Whether you enjoy hiking along the coast, to mountain peaks, through rainforests or up valleys to waterfalls, Kauai has just the right hike for you. Here are Kauai’s best hikes.
Kalalau Trail (North Shore)
Easily Kauai’s most famous and sought after hikes. A rugged 11-mile path, the Kalalau Trail can be a challenging hike even for those who are in shape.
Hanakapiai Beach Hike (North Shore)
From Kee Beach, it’s a 4-mile round trip to Hanakapiai Beach and back. Great coastal views along famed Na Pali Coast including steep sea cliffs and cathedral peaks. Finish with a swim at picturesque Kee Beach.
Mahaulepu Heritage Trail (South Shore)
This hike, an easy coastal trek along a scenic shoreline to Kawailoa Bay is four miles round trip. The trail starts near Poipu’s Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and passes Mahaulepu Beach and other important cultural areas.
Sleeping Giant Hike (East Side)
The trail leads 1,200 feet up Nounou Mountain through forested areas with panoramic views from the top which is the chest of the mythical “sleeping giant.” There are two different trailheads and routes, both moderately difficult.
Hanakapiai Falls Hike (North Shore)
Hike 2 miles along the seacoast to Hanakapiai Beach and then two more miles up the valley to a thundering waterfall and pool. Trail upriver is fairly challenging. 8-miles round-trip in all from the trailhead at Kee Beach.
Waimea Canyon/Kokee State Park (West Side)
Choose from 45-miles of hiking trails along famed Na Pali Coast bluffs (Awaawapuhi Trail), through rainforest bogs (Alakai Swamp Trail) or down into Waimea Canyon (Waipoo Falls Trail) to a ginger-surrounded pool. Also a small Natural History Museum.
Okolehau Trail (North Shore)
This short but challenging trail begins near the Hanalei taro fields and heads up steeply for 2/3-mile to an overlook with a breathtaking view of Hanalei Bay and the north shore mountains. The trail continues on less steeply with more views of Hanalei Valley.