the opposite coast from where you are staying.
- Make sure you have proper permits to hike. Kauai has become a very popular destination over the last few years so you will want to secure any permits as soon as possible, preferably weeks in advance during the peak seasons (April through September). We will share links to places to obtain permits for any hikes that require them, so keep reading!
Hanakapiai Falls Trail
The Hanakapiai Falls hike proved to be one of our most gratifying experiences in Kauai. This 8-mile out-and-back trail meanders through dense rainforest along part of the Kalalau Trail, providing breathtaking vistas of the Na Pali Coast before culminating at the impressive 300-foot waterfall.
>>> Check out our in-depth overview of this hike!
Hanakapiai Falls Trail Info
The journey to the waterfall is physically demanding, particularly in rainy conditions. Even if you decide to not hike to the waterfall, the initial 1-2 miles (1.5-3km) of the Kalalau trail unveil striking coastal views and access to Hankapiai Beach. Additionally, the trail commences at Ke’e Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. One thing to note is you will need a permit to hike the trail and visit Ke’e Beach.
>>> Day Pass Permits!
>>> See the Official Kalalau Trail Brochure
>>> Directions to Hanakapiai Falls Trailhead
Kalalau Trail: The Epic Napali Coast Hike
Stretching approximately 11 miles one way, this coastal trail is not only a hiker’s dream but also a gateway to some of the most dramatic coastal views in Hawaii. We did not get a chance to do the full trail since we only hiked the section to Hanakapiai Beach and Hanakapiai Falls. Hiking the full length of the Kalalau Trail will be a two-day commitment since most will choose to camp at Kalalau Beach and make the 11-mile return journey the next day.
Kalalau Trail Info
>>> Camping Permits!
>>> Directions to Kalalau Trailhead
What makes this trail so special is that since the late 1800s, it has provided the only land access to the Napali Coast. There are no paved roads leading to this part of the island making it a rugged experience! Be warned, this hike is not for the faint of heart! A camping permit is also required to go beyond Hanakapiai Falls.
Awa’awapuhi Trail
This 6.2-mile out-and-back trail is located in Koke’e State Park, offering hikers a chance to see some of the island’s best panoramic views from a high vantage point. What makes this hike so special are the steep ridges, and deep green valleys, all set against the deep blue backdrop of the Pacific Ocean in the distance. The contrast is truly amazing!
The hike is best during the dry seasons, typically from April to September. In these months, the trail conditions are better, and the clear skies enhance the stunning views to the fullest.
Awa’awapuhi Trail Info
For most of the hike, you will be hiking along a well-defined and forested trail. It’s the end of the trail where the Awa’awapuhi Lookout is where the trail truly pays off! You can continue further down the ridge, but the drop-offs are very dangerous along the narrow ridge and we would not recommend it.
>>> Current Trail Info
>>> Directions to Awa’awapuhi Trailhead
Honopu Ridge Trail
The Honopu Ridge Trail is a roughly 5-mile round-trip hike that winds through lush forests, ascends steep ridges, and ultimately unveils gorgeous vistas of the Honopu Valley and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a very physically demanding and technical hike with exposure, so not one I could recommend taking kids or inexperienced hikers on. The trail runs parallel to the Awa’awapuhi trail in Koke’e State Park. If needed, you can even park at the Kalalau lookout and backtrack a short distance to the trailhead.
One word of caution, the trail has not been officially maintained in quite some time, so it can be easy to lose the trail in the thick brush that dominates the beginning of the hike. The trail is marked by brightly colored tape, so just keep an eye out for these markings and you will be fine. Also, due to the brush, it is recommended to wear pants over shorts!
Honopu Ridge Trail Info
>>> Directions to Honopu Ridge Trail
Once you get through the brush and canopy, the ridge will descend and provide some great views of the Napali Coast ridges, but be careful as some descents can be slippery. If you keep pushing out along the ridge it will become very narrow with loose footing and steep drop-offs on both sides. We would recommend not risking it.
Waimea Canyon Waipo’o Falls Trail
Waimea Canyon is one of the most unique areas of Kauai. The area is dubbed “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, and its red canyon walls with a spattering of lush green overgrowth give this part of Kauai a unique vibe that contrasts with the Napali Coast just a few miles away. In fact, the geological features and colors of Waimea Canyon give off strong vibes of Zion National Park.
Waipo’o Falls Trail Info
>>> Directions to Waipo’o Falls Trail
The Waipo’o Falls Trail is a 3.5-mile in-and-out hike that provides some great lookout views of Waimea Canyon before arriving at the top of Waipo’o Falls. You will begin at the Waimea Canyon trailhead where there is trailhead parking. Most of the trail will have you going through thick wooded areas, providing some nice shade if hiking in the middle of the day. About a half-mile into the hike there will be a side trail that diverts to a lookout of the Canyon. It’s a great spot, and if you are short on time, you could choose to hike here, and it would still be a rewarding hike.
Back on the main trail, it’s another half-mile trek until reaching a clearing with plenty of views of the Canyons below. From here, it’s a short hike to the top of Waipo’o Falls. There is also a short detour to a small waterfall that you can hit on your way to Waipo’o Falls, or on your way back. Be careful, as the rocks can be slippery, but it’s a great place to splash some water on yourself to cool off if you need it!
One thing about the Waipo’o Falls trail is the name of the trail can be deceiving since you will not see the falls. This is because you will be on top of them looking down into the canyon. Overall, I would rate this as a moderately difficult trail and easily one of the best hikes on Kauai!
Sleeping Giant Trail
The Nounou Mountain trail resembles a sleeping giant lying on its back, hence its name. This is not a hike we took on as we chose to bike down the Kapaa Path after a long day on the Kalalau Trail the day before. However, it is worth recommending in our opinion since it can be a great hike if you are staying on the east side of the island. There are multiple trails on Nounou Mountain and I think Jackson Groves at Journeyera.com has a great overview of this hike from his own experience. I would recommend checking his overview of the trail out!
Sleeping Giant Trail Info
>>> Directions to Sleeping Giant West Trailhead
>>> Directions to Sleeping Giant East Trailhead
Frequently Asked Questions
I Won’t Be In Kauai Long. What’s The One Hike I Must Do?
You will not regret doing anything along the Kalalau Trail. First, Ke’e Beach, where the trailhead is located, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii, with views looking straight down the Napali Coastline. Along the Kalalau trail, you can hike the entire 22 miles (11 miles each way) or just a couple of miles of the trail if you are short on time. Trust us, the views along the first couple of miles are amazing!
The trail to the 300-foot Hanakapia Falls is also along the Kalalau Trail if you choose to detour inland for a couple of miles. The bottom line is this trail gives you a lot of options. Just make sure you get a permit before to secure your spot.
What Is Unique About Hiking The Napali Coast (Kalalau Trail)?
The Napali Coast is seriously one of the most beautiful places we have ever seen! There are three ways to see it – By boat, air, or hiking the Kalalau Trail. Whatever you do, it is a place you must see!
What Is Unique About The Hiking Experience In Waimea Canyon?
Waimea Canyon is a very unique place within an island that is already very unique! Waimea Canyon gives us serious Zion National Park vibes if you need something to compare it to. There are lots of great hikes and viewpoints there, but make sure you check the weather before going since it can be a long drive from the east and north sides of Kauai.
What Gear And Equipment Should I Bring?
- Good trail shoes or hiking boots are a must. Something with an aggressive tread that can grip the muddy slick surfaces you will likely encounter.
- A waterproof layer. Kauai is the most green of all the Hawaiian Islands which means it rains a lot!
- A decent hiking pack if you will be hiking longer than half a day, but even a regular school backpack will work for shorter hikes.
- Reusable water containers to avoid losing a disposable water bottle in such a beautiful place.
- Ankle tape or brace. This is especially true if you will be hiking for multiple days. The uneven and slick surfaces will put your ankles to the test! Jessica, unfortunately, injured her ankle on the last mile of our hike back from Hanakapiai Falls!
- A camera!
What If It Is Raining?
If it’s heavy rain, I would recommend waiting for a better day. Most of the trails get very slick and muddy, and some have flash floods. Also, roads can wash out preventing access. Now, if it’s just a light rain or cloudy, then hiking should be fine, although the trails could still be slippery. The only hikes I would always advise to wait for a clear day on are any hikes in Waimea Canyon, the Awa’awapuhi Trail, or Honopu Ridge as the clouds can completely cover the beautiful views.
Check out our other Hawaii Guides!
Where to Stay on Kauai: A Lodging Guide
Ultimate Oahu Dolphin Swimming Guide
42 Awesome Things to Do in Kauai
Ultimate 3-Day Kauai Itinerary
12 Best Beaches on Oahu
Kauai Scuba Diving: 5 Amazing Dives
5 Best Kauai Boat Tours on the Na Pali Coast
Hanakapiai Falls Hike in Kauai
