OFF THE MAP - EXTREME ADVENTURE

Title:  Extreme Adventure - Na Pali Coast, Kaua’i

Words: Noel Pietsch

Images: Noel Pietsch

Pull quote:  “The views from the top of the volcanic cliffs, some as high as four thousand feet above the ocean, are absolutely breathtaking.”

Na Pali Coast, Kaua’i

Since commercial airplanes began flying to Hawai‘i in the 1930s, and Hollywood made the islands an International destination in the 1950s, there are fewer untouched, undeveloped, raw tracks of tropical paradise left for escape. While the Na Pali Coast on the northwest side of Kaua’i has not avoided the limelight, if you plan ahead, you can skip the large tours, noisy helicopters, and guidebook crowds and enjoy the rugged Kaua’i coast as they did before the planes and celebrities.

The Na Pali Coast, most famous for its dramatic cliffs, deep ocean caves, and lush Kalalau Valley, is comprised of twenty-two miles of untouched, serene tropical terrain.  Due to the dangerously large surf during the winter months, it’s best to plan a trip to the Na Pali Coast in the summer months when the ocean is much calmer. The main two options for independently exploring Na Pali is to either hike (eleven miles) in and out of Kalalau Valley or kayak down the coast, ideally “floating” with the wind, starting from Ke’e Beach and ending in Polihale Sate Park.  If you are less physically fit or prefer a day trip, hike the first two miles of the coastal trail to beautiful Hanakapi‘ai Beach.

Today, most of the coast, its beaches, and magnificent valleys are owned and managed by Hawai‘i’s Division of State Parks. While day-trippers are allowed to hike and boat along the coast and into the valleys, you must apply for a permit to hike past Hanakapi‘ai, land a kayak on any beach, or camp overnight. While some brave visitors risk it, if a ranger catches campers without a permit, they face a long and possibly dark hike home or a steep fine. Permit reservations are made through Division of State Parks’ offices on all islands and are accepted one year in advance. Permits cost $10 per person, per night, and there is a maximum length of five consecutive nights.

Once your permits are approved, it’s time to start planning your trip! If you are on foot, your only option is to hike the twenty-two miles in and out of Kalalau Valley. While this is the most physically challenging option, the views from the top of the volcanic cliffs, some as high as four thousand feet above the ocean, are absolutely breathtaking.  The hike also takes you through five different valleys, ending in picturesque Kalalau Valley, the best spot to set up your campsite. With a brisk, cool river running through the valley, waterfalls to bathe in, and a long, isolated white sand beach, a weekend in Kalalau is truly an escape back in time.

If you are comfortable in the ocean, the best option for adventuring down the Na Pali Coast is in a sea kayak. If you have the time for an extended trip, reserve camping permits in both Kalalau and Miloli’i and stay a night or two in each valley, making for a leisurely trip down the coast. Not only does traveling in a kayak allow you more room for camping supplies and food, but, if the ocean is calm, you can actually paddle in and out of the amazing sea caves along the route. While on shore, spend the days relaxing on the beach, collecting shells, and hiking to the waterfalls in the back of the valleys.

Kayak rentals are available through several outfitters on Kaua’i. Due to liability issues, you must prove you are an experienced kayaker befor many shops will rent boats to you for an overnight trip. If you are less experienced, or less comfortable in the water, but still want to attempt a trip on your own, you can book a fully guided excursion. Alternatively, many shops will provide a guide for the first portion of your trip and leave your group to finish alone, if the weather permits and you are “checked out” to continue on your own. Either way, the shops will transport your kayaks at both ends of the trip, making this once-in-a-lifetime adventure seamless.

Camping Permits: www.hawaiistateparks.org/camping/permit_napali.cfm

Directions: Take Kuhio Highway (Route 56) and head to Ha‘ena State Park at the northwest end of the island. Estimated driving time from Lihue Airport: 1.5 hours.

Kayak Tours: www.napalikayak.com

www.kayakkauai.com