Your email address will not be published. MAP: Trails Illustrated PERMITS: Prior arrangements are required for all hikes on the Kalalau Trail, including day hikes and camping.The permit system can initially be confusing, so I’ll walk you through it in the permits section. It was spectacular. Leaving vehicles overnight at the trailhead is not recommended. Camping gear should include a lightweight sleeping bag or blanket, sleeping pad, tent with rainfly, cooking stove and fuel, water purification tablets or filter, first aid kit, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, rain gear, and biodegradable soap. You stop at the kiosk in the airport and pick up a the official Hawaii Visitor "THE RULES DO NOT APPLY TO ME" t-shirt.. Answer 1 of 23: Can i hike the whole trail without permit on my own risk? The Kalalau Trail (Kalalau Trail Description) provides the only land access to this part of the rugged coast. How to Determine if the Kalalau Trail is Open or Closed. Book your permits HERE. all permits require a fee – there is no free camping in hawaii state parks or forest reserves. Offices are open Monday-Friday, 8 am-3:30 pm Hawaii time (closed on State Holidays). If you still really want to do the hike, refer to all the text above option 3. Ever since the camping permits switched to all online, all the time, I'm not sure how to get a day permit. Nāpali Coast SWP & Kalalau Trail overnight campers must arrive by shuttle or drop-off. Kalalau Trail, Kauai: Hours, Address, Kalalau Trail Reviews: 5/5. Maybe they had a problem with day-permit holders trying to go further, getting caught in the dark, and either a) getting stranded without shelter for the night, or b) just happening to have a tent and supplies in their pack. Experiencing the Kalalau Trail with kids: Most likely, you’re not prepared to make a multi-day adventure out of the Kalalau with kids in tow, but parents can certainly carve out a day of a Kauai beach vacation to see some of the trail. Please do not enlist the services of illegal operators. Overnight parking is not allowed at Hāʻena SP. However, Camping Permits for Kalalau Valley also allow for camping at Hanakoa Valley, which is located roughly 6-miles from the trailhead at Hā‘ena State Park. Hanakoa and Kalalau, are the only two authorized areas for camping along the Kalalau trail. Follow in the footsteps of ancient Hawaiians. In-order to access the Nāpali Coast SWP as well as the Kalalau Trail, visitors have to go through Hāʻena SP. It's such a gorgeous hike, but very treacherous. There’s a great place to stop for lunch around mile six near Hanakoa Campsite. The names of the people cited are not immediately available. Existing Nāpali Coast SWP Camping Permits (Kalalau Trail):  For those who have existing permits issued for the Kalalau Trail, the Division of State Parks will offer you the option of either: 1. You are not allowed to hike to Kalalau Beach or camp on the trail without a permit, so this is essential. Currently the Kalalau Trail is open to Hanakāpīʻai Stream, the first two-miles of the trail and an additional two-miles to Hanakāpīʻai Falls. The first 2 miles of the trail, from Hāʻena State Park to Hanakapi’ai Beach, make a popular day hike. The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access to the Napali Coast on Kauai. The Kalalau Trail on the Island of Kauai is one of the most well-known trails in the entire state. For parking, you can do so up to 30 days in advance by visiting the park website. Many people hike the 11 miles to Kalalau Beach (permit required), camp, and then hike back the next day for a total of 22 miles roundtrip. American Express Platinum Card Benefits Ranked from Best to Worst 03/01/2019. Camping permits often sell out well in advance, particularly during the summer months. The maximum length of stay is 5 consecutive nights along the Kalalau Trail (no 2 consecutive nights may be spent at Hanakoa Valley). All camping areas are located on shaded terraces near streams. Retaining your current reservation, or 2. ... Day hiking is allowed without a permit up to Hanakapi’ai valley (2 miles in from trailhead). Parking permits are high in demand and have been sold-out nearly immediately of being posted online. Choose another day. Here's what you do. Haena Beach Park is the closest public parking to Haena State Park, and it is exactly 1.25 miles from the Kalalau Trailhead. A similar foot trail linked earlier Hawaiian settlements along the coastline. No overnight parking is allowed at Hāʻena SP. The authorized camping areas along the trail do not have tables or drinking water. From here, the Kalalau Trail hugs the Na Pali Coast—a massive windswept coastline overlooking primeval emerald green valleys with towering cliffs that plunge nearly 4,000 feet to the sapphire pacific below. It is considered to be one of the most difficult hikes in the US. PARK UPDATES: - 1/25/21 - [OAHU] - Kaena Point State Park Vehicle Access Gate on the Mokuleia side (north shore) is CLOSED. Little Beach is CLOSED until further notice. Though I’ve often heard that getting permits for Kalalau can be difficult, I booked my January trip the previous August without much difficulty at all, I purchased my permits for $20/person per day without knowing if I would have anyone join me and filled out the second person as “TBD Companion.” Upon entry to Haena SP, simply show staff your valid camping permit. The Kalalau Trail and much of the Na Pali Coast reside within the Na Pali Coast State Park. Permits used to be available 1-year in advance but currently they are issuing permits 90-days out. PLEASE NOTE: Camping permits for Nāpali Coast SWP are extremely popular. Hike to Hanakoa or Kalalau and back in one day? Rule no. The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access to the Napali Coast on Kauai. Camping permits for the Nāpali Coast SWP (Kalalau Trail) are currently available up to two weeks in advance. Each bend seemed to give us a new and even prettier view of the famous tooth-like ridges of the Nāpali Coast. Here’s a quick guide to make it easier to understand: For any of the questions above, the answer is no, you don’t need a permit, but you do need to make a reservation. When open, the Kalalau section requires an overnight permit from the DLNR Division of State Parks. A dramatic mountain spire rises behind Space Rock on the other side of the trail. The trail to Hanakapi’ai falls and beyond Hanakapi’ai is recommended for experienced hikers only. Permits for camping along the Kalalau Trail are issued for Kalalau (beach) only, however, permits for Kalalau are also valid for camping at Hanakoa, located a little beyond the halfway point of the trail, approximately 6 miles from the trailhead at Ke’e Beach. Existing Nāpali Coast SWP Camping Permits (Kalalau Trail): For those who have existing permits issued for the Kalalau Trail, the Division of State Parks will offer you the option of either: 1. Thanks to new parking restrictions, actually starting the Kalalau Trail will require much more effort than before. ... the DLNR requires any hikers planning to travel beyond Hanakapiai Falls or Hanakapiai Stream to obtain a state permit. Anyone proceeding beyond Hanakapi’ai valley must possess a valid overnight camping permit. Follow in the footsteps of ancient Hawaiians. Wild goats are often seen along the trail route. Our goal is to ensure that permits are not sold during periods when Hāʻena SP and Nāpali Coast SWP will be inaccessible due to road closures. Hikers are encouraged to stopover and camp at Hanakoa if they possess a valid permit for Kalalau and they feel the need to break up their trek due to such factors as fatigue, inclement weather, or impending darkness. Plan accordingly. For most backpackers in good condition, hiking the 11 miles will take a full day. No trails connect to Kalalau. Kalalau | Hiking the Kalalau Trail | HD with Drone Footage, First 2-miles of the Kalalau Trail to reopen with requirements. The Kalalau Trail (Kalalau Trail Description) provides the only land access to this part of the rugged coast. Restroom services are limited to portable toilets due to a recent water main break. Does each person need to purchase a camping permit or can one person purchase a camping permit for the entire party? Camping Permits will be made available at the discretion of the Division of State Parks for periods when there is anticipated to be no concerns accessing the parks. For permit holders, the Na Pali Coast hike along the Kalalau Trail continues for another nine miles. The Kalalau Trail starts in the Hāʻena State Park. Permits are issued by the State of Hawaii – Department of Land and Natural Resources. Kalalau Trail & Haʻena State Park Access. Space Rock Kauai Photos. Our hiking permit, which is required to hike beyond Hanakoa Valley (6 miles into the trail), was only valid for three days. He even checked permits for a few hikers on their return trip. Purchase a camping permit online or in person at any State Parks district office. We checked back several times that day to see if the trail had opened, and made many phone calls to the state park office about options for getting refunds on our permit, and eventually ended up camping at a county park nearby (without a permit because we didn’t know we’d be staying there… and you can’t get a permit in person… and the park was officially “closed” on Mondays). 3. Anyone proceeding beyond Hanakapi’ai valley must possess a valid overnight camping permit. Revising your dates of stay if they are for dates after the reopening. It can be a little more confusing since the new reservation system started. From here, the Kalalau Trail hugs the Na Pali Coast—a massive windswept coastline overlooking primeval emerald green valleys with towering cliffs that plunge nearly 4,000 feet to the sapphire pacific below. Make sure to check all of the entrance options before committing to sneaking in. We ask that you please be patient as we all work to recover from the impacts of the April 2018 floods. I'm afraid that trail and beach will have to wait until next time. Comments. How To Get Parking Reservations For Hā’ena State Park Day-Use Visitors. The Keawaula gate (west side) is CLOSED but the park is OPEN. Covid-19 Protocols: Please wear a mask, maintain social distancing, and be respectful of others. At 22 miles long round-trip, this trail is definitely no joke. The trail traverses five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted cliffs. Reservations are $5 per car or $1 per person if you show up via shuttle, bike, taxi, uber, etc. Kalalau Trail is an 11-mile long trail along the Nā Pali Coast of Kawaii island in Hawaii. JohnandJean: I think you meant Hanakoa (the valley at 6 miles), not Honopu. 1/5/21 - [MAUI] - Puu Olai a.k.a. Likewise, commercial guided-camping trips (boat and hiking) are also illegal. PLEASE VIEW OUR KALALAU TRAIL SAFETY VIDEO HERE. Aloha, State Parks. Answer 1 of 23: Can i hike the whole trail without permit on my own risk? All rights reserved. Your Kalalau Trail hiking permit will get you into the park. Infrequent widespread storms cause flash floods. The trail traverses five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted cliffs. ... FYI you need a permit to do this so plan ahead and get online and get one. United States - Kalalau Trail - Let's get Serious - OK, ... That being said, I did a day hike to Hanakoa & out in 1 day last year without permit and as usual, did not see any ranger on the trail. If you have a permit, cross the river and find the continuation of the Kalalau Trail along the cliff on the opposite end of the Hanakapi’ai Valley. Permits are issued by the State of Hawaii – Department of Land and Natural Resources. For more information about how to obtain permits, see the Permit Information section below. Many people hike the 11 miles to Kalalau Beach (permit required), camp, and then hike back the next day for a total of 22 miles roundtrip. Those without camping permits for Kalalau Valley are therefore prohibited from attempting the entire 22-mile round trip hike in a day. Explore Kalalau — without going there By Jessica Else The Garden Island. This 11 mile stretch of coast is the original trail used by the Hawaiians who lived in Kalalau Valley and other valleys along the Napali. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Permits cost $20 per person per night (as of October 2017) for non-residents and can be reserved online at the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources website . Can you take someone elses unused permit? There are no permits saved for last minute pickup. You have to be completely self reliant while you're here since there is only one way in and one way out. For those that don’t have days to spend hiking the Kalalau Trail, there is another option! To enter the park and to hike the trail, you require a permit. Before making any other plans, secure permits for camping while on the Kalalau Trail. A valid Nāpali Coast SWP camping permit grants access to Hāʻena SP. Answer: Locals can visit Hā’ena State Park for free without a reservation. Parking permits are high in demand and have been sold-out nearly immediately of being posted online. Summer weather (May to October) normally brings steady tradewinds and occasional showers while winter weather (October to May) is less predictable. So if you were thinking about trying to sneak in without a permit, think again! In spite of the efforts of the state of Hawaiʻi, many people camp at Kalalau Beach without permits. This 11 mile stretch of coast is the original trail used by the Hawaiians who lived in Kalalau Valley and other valleys along the Napali. Those with permits to camp overnight at the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park/Kalalau Trail beyond Hanakapiai … Permits for the Kalalau Trail cost $20/person per night and can be obtained up to 90 days in advance of hiking. For more information about how to obtain permits, see the Permit Information section below. Those with permits to camp overnight at the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park/Kalalau Trail beyond Hanakapiai … (Photo by Darren Murph/The Points Guy) The news is quite welcome for fans of Kauai, but needed to wait for the reopening of a two-mile stretch of the island’s Kuhio Highway that had been closed to nonlocal traffic from April 2018 through June 17, 2019. Therefore, the only way to legally hike the trail in its entirety is to do so with a permit, and they can be difficult to obtain. Those with Nāpali Coast SWP Camping Permits do not need to make a Hāʻena SP park entry reservation. A physically fit and experienced hiker can do the hike to Kalalau in a day, but most people need two days and camp at Hanakoa (for which a permit is required). Hanakoa is roughly 6 miles from the trailhead. Permits for camping along the Kalalau Trail are issued for Kalalau (beach) only, however, permits for Kalalau are also valid for camping at Hanakoa, located a little beyond the halfway point of the trail, approximately 6 miles from the trailhead at Ke’e Beach. If you want to play it safe, book your Kalalau Trail permit far in advance (like 6 months in advance if you’re hiking during peak time, i.e. Commercially guided camping trips are not authorized. The hike may have been short, but what it lacked in length it made up for in scenery. These are the options that you have to hike the Kalalau Trail without a permit. (8-miles round trip). If someone returns their permits, they will re-appear online. Kalalau Trail Guide – Quick Facts. The trail begins in Ha’ena State Park at the northwest end of Kūhiō Highway (Route 56) about 41 miles (a 1 1/2-hour drive) from Lihu’e Airport. 12/16/20 - [OAHU] - Diamond Head State Monument is now OPEN! The Kalalau Trail starts in the Hāʻena State Park. The Kalalau trail may be day-hiked as part of regular park entry as far as Hanakapi’ai Beach and Waterfall. To make sure you are prepared, we have created a Kalalau Trail Packing list that covers all of the essentials, along with what to wear to the Kalalau Trail. His love for the Kalalau Trail was sparked about 10 years ago, through hiking trips there with a group of Boy Scout dads whose kids were all grown. Once they are sold out, they are sold out. With the ongoing construction and expected closures to Kūhiō Highway the Division of State Parks and the public have to be flexible and patient with the management of overnight camping permits for the Nāpali Coast SWP. After nearly 14 months, Kauai’s Kalalau Trail, Hāʻena State Park and the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park have reopened to visitors. (Get a permit here.) The permit gives you permission to camp as well. The 11-mile trail is graded but almost never level as it crosses above towering sea cliffs and through lush valleys. The hike may have been short, but what it lacked in length it made up for in scenery. what could be worse case scenario,and what chance an authorities to check for permits, because to get permit -big hassle … If this happens to you, you aren’t totally out of luck. The trail begins at Ke'e Beach and leads all the way to Kalalau Valley. Nāpali Coast SWP camping permits are available at. Camping permits for the Kalalau Trail are only issued for Kalalau Valley however the permits allow for 1-night camping (each way) at Hanakoa. The cliff-lined Kalalau Beach illegally all the text above option 3 of the April 2018 floods on... Boat along the Stream, refill your water, and be respectful of.... It all depends on what you want to be one of the island of Kauai is one the... With Drone Footage, first 2-miles of the famous tooth-like ridges of the most difficult in... In Hawaii what not to bring and other answers to FAQs about the information!, this Trail without a permit meant Hanakoa ( the valley at 6 miles ), hike to Kalalau controlled. And early morning in scenery is primarily designed to provide general may be day-hiked as part of the island where... Effort than before walk to the Napali Coast on Kauai Park to Hanakapi ’ valley! Registration form for the Kalalau Trail, from Hāʻena State Park Day-Use Visitors you see advertisement! To two weeks in advance, particularly during the kalalau trail without permit months ),... Could have done without the last couple of delirious, mumble filled hours overnight. Drop below 60°F is closed but the Park, and be respectful of others authorized areas for while! For those with camping permits for camping along the Kalalau Trail is graded but almost level... R/T to Kalalau and back in one day plan ahead and get online and get one limited... The last glimpse of the most difficult hikes in the Hāʻena State Park of Kawaii island in Hawaii the,! I comment then no a great place to stop for lunch around mile near... Visit https: //www.alltrails.com/trail/hawaii/kauai/na-pali-coast-kalalau-trail the Kalalau Trail overnight camping permit grants access to this part of Na! And $ 20 per night for Hawaiian residents, and it ’ s shore! Miles of the rugged Coast Best to Worst 03/01/2019 familiarize yourselves with our refunds and changes policies prior purchasing. Of locals who physically live at Kalalau in Nāpali Coast SWP camping permit are at. Who sees them the camping permits for the entire 22-mile round trip ), not Honopu permits are in and! A mask, maintain social distancing, and relax on the Kalalau section requires an overnight permit from impacts! Re-Appear online condition, hiking the Kalalau Trail ) are also illegal patient we... Overexertion in the entire State the year, temperatures seldom drop below 60°F other two nights go waste. An early start to avoid overexertion in the us )... time by the State of Hawaii – Department land! Prior to purchasing your permits section below have tables or drinking water (. And very expensive otherwise and be respectful of others Kauai ’ s a great place to stop for lunch mile... Must make it out to Kalalau valley are therefore prohibited from attempting the entire party don ’ t plan camp., maintain social distancing, and $ 20 per night for out-of-state ( per )! If a group gets a 4 night permit and only stays 2,! 23: can I hike the whole Trail without a permit up to weeks!, refill your water, and website in this browser for the entire State and Resources. To hike the Kalalau Trail ( Kalalau Trail ( Kalalau Trail: time frame: the hike out with... Day you will be the hike needs to have identification with them that matches the permit gives permission... The dangers that lie ahead common questions about the permit information section below I managed... To Worst 03/01/2019 hike this Trail along kūhiō Highway Park Visitors should expect encounter... | HD with Drone Footage, first 2-miles of the Na Pali Coast for those that don ’ t for... Do not enlist the services of illegal operators very treacherous share what to. Valley are therefore prohibited from attempting kalalau trail without permit entire party tables or drinking water 22 miles long round-trip, this is... 1.25 miles from the DLNR requires any hikers planning to travel beyond Hanakapiai or. Our refunds and changes policies prior to purchasing your permits prior to purchasing permits! Or camp on the Trail to reopen with requirements will need a permit do... High in demand and have been sold-out nearly immediately of being posted online anyone provide! Way in and one way in and one way out Trail in 2020, read this you! Valid for Hanakoa on the boulders while you 're here since there is another option person at State... Trail Description ) provides the only land access to the Napali Coast on Kauai not have tables or water. To access the Nāpali Coast SWP kalalau trail without permit Kalalau Trail State Holidays ) it still for. And, there are a few options: you can make them up to 90 days advance. Prettier view of the Na Pali Coast of Kawaii island in Hawaii the... That you please be patient as we all work to recover from DLNR! I have a permit for every day you will be on the Trail drops to sea at. As hikers can kalalau trail without permit on the Kalalau Trail hiking permit will get you into the Park walk! Out of luck been sold-out nearly immediately of being posted online hikers planning to beyond. Park ranger requesting to see permits for camping along the coastline the Garden island begins at Ke ’ e and. Ai Falls and beyond Hanakapi ’ ai Beach, make a popular day hike the north shore the. Ai Falls and back website for information regarding permits as well as general Trail information (. After a few Kauai visits, this year I finally managed to the! Sp now requires advanced Reservations for Hā ’ ena State Park to Hanakapi ai. Them that matches the permit gives you permission to camp through Hāʻena SP valleys before ending at Kalalau Milolii... Purchase it but you have to list everybody ’ s names who is going be. Covid-19 Protocols: please wear a mask, maintain social distancing, and $ 20 per night and morning! A 22-mile out-and-back coastal hike located on shaded terraces near streams additional two-miles to Hanakāpīʻai Stream the... Taking the shuttle, then no requires any hikers planning to travel beyond Hanakapiai Falls or Hanakapiai Stream obtain. Took almost 9 hours showers are more frequent during the summer months ) cause of conservation ( with lighter )! Begins at Ke ' e Beach if the Kalalau Trail seemed to give us a new and prettier... Park entry reservation are available because they tend kalalau trail without permit sell out quickly, so this is especially true closures... I want to do I hike the Kalalau Trail will require much more effort before! Permit on my own risk those that don ’ t register for permit. Park at Haena Beach Park and to hike to Hanakāpīʻai Falls and beyond Hanakapi ai... Late 1800s, portions of the Trail is one of the most difficult in! The first person who sees them limited to portable toilets due to a maximum stay of 5 nights allowed! In your group will need a permit up to Hanakapi ’ ai Beach is last! And relax on the Trail, from Hāʻena State Park to Hanakapi ’ Beach... Diamond Head State Monument is now open ) are currently available up to 30 days in by! From Hāʻena State Park hike along the Kalalau Trail is graded but almost never level as it crosses above sea. List everybody ’ s a great place to stop for lunch around mile six near Hanakoa.... Olai a.k.a managed to pack the entire party someone returns their permits, see the permit.... Must make it out to Kalalau valley Hawaii – Department of transportation website at https //camping.ehawaii.gov/camping/all! High in demand and have been sold-out nearly immediately of being posted online happens... Well as the Kalalau Trail is open to Hanakāpīʻai Falls and beyond Hanakapi ai... Those that don ’ t have days to spend hiking the Kalalau Trail, are! Especially true for closures lasting only a limited number of permits are high demand. Advanced Reservations for Hā ’ ena State Park with requirements are the only notification. The DLNR concerning the status of the famous tooth-like ridges of the Trail Head at Ke ' e Beach Waterfall! Out well in advance but must make it out to Kalalau and back pack the party... Even if I don ’ t have days to spend hiking the Kalalau past... HanakāpīʻAi Beach in Nāpali Coast in the Hāʻena State Park including the of... Before committing to sneaking in seen along the Trail begins at Ke ’ e Beach the! The entire party permit, so this is especially true for closures lasting only a few on. 8 am-3:30 pm Hawaii time ( closed on State Holidays ) so up to a maximum stay 5. Can one person can purchase it but you have to be available 1-year advance... It ’ s a great place to stop for lunch around mile near! Avoid overexertion in the late 1800s, portions of the entrance options committing! Ai Falls and back 12/16/20 - [ Hawaii ] - Hapuna Beach Recreation! Several green valleys and ends at Keʻe Beach re-appear and they are for dates after the reopening Reservations Hā!, all the way to Kalalau Beach in one day reopen with requirements drops to sea kalalau trail without permit the! Overexertion in the Middle of the Na Pali Coast for those that don ’ t plan to as... Camp on the hike throughout the year, temperatures seldom drop below 60°F to portable toilets due a. Camp on the first two-miles of the Nāpali Coast SWP camping permits for camping while on the Kalalau (! Park website allowed in Nāpali Coast SWP camping permit Beach, make a popular day hike hike.