Hanakapiai Falls

The hike to Hanakapiai Falls extends two miles inland from Hanakapiai Beach through a lush valley carved by the Hanakapiai Stream, culminating at a stunning 300-foot waterfall plunging into a broad pool surrounded by towering walls of tropical vegetation. This is one of the most iconic waterfall hikes in Hawaii, combining the coastal drama of the first two miles of the Kalalau Trail with an equally impressive inland journey through Jurassic Park-like terrain of ferns, guava, and native forest. The stream crossing required to reach the falls can be hazardous during periods of high rain and is not recommended when the stream is running high. At the pool base, mist from the falls creates a microclimate supporting delicate mosses and ferns. The surrounding valley walls are carpeted in vivid green vegetation fed by the enormous rainfall of Kauai north shore. A state day-hiking permit is required from the Haena State Park system, and advance reservations are strongly recommended during peak summer months when this trail sees significant visitation.