Hanakāpīʻai Falls hike (Nāpali Coast)

The best day hike on Kauaʻi's Nāpali Coast and open again since Oct. 15, 2026 after Hurricane Lowell. It's 4 miles round trip to Hanakāpīʻai Beach or 8 miles round trip to the 300-foot falls, starting at Hāʻena State Park. Non-residents need a GoHaena reservation, and the stream can flood fast.

• Reservations: non-residents need an entry reservation (and parking or a shuttle seat) from gohaena.com, up to 30 days ahead. Hawaiʻi residents with ID enter free.
• Length: 2 miles each way to Hanakāpīʻai Beach (4 round trip); 8 miles round trip to the falls through the valley, with several stream crossings. Allow 6 to 8 hours for the falls.
• Status: day hiking reopened Oct. 15, 2026. The Kalalau Trail past the 2-mile point and all Nāpali camping remain closed.
• Flash floods: if the stream is rising or brown, don't cross; wait it out. Many rescues happen here.
• Don't swim at Hanakāpīʻai Beach. Strong rip currents have drowned many people.
• The trail is rocky and muddy; wear real hiking shoes and bring plenty of water.

Sources: Hawaiʻi DLNR State Parks: Hāʻena and Nāpali Coast access · Bites Sights Flights: Kauaʻi closures, what is open (updated Oct. 29, 2026)

Last checked Oct. 29, 2026. Hours, fees and rules can change, so confirm with the official source before you go.