Guide to Backpacking the Nā Pali Coast - Kalalau Trail

Na Pali Coast
Written By Kennedy Marr
 
Na Pali Coast
 

The Kalalau Trail is one of the most challenging yet rewarding hikes we've ever done. The 22 mile hike (11 miles each way) of continuous stunning views leading to the breathtaking backdrop of Kalalau Beach, makes every step of the journey worth it.

If you want to hear more about the hike and our experience, head to our blog, “Backpacking Nā Pali Coast - the Kalalau Trail.”

Getting the Kalalau Trail Permit:

  • $35 per person / night

  • Permits can be reserved 90 days in advanced

  • You can stay up to 5 nights

See more information about obtaining a permit here

How to get to the Kalalau Trail:

  • Driver: Book a driver to take you and to pick you up

  • Shuttle: $40 per person and runs every 20min from 6:20am (first departure) - 6:40pm (last pick-up). To take the shuttle you need to book a reservation and meet at Waipa Park & Ride for your departure. See more info at GoHa’ena.

  • Drive: Overnight parking passes are very limited and can only be bought after you secured your permits.

    • You can pay a minimum of 2 days to a maximum of 6 days.

Attractions along the Kalalau Trail:

  • Hanakapi’ai Beach - 2 miles from the start of the hike

  • Hanakapi’ai Falls - 4 miles round trip from Hanakapi’ai beach

  • Hanakoa Falls - about 6 miles into the hike, 1 mile round trip

What to pack:

  • Water filter

  • Jet boil

  • Lightweight tent and rainfly

  • Quick dry towel

  • Sandals for the campsite

  • Swimsuit

  • Hat

  • Coral reef safe sunscreen

  • Mosquito repellent

  • Light rain jacket or poncho

  • Light jacket for the evening

  • Snacks

  • Dehydrated food

  • Biodegradable soap

Tips for backpacking the Nā Pali Coast:

  • We would recommend leaving before 7am that way you can see some of the attractions a long the way.

  • We highly recommend staying at least a minimum of 2 nights. Your body needs a day to rest and it gives you time to enjoy the beach.

  • Hanakoa is a great place to stop for lunch. It is shaded, there is a stream for you to fill up on water, and it is near the halfway mark on the hike.

  • Crawlers ledge is shortly after Hanakoa campsite, it is around mile 7.

  • If you are a slower hiker or get tired from hiking you have the option to camp at Hanakoa. That being said, if you are able to push through I would recommend that, you aren’t missing much if you don’t stay here.

  • There is no cell service. Make sure you have your pick-up accommodations figured out ahead of time.

  • The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Please note, prices and schedules may have changed from what I provided above.

Kennedy Marr
Previous

Backpacking Nā Pali Coast - the Kalalau Trail