Kalalau Trail - Mile 0-2

The first two miles of the Kalalau Trail represent the most accessible and rewarding section of the most dramatic coastal hike in Hawaii. Beginning at Ke'e Beach on Kauai north shore, the trail immediately enters dense native forest before climbing to clifftop ridges with sweeping views of the Na Pali Coast, a series of fluted emerald sea cliffs rising 4,000 feet directly from the Pacific. The trail descends to Hanakapiai Beach, a remote crescent of golden sand accessible only by trail or boat. Hanakapiai Beach itself is spectacular but subject to dangerous surf and shore breaks, and swimming is often prohibited. The coastal scenery along this section is consistently described as among the most beautiful on Earth, with successive headlands revealing new vistas of towering fluted cliffs, sea caves, and vivid blue water below. This day-hike section requires a state permit. The Kalalau Trail becomes significantly more difficult and committing beyond Hanakapiai, making this two-mile out-and-back the ideal introduction to Na Pali for most visitors.