5 trails
Haʻena
The most dramatic coastal trail in the United States — 11 miles of Na Pali cliffs with no road access and no way out except back the way you came. Two day-hike options: (1) First 2 miles to Hanakapiʻai Beach (1–2 hours each way) — this alone delivers clifftop views that rival anything in Hawaii; the beach at the end is a remote black sand cove, swimming prohibited due to shore break. (2) Continue 3.5km inland from the beach to Hanakapiʻai Falls (add 3 hours round trip) — a 91m waterfall in a jungle amphitheater. Plan 5–6 hours total for beach + falls. Trail is extremely muddy after rain; add 30–60% to time estimates and wear closed-toe shoes with grip.
Kapaʻa
The best accessible ridge hike on the east side of Kauai — a 4km round trip trail to the ridge of the mountain profile that, from the coast, resembles a giant sleeping on his back. The summit viewpoint delivers 360° panoramas: Wailua River and coast below, Ha'upu Ridge behind, and Hanalei Bay direction in the distance on a clear day. A steady climb rather than strenuous; well-maintained and well-shaded. An excellent morning activity from a Kapaa base before heading north or south.
Poʻipū
A 4km coastal cliff walk from Shipwreck Beach past ancient sand dunes, sea caves, and a limestone sinkhole to the remote Mahaulepu Beach — one of the least-visited beautiful beaches on the south shore. The trail passes Makauwahi Cave, Hawaii's largest limestone cave, which opens to visitors only on set days — check before planning to go inside. Sea turtles are commonly spotted on the rocky headlands; Hawaiian monk seals rest here occasionally; and in winter humpback whales are visible offshore. Far more interesting than sitting on Poipu Beach and almost no one does it.
Hanalei
The Nā Ala Hele ridge trail climbs about 1,230 ft in 2.3 miles to Kaukaopua, with the best view there is of Hanalei Valley's taro fields and the bay. Go early before the heat and clouds, and skip it the day after rain: the red dirt turns steep and slippery, and there are landslide-prone cliff edges. Hunting is allowed in the area, so stay on the trail.
Kōkeʻe
At 4,345 feet elevation, Koke'e is where the Na Pali cliffs begin to rise. The Alakai Swamp is the world's highest swamp and habitat for some of Hawaii's most endangered native birds. Often misty and cool — remarkable contrast to the beach below.